Malta Travel Guide 2025: The Ultimate Handbook for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first adventure to Malta in 2025? You’ve picked one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating gems! This ultimate guide is packed with everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable. From exploring the honey-colored streets of Valletta to swimming in the crystal-clear Blue Lagoon, we’ve got you covered.

Malta, a sun-drenched archipelago steeped in 7,000 years of history, offers an unparalleled blend of ancient temples, fortified cities, breathtaking coastlines, and a warmth of welcome that’s truly unique. It’s a country that captivates every traveler, whether you’re wandering through UNESCO World Heritage sites, diving into azure waters, or simply savoring delicious Mediterranean flavors.

Get ready to discover why Malta is a must-visit European destination. Let’s dive into the essential tips that will help you plan, budget, and experience the very best of this amazing country.

1. Why Visit Malta in 2025?

Malta is a land of captivating history and sun-soaked charm. In 2025, it continues to be a top choice for travelers seeking a unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Its compact size means you can explore ancient history in the morning and be swimming in the sea by the afternoon.

The Allure of the Fortress Island

Imagine wandering the streets of a capital city that is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring prehistoric temples older than the pyramids, or boating through the iridescent waters of the Blue Grotto. Malta offers all this and more. The country boasts a friendly, English-speaking population, delicious Sicilian-influenced cuisine, and a rich history shaped by the Knights of St. John.

From the historic grandeur of Valletta to the rustic tranquility of Gozo, Malta promises a journey filled with unforgettable moments. It’s a place where every limestone wall tells a story, and every view of the Mediterranean is a masterpiece.

ETIAS Update for 2025

Good news for travelers! The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is still not required for U.S. and other visa-exempt travelers visiting the Schengen Area in 2025. Its implementation has been postponed to mid-2026. This means your entry to Malta, a member of the Schengen Area, will be as straightforward as it has been in previous years.

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2. Best Time to Visit Malta

Choosing the right time to visit Malta can significantly enhance your experience. The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Spring (April-June): Blooming Beauty & Ideal Weather

• Weather: Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F). Perfect for sightseeing without the intense summer heat.
• Crowds: Fewer crowds than summer, especially in April and May.
• Pros: Landscapes are green and wildflowers are in bloom. The weather is comfortable for exploring cities and hiking. The sea is warming up for swimming by late spring.
• Cons: Can be a bit breezy. Some religious festivals may affect opening hours.

Summer (July-September): Sun, Sea & Festive Atmosphere

• Weather: Hottest and sunniest months, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Long daylight hours.
• Crowds: Peak tourist season. Popular spots like the Blue Lagoon and major beaches are very busy. Prices for accommodation are at their highest.
• Pros: Best weather for swimming, diving, and all water sports. The country is alive with village “festas” (feasts).
• Cons: Can be very hot and humid, which can make extensive sightseeing uncomfortable. Book everything well in advance.

Autumn (October-November): Pleasant Warmth & Fewer Crowds

• Weather: Still warm and pleasant, with temperatures from 20-25°C (68-77°F) in October. The sea remains warm from the summer.
• Crowds: Crowds begin to thin out significantly.
• Pros: Ideal for swimming and sightseeing with more comfortable temperatures. Prices for flights and accommodation start to drop.
• Cons: Higher chance of rain and thunderstorms, especially in November.

Winter (December-March): Quiet Charm & Green Landscapes

• Weather: Mild but can be rainy and windy, with temperatures from 10-16°C (50-61°F).
• Crowds: Fewest tourists. Excellent for budget travel.
• Pros: Perfect for exploring historical sites and museums without crowds. The islands are at their greenest. Christmas and Carnival celebrations are highlights.
• Cons: Too cold for swimming. Many beach-side businesses may be closed. Weather can be unpredictable.

Recommendation for First-Timers: For the perfect balance of great weather for both sightseeing and swimming, with manageable crowds, aim for June or September.

3. Top Destinations in Malta for First-Timers

For a country so compact, Malta is packed with diverse and world-class destinations. Here are the must-visit spots for your first trip.

Valletta: The Fortress Capital

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta is one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. Explore St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its stunning Caravaggio paintings, wander the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic harbor views, and walk the impressive city walls. The city is a living museum of Baroque architecture.

The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua

Located just across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, these three fortified cities offer a more authentic glimpse into Maltese life. Explore their narrow, winding streets and enjoy the stunning views back towards the capital. A traditional “dghajsa” water taxi ride across the harbor is a must-do.

