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Malta travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

A golden whirl of ancient temples, turquoise swimming spots, glamorous beach clubs and tiny neighbouring isles, this med island is a suntrap for much of the year, article bookmarked.

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Malta ’s archipelago sits in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, its nearest neighbours Sicily and Tunisia. Most famous for being hot and sun-drenched for more than 300 days of the year, what these surprisingly small islands lack in size they make up for with natural beauty and a fascinating 8,000 years of history; layers upon layers of influences from invading civilizations gave Malta its unique, sedimentary language and the culture that we know and love today.

Home to Megalithic Temples that are some of the oldest buildings in the world, medieval Arabic fortresses, ornate Baroque cathedrals, British red telephone boxes (Malta was colonised by the Empire from 1800 to 1964) and more beaches than you can shake a stick at. There’s so much to see and do here, no matter the season.

Travel restrictions and entry requirements

There are currently no requirements necessary to enter Malta, which is fully open to both vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors.

• Best hotels in Malta 2022: Where to stay for luxury and a sea breeze

Best time to go

Malta is fun and undeniably festive all year round, but you’ll find it particularly jubilant during festa season, which runs in earnest from May to October (see “Best Things To Do”). Easter or Christmas celebrations are also worth aiming for, as the island takes its Roman Catholic traditions very seriously and the displays are suitably ostentatious.

The peak summer months of July and August are very hot ‒ bear in mind that the islands are as far south as Algeria ‒ so aim for the cooler but still beach-friendly temperatures of late May and June, or after the heat quells in September and October. Alternatively, hikers and history lovers will appreciate November to April as the best climate to walk the scenic coastal trails or visit the ancient temples and sites.

Top destinations

The nation’s capital is an architectural marvel; a city fully walled by 16th century bastions that line the peninsula, encasing streets that were laid out in a perfect grid. It’s a walkable city with ornate, sandstone churches and marble paved roads that are dotted with unique box balconies you’ll spot jutting out of the majority of residential buildings. The city has seen a lot of rapid development in recent years ‒ boutique hotels are popping up on every corner and since being named European Capital of Culture in 2018 Valletta has become the epicentre of the island’s cultural scene with art exhibitions, film festivals and music events on throughout the year.

Vividly painted cottages welcome home the equally colourful Luzzu fishing boats that fill the petite harbour of this tiny south coast village. Marsaxlokk is a popular spot for foodies, with some of the best dining spots on the island found down here ‒ such as family-run, distinctly elegant fish restaurant Tartarun, known for its octopus. You could stroll around the village’s market and churches to work up an appetite, or make a day of it and jump on a boat trip around the bay and the neighbouring rocky beaches, such as famed St Peter’s Pool, loved for its aquamarine hues and clear lagoon.

Inhabited since the Bronze Age, built up by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and renamed Medina by the Aghlabid dynasty from Algeria, this hilltop citadel is a magical place. Known as “The Silent City” since it stopped being Malta’s capital (it’s been occupied mainly by monasteries and nunneries for generations) the pretty streets are not as hushed as they once were. In fact, they’re a tour group favourite as a former filming location for Game of Thrones . Wander off the main thoroughfares, down side streets and winding alleys, to see where they lead you. Hopefully to Fontanella, a cafe on the wall that serves infamously decadent chocolate cake.

Sliema & St Julian’s

The twists and turns of Malta’s northern coastline hide coves and promenades that make up the bays of Sliema and St Julian’s. The island’s most glamorous, bougie corner, this is where huge malls and condo blocks nuzzle medieval watchtowers and Sicilian-era palaces along the waterfront. If you’re an architecture fan, don’t miss Balluta Buildings, a 1920s apartment block that’s the most exquisite Art Nouveau structure on the island. Beach clubs are plentiful in the area, and while it’s not sandy, it’s a great place to swim. Nightclubs can be found here, too, only outnumbered by restaurants and cafes. If clubbing isn’t your thing, swing by Hole in the Wall, a snazzy little bar where owner and musician Ian books or plays his own live shows.

• Malta named most LGBT-friendly country seven years running

Underrated corners

The three cities.

On the other side of The Grand Harbour to Valletta live the Three Cities. Each has two names, one local and one Italian given by the Knights of St John; Birgu (Vittoriosa), Bormla (Conspicua) and L-Isla (Senglea). Walled with colossal bastion fortifications, the Three Cities are often skipped in favour of capital Valletta; but they offer similar architecture, scenery and good food, with fewer crowds to contend with. The Maritime Museum in Birgu is reopening soon and gives an overview of lesser told nautical stories; meanwhile Hammett’s Maċina Restaurant in Senglea is one to make reservations for ‒ well in advance, as its sharing plates are wildly popular.

This small farming village on the western edge of the main island (not to be confused with Mgarr in Gozo) is packed with excellent restaurants, a stunning, domed church and lesser known Megalithic temples. There’s blissful Gnejna beach nearby, which sits south of popular Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha but sees far smaller crowds. Mgarr is a great place to stay if you plan to hire a car and prefer a quiet spot to base yourself, but either way check out the local food scene at Bohini, Dine West or United Restaurant, to name just a few. Particularly if you’re keen to try the Maltese speciality, fenech - rabbit.

This tiny fisherman’s bay on the south coast is a favourite with local diving schools, but is otherwise overlooked, with the majority of tourists heading to Zurrieq for the Blue Lagoon nearby. Lounging space is limited but it’s one of the best spots on the island to swim ‒ is home to a 1950s cafe, Lapsi View, that makes great Maltese dishes like ravioli and hobz biz zejt (a tomato and caper sandwich). The Ħaġar Qim temples are also just round the corner, arguably the finest on the island, built in 3,200 BC.

• How to spend 48 hours in Valletta

Best things to do

Whether you opt to see just one or spend a week visiting them all, prioritise Malta’s Megalithic era stone temples. For generations these buildings were thought to be the oldest in the world (Turkey’s Göbekli Tepe temple eventually gazumped them). Built between 3,600 BC and 2,500 BC, landmarks such as the sprawling Hagar Qim site, the subterranean Hypogeum, or Tarxien Temples are the best places to start. Pop to Valletta’s National Museum of Archaeology afterwards to check out the mind bogglingly old artefacts found during the excavations.

If you’re on the island between April and October, check to see if there’s a festa happening on the weekend. These feast days celebrate the town’s patron saint ‒ and every town has one ‒ by holding a street party that varies in tone and liveliness depending on the location. Every festa sees a statue of the saint processed through the streets, followed by a marching band and many, many fireworks.

If you have a day or two to spare, take a boat to the smaller sister island of Gozo, northwest of Malta. There’s a fast new ferry from Valletta for foot passengers or a car ferry from Cirkewwa, both of which land in Gozo’s Mgarr harbour. Gozo has its own charm, with unusual swim spots, excellent restaurants and farmhouse accommodation galore, the feeling of remoteness great for a full digital switch-off.

Getting around

If you don’t fancy hiring a car, Malta’s local bus network is a cheap and air-conditioned service, with times listed on Google Maps. There are also very useful and cheap ferry links between Valletta and Sliema, or Valletta and the Three Cities, which are quicker and very scenic.

How to get there

Europe ’s budget airlines all fly to Malta a few times a day from major hub airports across the UK. Air Malta and British Airways also serve the island daily. It’s also possible to reach Malta flight-free , either by car or train, as Virtu Ferries run four services a day linking Malta to Sicily in 90 minutes.

• Flight free Malta? It’s easier than you might think

Money-saving tip

Off-season accommodation is marginally cheaper, but ultimately Valletta is an expensive place to stay at any time of year. Basing yourself outside of the capital is generally the most cost effective move.

What’s the weather like?

Malta is hot and sunny most of the year, and always humid. Storms do come in across the sea, so keep an eye on weather reports for incoming showers and bring a brolly.

What time zone is it in?

What currency do i need, what languages are spoken.

Maltese (which is a combination of Arabic and Italian) and English.

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The 18 best things to do in Malta and Gozo: culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventures

May 12, 2022 • 6 min read

From hearing the cannons roar in Valletta to kayaking the coast of Gozo, here are the best things to do in Malta © TheLiftCreativeServices / Shutterstock

Encompassing just 316 sq km (122 sq mi), Malta may be the world’s tenth-smallest country, but it still manages to pack in many diverse things to see and do.

These recommendations – combining world-famous attractions with a few under-the-radar surprises – to experience the best of this compact island nation at the heart of the Mediterranean .

Experience the roar of Valletta's famous cannons

Walking around Valletta , you'll probably hear an almighty bang at noon and 4pm. Make your way to the Saluting Battery to see what all the fuss is about, and combine the pomp of Valletta's ceremonial cannons – traditionally used to fire salutes to visiting naval vessels – and brilliant views across Grand Harbour to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities.

Explore Malta's Three Cities in an electric buggy

Traveling in an eco-friendly electric buggy from Rolling Geeks, embark on a self-drive discovery of the piazzas, avenues, and sleepy backstreets of the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa , Senglea, and Cospicua. Pre-programmed directions are handled by the buggies' onboard GPS, so it's impossible to get lost on a leisurely journey taking in museums, churches, and gardens.

Be challenged by contemporary art in Valletta

Inspired by Valletta's 2018 stint as a European Capital of Culture, several of the city's heritage mansions now showcase contemporary art. Galleries worth visiting for thought-provoking installations and sculptures include Valletta Contemporary and Blitz . Scheduled to open in 2023, Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS ) will encompass around 7000 sq m (75347 sq ft) of galleries and exhibitions in a restored fort in the historic Floriana precinct.

Learn about "Fortress Malta" at the Lascaris War Rooms

Concealed 40m (131ft) below Valletta's Upper Baraka Gardens, the Lascaris War Rooms housed the Allies’ top-secret command HQ during WWII and were a vital part of the island's defense during the 18-month Siege of Malta from 1940 to 1942. Fascinating guided tours explore map rooms and communications centers restored to how they were during the war.

