Malta

Malta: general info for travelers

Malta is a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy and east of Tunisia. The official languages are Maltese and English, and it has a population of around 500,000 people. Malta has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years, with ancient temples and structures still standing today. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm climate. The capital city of Malta is Valletta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a lot of historical and cultural significance. Malta has a diverse cuisine and is also famous for its local wine and beer. It's a great destination for those who want to experience a mix of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Malta, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Malta: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Malta and their descriptions: 1. Valletta: The capital city of Malta is a must-visit for its rich history and stunning architecture. It was founded in the 16th century by the Knights Hospitaller, and features places like St. John's Co-Cathedral, Grandmaster's Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
2. Mdina: A charming medieval town that is also known as the "silent city" due to its peaceful atmosphere. The town is surrounded by fortified walls and houses several historical landmarks such as the St. Paul's Cathedral, Palazzo Falson, and the Mdina Dungeons.
3. Golden Bay: One of the most popular beaches in Malta, Golden Bay features clear turquoise waters and a long sandy beach that is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It is also a great spot for water sports such as snorkeling and windsurfing.
4. Blue Lagoon: Located on the island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon is a small bay with crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It is a popular destination for day trips and features several small boats that offer food and drinks.
5. Hagar Qim Temples: An impressive prehistoric temple complex that dates back to around 3600 BC. It is one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Ggantija Temples: Another prehistoric temple complex located on the island of Gozo, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples were built around 3600 BC and are said to be some of the earliest examples of megalithic structures.
7. Sliema: A popular resort town that is known for its bustling waterfront and stunning views of Valetta. Sliema features a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as several historical landmarks such as St. Julian's Tower and the Stella Maris Church.
There is more to see and do in Malta: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Malta: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Malta, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. Here's a breakdown of the typical weather in Malta during each season: - Spring (March to May): The temperature range from 15°C to 21°C. There may be some rainy days, but overall, the weather is sunny and pleasant.
- Summer (June to September): The temperature range from 26°C to 32°C. This season is quite dry with very little rain and high humidity.
- Autumn (October to November): The temperature range from 20°C to 27°C. There may be some rainy days, however, the weather remains mostly sunny and warm.
- Winter (December to February): The temperature range from 12°C to 18°C. This is the wettest season, and there can be some chilly and windy days.
The best months to go on holiday in Malta are from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler weather, April and October can be a good choice too.

Malta: activities and what to do

There are several activities and sports you can do when on holiday in Malta, including: 1. Water sports: Malta's clear blue waters make it a great destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing.
2. Beaches: Malta has some stunning beaches like Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and Gozo's Ramla Bay, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming or having picnics.
3. Historical sites: Malta has a rich history, and you can explore its ancient temples, fortresses, and beautiful churches from the medieval period.
4. Hiking: There are several nature trails in Malta that allow travelers to discover the beauty of the island in its natural form.
5. Food and wine tasting: Malta is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and offers traditional Maltese meals like rabbit stew, seafood platters and pastizzi. You can visit local wineries and sample some of the best wines of the region. 6. Nightlife: Malta's capital city, Valletta, has a vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and restaurants, especially around the famous St. Julian's area. 7. Golf: Malta Golf Club is an ideal location for golfers to practice and enjoy the game. These are just a few of the popular activities and sports you can do on holiday in Malta. It all depends on what you prefer, but Malta offers something for everyone.

Malta: few words on history and culture

Malta has a rich cultural heritage that spans over 7,000 years. The islands have been inhabited since prehistoric times, and Malta's ancient temples are some of the oldest stone structures in the world. The Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of St. John all left their mark on the islands over the centuries.
Malta is also known for its unique language, Maltese, which is a mixture of Arabic and Sicilian. It is the only Semitic language written in the Latin script. Maltese society is deeply religious, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic.
Today, Malta has a vibrant arts and music scene, with festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The islands also have a strong culinary tradition, with Maltese cuisine featuring a mix of Mediterranean, African, and Arabic influences.

