Male'

Male' is one of the world's smallest capital cities—a wee one square mile. But, believe us, it packs in the people and some sights. You'll most likely stumble onto Republic Square, which constantly bustles with life, and you should stop by the National Museum, which is housed in the former Sultan's Palace. As you meander along the city's thoroughfares, you'll notice numerous mosques. And although you may want to venture inside, be cautious and polite: foreigners, particularly non-Muslim ones, are not welcome in some. In addition to the fascinating sights here in Male', you'll experience some (rather pungent) smells in the local fish market.

Male' (and the island it envelops) is just a hop, skip and a jump from the island of Hulhule', where the airport rests. Its proximity to Hulhule makes it easy and efficient to visit the city at the beginning or end of your visit.