Hike the clifftop trails of southern Gozo

Tackle the Xlendi Walk, meandering for 12km (7.5 miles) from Mġarr Harbour to the rocky bays around Xlendi. En route, there's the improbably narrow cove at Mġarr ix-Xini, coastal watchtowers built by the Knights of St John in the 17th century, and a vertiginous stairway leading to the compact Carolina Cave. Buses from both Mġarr and Xlendi link to Victoria, Gozo 's historic capital.

Discover family-friendly science at Esplora

Focus on both education and entertainment with a visit to Esplora , which opened in 2016 as one of Europe's best interactive science centers. More than 200 interactive exhibits explore cosmology, plate tectonics, and Malta's natural history. The playground, well-kept gardens and an expansive rooftop terrace all offer brilliant views of Valletta and the Three Cities’ Fort St Angelo .

Swoon at classic cars

If you're renting a car, a compact Japanese or Korean option is probably best for negotiating Malta's winding and often narrow roads, but that won't stop you from being envious of the stellar array of automotive excellence at the Malta Classic Car Collection . Look for the blue vintage Bugatti sports car out front and you'll know you're in the right place.

Relax in Mdina's il-Foss

First created as part of the walled city's defensive bastion, a 21st-century makeover has transformed Mdina's historic il-Foss ( ditch gardens ) into a very pleasant place for a picnic and leisurely stroll. Overgrown tangles of ivy have been replaced by olive trees and a citrus grove, and the space is also used for occasional festivals and concerts.

Ease into the weekend with alfresco jazz

Make a beeline for Valletta's Bridge Bar , especially on a Friday night, when music fans spill out onto the city's honey-colored stairs and enjoy live jazz. Colorful cushions make it a comfortable impromptu concert, and the relaxed tunes usually kick off around 8:30pm and run through until midnight.

Kayak around Gozo's coastline

Idiosyncratic wind- and sea-eroded coastal formations and hidden sea caves make Gozo an excellent destination for sea kayaking. Gozo Adventures run half- and full-day kayaking trips, kicking off at Hondoq Bay on the island's south coast before crossing the Gozo Channel to Comino . Other kayaking destinations include Gozo's sheltered Inland Sea .

Harness Maltese ingredients at a cookery school

Focusing on how its place in the Mediterranean Sea has impacted Malta's culinary diversity, the Mediterranean Culinary Academy's menu of cookery classes includes experiences crafting ravjul (Maltese ravioli) and teaming Maltese wines with artisan produce including cheese, honey, and preserves. Local and sustainable ingredients are regularly used.

Dive into the amazing Blue Hole

Unfortunately, Gozo's famed Azure Window sea arch crumbled into the sea during a big storm in March 2017, but the surrounding Dwejra Bay coastline is still wildly spectacular. Boat trips exploring the nearby Inland Sea also take in views of the arch underwater in gin-clear Mediterranean waters, while it's also possible to dive in the nearby Blue Hole , a 25m (82ft) deep underwater limestone chimney.

Travel 500,000 years back in time at Għar Dalam Cave and Museum

Translating to "Cave of Darkness,"  Għar Dalam is a 145m-long (475ft) cavern carved into Lower Coralline Limestone, the oldest exposed rock in the Maltese islands. Ancient fossils, some up to 500,000 years old, have been discovered in the cave, representing the bones and teeth of dwarf elephants, hippopotamuses, and prehistoric micro-mammals.

Experience living history at Gozo's ancient salt pans

Negotiate quiet coastal roads and unsealed tracks on Gozo's northern coast to the often-windswept site of the Marsalforn salt pans . Cut into the coastal limestone by hand, the salt pans date from Roman times, and are still used to harvest salt between May and September. Rent a mountain bike in nearby Marsalforn, and make the 2km (1.25 miles) journey west to the salt pans.

Meet the locals at Malta National Aquarium

Five different aquatic zones – each representing different aspects of the waters surrounding Malta – make up the country's national aquarium . Specialist exhibitions focus on Valletta's Grand Harbour and Gozo's coastline, and more than 250 species are displayed in 50 tanks. A highlight is a 12m (40ft) walk-through underwater tunnel.

Climb high for Gozo's best views

Gozo's rocky and serrated coastline is one of Europe's best places for climbing. Many of the island's 300-plus sport climbs are focused on the southern coast, especially around the Munxar-Xlendi Valley, and further east at spectacular Mġarr ix-Xini. It's a good place to learn to climb, especially with Gozo Adventures who can also arrange bouldering and abseiling trips.

Make a difference with BirdLife Malta

Check BirdLife Malta's website for opportunities to join one of the organization's regular events promoting the protection of local and migratory avian species. Events could include after-dark experiences learning about the impact of light pollution on Gozo's nesting seabirds, or eco-walks around northern Malta's Park tal-Majjistral .

Tour Gozo on a Segway or e-bike

Hook up with Gozo Segway Tours – either on a Segway or an e-bike – to explore Malta's smaller and less-populous island. Options include an overland journey from the Marsalforn salt pans to the rocky and narrow coastal bay of Wied l-Ghasri , and then on to the immense Basilica of Ta' Pinu near the village Għarb.

You might also like: Malta and Gozo's best beaches    We swapped our homes for life at sea: the families living on the Mediterranean    20 of Europe's most stunning beaches to explore in 2022

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Your Trip to Malta: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Malta International Airport Guide
• Best Hotels
• Top Things to Do in Malta
• Top Things to Do in Valletta
• Best Museums
• Adventurous Things to Do in Malta
• 48-Hour Itinerary
• Must-Try Food
• Best Restaurants

Malta, or the Republica of Malta, is an island nation in the central Mediterranean, located between Sicily and North Africa. It includes the main island of Malta (home to the capital city, Valletta), the smaller island of Gozo, and the tiny, barely populated island of Comino. Over the millennia, Malta's strategic position has made it a prized possession of civilizations, kingdoms, and regional powers seeking to control trade in the Mediterranean. As a result, Malta has a fascinating history, with influences of Roman, Arab, Norman, Spanish and British cultures, among others—seen especially in its historic cities.

Malta is also known for the waters that surround it—the Mediterranean Sea around Malta and its associated islands is clear, deep, and very popular with divers and snorkelers. For Europeans, Malta is a quick island getaway for warm weather, beaches, and history.

Planning Your Trip

Here are some basics for planning your trip to Malta.

Best Time to Visit:  Summers in Malta are hot, dry, and crowded, as July to September is peak season. To avoid the crowds but still be relatively sure of warm but not hot weather, the best time to visit is in the late spring to early summer, from April to June. By May, the sea is warm enough for swimming.

Language:  The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. The former is a Semitic language with its roots in the Arab-Sicilian domination of Malta in the Middle Ages. Italian is also widely spoken on the island. Why most Maltese speak the Maltese language among themselves, you'll find that most also speak English, especially in hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Currency:  Malta is part of the European Union and uses the Euro as its currency  . No other currencies are accepted.

Getting Around:  Malta has an efficient public bus system that connects to the airport, cruise port, and most cities, towns, and tourist sites, including on Gozo. If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that Malta adheres to British driving rules, meaning cars have their steering wheels on the car's righthand side, and driving is on the lefthand side of the road. Taxis are numerous and easy to find. Motor scooter and bicycle rentals are popular ways to get around, and a water taxi service carries passengers across Valletta's Grand Harbour.

Travel Tip:  Malta is small but densely populated and congested. In high season and at morning and evening rush hour, expect to spend some time sitting in traffic.

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Things to Do

Visitors to Malta mostly come for three reasons: history, the sea, and a fun, resort-like feel. You might pass a vacation here by visiting historical and archaeological sites one day, and beaches and swimming spots another. If you have the chance to get out on the water in a boat, whether it's a ferry, kayak, or chartered sailboat, don't miss it. In the evenings, the lively alleys of the capital city of Valletta are lined with open-air restaurants and bars.

Here are a few sights and activities not to be missed:

• Visit historic cities and sites. Valletta, the fortified capital city of Malta, dominates the Grand Harbour. The 16th-century city was built by the Knights of Malta in high Baroque style and has a well-preserved historic center. The fortress city of Mdina was built by the Arabs in the 11th century and served as Malta's capital until the 1500s. The Megalithic Temples of Malta, including Ħaġar Qim and four others, are the oldest free-standing stone structures globally   and a combined UNESCO World Heritage Site. For some perspective: they predate the pyramids of Egypt, Stonehenge, and Ireland's New Grange.
• Get in the water. The islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino are ringed by dramatic rocky coves with stunningly clear water and a few sandy beaches. Top sandy beaches include Golden Bay Beach and red-hued Ramla Bay on Gozo. For swimming and snorkeling, On tiny Comino, the aptly named Blue Lagoon is famous for its otherworldly turquoise waters. On Malta, St. Peter's Pool has huge rock slabs for sunning in-between jumping into blue-green waters. From the beautiful swimming cove at Għar Lapsi, you can catch a boat to the Blue Grotto, the most famous of the many sea caves carved into the shorelines of Malta and Gozo.
• Party into the night. Malta is a party destination, attracting young and old revelers to dine out, drink and socialize at top spots all over the island. In Valletta's Old Town, narrow, steep alleyways are lined with bars and restaurants that buzz with activity from early evening. In the combined area of Sliema, St. Julian's, and St. George's Bay, modern luxury hotels, beach resorts, and shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes draw revelers from across Europe and beyond.

For more on things to do in Malta, check our articles on the Most Adventurous Things to Do in Malta and the Top Things to Do in Malta .

What to Eat and Drink

As with Maltese history and culture, Malta's cuisine has been greatly influenced by the many cultures that ruled the islands over thousands of years. Most prevalent is the Italian influence—there are Italian restaurants and pizzerias all over Malta and Gozo. But the cuisine also has elements of French, Greek, Arabic, Spanish and British cooking. Rabbit is among the most popular dishes in the country, prepared any number of ways but most often in a stew, called stuffat tal-fenek . Pastizzi are savory pastries filled with peas or a ricotta mixture. Another only-in-Malta dish is ftira , a flatbread that is either stuffed with savory ingredients or served like a pizza, with cheese, vegetables and often, sausage or other meat. Lampuki pie is a local fish pie baked with potatoes, mint, and capers.

