Highlights
Valletta, the tiny fortified capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an open-air museum of Baroque splendour built by the Knights of St John — the awe-inspiring St John's Co-Cathedral (with its Caravaggio masterpiece), grand palaces, harbour bastions and the Upper Barrakka Gardens' sweeping views over the Grand Harbour.
The old capital Mdina, a silent, walled medieval hilltop city known as the 'Silent City', is magical at dusk, while the Three Cities across the harbour offer authentic maritime history. Malta's prehistoric temples — Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra and the underground Hypogeum — are among the world's oldest free-standing structures.
The seas are the other great draw: the Blue Grotto's sea caves, the natural pools and (former) landmarks of the coast, and superb diving among wrecks and reefs. The quieter sister island of Gozo is greener and more rural — the Ġgantija temples, the Citadel of Victoria, salt pans, and beautiful swimming spots make it a restful counterpoint. Tiny Comino's Blue Lagoon dazzles with unreal turquoise water.
When to go
April to June and September to October are the best months — warm, sunny and comfortable for sightseeing, swimming and walking, with the sea still swimmable and the crowds thinner than mid-summer.
Summer (July-August) is hot, dry and very busy, perfect for the beaches and the buzzing nightlife but crowded and pricey. Autumn keeps the sea warm well into October. Winter is mild, green and quiet — pleasant for history and hiking, though some tourism winds down and the sea cools. Spring brings wildflowers and festivals. For the ideal mix of sun, sea and sightseeing, aim for late spring or early autumn.
Visa & entry
This country is part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities (including UK, US, Canadian, Australian and others) can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, while others need a Schengen visa arranged in advance. The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors is being phased in, so check whether it applies by your travel date. A passport valid at least three months beyond your stay is required. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality and the ETIAS status on official EU/national sources before you travel.
Health & safety
Malta is a safe country with low violent crime and an easygoing atmosphere, and English is an official language, making it especially easy for many visitors. The main issues are petty theft and pickpocketing in the busiest tourist and nightlife areas (Sliema, St Julian's, Valletta), so take normal precautions.
The genuine hazards are on the roads — Maltese driving is famously assertive, roads are narrow and busy, and locals drive on the left, so take care, and consider skipping a hire car for the buses. Strong sun and sea currents at some spots warrant care. Healthcare is good. Check your government's advisory before departure, though Malta is generally low-risk.
Getting around
Malta is small, and an extensive public bus network (Malta Public Transport) reaches almost everywhere cheaply from the Valletta area hub — the easiest, stress-free option given the driving conditions, with a Tallinja card or contactless. Ferries link Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities scenically, and the Gozo Channel ferry connects to Gozo.
Ride-hailing (Bolt, eCabs) is widespread and cheap, often more convenient than buses for direct trips. A hire car offers freedom but means coping with aggressive driving, narrow lanes and left-hand traffic. For most visitors, buses, ferries and ride-hailing cover the islands comfortably.
Money
Malta uses the Euro, making it simple for many visitors. It is very card-friendly — cards and contactless are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to buses and ferries — but carry some cash for small kiosks, markets, village shops and tips. ATMs are widely available.
Malta is moderately priced, generally cheaper than Western Europe but not a budget destination in peak season. Tipping is customary but modest — around 5-10% in restaurants for good service (check if a service charge is already included), and rounding up for taxis and guides. English being widely spoken makes everyday transactions effortless.
Malta