Rising up from the Indian Ocean, like a colourful floating Lego town, the city of Male is one of the world's smallest national capitals. For an authentic Maldivian experience, the tiny capital packs a cultural punch. This bustling city displays a stark contrast to the rest of the tranquil sun-soaked islands that make up the Maldives. Renowned for its mosques, pretty multi-storied buildings, a popular fish and produce markets, Male is the economic heart of this tropical archipelago. Must-sees include the incredible National Museum; the golden-domed Grand Friday Mosque; and the Hukuru Miskiy Mosque, a 17th-century mosque constructed out of intricately carved white coral stones. After exploring the sights, visitors can enjoy lunch along the esplanade overlooking the impossibly turquoise waters.