Both red and white wines are developed in Malta. White wines are crisp and dry, and include Chardonnay, Vermentino, Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. Syrah and Merlot are two of the most commonly found reds on the island. Cisk is the local craft beer, and you'll find bartenders mixing up a range of international cocktails, including the ubiquitous Aperol Spritz.

Where to Stay

Where you base your stay in Malta depends largely on your interests. Keep in mind that the island is small and can be easily traversed by rental car or bus. Valletta, the capital city, has several important sights, is close to the airport, has a range of accommodation options, and is a good hub for exploring the rest of the country. Sliema, St. Julian's, and St. George's Bay have the largest concentration of luxury hotels, though there are less expensive options here as well. Families and couples come here for the beaches, and the younger crowd hits nearby Paceville for the nightlife. Quiet Mellieħa is favored by those who want to spend the majority of their time at the beach. Gozo is also much quieter and lower-key than the busiest parts of Malta and draws an older crowd looking for total relaxation and lots of time in the sun and sea.

Getting There

Small, easily navigable Malta International Airport (MLA) is the country's only airport. While there are no direct flights between Malta and the U.S., the airport is well-connected to Europe, the Middle East, and Russia. Air Malta, Alitalia, RyanAir, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are among the carriers with the most frequent flights in and out. The airport is about 10 kilometers from downtown Valletta and is connected to Valletta and the rest of the island by bus or taxi.

Gozo is only reachable by ferry or private boat, or charter. Ferries depart about every 30 minutes from the port at Ċirkewwa, on the northern tip of Malta, for the 25-minute ride to Gozo. Vehicle, foot, and bike passengers are welcomed on board.

Culture and Customs 

Malta ranks only behind Romania as the most religious country in Europe. And despite its reputation as a European party destination, its population is devout, with a wide majority identifying as Roman Catholic and attending mass regularly. When entering any church, be sure that your shoulders and chest are covered and that your legs are covered from the knees up—this goes for all genders.

In restaurants, tip about 5-10 percent of the bill. If a service charge has been added, you don't need to tip, though a euro or two extra for good service is always appreciated.

Money-Saving Tips

In terms of vacation costs, Malta falls right about in the middle of the rest of Europe—cheaper than destinations like Paris and Venice, but more expensive than Eastern Europe, for example. Here are a few ways to save money on your vacation to Malta:

• Buy the Malta Pass. If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in one day or a few days, the Malta Pass is a good investment. It includes admission to more than 35 top attractions, plus a sightseeing bus to get around on.
• For meals, go casual. The Maltese snacks of ftira and pastizzi are cheap, handheld meals in themselves. They're sold, along with tasty sandwiches and pizza, just about everywhere, especially near beaches and other destinations where tourists gather.

European Union, The euro as the official currency, 2020

UNESCO, Megalithic Temples of Malta

Related Articles

More related articles.

Tourism Malta : 21 things to Know Before Traveling

Considering a travel to Malta? Then, before you pack your bags, discover the essentials about this small island state. Useful and sometimes surprising information about the Mediterranean archipelago of Malta.

#1 Malta has two official languages, Maltese and English

Malta has two official languages : Maltese (Malti) and English .

Maltese (Malti) is the national language, spoken by nearly 83% of the population. English, on the other hand, is the language of business, commerce, and tourism, and is spoken by more than 90% of the population.

Malta was a part of the British Empire for 164 years ; hence, the English language has remained as one of the two official languages of the country.

Malta is thus one of the popular destinations for students wishing to learn English. Every year, nearly 52,000 students come to undertake an English language course in Malta .

#2 Malta is the smallest member state of the European Union

The total area of the Maltese islands is only 316 km² . The small Mediterranean archipelago, located just off Sicily, is therefore the smallest state in the European Union .

The largest of the islands, the main island, is also called Malta. It is only 27 km long and 15 km wide.

#3 Driving on the island is on the left

Another peculiarity inherited from the British occupation, cars drive on the left across all the islands of the archipelago. Therefore, the steering wheel is located on the right side of the cars.

Malta is also the second country in Europe in terms of the number of motor vehicles per inhabitant, after Luxembourg. The island is overloaded with more than 400,000 vehicles in circulation. Traffic in Malta is very dense, and drivers tend to drive fast. It is therefore necessary to be cautious when traveling by car, but also as a pedestrian when crossing the road.

#4 The capital of Malta is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List

The capital of Malta, Valletta, has the distinction of being on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1980.

Valletta is a fortified city named after the knight Jean de La Valette , Grand Master of the Order of Malta from 1557 to 1568 and hero of the Great Siege of Malta .

Jean de La Valette initiated the construction of the current capital of Malta on Mount Xiberras (now Valletta). He supervised the construction of monumental fortifications to protect the harbor from another Ottoman invasion.

Visiting Valletta is a must-do when traveling to Malta. Valletta is an open-air museum where every alley is steeped in history. Valletta has more than 320 monuments , including exceptional buildings like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the inns of the Order of Malta, Fort St. Elmo, the Manoel Theatre , etc.

Malta also has two other historical sites on the World Heritage List: the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and the seven Megalithic Temples of Malta .

#5 Malta is the least populous country in the European Union

With 542,051 inhabitants, Malta is the least populous country in the European Union . It is surpassed by Luxembourg with 640,000 inhabitants and Cyprus with 1.2 million inhabitants. However, Malta’s population has experienced a significant increase over the past ten years, growing by nearly 30%.

The population census in Malta should be taken with caution. Malta is both a highly touristy destination and popular with expatriates. Tourists in Malta for long stays, students enrolled in a language school , and many expatriates are not counted, which in reality significantly inflates the number of people actually present on the island.

#6 25% of Malta’s population is of foreign origin

Malta is one of the countries with the highest number of residents of foreign origin. In 2022, 25.3% of Malta’s residents are of foreign origin .

Among the nationalities of foreign nationals most present in Malta, there are residents of Italian origin (about 14,000 residents), residents of English origin (about 10,600 residents), residents of Indian origin (about 7,800 residents), and residents of Philippine origin (about 7,500 residents).

#7 The Euro is the official currency of the island

Malta joined the European Union on May 1, 2004 , and subsequently opted to join the Eurozone on January 1, 2008. The former Maltese lira was thus replaced by the Euro. The island state is part of the 19 member states of the eurozone, the common monetary area.

#8 Tap water in Malta is desalinated

The island’s natural water reserves are very low. The country contains no lakes, springs, or rivers within its territory, and the groundwater beneath the island is partly contaminated by seawater.

The only solution for the country to meet the growing needs of its residents and travelers is to desalinate seawater. Therefore, tap water comes from this desalination process. The tap water is potable but not very palatable because it is highly chlorinated. When traveling to Malta, it is strongly advised to only drink bottled water .

#9 Malta International Airport is not located in Valletta

Being an archipelago, the majority of travelers heading to Malta arrive by plane. However, contrary to popular belief, Malta’s airport is not located in Valletta. It is impossible to land an airplane in the middle of the fortified city’s walls.

The Malta Airport is located in the town of Luqa , in the center of the island and 8 km from the capital. So, when planning a trip to Malta, there’s no need to look for flights to Valletta.

#10 Malta has about 60 days of rain per year

The Mediterranean climate is one of the reasons for the success of trips to Malta. The weather in Malta is mild in winter and very warm in summer. Malta has less than 60 days of rain per year , compared to Paris, which has about 170 days of rain per year.

Summers in Malta are very hot and marked by the arrival of the Sirocco. This very dry Saharan wind causes the island’s temperatures to rise quickly from June. Rain is often absent throughout the summer on the archipelago. Winters, on the other hand, are relatively mild with a few rainy episodes. It is also possible to swim all year round in the archipelago, which pleases visitors traveling to Malta.

#11 Malta was occupied by the French

The small Mediterranean archipelago was for a long time a strategic point; the archipelago was the maritime lock of the Mediterranean, an archipelago that had to be conquered before any expansion.

Napoleon Bonaparte thus conquered Malta during a swift incursion en route to his Egyptian campaign. The island remained occupied by French troops from 1798 to 1800, before being handed over to the British Empire. The arrival of Napoleonic troops marked the exile and the end of the Knights of the Order of Malta .

While the British footprint is the most visible on the archipelago, French culture has long influenced the life of the island and is still very present. The two most emblematic masters who marked the Order of Malta and the country, Philippe de Villiers de L’Isle-Adam and Jean de Valette, were French .

#12 Catholicism is the state religion on the island

Malta is one of the most Catholic countries in the world , a legacy of the imprint of the Knights of the Order. The constitution of Malta allows for religious freedom; nevertheless, Catholicism has been enshrined as the state religion.

Currently, 82.6% of the Maltese population is Catholic . Islam, Orthodoxy, and other religions are practiced by about 12.3% of Malta’s inhabitants, while 5.1% are atheists. The percentage of Catholics has significantly dropped in recent years from previously 95%, a decline largely due to the massive immigration in recent years to the archipelago.

Churches have been erected in every corner of the archipelago. A popular saying goes that there are more churches in Malta than days in the year. Indeed, Malta has more than 365 churches and chapels, as well as four cathedrals (St. John’s Co-Cathedral, St. Paul’s Pro-Cathedral, St. Peter and St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina, and the Cathedral of the Assumption in Gozo).

This unique concentration of religious buildings was erected during the years of domination by the Order of Malta.

#13 St Paul’s Bay is the most populous city on the island

St Paul’s Bay, with over 32,000 residents, is the most populous city in Malta. It now surpasses the cities of Birkirkara, Mosta, Sliema, and even St Julian’s.

Valletta, with fewer than 6,000 residents, is far behind; the capital has been becoming more deserted year by year.

#14 Malta is the country with the highest population density in Europe

The island of Malta, with a population exceeding half a million inhabitants for an area of only 316 km², is one of the countries with the highest population density in the world.

