VISIT Malta
Between Sicily and the coast of North Africa, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, sits the archipelago of Malta, a wonderful destination for hiking and diving.
Currency
€ - Euro (1€ ≃ 1,05$ ≃0,86£)
POPULATION
0,5 million
MAIN LANGUAGE
Maltese, English
AREA
316 km²
TIME ZONE
UTC+1 / UTC+2
FLAG
🇲🇹
HIKE IN GOZO
At only 67 km² (26 sq mi), Gozo is Malta's second-largest island and offers a wealth of activities, mostly around its breathtaking shoreline.
SWIM IN THE BLUE LAGOON
Located on the west shore of Comino island, the Blue Lagoon is a small picturesque bay with shallow, azure-colored water.
EXPLORE VALLETTA
The small capital city - counting less than 6000 inhabitants - is well recognized for its magnificent cathedrals, museums, and palaces and is listed as a World Heritage Site.
VISIT MARSAXLOKK
An authentic little coastal town, Marsaxlokk is a haven in the southwest of the island of Malta, appreciated for its picturesque seafront and colourful boats.
WANDER IN MDINA
The first capital of the nation was located in the walled city of Mdina, which stands out for its exceptional fusion of baroque and medieval styles.
Pick a Maltese destination
Valletta
Malta's capital city, known for its rich historical past and limestone buildings.
Comino
A barely inhabited island with a dreamy Blue Lagoon to swim in.
Gozo
The little sister of Malta's main island is packed with breathtaking sights.
Prepare your trip to Malta
💡 Why visit Malta?
Malta is a sun-soaked Mediterranean gem brimming with history, beaches, and charm. From ancient temples and medieval walled cities to turquoise coves and vibrant festivals, the country blends cultural depth with island relaxation. Whether you’re wandering through Valletta, diving in Gozo, or enjoying seaside villages, Malta offers rich experiences in a compact setting.
🪪 Do I need a visa to visit Malta?
Malta is part of the Schengen area. Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, some nationalities do require a visa. It’s best to check with the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information specific to your situation.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information below is provided merely as an indication and applies for short-term tourism visa purposes only. Before your trip to Malta, or if you are planning to come to Malta for another purpose (work, studies, …), check the official information on the European Commission website’s page about Schengen visa application: https://www.home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/
⏳ Visa-free but limited to maximum 90 days for a period of 180 days if you are a citizen of one of the following countries: Albania; Andorra; Antigua and Barbuda; Argentina; Australia; Austria; Bahamas; Barbados; Belgium; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Brazil; Brunei; Bulgaria; Canada; Chile; Colombia; Costa Rica; Croatia; Czechia; Denmark; Dominica; El Salvador; Estonia; Finland; France; Georgia; Germany; Greece; Grenada; Guatemala; Honduras; Hong Kong; Hungary; Iceland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Kiribati; Kosovo; Latvia; Liechtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Macau; Malaysia; Malta; Marshall Islands; Mauritius; Mexico; Micronesia; Moldova; Monaco; Montenegro; Netherlands; New-Zealand; Nicaragua; North Macedonia; Norway; Palau; Panama; Paraguay; Peru; Poland; Portugal; Romania; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Samoa; San Marino; Serbia; Seychelles; Singapore; Slovakia; Slovenia; Solomon islands; South Korea; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; Taiwan; Timor-Leste; Tonga; Trinidad and Tobago; Tuvalu; Ukraine; United Arab Emirates; United Kingdom; United States of America; Uruguay; Vatican; Venezuela
🛂 Visa required if you are a citizen of one of the following countries: Afghanistan; Algeria; Angola; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Bahrain; Bangladesh; Belarus; Belize; Benin; Bhutan; Bolivia; Botswana; Burkina Faso; Burundi; Cambodia; Cameroon; Cape Verde; Central African Republic; Chad; China; Comoros; Congo; Congo (Dem. Rep); Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast); Cuba; Djibouti; Dominican Republic; Ecuador; Egypt; Equatorial Guinea; Eritrea; Eswatini; Ethiopia; Fiji; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Guyana; Haiti; India; Indonesia; Iran; Iraq; Jamaica; Jordan; Kazakhstan; Kenya; Kuwait; Kyrgyzstan; Laos; Lebanon; Lesotho; Liberia; Libya; Madagascar; Malawi; Maldives; Mali; Mauritania; Mongolia; Morocco; Mozambique; Myanmar; Namibia; Nauru; Nepal; Niger; Nigeria; North Korea; Oman; Pakistan; Palestine; Papua New Guinea; Philippines; Qatar; Russia; Rwanda; Sao Tome and Principe; Saudi Arabia; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Somalia; South Africa; South Sudan; Sri Lanka; Sudan; Suriname; Syria; Tajikistan; Tanzania; Thailand; Togo; Tunisia; Turkey; Turkmenistan; Uganda; Uzbekistan; Vanuatu; Vietnam; Yemen; Zambia; Zimbabwe
⛅ When is the best time to visit Malta?
