Malta Holidays

Where to Stay in Malta: The Best Areas for Every Type of Traveller

Malta offers a variety of places to stay, each with its own charm and appeal, depending on what you're looking for in your holiday. Whether you're after a relaxing retreat, a cultural experience, or a lively beachside getaway, there’s a perfect destination for you. Here's a guide to the best areas for different types of travellers:

For a Peaceful Getaway: Gozo

If you're seeking a more laid-back and tranquil escape, Gozo holidays are perfect. This charming island is ideal for those who want to explore scenic landscapes, historic sites, and unwind in peaceful surroundings.

For History Lovers: Valletta

For those who enjoy rich history and culture, Valletta holidays offer a fantastic mix of museums, historic buildings, and stunning views. Malta's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's past.

For Beach and Resort Lovers: Qawra & Bugibba

If you're a beach lover and enjoy a more resort-style holiday, Qawra holidays and Bugibba holidays are fantastic options. Both areas offer a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and waterfront activities.

For a Stylish Stay: Sliema

For those looking for a more cosmopolitan experience, Sliema holidays are perfect. Known for its trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and stunning views of the Mediterranean, Sliema is a great choice for those who love modern living with a touch of luxury.

For Family-Friendly Holidays: Mellieha

For families looking for a combination of relaxation and activities, Mellieha holidays offer the best of both worlds. With beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly resorts, it’s an excellent destination for all ages.

For Seaside Charm: Pembroke & Saint Paul’s Bay

If you're looking for a quiet seaside retreat with easy access to nearby attractions, Pembroke holidays and Saint Paul's Bay holidays provide the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience.

For Nightlife and Entertainment: Saint Julians

For those who enjoy vibrant nightlife, dining, and entertainment, Saint Julians holidays are the place to be. Known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of bars, restaurants, and clubs, this is where you'll find the heart of Malta's social scene.

No matter what kind of traveller you are, Malta has a destination to match your needs and preferences. Whether you’re exploring the culture of Valletta or soaking up the sun in Qawra, you'll find the perfect spot to stay on the island.

For more help in choosing the perfect accommodation, check out our guide on where to stay in Malta

Weather and Best Time to Visit Malta

The best time to go to Malta holidays depends on what kind of experience you're looking for. Whether you want to bask in the sunshine, enjoy outdoor adventures, or explore the rich culture, Malta offers something for every type of traveller throughout the year.

Summer (June - September): Perfect for Beach Lovers

Summer in Malta is ideal for sun-seekers. With almost guaranteed sunshine and clear blue skies, this is the peak season for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities.

• Temperatures: 23°C to 27°C, with highs reaching 30°C

• Sea Temperature: Mid-20s°C, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and water sports

• Rainfall: Virtually none, so you can enjoy wall-to-wall sunshine

• Activities: Relax on Malta’s beautiful beaches, explore the crystal-clear waters with diving and snorkelling, or take in the stunning coastal views.

Shoulder Seasons (April - May & October - November): Mild and Comfortable

If you prefer a quieter holiday with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, consider travelling in the shoulder seasons. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, including hiking, sightseeing, and cultural exploration.

• Temperatures: 18°C to 22°C

• Sea Temperature: Around 18°C to 22°C

• Rainfall: More likely than summer, but still manageable with occasional showers

• Ideal for: Walking tours, exploring historic sites, and enjoying the local festivals.

Winter (December - February): Mild but Rainy

Winters in Malta are mild but wet, making it a perfect time for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying a mild climate. Although it’s not beach weather, the island offers plenty of indoor attractions and cosy outdoor experiences.

• Temperatures: Low teens°C (around 12°C - 15°C)

• Sea Temperature: Around 14°C, which is too cold for comfortable swimming but still good for winter scuba diving

• Rainfall: Expect occasional heavy downpours, but they usually last only a day or two at a time

While winter isn’t the best for lounging on the beach, it's a great season for off-season sightseeing, experiencing local culture, and exploring the scenic landscapes of the island.

Scuba Diving Year-Round

Malta’s waters are a diving paradise, with excellent visibility and diverse marine life. Diving conditions remain favourable throughout the year.

• Best for: Year-round diving trips

• Underwater Fauna: Fish, cuttlefish, octopus, barracuda, and even tuna

• Sea Temperature: 14°C in winter, rising to 22-25°C in summer

How to Get to Malta

Travelling to Malta is straightforward, with numerous direct flights from the UK, making it easy to get to the island no matter where you're based.