With a density of 1,649 inhabitants per km² , Malta is among the top 10 most densely populated countries in the world.

#15 The Maltese archipelago consists of eight islands

The Maltese archipelago is officially made up of eight islands.

Four islands of Malta are inhabited

The four inhabited islands of Malta are: Malta (as the main island), Gozo, Comino, and Manoel Island. Comino and Manoel do not really have residents but rather keepers. Manoel Island can also be considered a peninsula, as it is connected to the town of Gżira by a bridge.

Four islands of Malta are uninhabited

The four uninhabited islands of Malta are: Cominotto (Kemmunett), Filfla, and the two St. Paul’s Islands. The two St. Paul’s Islands are separated by a narrow sea channel of only a few meters.

#16 The metric system is used in Malta

The influence of the former belonging to the British empire is still very much visible on the island, however, Malta adopted the standardized metric system as early as 1972 .

Distances are therefore expressed in meters (not yards) and kilometers (not miles). Speed is also expressed in kilometers per hour. Weight is expressed in grams or kilograms and liquids in liters.

#17 Malta is a prime destination for travelers interested in prehistory

The Maltese archipelago is a European benchmark for its prehistoric sites , an aspect often unknown to tourists who travel to Malta.

The island contains several exceptional megalithic sites. Seventeen sites are listed, comprising thirty-three megalithic temples built during the Neolithic period between 5200 and 2500 BC .

The temples of Ħaġar Qim, Ġgantija, and Tarxien are among the most visited archaeological sites.

#18 Each year, several million tourists make a trip to Malta

Malta has become a popular tourist destination in Europe. In the span of 10 years, tourism has doubled on the island. Each year, nearly 2.9 million visitors arrive in Malta , drawn by its seaside, landscapes, a few sandy beaches, and its history.

Tourist activity on the island is today both one of the primary economic resources and the main structural challenge for local authorities.

The arrival of mass tourism has radically changed life on the island and now opens many questions about resource management, as well as the ecological and environmental preservation of the island.

#19 Malta is the European country with the highest number of obese individuals

A sad record, Malta is the country in Europe with the highest obesity rate .

Obesity in Malta affects 28.7% of those over 18 and has become a serious public health problem. Obesity in Malta costs the state between 36 and 56 million euros each year, according to PwC.

#20 Abortion is prohibited in Malta

Malta is the most conservative country in the European Union on the subject of abortion. Abortion in Malta is strictly prohibited , even in cases of rape, fetal abnormality, or even if the mother’s life is at risk.

The law in Malta on abortion or voluntary termination of pregnancy (VTP) is the strictest in Europe. Abortion in Malta is illegal; it is a crime punishable by three years in prison. The inhabitants of Malta, still very attached to conservative Christian values, consider abortion a taboo subject.

#21 The motto of Malta is “Courage and Constancy”

The national motto of Malta is “Virtute et Constantia” , translated as “Courage and Constancy” . The Maltese flag, meanwhile, bears the inscription “For Gallantry”, which means “for bravery”.

Frequently Asked Questions by Visitors Traveling to Malta (FAQ)

What is the spoken language in malta.

English and Maltese are the two spoken languages in Malta . English is the most widely used language in everyday life on the island (shops, hotels, restaurants, etc.).

How many visitors travel to Malta each year?

Every year, the archipelago of Malta welcomes close to 2.9 million tourists. However, the year 2020 saw a decline due to the global Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

What is the motto of Malta?

Malta has retained from its chivalric past the motto “Virtute et Constantia” , which translates to “Courage and Constancy”.

Are there any do’s and don’ts when traveling to Malta?

Certain precautions should be taken before traveling to Malta. The archipelago has its customs, and Maltese people are also very attached to Christian traditions, so some behaviors should be avoided. Check the dedicated article 11 tips before traveling to Malta , for a trip to Malta.

Why is abortion prohibited in Malta?

82.6% of the Maltese population is Christian, and nearly 85% of native Maltese are practitioners. Due to religious and cultural heritage, abortion is still prohibited in Malta. Voluntary termination of pregnancy is illegal and punishable by 3 years of imprisonment.

What is the currency used in Malta?

Malta is one of the 19 countries of the eurozone. Therefore, the euro is the currency used throughout the archipelago.

Malta and Gozo

Malta certainly has sunshine and beautiful clear blue waters in which I love to swim; and Gozo is a great place for a relaxing holiday. But its USP is surely its history – and prehistory – and the remarkable sites this has left behind. Juliet Rix , author of Malta and Gozo: the Bradt Guide

Malta is unique. From its Arabic place names to its Italian-inspired cuisine, its Phoenician boats to its British red letter boxes and, of course, the spectacular legacy of the Knights of Malta, this small cluster of islands has absorbed a vast number of influences, yet has its own distinctive and beguiling character.

Malta has plenty of sun and sea, but its USP is its 7,000-year history. Marvel at its extraordinary Stone Age temples, complex megalithic architecture 2,000 years older than Mycenae. Descend into the rock to visit a 5,000-year old tomb complex, labyrinthine Roman-Byzantine catacombs, atmospheric WWII shelters and the secret command centre of the Allied Mediterranean Fleet in what was once the slave quarters of the Knights of St John.

Wander the narrow streets of the Knights’ 16th-century capital, Valletta (a UNESCO World Heritage City and a European Capital of Culture for 2018), between golden limestone buildings hung with painted wooden galleriji (balconies). Be dazzled by the Knights’ opulent Baroque cathedral and awed by their vast fortifications, most impressive when seen from a boat in the famous Grand Harbour, centre of Malta’s two Great Sieges. 

When you have seen enough of the main island, hop onto the Gozo ferry and travel back in time to quiet, rural, friendly Gozo, the perfect place to round off your holiday, chill out and make the most of Malta’s 300+ days of sunshine every year and crystal clear Mediterranean waters.

Food and drink in Malta and Gozo

The Maltese love to eat almost as much as they hate to exercise. This unfortunate combination makes Malta a European record-breaker for both obesity and diabetes. Yet their love of food has a positive effect – Malta has a substantial number of very good restaurants, almost all serving locals and visitors alike.

Maltese food is heavily influenced by Italy. Pasta – usually fresh – is omnipresent, usually as a starter or ‘light’ lunch. Mains are mostly meat or fish. Few people in Malta are vegetarian, although understanding of the idea of vegetarianism and veganism has spread rapidly in the last few years and restaurants are beginning to get it. 

Homemade cakes and puddings are very popular, often delicious and rarely sickly sweet. There is excellent local ice cream (try fig or passion fruit), which is widely available. Meals are generally accompanied by fresh Maltese bread ( ħobż Malti ), a crusty loaf rather like a French pain de campagne or an Italian ciabatta . 

Many Maltese cannot get through the morning without a pastizza (confusingly translated as ‘cheesecake’), traditional mini pasties filled with local cheese (or ricotta) or mushy peas. These are sold in almost all cafés and tiny shopfronts known as pastizzeria . 

The drinking age in Malta has recently been raised from 16 to 17, but nobody takes much notice of it, particularly in Paceville.

Malta produces its own wine and beer – most popularly Cisk lager (pronounced chisk ). There is also a national soft drink, Kinnie (pronounced Keeny ), which is a little like Coke but less sickly sweet (more like the traditional English dandelion and burdock). Kinnie is drunk by kids and adults alike and is sometimes used as a mixer with spirits. Malta’s favourite local liqueurs are limoncello – lemon zest, alcohol, water and sugar – and Bajtra, a very sweet liqueur made from prickly pears.

Health and safety in Malta

Potential health problems.

Malta is a European Mediterranean country with no specific health problems. It is hot in summer, so be sure to drink enough water, have a little extra salt if you are sweating more than usual and protect yourself from sunburn and the glare of the sun’s rays. Sunglasses are essential on water, and also in town where the sun comes off the creamy yellow limestone like a mirror.

Leishmaniasis is a protozoan infection spread by the bite of sand flies that have acquired disease, most commonly from dogs. Symptoms include a localised swelling or skin ulcer. A serious systemic disease (kala-azar) occurs even more rarely. Ensure that beds are off the ground and use a bednet that is impregnated with permethrin as sand flies are small enough to get through otherwise. DEET-containing insect repellents will also help to prevent sand-fly bites, and a concentration of 50–55% DEET is recommended. It should not be applied to broken skin or used on infants under two months old. If you need to wear it when also requiring sunscreen then apply the sunscreen first and the repellent second.

Travel clinics and health information

A full list of current travel clinic websites worldwide is available on  ISTM . For other journey preparation information, consult  NaTHNac  (UK) or  CDC  (US). Information about various medications may be found on NetDoctor. All advice found online should be used in conjunction with expert advice received prior to or during travel.

Crimewise, Malta is an ordinary European destination. Crime against tourists is rare. Simply take the same common-sense precautions you would at home or in any western European country: don’t leave valuables visible in parked cars; keep an eye on your belongings; and if you plan to wander the streets in the early hours, take advice from locals or hotel reception as to where is safe and where is not (most places are safe). If walking alone (especially as a woman) late at night, the lower end of Valletta (towards St Elmo) is considered less safe than the upper end (though neither is exactly 1960s Harlem). Gzira has a red-light district, making it a less salubrious place for women alone at night. St Julian’s seafront in summer has so many late-night establishments that it is generally considered safe at most times of day and night.

Travel and visas in Malta and Gozo

Visitors from the UK and Ireland need a valid passport but do not need a visa. Nationals of EU countries with national identity cards may travel on these instead of a passport. There is no limit on how long an EU national may stay in Malta so long as he/she is economically self-sufficient. After the first 90 days, however, residence documents are issued.

Malta is a member of the EU Schengen area, giving it the same entry rules as other EU counties (except the UK and Ireland) for visitors from outside the EU. No visa is required for a stay of less than three months by those from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan or most non-EU European countries (with the exception of Russia).

Other nationalities need to contact a Maltese embassy, consulate or high commission or where none exists, the embassy or consulate that looks after Malta (often the Italian or Austrian). Further information and downloadable visa application forms can be found on the Maltese Foreign Ministry website . 