Malta: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Malta are by plane or ferry. Malta International Airport is the main airport on the island and is serviced by various international airlines. There are also several ferry companies that operate between Malta and nearby destinations such as Sicily, Italy, and Greece. Once on the island, the best way to get around is by bus or taxi. The public transportation system in Malta is reliable and efficient, with buses covering most parts of the island and running frequently. Taxis are also widely available, although they can be more expensive than taking the bus. Alternatively, for those who prefer more independence, renting a car or scooter is also an option. To hire a car to visit Malta, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Malta: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Malta with a full stomach:D
Malta has a rich culinary heritage influenced by the many different cultures that have occupied the archipelago throughout history. Here are some of the typical foods of Malta: 1. Pastizzi - A savory pastry filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas.
2. Rabbit Stew - A hearty stew made with rabbit meat, vegetables, and red wine.
3. Kapunata - Malta's version of ratatouille, a vegetable stew made with eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
4. Ftira - A thick sourdough bread made with a mix of whole wheat and white flour. It's usually topped with tomatoes, olives, and capers.
5. Bragioli - Beef olives stuffed with bacon, garlic, and parsley, then simmered in tomato sauce.
6. Timpana - A pasta dish with a pastry crust, filled with pasta tubes, meat, and a rich tomato sauce.
7. Qassatat - Similar to pastizzi but usually filled with cheese or spinach.
8. Lampuki Pie - A type of fish pie made with lampuki fish, vegetables, and herbs.
9. Imqaret - A sweet pastry filled with a date puree and deep-fried.
10. Helwa tat-Tork - A traditional Maltese sweet made with sesame seeds and sugar syrup.

Malta: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Malta can be considered a moderately expensive country for tourists, especially during peak travel seasons. Prices for accommodations, dining, and transportation can be slightly higher compared to other destinations in Europe. However, there are ways to save money, such as choosing to stay in budget-friendly accommodations, trying local street food, and using public transportation instead of taxis. It's also worth noting that many of Malta's attractions, including its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks, are free to visit.

Malta: where to find accodation

There are several resources you can use to look for accommodations in Malta: 1. Online booking websites such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hostelworld.com, or Expedia.com. These websites offer a wide range of accommodation options with different price ranges and ratings.
2. Hotel or hostel websites, which often offer discounted rates and package deals if you book directly with them.
3. Local vacation rental websites such as Airbnb.com, where locals rent out their homes or apartments to travelers.
4. Travel forums and blogs, such as Tripadvisor.com or Lonelyplanet.com, which provide valuable insights and recommendations from fellow travelers.
5. Finally, you can also contact a local travel agency or tour operator for personalized assistance in finding the right accommodation that suits your needs.
You can check hotel prices in Malta here:
Booking.com

Malta: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Malta usually receives around 2 million tourists annually, with the peak season being during the summer months. There are definitely more crowded periods, particularly in July and August, as well as during major holidays and events such as Carnival and the Malta International Fireworks Festival. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip during the shoulder season (April to June or September to November) or during the winter months.
Yes, Malta is generally a safe country for tourists. Crime rates are generally low, and violent crime is very rare. However, as with any destination, it is important to take precautions to keep yourself safe. Here are some tips: - Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in crowded places.
- Keep your valuables out of sight and in a secure place.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
- Be wary of pickpockets in busy areas.
- Some areas in Malta, such as parts of Valletta and the Paceville area of St. Julian's, can be rowdy at night and may not be suitable for everyone.
That being said, Malta remains a very safe destination for tourists, and by following common sense precautions, you can enjoy your trip to this beautiful island without incident.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Malta on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Malta: events for tourists

Malta is a great destination for tourism. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Malta include: 1. Carnival - this takes place in February and is a colourful spectacle of parades, music, dance and creative costumes.
2. Valletta Baroque Festival - this takes place from January to February and celebrates the Baroque architecture of the city with concerts, exhibitions and other events.
3. Malta International Fireworks Festival - this takes place in April and features spectacular firework displays from various international pyrotechnic companies.
4. Malta Arts Festival - this takes place from June to July and features theatre performances, music concerts, visual arts and dance shows.
5. Mnarja – this is a traditional Maltese feast which takes place in June in honour of St. Peter and St. Paul, featuring folk music, dancing and local cuisine.
6. Birgu Fest - this takes place in October and celebrates the rich history of Birgu with events such as reenactments, feasts and live music.
7. Christmas in Malta - the holiday season is a lively time in Malta with numerous Christmas markets, Nativity scenes, and festive events taking place throughout December.
These are just some of the most interesting events for tourists in Malta. Depending on your interests and preferences, there are many other events and activities to explore in Malta.