• Flight Duration: Around 3 to 4 hours from the UK

• Major Airports: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast

• Regional Airports: Bristol, Liverpool, East Midlands, and Bournemouth also offer affordable flight options

Whether you're flying from a major city or a regional airport, Malta is easily accessible, offering both budget-friendly and more premium travel options.

Getting Around Malta

Once you've arrived in Malta, getting around is a breeze thanks to the island’s convenient public transport and ferry systems.

• Public Transport: Malta has a reliable and efficient bus system that connects major towns, attractions, and the airport.

• Ferries to Gozo & Comino: Take the short passenger ferry ride (less than 30 minutes) to explore Malta’s neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino.

• Car Hire: While not necessary for most tourists, hiring a car is available for more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore remote areas or have a lot of luggage.

Whether you opt for the bus, ferry, or car hire, getting around Malta is simple, affordable, and convenient.

Malta offers a wide variety of activities year-round, from beach days to cultural explorations. Regardless of when you visit, the island's perfect mix of sunshine, stunning scenery, and rich history will make your Malta holidays unforgettable.

Things to Do in Malta: From Historic Wonders to Natural Escapes

Malta offers a vibrant tapestry of activities, blending rich history with stunning natural landscapes. Here's how to immerse yourself in Maltese culture and scenery:

• Valletta's Charm: Wander through Valletta's enchanting streets, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history, cafes, and restaurants. Don't miss the breathtaking views from the city's battlements and waterfront.

• Island Hopping: Take a ferry to the scenic 'Three Cities' across Valletta Harbour for a chic island ambience and yacht-spotting adventures.

• St John's Cathedral: Marvel at this imposing church's interior treasures, including Caravaggio masterpieces.

• Military History: Visit the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo and the Palace Armoury for a glimpse into Malta's strategic past.

• St Paul of the Shipwreck Church: Experience the atmospheric setting of this unique church, adorned with items from shipwrecks.

• Casa Rocca Piccola: Explore this 16th-century noble house for a dive into Maltese nobility and history.

• Mdina and Rabat: Discover the 'Silent City' of Mdina and its neighbour Rabat, with their serene plazas, museums, and impressive catacombs.

• Popeye Village: For a quirky day out, visit the film set of the 1980s Popeye musical, complete with theme-park elements and a beach.

• Rainy Day Activities: The Malta Aviation Museum and the Esplora Interactive Science Centre offer fascinating indoor diversions.

• Day Trips to Gozo and Comino: Don't miss the serene beauty of Gozo and the crystal-clear waters surrounding Comino for memorable day excursions.

Free Things to Do in Malta: Enjoying Nature and Culture

Malta's beauty isn't just in its landmarks but also in the free experiences it offers:

• Beach Days: With no lido culture, Malta's coasts offer numerous free beaches for swimming and snorkelling among colourful marine life.

• Hiking Adventures: Explore the abundant hiking trails across Malta and Gozo, showcasing the islands' natural beauty.

• Old Towns Exploration: Wander the historic streets of Valletta, Mdina, Rabat, and Victoria on Gozo, soaking in the timeless ambience.

For travellers looking to explore Malta, these highlights offer a guide to experiencing the island nation's diverse attractions, from historical sites to natural wonders, ensuring your Malta holidays are filled with adventure and relaxation.

For more ideas on how to make the most of your trip, check out our guide to the best things to do in Malta.

Most Popular Beaches in Malta for Sun, Sea, and Sand

Malta's coastline is a mix of rocky and sandy beaches, each offering unique experiences and stunning water quality for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Here's where to soak up the sun:

• Golden Bay: A sandy haven with shallow waters and complete facilities, including cafes and watersports, ideal for families.

• Mellieha Beach: Malta's longest sandy beach boasts wide spaces and numerous amenities.

• St George's Bay: A sandy beach in St. Julian’s, perfect for a convenient dip in the sea.

• Sliema Seafront: While not a traditional beach, the rocky shoreline is a favorite for local swimmers.

• Gnejna Bay: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly watersports.

• Qawra Pools: Natural pools in St. Paul’s Bay area, ideal for a refreshing swim.

• Ramla Beach, Gozo: A beloved beach on Gozo with red sand and stunning seas.

• Hondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo: Offers a traditional swimming experience with essential facilities.

• Comino Blue Lagoon: Famous for its dazzling waters, making it a top day-trip destination.