Getting there and away

There is one international airport in Malta, in the southeast of the main island. It is just three hours’ flying time from the UK – less from southern Europe. There are numerous direct flights, on low-cost airlines and national carriers, scheduled and charter, including from many regional airports. 

Ferries operate to Malta from Sicily, arriving at the Sea Passenger Terminal on the Valletta Waterfront. They take as little as 1½ hours to cross from Pozzallo on Sicily or three to four hours from Catania (the city next to Mount Etna). The ferries are fast catamarans that also carry cars, and are run by Virtu Ferries.

Getting around

Public transport on Malta is very good. There are no trains but you can get buses to almost everywhere and there are plenty of taxis. The ferry between Malta and Gozo is frequent and takes under half an hour. It goes from Ċirkewwa in the very north of Malta, about 45 minutes by car from Valletta (unless it is raining or rush hour, in which case it will take longer). 

Gone are Malta’s iconic brightly painted 1950s Leyland ‘boneshakers’ that lasted until less than a decade ago.  They have been replaced with boring  modern single-decker buses with air conditioning (usually, and sometimes too much!). The main bus station is just outside the city walls of Valletta at City Gate where you will find a long row of bus stops and an information kiosk which also sells tickets. Unless you are in a huge hurry or going somewhere really off the beaten track, buses are a great way to get around. Most stops (other than bus stations/termini) are request stops so you need to stick your arm out to board the bus and push the button to get off.

Generally,  bus numbers below 100 start in Valletta and buses with an X go to the airport, but there are exceptions so do check.  No buses run inside the capital, as most of it is pedestrianised and even those that aren’t are narrow. The  bus station is only a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town, however, and buses do run around the outside of the city walls, so you can get within a few minutes’ walk of anywhere in the city.

Taxi fares from the airport are regulated but it is still worth agreeing the fare before getting in, as it is on all other trips in taxis, water taxis and horse-drawn cabs.

Travelling between Malta and Gozo is easy, with regular ferries taking less than half an hour. Boats also operate to the tiny island of Comino from both Malta and Gozo. There are ferries across the harbours either side of Valletta to Sliema and the Three Cities. Plenty of day cruises are on offer too including around Malta, around Gozo, harbour tours and day trips to Comino. 

The Maltese love their cars. They will always drive rather than walk – even if it’s just a few hundred metres – and there is lots of interest in the best new model. There are therefore far too many cars on the roads, with some of them going rather faster than they should. Malta drives on the left (like the UK) – at least in theory. As one local put it: ‘We drive on the left … or on the right, or in the middle of the road.’ The standard of driving in Malta is described by the British Foreign Office as ‘poor’ and it can certainly be erratic.

What to see and do Malta and Gozo

The oldest of the Three Cities, Birgu – or Vittoriosa – is a wonderful place to wander and has a few significant sights around which to plan a visit. When the Knights arrived in Malta in 1530, Birgu (or Il Borgo, meaning ‘the town’) was a fishing settlement and mercantile port with a fortress, Fort St Angelo, which the Knights regarded as thoroughly inadequate. It was, however, the main centre of population outside Mdina and its position next to the Grand Harbour made it the natural place for the maritime knights to settle, particularly as the Sciberras Peninsula on the other side of the harbour (where Valletta now stands) was at the time a barren hillside. The Hospitallers enlarged, embellished and fortified Birgu into their capital. Its layout remains largely unchanged with narrow streets radiating out from the central Victory Square, and there are many old buildings dating from the period between the arrival of the order (1530) and their post-Siege move to Valletta (1570s).

Dingli Cliffs

The highest place in Malta, the Dingli Cliffs fall a sheer and impressive 250m into the sea. Their flat rocky top is a great place for walking (except in the midday heat) and there is usually a breeze up here. It is also possible to drive along the edge of the cliff for some distance. The views of the Mediterranean are spectacular and this is a popular spot from which to watch the sunset. In spring the area is covered in wild flowers. Even in summer wild fennel and caper bushes flourish, and the smell of thyme wafts up as you brush the greenery underfoot.

During migration these cliffs are the first land many migrating birds have seen for hundreds of miles so they are an ideal place for birdwatchingif you aren’t too offended by the occasional presence of bird hunters. The Cliffs offers walks – self-guided with an informative map or with a guide – highlighting the plants, geography, history and prehistory of the area. You’ll discover all sorts of things you might otherwise have walked past, or even over. And you can then return to the restaurant and taste some of the edible ones! The restaurant generously welcomes any visitor to use their toilet facilities, whether eating there or not.

Arriving in Gozo (Maltese: Għawdex, pronounced Owdesh ), you may find an involuntary sigh passing your lips as you leave the port and head for open country. For all its holiday reputation and patches of beautiful landscape, Malta is a busy place; Gozo is more rural and much more laid-back. Residents say it runs on GMT – Gozo Maybe Time – but in fact timekeeping is not significantly more wayward than on Malta. Gozo just feels so much more relaxed. The two islands may be part of the same country and a mere 6km apart, but their atmospheres are completely different.

The Maltese tell some of the same jokes about the Gozitans that the English tell about the Irish, and traditionally life has been tougher on Gozo. But plenty of Gozitans seem to do very well for themselves on Malta – returning at weekends to their lovely unspoilt island. Some Gozitans go further afield and you will find houses on Gozo called ‘God Bless Australia’, ‘House of Canada’ or ‘Old Glory USA’ – there is even a model kangaroo outside a house near Calypso’s Cave – all in gratitude to the nations where the owner earned the money to build or buy the house.

Gozo is only 7km by 14km and has been largely bypassed by the rush to mass tourism that has blighted parts of Malta. There are a few patches of unrestrained building (particularly in Marsalforn) but there is plenty of Gozo that is unspoilt. It is more like Malta was a few decades ago – although the landscape is different. Gozo is made up of small flat-topped hills divided by fertile valleys – green even through most of the summer when Malta goes brown. Wild fennel (with its typical aniseed smell), caper bushes, carob and oleander are common sights along with the omnipresent prickly pear.

Church bells ring out over terraces of hillside agriculture and traditional limestone villages, at whose heart is usually an attractive square (sometimes actually a triangle). The square is dominated by an oversized church, often accompanied by a tiny police station marked with a traditional British blue lantern, a red phone box and sometimes an old-fashioned British red letter box built into a yellow limestone wall. Many villages have a café and a village shop on or near the square and you may even see an elderly lady sitting on her doorstep making lace. 

If you fly over Gozo (which some international flights do) it looks like a cardboard cut-out, so sharply defined are its sheer cliff edges, especially on the northern side. Edward Lear visited the island in 1866 and wrote, ‘I drew every bit of it, walking fifteen or twenty miles a day – its coast scenery may truly be called pomskizillious and gromphiberous, being as no other words can describe its magnificence.’ He also started a poem, ‘Gozo my child is the isle of Calypso’, referring to Gozo’s identification with Homer’s island where the hero of the Odyssey spends seven years under the spell of the loving sea nymph.

Gozo has a couple of beautiful red-sand beaches and a multitude of rocky bays and inlets with inviting clear blue water for swimming and snorkelling, as well as some of Malta’s (and even the Mediterranean’s) best dive sites. And if the wind blows on one side of the island, ruining the swimming and diving, you can hop the few kilometres to the other – or find an inlet facing the other way – and you will probably find calm, welcoming waters.

There is history here too, of course. One of the oldest temple complexes, Ġgantija (after which the first temple phase is known) sits on a high plateau with commanding views of the Gozo countryside. The Citadel in the capital Rabat (or Victoria) is a mini Mdina, a tiny, impressively-walled medieval city, first fortified in the Bronze Age and refortified by every occupier of Gozo since.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

An unobtrusive doorway in a suburban street is the unlikely entrance to this extraordinary prehistoric site – a complex underground burial chamber, a temple of the dead that echoes the architecture of the above-ground temples. Built on three levels – the upper being the oldest (used from around 3800BC), the lower the latest (until about 2350BC) – the hypogeum probably served the same community as the Tarxien temples – and perhaps also the nearby Kordin temples. Protected from weather and human interference, the hypogeum offers a unique insight into the art and culture of the temple people.

Discovered in 1899, the find was not reported until four years later when a workman digging a cistern broke through into the hypogeum again. The site was first examined by a Jesuit priest and historian of Maltese antiquity, Father Manwel Magri. Unfortunately, in 1907 he was called away to do missionary work in Tunisia, where he died, and the records of his excavation have never been found. Temi Zammit took over in 1910 and his report on the site is still a key document. It was he who estimated that the hypogeum once held some 7,000 bodies. This might seem a lot on an island whose entire prehistoric population was probably around that figure, but it is not excessive bearing in mind that the hypogeum was in use for over 1,000 years.

Mdina is a medieval walled town, but its history goes back far earlier. This was Malta’s first capital, its main town from at least Roman times, when it was called Melite, until the arrival of the Order of St John in 1530. The Knights needed to be closer to their ships and so based themselves in Birgu (Vittoriosa) on the Grand Harbour. The Maltese aristocracy, however, remained in Mdina and it continued to be an important centre.

This is an extraordinary place. Strategically perched on the edge of a plateau 150m above the surrounding countryside, it is a striking sight as you approach by road: sitting on top of its rock, impenetrable, lording it over all it surveys. Within its fortified walls there are very few shops and offices; it is mainly palazzi (grand old houses) and religious buildings set in a labyrinth of narrow streets, many of them (wonderfully) too small to take a car. There are almost no vehicles by day and just a few in the early evening as some of Mdina’s 400 residents (the only people allowed to drive here) come home from work. Mdina’s nickname, the Silent City, remains well earned.

