Sun, Sea & Secrets: 20 Essential Malta Travel Tips I Wish I Knew Before My First Visit
If you’re anything like me, the idea of stepping into a living museum surrounded by the most brilliant blue water is an absolute dream. My first trip to Malta was exactly that, but I definitely learned a few things on the fly. I spent time figuring out the bus system, finding the best pastizzi, and realising just how powerful that Mediterranean sun is! (Bring Sunscreen)
You’re in the right place because I’m sharing everything I wish I knew sooner. We don’t gatekeep around here. You’re going to love this place. 🇲🇹
When is the Best Time to Visit Malta?
Deciding when to go can make or break your trip. I’ve found the sweet spots are the shoulder seasons: April to June and September to October.
You get that gorgeous sunny weather and warm seas without the intense heat and massive crowds of July and August. Plus, prices for flights and accommodation are generally a bit kinder on your wallet.
Winter (November to March) is cooler and can be rainy, but it’s perfect if you’re there for hiking and history without the tourist rush.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: If you visit in late spring, you’ll see the islands covered in a blanket of colourful wildflowers. It’s a gorgeous sight that the summer crowds completely miss! 🌸
🗺️ Guide to Malta: The Best Time To Visit Malta
Flights from Trip.com (Best for Malta)
Getting to and Around the Maltese Islands
Flying into Malta International Airport (MLA) is your main gateway to the Maltese Islands—it’s the only airport serving this destination. Located just outside the capital, Valletta, MLA is well-connected to major European cities, making it a convenient entry point for travelers. Airlines like Air Malta, Ryanair, Lufthansa, and EasyJet operate regular flights from hubs such as London, Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt. Flight frequency varies by season, with more options in summer due to peak tourism. If you’re traveling from outside Europe, you’ll likely connect through a major hub like Frankfurt, Rome, or Dubai.
For the latest flight schedules and airline options, check the Malta International Airport website. Booking flights early is a smart move, especially during the busy summer months, to secure better deals and availability.
Once you’ve landed, you’ll find plenty of ways to get around Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps:
Official White Taxis: Available right outside the airport, these are a reliable choice for getting to your destination. Fares are regulated, but they can be pricier than alternatives, especially during peak times.
Ride-Sharing Apps: I highly recommend using apps like Bolt or eCabs for a smoother experience. They’re super easy to use—just download the app, book your ride, and you’ll know the fare upfront (typically €10-€20 from the airport to central areas like Valletta or Sliema). These services are often cheaper than taxis, and pre-booking via the app can save you time, especially in summer when demand is high. It’s a tech-savvy, hassle-free option that locals and tourists alike rely on.
Public Transportation
Malta’s bus network is a budget-friendly way to explore the main island. Buses connect key spots like Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and the ferry terminals. A single journey costs around €2 (or €1.50 in winter), payable onboard, though a Tallinja Card offers discounted rates if you’ll be riding often. The catch? Buses can get crowded, and schedules aren’t always spot-on. Still, they’re a great way to soak in local vibes if you’re not in a hurry. Download the Tallinja app for real-time updates and route planning.
Car Rentals
For more freedom, consider renting a car. It’s ideal for reaching quieter corners of Malta or hopping over to Gozo. Companies like Hertz, Avis, and local outfits operate at the airport, with daily rates ranging from €20-€50 depending on the season. Driving in Malta is on the left, but narrow roads and local driving habits might take some getting used to. Parking can also be tricky in busy areas, so book early and plan ahead.
Ferries
To visit Gozo or Comino, ferries are essential:
Gozo Channel Ferry: Runs between Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mġarr (Gozo) multiple times daily. A return ticket costs about €4.65, and it’s a quick, scenic ride.
Comino Boats: Smaller vessels depart from Ċirkewwa or Marfa to Comino, home of the Blue Lagoon. Schedules are less frequent, so check times in advance.
Ferries are reliable and affordable, perfect for island-hopping day trips.
Walking and Biking
Malta’s compact size makes walking a viable option in places like Valletta or Sliema plus, you’ll stumble across charming streets and views. Bike rentals are available in some areas, but roads aren’t always bike-friendly, so proceed with caution.
📍Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups Malta
🗺️ Malta Related: 10 Best Things to Do in Malta
Our Google Map Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Embrace the Maltese Pace of Life: Slow Down!
This was a big lesson for me. Things in Malta run on ‘island time’. Don’t expect service to be lightning-fast or for buses to always be perfectly on schedule.
Instead of getting frustrated, lean into it. The local motto could very well be “take a breath”. Sit back, order another Cisk (the local beer), and just enjoy the moment. This laid-back attitude is all part of Malta’s charm.