Mdina & Rabat: The Silent City

Mdina, the ancient walled capital of Malta, is a timeless medieval city with a maze of narrow alleys. Known as the “Silent City,” it’s incredibly atmospheric, especially at night. Just outside its walls, Rabat is home to St. Paul’s Catacombs and other historical sites.

Gozo: The Rustic Sister Island

A short ferry ride from the main island, Gozo is greener, more rural, and moves at a slower pace. Explore its capital, Victoria (Rabat), with its impressive Citadel, the Ggantija Temples (older than Stonehenge), and stunning natural sites like the Wied il-Ghasri gorge and Ramla Bay’s red sand beach.

Comino & The Blue Lagoon

Home to the famous Blue Lagoon, this tiny, mostly uninhabited island is a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. The water is unbelievably clear and turquoise. It gets extremely crowded in summer, so aim to visit on a weekday or during the shoulder season for a better experience.

Megalithic Temples of Malta

These UNESCO-listed prehistoric temples, including Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and Ggantija, are some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. They are a testament to the island’s incredible ancient history and are a must-see for any history enthusiast.

4. Planning Your Malta Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning your first trip to Malta is exciting! Its small size makes it relatively easy to plan, but breaking it down into steps makes the process even smoother.

Setting Your Budget & Travel Style

First, decide on your budget. Malta offers options for everyone, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. Decide if you want a history-focused trip, a relaxing beach holiday, a diving adventure, or a mix of everything.

Crafting Your Itinerary

Don’t underestimate how much there is to see. For a 3-4 day trip, focus on Valletta, the Three Cities, and Mdina. With a week, you can easily add a full day or two for Gozo and a trip to Comino. A car is not essential but can be useful for exploring more remote beaches.

Booking Flights & Accommodation

Book flights 3-6 months in advance for the best prices. The main airport is Malta International Airport (MLA). Book accommodation well in advance for July and August, as the best places in popular areas like St. Julian’s, Sliema, and Valletta fill up quickly.

Understanding Visa & Entry Requirements

For most nationalities (e.g., US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian citizens), a visa is not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days as Malta is in the Schengen Area. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.

Securing Travel Insurance

This is non-negotiable, especially if you plan on activities like diving or boating. Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

5. Accommodation in Malta: Where to Stay

Malta offers a fantastic range of accommodation, from historic boutique hotels to modern seaside resorts, with options for every budget.

Hotels: From Boutique to Resorts

You’ll find a wide variety of hotels. Valletta is famous for its stunning boutique hotels set in historic palazzos. Areas like St. Julian’s and Qawra are known for large seaside resorts with pools and extensive facilities. Quality is generally high across the board.

Apartments & Guesthouses: The Local Choice

This is a very common and often best-value type of accommodation. Privately owned apartments and guesthouses offer a more personal experience. They are perfect for families or those on a longer stay, often including kitchen facilities.

Traditional Farmhouses (Gozo )

For a unique and highly recommended experience, stay in a converted farmhouse on Gozo. These often come with private pools and rustic stone features, offering a tranquil and authentic escape from the busier main island.

Hostels: Social & Budget-Friendly

Hostels are common in the lively areas of St. Julian’s and Sliema. They are perfect for solo travelers and those on a tight budget, offering a mix of dorm beds and private rooms, and are great for meeting people.

6. Getting Around Malta: Transportation Guide

Malta is small and very well-connected, making it easy to explore. Here’s how to navigate it.

Public Buses: Extensive & Affordable

• Pros: The bus network is modern, air-conditioned, and extensive, covering almost the entire island of Malta and Gozo. It’s the most affordable way to get around if you don’t have a car.
• Cons: Can be slow due to traffic and multiple stops. Buses can get very crowded in summer.
• Booking: Use a Tallinja Card (explore card for tourists ) for unlimited travel over a set number of days, or pay per ride (contactless or cash).

Ferries: Essential & Scenic

• Pros: Ferries are essential for traveling between Malta, Gozo, and Comino. There are also convenient and scenic ferry services connecting Sliema, the Three Cities, and Valletta.
• Cons: Can be affected by weather, especially in winter.
• Booking: Buy tickets at the terminal before departure. The Gozo Channel ferry is the main service to Gozo.

Ride-Sharing & Taxis: For Convenience

• Pros: Ride-sharing apps like Bolt, Uber, and eCabs are widely available and are often cheaper and more reliable than hailing a traditional white taxi.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than the bus, especially during peak demand.