Mnajdra and Ħagar Qim

Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim are the most atmospheric temples to visit. They sit in an idyllic location well away from Malta’s urban sprawl, surrounded by blue sea, grey rock and, in spring, greenery and flowers. The view from a distance is now disturbed by two vast cream-coloured canopies that have been built to protect the temples from sun and rain, but there can be no doubt that this was necessary, and in some ways they enhance the visitor’s experience. These are the first temples to be the subject of a concerted effort to both conserve the buildings and make the temples more accessible to visitors. The European Regional Development Fund has ploughed €4.7 million into the project, funding the creation of a new visitor centre (well tucked into the landscape so that it does not intrude too much) as well as the protective canopies.

The visitor centre contains an attractive but uninformative audiovisual presentation and a very informative exhibition focusing on the interpretation, construction and use of the temples. There are also loos here (but no café) and a children’s room and free children’s activity sheets. Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim are separate but neighbouring temple complexes, now with one visitor entrance. It is not clear in what way they were originally connected but we do know that they were used simultaneously and right up until the end of the Temple period (2500BC). They are, however, quite different from each other: the Mnajdra temples show well-preserved examples of many of the common characteristics of Malta’s temples, while Ħaġar Qim has some very unusual features. A pleasant 500m stroll separates the two; Mnajdra is usually less busy because coach parties often don’t make it that far.

St Paul’s Catacombs

The largest, most impressive and most accessible of all Malta’s catacombs, this place is a must-see, with over 2,000m² of Romano-Christian (Byzantine) tombs. There are also a few Jewish and pagan tombs amongst the smaller hypogea across the road from the visitors’ centre. There is a wide variety of tomb types here, from simple loculi to once-extravagant canopied sarcophagi. The earliest is a small Phoenician burial, and the latest dates from shortly before the start of Arab rule in AD870. Most are 4th–8th-century AD.  All sorts seem to have been buried here from tiny infants’ (see the little loculi in the walls) to important/wealthy adults. 

Valletta must be the easiest capital city in the world to explore and is probably the most charming. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture in 2018, it is just 1,000m by 600m and sits on a peninsula surrounded on three sides by the sea and on the fourth by the suburb of Floriana. On all sides it is enclosed by massive 16th- and 17th-century bastion walls.

Initiated by, and named after, Grand Master of the Order of St John, Jean Parisot de Valette, who led the Knights to victory in the Great Siege of 1565, the city was begun in 1566 with the clear intent that it should withstand any future attack by the Ottoman Turks. It was designed by military engineers, the first city since Roman times to be built from scratch on a grid system.

Valletta’s main entrance, City Gate, and the area just inside it have received a very 21st-century facelift. Nothing 16th century has been destroyed; a rather scruffy bit of 1960s reconstruction has made way for a controversial but thoughtful redesign by contemporary architect Renzo Piano (creator of the London Shard). Nonetheless, Valletta remains fundamentally the Knights’ city. The layout is little changed and many of their buildings – the auberges where the Knights lived and worked in their eight langues, the churches and fortifications, and the Grand Master’s Palace – are still standing.

The grid layout makes the city easy to navigate and offers glimpses of bright blue water at many crossroads. The warm limestone of the old buildings is set off by painted wooden gallariji (closed balconies) that overhang the narrow streets. Much of Valletta is pedestrianised and even some of the shabbier streets towards the edge of town have real charm.

Republic Street (Triq Ir-Repubblika) runs right down the middle from City Gate at the landward end to Fort St Elmo on the seaward tip. It passes along the brow of the rock (Mount Sceberras/Sciberras) on which the city is built, making it the easiest route to walk, free from the dipping and rising of the streets on the hill’s slopes. Republic Street is also the busiest and when a large cruise ship pours out 1,000 people you may want to escape to a parallel street (a mere 10m or so either side). The hordes rarely venture beyond the main drag.

At one time or another, it is worth taking all the main routes through Valletta (there aren’t very many) as well as the diminutive side streets, some of which are little more than a stone staircase. Circling the city just inside the fortifications (sometimes on their top) is also a pleasant and enlightening walk. Valletta is admittedly not the easiest place for wheelchairs or buggies (though it can be done). For anyone able and willing to walk (even a few hundred metres), though, it is a simple and hugely rewarding place to explore, packed with things to see and do.

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20+ Malta Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

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If there’s one European destination that I dream most about returning to, it’s Malta.

This glorious sun-drenched movie set is filled with historic monuments, mouthwatering food, and a unique culture you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It is (in my mind) one of the most underrated tourist destinations in Europe, especially for overseas visitors.

… but you have to do it properly!

First time visitors to Malta often fall into the same traps and make the same mistakes, so I’m here today to list them all out to ensure you have all the Malta travel tips you need to have the trip of a lifetime.

So, keep scrolling for all my most important Malta must-knows (from basics to weirdly specific tips on saving money).

Save this list of Malta Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Understand that Malta is an archipelago

We’ll start with the most basic of basics: for those new to this wonderland of a country, Malta is an archipelago floating blissfully between Sicily and the Northern Coast of Africa, with its three inhabited islands being Malta, Gozo and Comino.

Depending on how much time they have, most first time visitors will stick to Malta, although visits to Gozo and Comino are popular picks as well thanks to the ease of travel between islands.

So, just know that if you do plan on covering the country of Malta properly, prepare for a few breezy boat rides.

2. Plan your trip for a minimum of four days

Now, onto the next big question: how long should you spend in Malta?

Well, if you want to break my heart, do Malta in a weekend.

But if you want to make me a proud travel mom, plan your trip for at least four days.

Malta may be a tiny country when compared to some others, but it’s packed with impressive sights, so I would recommend coming for a minimum of four days if you want to get a good feel for the main must-dos and possibly venture out to Gozo and Comino as well. 

3. Spend more than just a day in Gozo

Now, onto another important Malta travel planning tip: if you plan to Gozo, I implore you to go for more than just a day!

A lot of people, myself included, do Gozo as a day trip, but I would personally stay at least a night there if possible, because that island is absolutely magical and has plenty of sights to fill two days or more.

… When I eventually get back there some day, I might even base myself in Gozo for the trip to explore it further. Yes, it’s that lovely.

4. Learn some basic Maltese, although English is widely spoken

Now some good news for English speakers: English happens to be one of the official languages of Malta so you’ll have zero trouble getting by with English. Most locals (especially in tourist areas) do speak it well.

But as usual, I do think it’s nice to learn at least a few basics in the local language whenever you can, plus in Maltese it’s pretty simple, so here are a few phrases to commit to memory:

• Grazzi: Thank You
• Bonju: Good morning
• Bonswa: Good evening
• Waranofs in-har it-tajjeb: Good afternoon (maybe avoid greeting people in the afternoon)

5. Prices are highest in Valletta, so consider staying in other areas

Another money-saving tip for Malta is to consider staying outside of the capital (Valletta) which is where prices will be highest.

Since Malta is so compact, staying somewhere outside Valletta is barely any bother, plus it can also be quieter and less crowded, depending on where you go.

Some options still close to Valletta include…

• The Three Cities – Located just across the water from Valletta, so you can just hop on a fun 10 minute ferry to get across
• Sliema – Great views of Valletta and lots of fun bars/restaurants (although getting increasingly pricey)

6. Consider visiting in the Spring or Fall

In terms of the best time to go, Malta is commonly known as a beachy ‘tan like a walrus on the beach’ type of place, hence huge crowds in the summer time.

BUT honestly, if you’re like me and want to visit Malta more for its cultural and historical sights, then going in the Spring is definitely a better idea. Summer temperatures in Malta make sightseeing a daunting task, and if you’d rather not be a slippery sweat stick during your trip, then look to avoid July and August.

My very first trip to Malta was in April , and the temperatures were absolutely perfect. I’ve heard Fall can be a good time to visit as well, although conditions tend to be a bit rainier.

7. In the summer, explore early in the morning to avoid crowds/heat

That said, if you do visit Malta in the summer, one tip I have is to get up really early to explore just after sunrise because this is when you’ll get the least crowds and more tolerable temperatures.

Especially in Valletta, there’s not many places with shade so it gets hot and sticky frighteningly quick.

Then, you can spend the hot afternoons taking a dip in the sea or hiding somewhere with air conditioning. Oh the possibilities!

8. Look out for festas and festivals 

If you need some help deciding when to visit Malta, it may be worth looking into their festival calendar.

Malta has tons of amazing festivals and festas (religious celebrations) throughout the year, during which the streets are really beautifully decorated and lively.

Visit Malta during one of these special events and you’re likely to encounter fireworks, bands, and processions. Luckily, with over 60 festas on the calendar each year, odds are good that you may run into one.

If not, there are also tons of other fun events throughout the year. During my trips, I’ve experienced a wine festival, a Freedom Day Regatta, and fireworks! Are you seeing why I’m so obsessed with this country now?

9. Read up on Maltese history before your trip

Another important Malta tip I have for you is to do a bit of research before your trip about the country’s history.

As I mentioned in the introduction, Malta has a really unique culture that you won’t find elsewhere in the world. A large factor in this is the country’s turbulent and lengthy history, which helps contextualize a lot of the sights you’ll see, so learning a bit in advance can be really helpful.

For instance, did you know that there are some temples on this island that predate the Pyramids of Giza by 1000 years?

Or that up until 1964, it was consistently under the rule of different groups? The reason Malta is unlike any place in the world is because the country we see today was formed under the combined influence of the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs, the French and the English. 

… so yes, Malta is as interesting as it is pretty – be sure to read up on it to make the most of your trip!

10. Beware of multiple names for streets and places

Now, one of the byproducts of Malta’s historic turbulence is that place names can be a bit confusing… in the sense that there’s often many of them.

Over the past 400 years alone, Malta has been ruled by four different groups with four different languages, hence why these days many names are floating around for various Maltese streets, squares and places.

As an example, the photo below is of Republic Square (Pjazza Repubblika), formerly/sometimes still known as Victoria Square, Piazza Regina, Place de l’Egalité, Piazza della Città and Piazza dei Cavallieri.

So yes, just keep that in mind when getting directions/navigating! There are often multiple names referring to the same place.

11. Malta is remarkably British

Another byproduct of Malta’s history (that shocks many first time visitors) is that Malta is fairly British in a lot of ways. 

