Malé

Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is one of the most densely populated and compact cities on earth, an entire bustling metropolis packed onto a tiny coral island barely two kilometres across. A world away from the serene resorts, it is a colourful, chaotic jumble of narrow streets, brightly painted buildings, scooters, markets and mosques. Highlights include the historic coral-stone Old Friday Mosque, the golden-domed Islamic Centre, the lively fish and produce markets, and the small national museum, offering a genuine glimpse of Maldivian life.

What you actually see

• The Old Friday Mosque - the historic carved coral-stone mosque.
• The Islamic Centre - the grand golden-domed mosque.
• The fish and produce markets - the bustling local markets.
• The National Museum - the sultans' palace collection.

When to go

November to April, the dry season, for the most pleasant weather; a few hours are enough to see the compact centre, often as a stop between the airport and a resort or ferry. Note that as a strictly Muslim capital, modest dress is required and alcohol is not available.

Honest expectations

Malé is crowded, hot and hectic, with little of the tropical beauty the Maldives is famous for, so it is a cultural stopover rather than a destination in itself, of interest mainly for a glimpse of real local life away from the resorts. Modest dress is essential and there is no alcohol. As a brief, authentic contrast to the resort bubble, though, it is worth a short visit.

Nearby

The airport island, the resorts of Kaafu Atoll and local islands are close.