Driving (Car Rental): For Ultimate Flexibility

• Pros: A rental car gives you the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path beaches and sites at your own pace. It’s particularly useful on Gozo.
• Cons: Malta drives on the left! Roads can be narrow and congested. Local driving can be assertive, and parking in towns like Valletta and Sliema is very difficult.

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7. How Much Does a Trip to Malta Cost?

Malta offers excellent value for money, sitting comfortably in the mid-range for European destinations. It’s more affordable than Italy but can be pricier than Eastern European countries.

Daily Cost Estimates (Per Person)

• Budget Traveler: €50-€80 / $55-88 USD per day
  • Accommodation: Hostel dorms, basic guesthouses.
  • Food: Street food (pastizzi), supermarket meals, cooking your own food.
  • Transport: Public buses.
  • Activities: Free activities like beaches, exploring cities on foot.
• Mid-Range Traveler: €90-€160 / $99-176 USD per day
  • Accommodation: Mid-range hotels, well-located apartments.
  • Food: Eating out at casual restaurants, cafes.
  • Transport: Buses, occasional ride-sharing/ferries.
  • Activities: Paid attractions like temples, museums, boat trips.
• Luxury Traveler: €200+ / $220+ USD per day
  • Accommodation: Luxury hotels, boutique hotels in Valletta, private villas.
  • Food: Fine dining, seafood restaurants.
  • Transport: Private transfers, car rental, private boat charters.
  • Activities: Private tours, diving excursions.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Eat Pastizzi: These small, savory pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas are a delicious, cheap, and iconic Maltese snack.
• Use the Bus: A weekly bus pass offers incredible value for getting around the island.
• Enjoy Free Sights: Wandering the streets of Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities is a fantastic and free experience.
• Drink Tap Water: The tap water is safe to drink, though it has a slightly different taste due to the desalination process. Many prefer bottled water, which is inexpensive.
• Travel in the Shoulder Season: Visiting in spring or autumn offers huge savings on flights and accommodation.

8. Must-Try Foods and Cultural Delights

Maltese cuisine is a delicious fusion of Mediterranean flavors, with strong influences from Sicily and North Africa. It’s rustic, seasonal, and full of character.

Iconic Maltese Dishes

• Pastizzi: The undisputed national snack. A flaky, diamond-shaped pastry filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas. Incredibly cheap and delicious.
• Fenek (Rabbit Stew): Considered the national dish, rabbit is slow-cooked in a rich wine and garlic sauce.
• Ftira: A traditional ring-shaped, semi-flat sourdough bread. Often served as a sandwich (Ftira biż-Żejt) with olive oil, tomato paste, tuna, and capers.
• Lampuki Pie (Fish Pie): A seasonal favorite, this pie is filled with the popular dolphinfish, spinach, olives, and capers.
• Bragioli (Beef Olives): A hearty dish of beef slices wrapped around a savory stuffing and slow-cooked in a rich sauce.
• Gbejniet: Small, round cheeselets made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, served fresh, dried, or peppered.
• Kinnie: A local bittersweet soft drink made from bitter oranges and aromatic herbs. A unique and refreshing taste.

The Village “Festa”

If you’re visiting in summer, you’ll likely encounter a village “festa.” Each town or village celebrates its patron saint with religious processions, band marches, street food, and spectacular fireworks displays. It’s a vibrant and noisy insight into local culture.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

• Language: Maltese and English are the official languages. English is spoken fluently by almost everyone, making communication very easy.
• Religion: Malta is a predominantly Roman Catholic country. Be respectful and dress modestly when entering churches (cover shoulders and knees).
• Greetings: A simple “Bonġu” (good morning) or “Bonswa” (good evening) is appreciated.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary for good service. A tip of 5-10% in restaurants is standard if a service charge is not already included.

9. Staying Safe in Malta

Malta is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe. Crime rates are very low, and it’s a very safe destination for tourists. The main concerns are related to petty crime and swimming safety.

General Safety Tips

• Petty Crime: While rare, take normal precautions in crowded tourist areas like St. Julian’s, Sliema, and Valletta.
• Driving Safety: Drive cautiously. Remember to drive on the left. Roads can be busy and narrow.
• Swimming Safety: Pay attention to flags on beaches indicating sea conditions. Be aware of currents and jellyfish, especially after storms. Never swim alone in remote areas.

Emergency Numbers

• The universal emergency number in Malta is 112 for police, ambulance, and fire services.

10. Solo Travel in Malta

Malta is a fantastic and extremely safe destination for solo travelers. It’s affordable, easy to get around using public transport, and its compact size makes it manageable. The excellent hostel scene in St. Julian’s and Sliema makes it easy to meet other people.