Where Should You Stay in Malta? A Quick Guide
Where you base yourself has a huge impact on your holiday. You asked, so I delivered a quick rundown of the main tourist hubs:
Valletta: Perfect for history buffs and culture lovers. Staying in the capital city means you’re surrounded by stunning architecture, museums, and fantastic restaurants. It’s well-connected but gets quiet at night.
Sliema & St. Julian’s: Ideal if you’re looking for nightlife, shopping, and a bustling atmosphere. This is the place to be if you want a huge concentration of bars, restaurants, and hotels.
Mellieħa & St. Paul’s Bay: My top pick for beach lovers and families. This area in the north is close to Malta’s best sandy beaches, including the famous Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay).
Gozo: If you want a slower, more rustic, and authentic experience, stay on Malta’s sister island. It’s a truly peaceful escape with its own unique charm.
Don’t Just Stay on the Main Island: Visit Gozo & Comino!
Seriously, one of my biggest pieces of advice is to get off the main island. A day trip to Gozo is a must.
It’s greener, more rural, and feels like stepping back in time. You can visit the Ġgantija Temples (older than the pyramids!), the stunning Cittadella in Victoria, and rugged coastlines.
And then there’s Comino, the tiny island home to the famous Blue Lagoon. I’m not going to lie, it gets incredibly busy. But the colour of that water? It’s something you have to see to believe. It truly looks photoshopped.
🔹 Pro Tip: To see the Blue Lagoon without the hordes, take the very first ferry of the day or go with a boat tour that arrives in the late afternoon after most of the day-trippers have left. Recommended Tour!
Use Booking.com to find your perfect Maltese stay!
Packing Essentials for Malta: Think Sun and Smart Casual
I wasted hours figuring out what to pack, so here’s what worked. Comfort is key.
Sun Protection: Non-negotiable. A high-SPF sun cream, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are your best friends.
Swimwear: You’ll want at least a couple of options! 👙
Comfortable Shoes: You will be walking a lot, often on uneven, cobbled streets. Pack comfy sandals and a pair of trainers.
Water Shoes: A real lifesaver! Many of Malta’s beautiful swimming spots are rocky, and these make getting in and out of the water so much easier.
A Light Jacket or Shawl: Even in summer, evenings by the sea can get breezy. It’s also essential for covering your shoulders when visiting churches.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and be kind to the planet. You can refill it everywhere.
Let’s Talk Money: Currency, Tipping, and Budgeting
Malta uses the Euro (€). While cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash. You’ll need it for smaller cafes, market stalls, and maybe the odd bus ticket. Contactless is also an option in most areas!
Tipping isn’t mandatory but is definitely appreciated for good service. A tip of 5-10% in restaurants is standard practice if a service charge hasn’t already been added.
💡 Good to Know: ATMs are widespread and reliable. It’s often cheaper to withdraw Euros from an ATM upon arrival than to exchange a lot of cash at home.
🗺️ Related Post: Travel Cards vs Cash: Which One Should You Carry?
Recommended Tours and Tickets
The Power Situation: Don't Forget Your Adaptor!
Trust me on this one. Malta uses the Type G plug—the same three-pin plug as the UK.
I’ve seen so many travellers get caught out. If you’re coming from mainland Europe, the US, or most other places, you will need a travel adaptor. Don’t let your phone die on day one! Bring a universal plug adapter!
Our Google Maps Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Tasting Malta: What You Absolutely Must Eat and Drink
f you’re like me, discovering a new place starts with the food. And you don’t need a big budget for this! Here’s what you need to try:
Pastizzi: A savoury pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas. They’re cheap, delicious, and an iconic snack. I’m obsessed with them, and at around 50 cents a pop, they’re the best bargain on the island.
Ftira: A traditional, ring-shaped Maltese bread, often served as a sandwich filled with tuna, olives, capers, and tomatoes. Perfect for a beach-day lunch.
Fresh Seafood: It doesn’t get fresher. Head to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk on a Sunday for the market and an amazing seafood lunch by the water.
Kinnie: Malta’s national soft drink. It’s a bittersweet, fizzy orange drink with herbs. You have to try it at least once!
Speaking the Language: A Few Handy Maltese Phrases
While English is an official language and spoken everywhere, locals always appreciate it when you try a few words in Maltese.
Hello: Bonġu (bon-joo)
Please: Jekk jogħġbok (yek-yoj-bok)
Thank you: Grazzi (grats-ee)
Yes / No: Iva / Le (ee-va / le)
Cheers!: Saħħa! (sah-ha)
A simple “Grazzi” will always be met with a warm smile. 😊
Staying Connected: SIM Cards and Wi-Fi
You’ll find free Wi-Fi in many public squares, cafes, and restaurants. For constant connection, a local SIM is a great idea. I always recommend using Airalo Malta for the best Esims!