Secret Beaches in Malta for a Peaceful Escape

Discover Malta's lesser-known beaches for a serene day by the sea:

• Għajn Tuffieħa Bay: A quieter alternative to Golden Bay, offering unspoiled beauty and a surf school.

• St. Peter’s Pool: A rocky swimming spot gaining popularity for its clear pools and sunbathing areas.

• Fekruna Beach: A secluded rocky cove near St Paul’s Bay, cherished for its tranquillity.

• Il-Bajja tax-Xama': A small, serene beach in the St. Paul’s area, perfect for a quiet swim.

• Daħlet Qorrot, Gozo: A rustic cove with great snorkelling and a local favourite for peaceful swims.

• Wied il-Għasri: A hidden cove with prime snorkelling conditions, sheltered by cliffs.

Whether you're looking for a lively beach day or a secluded swim, Malta's diverse coastline has something for every beach lover. From the bustling beaches of Golden Bay and Mellieha to the tranquil retreats of Fekruna and Wied il-Għasri, your Malta holidays are sure to be filled with memorable seaside experiences.

Savoring Malta: A Culinary Journey

Delight in Maltese Cuisine

Malta's kitchen offers a rich palette of Mediterranean flavours, focusing on rustic, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The island's seafood, prepared in various styles that showcase its freshness, is a highlight. Here's a taste of what to expect:

• Lampuki: A seasonal delicacy, Lampuki fish is a local favourite, enjoyed grilled, in a pie, or with a savoury garlic sauce. It's also a key ingredient in 'alijotta', a rich tomato-based fish stew.

• Rabbit: As a staple meat due to local farming, rabbit dishes in Malta are a must-try. Whether it's stewed with wine, fried with garlic, or served in a hearty pasta dish, rabbit offers a taste of traditional Maltese cooking.

• Bragioli (Beef Olives): This classic dish features slices of beef wrapped around a filling of minced beef and herbs, showcasing the island's love for rich, meaty flavours.

• Imqarrun il-Forn: With Sicilian roots, this baked macaroni dish combines ragu and cheese for a comforting meal. The Maltese twist? Encasing it in pie crust to create 'Timpana'.

• Qassatat: Perfect for a quick lunch, these small pies come with various fillings, including ricotta, mushy peas, and anchovies, reflecting the island's diverse culinary influences.

• Bigilla: A traditional Maltese dip made from broad beans, often spread on Ftira, Malta's ubiquitous bread. It's a simple yet flavorful staple in local cuisine.

• Ġbejna: Don't miss this local cheese made from goat's milk. Its unique taste captures the essence of Malta's dairy tradition.

• Biskuttini tar-Rahal: Often referred to as 'village biscuits', these iced treats are Malta's version of gingerbread, beloved across the island.

• Qaghaq tal-Ghasel: Known as 'honey rings', these sweet biscuits are traditionally made with treacle, a festive treat now enjoyed year-round.

Exploring Malta's culinary landscape is an adventure in itself, offering a window into the island's culture and traditions. From the streets of Valletta to the serene countryside, every meal is an opportunity to taste the heart of Malta.

For those planning their Malta holidays, indulging in these local specialities is a journey through the island's rich culinary heritage, promising memories that are as flavorful as they are unforgettable.

Water sports in Malta

Diving and snorkelling are Malta's two most popular activities, thanks to the fabulously clear water here, the abundance of reefs, and even a few wrecks. You’ll find dive trips and lessons, as well as professional dive courses here, plus casual boat-based day trips for beginners who’d just like to try snorkelling. Malta also has a small but emerging surf scene, focusing on the windier west coast at Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Gnejna beaches. You can also windsurf in some places too. Of course, pedalos, kayaks, and jet skis are as popular as they are in any beachy tourist destination. Boating and sailing are very popular here, and the island’s upscale marinas attract a lot of serious yachters.

Hiking in Malta

You can traverse almost all of Malta’s 150+ kilometres of coast using the country's extensive network of coast paths. For example, you can circle the Marfa peninsula, hike the beautiful coast path near Gnejna Bay, enjoy epic scenery at Ras id-Dawwara, and hug the coast along Dingli Cliffs to the Blue Grotto. You can also walk the coast path in the southeast, between Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk, with a stop off at St. Peter’s Pool. Gozo also boasts a rich tapestry of walking trails, with the Sinap Cliffs and the cliffs around Dwejra Bay being some of the top spots. You can also explore the paths crisscrossing the charming isle of Comino, as long as you watch your boat times for getting back.