Not only do they drive on the left side of the road as we mentioned earlier, there are also red phone booths all over Valletta, their beer is served in pints… and they use the Type G outlets like in the UK, so bring an adapter if coming from Europe.

Currency-wise though, they do use the Euro here. Just to add to the confusion.

12. Consider hiring private transfers to get around

Malta is a tiny country with a relatively large population and also many tourists. This means a ton of traffic and general chaos on the roads.

… which is unfortunate, because if you want to have optimal flexibility to see the top sights, especially if you want to explore Gozo, having a car is quite essential.

So what should you do if you don’t want the fuss of renting a car and driving yourself?

While in most places, I would just opt for public transport (which we’ll discuss below), I’d say with Malta, private tours offer another great option because they can be surprisingly affordable compared to other touristy European destinations.

For instance, you can book this tour from Malta to Gozo for the day which includes transport and lunch for about 80 euros, which is not bad at all.

So, if I were to plan my own trip to Malta today, I would probably not rent a car and instead book little day trips out like this one to cover more remote destinations.

13. Bus travel in Malta is very affordable, though it has its downsides

That said, if you’re on a budget, the good news is bus travel in Malta is very affordable as well.

At full price, a ticket one way is 2 euro, but it can be much much cheaper if you buy a special pass.

So why did I recommend booking private transfers then? Well, unfortunately, bus travel in Malta (especially in the summer) isn’t the greatest. Not only can buses be really crowded, they’re also notoriously unreliable in terms of punctuality.

But hey, sometimes embracing the chaos is part of the fun, so if you plan to take buses around Malta, here is a summary of ways to save money on your bus journeys.

The best bus pass options for tourists in Malta are…

• 12 Single Day Journeys (€15) card: Saves you almost half price on each journey, ideal if you won’t take many trips
• 7-Day Explore Card: Offers unlimited journeys for €21, ideal for a longer stay
• Explore Plus Meep: Offers unlimited travel as well as two ferry trips. I couldn’t find the price for this on their website so it’s unclear if this is still something they offer, but be sure to ask!

NOTE: These passes are much better for tourists than paying the (similarly named) Explore Flex Card which is more for people who commute throughout the year since you only save 15-50 cents per journey and the card itself is 6 EUR.

14. Make sure to try plenty of Maltese food

Alright. Are you ready? I’m about to share THE most important Malta travel tips I have with you…

Because we’re now going to talk about Maltese food!

The food in Malta is simply incredible. A few must tries include…

• Pastizzi: A magical pastry with crispy phyllo dough and usually a ricotta or pea filling
• Imqaret: A date-filled pastry best enjoyed with a scoop of creamy Maltese ice cream
• Stuffat tal-Fenek: A stewed rabbit dish that is unbelievably comforting and tender
• Bigilla: A creamy bean dip
• Bragioli: beef rolls stuffed with egg, bacon, bread crumbs, and braised in wine

And lastly, seafood. Eat as much seafood as possible when you’re in Malta. It’s so fresh and so delicious, especially when you go to the fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.

… I’m honestly just drooling while writing this. When can I book my flight?

15. Keep an eye out for Malta’s amazing churches

When you’re not busy swimming in a sea of Pastizzi , another thing to while exploring Malta is to look out for churches.

Malta has hundreds of churches, almost one for every day of the year.

The best part? They’re absolutely beautiful, so if you happen to pass one while exploring be sure to duck in and take a look.

Obviously the most famous one is the St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, but you’ll easily find hundreds of others as you walk around, so be sure to take a peek inside if you get a chance.

16. Bring coverings to enter churches

One thing to be mindful of though is that your shoulders and knees should be covered when you’re entering churches in Malta, so be sure to bring a lightweight scarf with you to cover up if you’re visiting in the summer.

17. Be careful when going out for a swim

Alright, now for a Malta safety tip…

Swimming in Malta is a fun activity that many visitors look forward to, but often they don’t realize a lot of the swimming areas in Malta are quite rocky, and depending on the weather conditions can be a bit rough for swimming, with the occasional threat via Mother Nature too, like jellyfish.

So, definitely do your research before you head out to swim.!

There’s actually a great website for this called WhichBeach that lists out all the beaches in Malta and summarizes the weather conditions and even recommends beaches for particular days depending on the conditions. Be sure to consult it during your trip so you can enjoy Malta’s glimmering waters safely.

18. Look into a Malta Pass (potentially)

Now, if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions during your time in Malta, there is something called a MaltaPass that includes a bunch of attractions for one set price.

To be honest with you though, I don’t think it’s worth it for most people just because these attractions are really scattered, and many of them aren’t (in my opinion) the coolest things to see in Malta.

So, just know that an attraction pass is an option but look carefully at the actual list of sights before you commit to buying.

19. A boat ride is a must when in Malta

Now, while a MaltaPass isn’t a must, one thing that is (in my opinion) is taking a boat ride at some point.

Boat rides are just such a lovely way to enjoy Malta from a different perspective, and there are so many great options that you really have no excuse!

I can highly recommend a boat trip around the Blue Grotto in Southeastern Malta or a ferry ride to Gozo or Comino.

Or, if you’re looking for something cheaper, hopping on a ‘dghajsa’ from Valletta over to the Three Cities is also super fun.

These are gondola-esque Maltese water taxis that allow you to get amazing views from the water. They may not be one of those superyachts you’ll find docked nearby, but dayum if the views aren’t wonderful (and cheap – at only 2 euros one way!)

20. Beware that Instagram often doesn’t tell the full story

Now before we wrap up, I do want to do a quick round of Instagram vs reality… just because I think Malta (while undeniably stunning) is one of those very photogenic places that often get misrepresented on social media.

First off, some sad news: in case you weren’t already aware, the natural arch formerly known as the Azure Window sadly collapsed into the sea in 2017, so if you’ve seen photos of this iconic spot before, it’s unfortunately no longer around:

Now for Valletta, Malta’s capital. I just need you to beware that while they make for some truly epic photos, the streets here are actually quite steep and hilly, so make sure you pack good walking shoes to conquer them!

Another warning: Mdina is an amazing place to visit in Malta known as the Silent City, and although many photos will depict the streets looking empty, you should know that an early (or very late) arrival is crucial to actually seeing Mdina without huge tourist mobs, as it’s one of the most popular day trip destinations in Malta.

Lastly, we have to talk about the Blue Lagoon on Comino. Most photos you see will show it as an empty oasis, but in the summer time, it really does get so busy to the point where online reviewers liken it to a giant hotel pool, so just have your expectations in check if you’re visiting in peak season.

Visit in April and take the last boat out however, and you may luck out with these views like I did:

21. Know that Popeye Village is a theme park

This is a niche Malta tip, but one that I think nobody covers, so here goes…

Another spot you’ll see many photos of is Popeye Village , often shown as a scenic backdrop, like so:

BUT, for first time visitors, it’s important you know that this spot is actually pretty far up North and not close to Valletta or any other big tourist sites so you do have to go sort of out of your way to come here. It’s also not a real village, but rather a film set from the 80s that they kept and turned into a theme park. 

Do I recommend actually paying to see the inside? Well, I personally loved it because I’m a huge fan of quirky and strange places (like the Arnold Schwarzanegger Museum in Austria) but beware that the park is fairly outdated, there’s not really rides, and  overall, it’s kind of expensive for Malta because an adult ticket is 20 euro.

That said, I do think it’s a fun place if you need to entertain kids, or if you’re a kid at heart like I clearly am.

22. Binge some movies and TV shows set in Malta before you go

Lastly, this is an incredibly dorky tip, but there are SO many movies that have filmed in Malta over the years, so a really great thing to do in advance of your trip is simply binging some to get excited.

Some big name ones you might recognize include…

• Assassin’s Creed
• Murder on the Orient Express
• … and season one of Game of Thrones!

I hope this list of Malta Travel Tips was helpful!

This was already a very long list of tips for Malta, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments. Safe and happy travels!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Yesterday evening, it was announced that Malta was put on the UK’s green travel list after being put on the sidelines twice in a row. However, it might still be a tough hurdle for UK passengers to jump over as Malta has now added strict restrictions for UK travel, reportedly due to variant concerns.

Here’s what you need to know

As of 30 th June, travellers arriving in Malta from the UK will need to present a vaccination certificate recognised by the Maltese health authorities to avoid quarantine. Presenting just a PCR test done up to 72 hours in advance is no longer an option. Failure to do present a vaccine certificate will result in travellers having to quarantine at their own expense.

Currently, local health authorities only recognise certificates issued in Malta, and as of 1 st July, other EU countries' passes. 

Essentially, this means that Malta will relegate the UK from its ‘amber list’ which requires just a negative PCR test to enter the country. According to the statement released by the Health and Tourism Ministries last night, Malta took the decision based on studies on the epidemiological situation of variant cases in the UK.

On the other hand, those who travel from Malta to the UK won’t need to observe a quarantine period as of 1 st July, as per the UK’s green list regulations. As per the UK Gov website, those entering England must take a COVID-19 test, book and pay for a test on day 2 of their stay and also complete a passenger locator form.

For more information, visit the UK Gov's website .

25th June 2021

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18 Must-Know Malta Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’d like to officially declare Malta, a beautiful Mediterranean island , as visit-worthy . From the unique vibe of Europe meets the Middle East to the food to the views, Malta is not like any other destination I had visited.

To help you make the most of your time in this gorgeous country and plan your itinerary, here are some essential Malta travel tips.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

A Few Things to Know about Malta

• Capital city: Valletta.
• Geographic size: 121 square miles, 316 km².
• Population: Over 440,000.
• Language: Maltese.
• Religion: Roman Catholic.
• Currency: Euro (bring some cash and your credit cards).

Essential Malta Travel Tips

Where to stay in malta.

When choosing where to stay on this island, it all comes down to what you’re planning to do on your vacation in Malta.

If all you seek is to relax and soak up some sun (which is totally legit) consider staying in a town like  Mellieha  in the northwest of the island (where Malta’s biggest sandy beach is).