You can pick one up from providers like GO or Epic at the airport.
💡 Fact: If you have a SIM from another EU country, you can use your data in Malta at no extra cost thanks to “Roam Like at Home” rules. Always double-check your provider’s fair use policy, though!
Respect the Sun: It’s Stronger Than You Think
I learned this the hard way on my first day. The sun in Malta is no joke, especially from late spring to early autumn.
Even on cloudy days, the UV index can be sky-high. Apply sun cream like it’s your job, seek shade during peak hours (11 am to 4 pm), and drink tons of water. Sunburn is the fastest way to ruin a holiday.
Exploring the History: More Than Just Beaches
The coastline is stunning, but don’t forget Malta has over 7,000 years of history packed into a tiny space. The density of historical sites is mind-blowing.
You can explore prehistoric temples older than Stonehenge, walk through the fortified “Silent City” of Mdina, and get lost in the incredible streets of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Knights of St. John.
Navigating the Crowds, Especially in Summer
Let’s be real: if you visit in July or August, there will be crowds. My advice? Go early!
Arrive at popular spots like the Blue Lagoon or Mdina right when they open to beat the tour buses. For beaches, try going in the late afternoon. It’s a much more chilled experience.
Water is Precious: Be a Thoughtful Traveller
Malta is one of the world’s most water-scarce countries. It relies heavily on energy-intensive desalination.
We can help by being mindful. Take shorter showers, don’t leave taps running, and reuse your towels. It’s a small effort that shows you respect the island and its resources. 💧
Safety First: Is Malta Safe for Tourists?
Absolutely. I’ve travelled around Malta solo and have always felt incredibly safe. It has a very low crime rate.
Of course, use the same common sense you would anywhere. Keep an eye on your bags in crowded spots and be aware of your surroundings at night. But you can relax here, it’s a very welcoming and safe place.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Just a Quick Word on Safety
The Czech Republic is a very safe country, so you can relax. The main thing, like in any big European city, is to watch out for pickpockets in super-crowded areas (looking at you, Charles Bridge). Just keep your bag zipped and be aware of what’s going on around you. Also, avoid those shady money-changing booths with the “0% commission” signs. It’s a trap! Their rates are awful. Use a proper bank ATM instead.
Slow Down and Soak It In
If I could give you just one tip, it would be this: don’t over-schedule your days. The best memories I have are from the moments I wasn’t rushing. Sitting at a quiet café, stumbling upon a hidden garden, or just watching the trams go by from a park bench. That’s where you’ll find the real heart of Czechia.
There you have it! All the tips and tricks I picked up on my first trip to Malta, all in one place. Malta is truly special.
I hope these Malta travel tips help you feel prepared and excited for your trip. Get ready to fall completely in love with this incredible island nation. 🌍 ✨
Your Turn! What Are Your Thoughts?
Have you been to Malta? Are you planning a trip? Share your own experiences or ask any questions in the comments below. Let’s build a community of happy travellers here at The Travel Tinker👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
Simliar Articles:
- Why Malta Should Top Your Travel Bucket List
- 9 of the best places to visit in Malta
- The End of Cabin Bag Fees on EU Airlines? It’s Not All Good News
Recommended Websites and Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Malta
What is the best way to get around Malta?
Honestly, for a first-timer, a mix of the public buses and walking is perfect. The bus network is cheap and covers almost everywhere. For specific trips or if you’re out late, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are a lifesaver.
How many days do you need in Malta?
I’d say 5 to 7 days is the sweet spot. That gives you enough time to really explore Valletta, have a beach day, and take day trips to the amazing islands of Gozo and Comino without feeling rushed.
Is Malta an expensive destination?
It doesn’t have to be! Compared to a lot of Western Europe, it’s quite affordable. You can eat delicious pastizzifor lunch for under a euro, use the cheap buses, and find great deals if you visit outside of peak summer.
Can you drink tap water in Malta?
The tap water is technically safe, but it’s desalinated and has a salty taste most people don’t like. Let’s be honest, you’ll probably prefer bottled water, which is cheap and sold everywhere.
What language is spoken in Malta?
They have two official languages: Maltese and English. English is spoken by everyone, so you’ll have zero problems communicating. But learning to say “Grazzi” (thank you) will make a local smile.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
You May Also Like
Save this post (pin it)
Share this post
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Author
Helen Ross
I'm a 27-year-old photographer and travel enthusiast, journeying from place to place, immortalizing the hidden tales, unseen moments, and the narratives that lie between.
Welcome!
It's Lovely to Meet You!
Get Social
Popular Posts
Join the Travel Tinker Family
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!
Search Flights
Find Accommodation
Other Resources
Destinations
Get Your Free Travel Starter Kit!
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!