Malta: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Malta, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Malta that covers some of the major highlights of the island: Day 1-3: Valletta - Visit Valletta's monuments, museums, gardens, and palaces.
- Take a walking tour of the city to explore its rich history and architecture.
- Try traditional Maltese dishes at local restaurants.
Day 4: Mdina - Take a day trip to Mdina, a fortified city that boasts beautiful Baroque-style architecture and stunning views of the island.
Day 5-7: Gozo - Take a ferry to Gozo, where you can explore the island's rocky coastline, sandy beaches, and unique geology.
- Visit historic sites such as the Ggantija Temples and the Citadel in Victoria.
- Try local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants.
Day 8-9: Marsaxlokk - Visit Marsaxlokk, a fishing village that is home to Malta's oldest market.
- Try freshly-caught seafood dishes at local restaurants.
Day 10-11: St. Julian's - Enjoy the nightlife in St. Julian's, a bustling coastal town with many bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- Take a day trip to nearby Sliema to do some shopping.
Day 12-14: Comino - Take a boat to the tiny island of Comino, where you can swim in the pristine waters of the Blue Lagoon and explore its numerous caves and coves.
- Return to Malta and spend your final days exploring other areas of the island you may have missed.
This itinerary is just a suggestion, feel free to adjust depending on your interests and time constraints. Malta is a beautiful place to explore and there are plenty of hidden gems to discover along the way.