❄️ December – February: Winter is mild and quieter, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 16°C (61°F). While too chilly for swimming, it’s a great time for exploring cultural sites and enjoying peaceful cities.
🌱 March – May: Spring is one of the best times to visit, with wildflowers in bloom, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds. Great for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the outdoors.
☀️ June – August: Summer is hot and sunny, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or more. It’s the peak tourist season, especially for beachgoers and festival lovers. Book accommodation in advance during this time.
🍂 September – November: Autumn remains warm and is ideal for swimming and sightseeing without the summer crowds. Sea temperatures stay pleasant well into October.
🚉 How to get around Malta?
Getting around Malta is easy, especially given the country’s small size:
🚌 Buses: Malta has a reliable and affordable bus network that covers all major towns and tourist attractions. Buses are the main form of public transport on both Malta and Gozo islands.
🚂 Trains: Malta does not have a railway system.
🚗 Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient option, especially for exploring remote areas or Gozo. Note: Traffic drives on the left-hand side. Roads are generally good, but urban traffic can be busy. An IDP is not required if your license is in Latin script.
💳 Can I use bank cards or cash for payments in Malta?
Cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and accommodations, especially Visa and Mastercard. However, some small businesses or markets may prefer cash, so it’s good to carry some euros.
🔌 What type of plugs and voltage does Malta use?
Malta uses plug type G (like the UK), with three rectangular pins. The country operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency.
If needed, you can order an universal travel plug adapter here.
🪙 Is tipping customary in Malta?
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common. For taxis and cafés, small change is usually enough if the service was good.
🥛 Is it safe to drink tap water in Malta?
Tap water in Malta is treated and safe to drink, but it may have a strong taste due to desalination. Many locals and visitors prefer bottled water.
📅 When are public holidays and store closing days in Malta?
In Malta, many stores close on Sundays. There are 12 national public holidays in Malta:
- New Year’s Day (January 01)
- St. Paul’s Shipwreck (February 10)
- Freedom Day (March 31)
- Good Friday and Easter Sunday (dates vary)
- Labour Day (May 01)
- Sette Giugno (June 07)
- Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul (June 29)
- Assumption of Mary (August 15)
- Independence Day (September 21)
- Republic Day (December 13)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
On these days, most businesses and offices will be closed, and many attractions may be shut or have limited opening hours.
🚦 What are the speed limits in Malta?
In Malta, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. The main speed limits are as follows:
- 50 kph / 30 mph in urban areas
- 80 kph / 50 mph on open roads
During adverse weather (rain, fog, etc.), the speed limits are lowered.
💬 What are some basic Maltese words I should know?
While English is widely spoken, Maltese is the national language:
- Hello (informal) = Bongu / Ħelow
- Good day = L-għodwa t-tajba
- Goodbye = Ċaw / Saħħa
- Yes = Iva
- No = Le
- Thank you = Grazzi
- Please = Jekk jogħġbok
- You’re welcome = Ta’ xejn
- Excuse me = Skużani
- Day = Jum
- Night = Lejl
- Good evening = Il-lejla t-tajba
- Goodnight = Il-lejl it-tajjeb
- Mister = Sur
- Ma’am = Sinjura
- Street/Road = Triq
💡 Tip: With the GoogleTranslate app, you can download the Maltese language to use it even offline!
🛡️ Is it safe to travel in Malta?
Malta is considered one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and locals are welcoming and helpful. Basic precautions are advised:
Secure Your Belongings: Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas and on buses.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services anywhere in Malta.