The country’s incredible safety record and the widespread use of English allow for stress-free independent exploration. Joining a guided day tour to Gozo and Comino is a great way to see the islands and connect with fellow travelers.

11. Traveling Malta with Family or as a Senior

Malta’s diverse offerings, safety, and short travel distances make it an excellent choice for both families and seniors.

Traveling with Family

• Outdoor Fun: The country is a giant history lesson. Families will love exploring the forts, the Popeye Village film set, and the numerous beaches.
• Accommodation: Renting an apartment is ideal for families, providing space and kitchen facilities. Many resorts also offer family-friendly amenities.
• Pacing: The country is small, so bus and car journeys are short, making it easy to travel with children without long, boring trips.

Traveling as a Senior

• Accessibility: Be aware that historic cities like Valletta and Mdina have hills and many stairs, which can be challenging. However, many museums and attractions are accessible.
• Pace: Opt for a slower pace. Choose a good base (like Sliema or Valletta) and take day trips. Consider the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus for an easy overview.
• Safety and Comfort: The country is very safe, and the high quality of services makes for a comfortable trip. The ease of communication in English is a major plus.

12. Digital Nomads in Malta

Malta is a popular destination for digital nomads, offering an excellent quality of life, great weather, a large expat community, and a dedicated nomad residence permit.

• Digital Nomad Visa: Malta offers a “Nomad Residence Permit” for non-EU citizens, allowing them to live in the country for a year (with the possibility of renewal). Applicants must prove they can work remotely and meet a minimum income threshold.
• Best Cities for Nomads:
  • Sliema & St. Julian’s: The main hubs. They have the most co-working spaces, cafes, restaurants, and social activities.
  • Valletta: More cultural and historic, but with a growing number of cafes suitable for working.
  • Gozo: For those seeking a quieter, more relaxed pace of life with a lower cost of living.
• Connectivity: Internet is fast, reliable, and widespread. 5G is available across the islands.
• Cost of Living: Higher than in Eastern Europe but generally lower than in major Northern or Western European capitals. Rent is the biggest expense.

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13. Essential Packing List in our Malta Travel Guide

Packing for Malta is about preparing for sun, sea, and sightseeing. Versatility and light clothing are key.

Clothing

• Swimwear & Beach Towel: Absolutely essential for any season, as you might get a sunny day even in winter.
• Lightweight & Breathable Fabrics: Cotton, linen, and blends are ideal for the hot summer months.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sandals: You’ll be walking a lot on hills and uneven cobblestone streets.
• Water Shoes: Many of Malta’s most beautiful swimming spots are rocky, not sandy.
• Light Jacket or Cardigan: For cooler evenings or overly air-conditioned indoor spaces. A waterproof jacket is essential for winter.
• Slightly Dressier Outfit: For a nice dinner or a night out in Valletta or St. Julian’s.
• Modest Clothing: For visiting churches (a scarf to cover shoulders is very useful).

Essentials & Accessories

• Universal Travel Adapter: Malta uses the Type G plug (the three-pin UK plug).
• Portable Power Bank: For charging devices on the go.
• Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated.
• High-SPF Sunscreen, Sun Hat & Sunglasses: The sun is very strong, even outside of summer.
• Daypack: Essential for daily excursions.

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14. FAQs for First-Timers

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your first trip to Malta.

What currency does Malta use?

Malta uses the Euro (€).

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is an official language alongside Maltese and is spoken fluently by virtually everyone. You will have no problem communicating.

Is Malta expensive?

Malta is a mid-range European destination. It is more affordable than countries like the UK, France, or Scandinavia, but more expensive than destinations in Eastern Europe. It offers good value for money.

Do I need a visa for Malta in 2025?

For most nationalities (e.g., US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian), a visa is not required for tourist stays up to 90 days as Malta is in the Schengen Area.

What is the best way to get around?

The public bus system is extensive and affordable, making it the best option for most tourists. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Uber are also very convenient. A car is not necessary for most trips.

What side of the road do they drive on in Malta?

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Malta, the same as in the UK.

15. What’s Next? More Guides to Explore

Your Maltese adventure awaits! We hope this comprehensive guide has equipped you with all the essential information to plan an unforgettable trip to the heart of the Mediterranean. From the ancient streets of Valletta to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, Malta promises a journey filled with history, sunshine, and lasting memories.

Happy travels, and enjoy your unforgettable journey through Malta!

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References:

European Union. (2025, April 14). Revised timeline for the EES and ETIAS. Retrieved from Official EU Site