If you want to travel around Malta (which I highly recommend), both Sliema and Valletta (the capital) are lively cities from which you can take day trips.

They are well-connected to other parts of the island by public transport, so many travelers base themselves in one of these two locations.

To see all of your options and understand the pros and cons of each area, you can also read my full Malta accommodation guide or my guide to where to stay without a car .

I stayed at Slimiza Suites in Sliema (unfortunately, its rating dropped recently) . Higher-rated options in Sliema include Marea Boutique Hotels , Seafront Duplex Penthouse , and Amery House .

If you prefer to base yourself in the landmark-packed capital, Valletta, check out hotels like Tano’s Boutique Guesthouse , Ursulino Valletta , or 66 Saint Paul’s & Spa .

Visiting Gozo and Comino

We can’t talk about visiting Malta without mentioning its two other islands, Gozo and Comino.

While the uninhabited   Comino is famous for the Blue Lagoon, some of Gozo’s popular attractions are the Citadel in Victoria, the salt pans, Dwerja Bay, and Ramla Bay.

There are a few ways to visit these islands:

– Cruises and boat trips from Sliema – you’ll see plenty of signs in the ferry area promoting these cruises (and don’t forget to use these helpful cruise apps if you choose to take one) . You can also book tours like this one online.

– The Gozo Fast Ferry  from Valletta.

– Full-day tours from Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julians.

– Boat tours and cruises from the northwestern part of Malta, usually from the area of Bugibba ( you can compare all itineraries and prices here ).

– Take a bus to Cirkewwa (bus 222 from Sliema or bus 41 from Valletta) and take the ferry from Cirkewwa to either Gozo or Comino. When getting to Gozo, you can explore it by car, taxi, bus, or sightseeing bus .

When to Visit Malta

Ideally, you’ll want to travel to Malta in mid or late spring, early summer, and early or mid-fall to enjoy the best weather and avoid the crowds of the summer months (though Malta is now a lot more popular not only in July and August).

If your only options are July and August, choose July when the temperatures are still quite bearable, but visiting Malta in April , May, June, September, and even October is better (but take some possibly cloudy and rainy days into consideration).

With the hot weather during these months, some of the most important things to pack for Malta and Gozo (and Comino) include sunscreen and a reusable water bottle that will actually keep your water cool (I love Corkcicle’s canteen ).

Keep in mind that though it has become safe to drink tap water in Malta, you might not like the taste or still want to use a bottle with a filter.

If you love chasing the winter sun in Europe , you should also consider Malta for an off-season trip. You will definitely see much fewer tourists and pay a lot less per day for accommodation.

Traffic Is an Issue

No matter how you choose to get around Malta, be prepared for a lot of traffic. And more traffic. And some more traffic. This is a known issue in Malta and one of the reasons I didn’t want to drive there.

Although you shouldn’t panic too much about it (because there’s nothing you can do to change it), it is something to think about when planning your Malta itinerary .

Getting from one point to another will take longer than it should, and you should just be aware of that.

Getting Around Malta by Car

Sometimes there’s nothing like a good old road trip. You have utter freedom and flexibility to go wherever and whenever you want. Yet in Malta, there are a few things to consider before deciding to get around the island by car.

Beyond the traffic issue, you need to be okay with driving on the left side of the road and driving alongside Maltese drivers (which requires some courage).

If you haven’t taken a Europe an road trip yet, I personally think you should save it for another country like Spain or Portugal .

If you do want to hire a car in Malta, you can compare different car rental deal prices here.

Getting Around Malta by Bus

Even though Malta’s bus system is not perfect, getting around by bus is one of your best options. Here are a few things you should know.

1. Good Things About Buses in Malta

– The buses themselves are clean and air-conditioned.

– You can buy your ticket directly from the driver (unlike many big European cities in which you need to buy it in advance and the bus driver won’t even look at you). This single-journey ticket is valid for 2 hours, including transfers.

– In both Sliema and Valletta, you can buy a 12-ride card at the ticket office or machines next to the bus terminal (see all sales points here ). If you want to save money, this is a great way.

2. Annoying Things About Buses in Malta

– There are too many people and not enough buses. It means that if you’re not one of the first people to go on the bus, you might have to wait for the next one.

– The most popular places to visit in Malta are not all directly connected by public transportation. Depending on your itinerary, there’s a chance you’ll need to switch buses and take a longer route to travel between two places that are fairly close to each other.

– Buses’ timetables can be unexpected, so be sure to consult them on the website of Malta’s public transportation .

Overall, I think everyone should use public transportation when visiting a new destination at least once. It lets you experience the everyday life of the locals and allows you to see things from a different angle.

It can also lead you to places you wouldn’t have seen otherwise, which is exactly why I enjoyed my bus rides in Malta so much. We went into towns and streets I probably wouldn’t have visited, and I got to enjoy some pretty charming views.

There’s also the option of getting around Malta by a hop-on-hop-off bus , but I haven’t tried it myself.

Getting Around Malta by Ferry

From Sliema to Valletta (and vice versa) and from Valletta to the Three Cities, you can (and should) take a ferry instead of a bus since it only takes about 5 minutes to get from one point to another.

The ferries leave once every half an hour, and you can buy a round-trip ticket which is slightly cheaper than two one-way tickets.

Getting Around Malta by Taxi

Sometimes saving time is more important to me than saving money on my travels.

While taxis in Malta are not nearly as cheap as buses, I have used them a few times when I didn’t want to take two or more buses (and travel for 90 minutes instead of 15) to get from one place to another.

If you don’t mind spending a bit more money to save a few hours on the road (and possibly a headache), taxis are a valid option.

Tip #1:  You can negotiate the price and lower it by a few euros.

Tip #2: If possible, look for a taxi station instead of catching one on the street.

Tip #2: You can also use Uber or Malta’s eCabs app.

Get Ready for an Interesting Mix of Cultures

I was excited to visit Malta and get to know its culture because it seemed like such a unique European destination.

Throughout the years, Malta was ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Knights Hospitaller , and Brits, to name a few, and it’s located near Sicily and northern Africa, so you can feel the mix of cultures in everything and everywhere.

Maltese sounds like a combination of Italian and Arab, the food will remind you of Italy , the cities look Middle Eastern, the churches look Roman and Greek, they drive on the left side, and red phone booths are scattered around (mostly in Valletta).

Combine all of these cultural bits and pieces, and you’ve got yourself an explosion of uniqueness.

English Is the Second Official Language

Driving on the left side of the road is not the only influence of 150 years of British rule.

You’ll be happy to know that the majority of the locals speak decent English (especially in tourist areas like Valletta) since it is another official language in Malta.

A language barrier can be frustrating to deal with when traveling, so that’s one less thing to worry about in Malta.

The Atmosphere Is (Very) Laid Back

The Maltese lifestyle is relaxed and laid-back, which can be positively contagious if you want to learn how to take things easier (who doesn’t?).

On the other hand, it also means that some things like getting your food at a restaurant can take a little longer than what you’re used to, so be patient.

Plug Type Used in Malta

Malta uses plugs of type G (yet another British influence) and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

You can consult your country’s plug type and voltage here to see if you need to pack a power adapter and a voltage converter .

My hotel also provided power sockets that worked with plugs C, E, and F, but it’s best to have an adapter with you.

You Never Know Where You’ll Find a Place to Get in the Water

Some beaches in Malta are sandy, many are rocky, and others are not even beaches. In fact, one of my favorite things about Malta is that you might find a pool ladder to help you get into the beautiful water where you least expect it.

Whether it’s in Sliema’s Roman baths, near the famous Blue Grotto, or swimming areas like the natural St. Peter’s Pool , you should always have your bathing suit with you, and you should always be prepared to take a dip.

It’s Not Just About Beaches

I have much respect for Malta’s beaches because they are seriously gorgeous, but there’s SO much more to this island.

From fishing villages and UNESCO cities like Valletta and Mdina to archeological sites and cave boat tours to quirky attractions like the Popeye Village, Malta is a lot more diverse than people think.

Malta Is Small, but There’s a Lot to See

As I’ve just mentioned, there’s quite a lot to do and see in Malta, so even though the island is small, don’t let it fool you.

Malta deserves at least 4 to 5 whole days, and a week or 10 days would be even better to see its hidden nooks and crannies.

Taking into consideration the fact that getting around from one spot to another does take some time, you also don’t want to add too many places to your daily itinerary.

Attend Some Festas

Did you know that there are more than 350 churches in Malta? Each one is dedicated to a different saint, and each saint gets its own celebration!

Instead of having almost a full year of celebrations (which sounds awesome), many of these festivals take place during summer, and they include decorated streets, fireworks, band marches, and more.

For more information and tips for visiting Malta’s festas, read here .

Pastizzi Are the Definition of Happiness

Oh, pastizzi , you wonderful flaky pastries.

If you want to experience true joy, one of my top Malta tips would be to try some pastizzi.

These phyllo-like pastries are usually filled with ricotta cheese or peas, but there are a few other fillings you can try, and some places even serve sweet pastizzi.

When they’re freshly baked and you bite into them while they’re still warm, you get a taste of what I can only describe as heaven.

You’ll see street vendors selling these drops of happiness or find them in special bakeries called pastizzerias or cafes around Malta.

All Three Islands Are a Paradise for Divers and Snorkelers

From diving in Gozo ‘s Blue Hole and Comino’s Crystal Lagoon to snorkeling in Malta’s St. Peter’s Pool, all three islands provide more than enough places to take an adventurous dip.

Consider Malta for your next girls’ trip in Europe !

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “18 Must-Know Malta Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors”

I enjoyed reading this guide, thanks for sharing. I visited Malta a couple years back but I wish I spent more time on Gozo rather than just a day trip. I also found the waters around Malta had a lot of jellyfish, it might’ve been to do with the time of the year I was there (July).

Thank you! Slow travel is always better, so I also hope to go back to spend more time in Gozo. I also visited in July and didn’t come across any jellyfish, so I guess it depends on the area you explore.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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