Malta: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Malta described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bahar ic-Caghaq is a small coastal village located in the North-Eastern part of Malta, between the towns of St. Julian's and Madliena. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bahar ic-Caghaq
- Bahar ix-Xmiem is a small village located in the southwestern part of Malta. It has a population of around 1,900 people and is situated close to the towns of Marsaskala and Birzebbuga. The village is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bahar ix-Xmiem
- Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, is a city located in the south-eastern region of Malta. It is one of the oldest and most historic cities on the island, with a rich cultural and architectural heritage... CONTINUE here for a trip to Birgu
- Bugibba is a seaside town located on the northeast coast of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination known for its lively nightlife, beautiful coastline, and numerous water sports activities. Bugibb... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bugibba
- Cirkewwa is a small coastal town located on the northwestern tip of Malta, a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its scenic views, clear blue waters, and as a hub for ferry ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cirkewwa
- Comino is a small island located between the islands of Malta and Gozo. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, particularly the Blue Lagoon, which is a popular swimming and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Comino
- Dingli is a small village located on the western coast of Malta. It is known for its stunning cliffs and views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is home to the Dingli Cliffs - a popular spot for hiking and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dingli
- Fontana is a small village located on the island of Gozo in Malta. It is situated in the central part of the island and has a population of roughly 1,000 people. The village is known for its tradition... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fontana
- Ghajn Tuffieha is a beautiful sandy beach located on the northwest coast of Malta, near the village of Mgarr. The beach is situated below a steep cliff and surrounded by rugged countryside, making it ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ghajn Tuffieha
- Ghajnsielem is a small village located on the northeastern coast of the island of Gozo, which is part of the Maltese archipelago. It forms part of the northern hemisphere of the Gozo island. The villa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ghajnsielem
- Gharb is a small village located on the western side of the island of Gozo, which is part of Malta. It has a population of around 1,500 people and is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gharb
- Ghasri is a tiny village located on the western side of the island of Gozo, which is part of the country of Malta. It is known for its scenic countryside, lovely architecture, traditional Maltese chur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ghasri
- Golden Bay is a popular beach located on the northwest coast of Malta. It is known for its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Golden Bay
- Gozo is a small island located in the Maltese archipelago, just a short ferry ride away from the main island of Malta. With an area of about 67 square kilometers and a population of around 31,000, it ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gozo
- Had-Dingli is a small village located in the southwestern part of the Mediterranean island of Malta. It is a rural area with a population of approximately 3,000 people. The main attraction of Had-Ding... CONTINUE here for a trip to Had-Dingli
- The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is an underground prehistoric burial site located in Paola, Malta. It is estimated to have been created between 3600 and 2500 BCE, during the Ġgantija phase. The site feature... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
- Valletta is the capital city of Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean. It was founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John and is known for its historic architecture, museums, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Valletta
- Marsa is a small town located in the central part of Malta. It is situated only a few kilometers away from the capital city Valletta and the Grand Harbour. Marsa is mostly known for being the site of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsa
- Marsalforn is a popular seaside town located on the north coast of the island of Gozo in Malta. It is known for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters and charming fishing village. It offers a per... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsalforn
- Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village located in the south-eastern part of Malta. It is most famous for its vibrant Sunday fish market, which offers fresh seafood, traditional Maltese crafts, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsaxlokk
- Mdina is a fortified city located in the center of the Mediterranean island of Malta. It is also known as the "Silent City" because very little traffic is allowed within its walls. Mdina was the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mdina
- Mellieha is a picturesque village located in the north of Malta, famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is the largest village on the island, and it offers a range of activities ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mellieha
- Mgarr ix-Xini is a small picturesque bay located on the southern coast of Malta, near the town of Xewkija. It's a hidden gem, offering crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, far from the busy... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mgarr ix-Xini
- Mgarr is a quiet and picturesque village located in the northwestern part of the island of Malta. It is known for its agricultural fields and beautiful countryside, as well as its traditional village ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mgarr
- Munxar is a small village located on the southern coast of the island of Gozo, which is part of the Maltese archipelago. It is characterized by its picturesque countryside filled with greenery and is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Munxar
- Qawra is a popular resort town located on the northeastern coast of Malta. It is part of the St. Paul's Bay area and is known for its stunning waterfront, rocky beaches, and scenic seaside promenade. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qawra
- Saint Julian's is a town located on the east coast of the island of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination known for its nightlife and entertainment scene, as well as its picturesque coastline. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saint Julian's
- St. Paul's Bay is a popular tourist destination located in the northern region of Malta. It is named after St. Paul, who was believed to have been shipwrecked in the area in 60 AD. The town boasts a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saint Paul’s Bay
- San Lawrenz is a small village located in the western part of the island of Gozo, part of the Maltese archipelago. It is known for its traditional architecture, including limestone houses and quaint n... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Lawrenz
- Senglea, also known as L-Isla, is a fortified city located on the eastern side of Malta's Grand Harbour. It is one of the Three Cities, along with Cospicua and Vittoriosa, and has a population of arou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Senglea
- Sliema is a seaside town located on the east coast of the island of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its lidos, beaches, shopping malls, bars, and restaurants. Sliema was once a q... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sliema
- Victoria is the capital city of the island of Gozo, which is part of Malta. It is located in the central part of Gozo and has a population of around 6,900 people. Victoria is a historic city that has ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Victoria
- Wardija is a small village located in the northern part of Malta, near the town of St. Paul's Bay. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and offers stunning views of the surroundi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wardija
- Xaghra is a village located on the island of Gozo in Malta. It is known for its historic sites, natural beauty, and traditional Maltese charm. The village has a population of roughly 4,000 people and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xaghra
- Xewkija is a small village located on the island of Gozo, which is part of the Maltese archipelago. It is known for its impressive Rotunda church, which is one of the largest churches in Gozo and hous... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xewkija
- Xlendi is a small fishing village located on the southwestern coast of the island of Gozo, Malta. It is known for its picturesque bay surrounded by cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and excellent scuba di... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xlendi


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