An Exceptional Malta Travel Guide for 2024

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Thinking about Malta, let alone being there, puts a smile on my face.

Admittedly, I’m a little biased. While I was born in Canada, I’ve lived in Malta, and have been back a few times since moving permanently to Toronto with my family in 2001.

I consider my time living on the unique archipelago some of the best and most idyllic years of my life. I often look back fondly on those years with immense warmth.

While I haven’t visited every place on Earth (yet), I can confidently say there’s nothing out there that’s quite as unique as this little island. 

The mixture of influences from European and Middle Eastern influences has resulted in a time capsule that’s comfortably stuck in the past but slowly inching its way into the present.

If you’re planning to visit Malta, it’s the perfect blend of history and relaxation, with endless artifacts and shores with so much to discover in between. 

Below, I’ll share my personal Malta travel guide which details how to navigate your time on the island while making the most of it.

Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Malta

Here are some essential things to know before you visit Malta, including tips on health and safety, transportation, language, money and tipping, and more. 

Health and Safety in Malta

The emergency number in Malta is 112.

Malta is an incredibly safe place to visit. It is unlikely that you will experience any crime, be it serious or petty.

However, driving can be erratic, with motorists often speeding down small streets and appearing around corners unexpectedly.

Be sure to walk with caution constantly, especially If you’re travelling with children. Ensure that they understand this as well.

While tap water is safe to drink in Malta, it is not recommended to drink and many locals do not drink Maltese tap water.

You should purchase bottled water on an ongoing basis for consumption. If you choose to drink tap water, consider purchasing a Lifestraw to have handy when bottled water isn’t available.

Airports in Malta

Malta is served by one public airport, which is the Malta International Airport in St. Luqa. A small but efficient airport, Malta International Airport is easy to navigate and will get you in and out fairly quickly, in my experience anyway.

Transportation in Malta

Transportation isn’t a strong suit of Malta. Infrastructure can make getting around the island difficult and frustrating, with traffic jams, delays, and accidents fairly commonplace.

There are a few ways to make your way around the island, however.

Many of my family members who visit Malta usually rent a car when I visit, which makes visiting remote places a lot easier.

You may want to consider renting a car to get around the island, though you will need to be a confident driver, as it tends to be a bit of a free-for-all.

In recent years, Malta has introduced Uber, as well as Bolt, its competitor. Using these ride-sharing apps may be your best means of transportation while visiting the island.

Public buses in Malta operate almost 24/7. These buses are cheap and reliable. However, they can take forever to get you to where you want to go. The cost of a public bus ride in Malta is about €1.50.

Walkability in Malta

Malta is not very walkable. You will face many flights of stairs and hills throughout the country, though certain areas are very pedestrian-friendly, despite the many narrow streets and sidewalks.

Coupled with the intense heat of the summer months, be sure to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing to stay cool.

Languages in Malta

While Maltese is the official language of Malta, most, if not all of its citizens, speak English fluently. In some cases, you may find that older folks also speak Italian, as Italian was once the national language of Malta.

Maltese is a bizarre language, which combines mostly Arabic with some parts of romantic languages, such as Italian, French, and Spanish.

As mentioned, most people in Malta speak English. However, if you want to become friendly with locals, you can use these terms to put a smile on their faces:

• Bongu (bon-jue) = Good Morning
• Jekk jogħġbok (yek-yoj-bokk) = Please
• Grazzi (graat-zee) = Thank you
• Kif Int? (kif-int) = How are you?

Learn these simple phrases and you’ll be guaranteed to earn some extra points with locals!

Money and Tipping in Malta

Malta is part of the European Union and, as such, uses the Euro as its national currency. Tipping is customary in Malta, though a percentage of 5% to 10% is often appreciated.

Weather in Malta

Malta can get very hot during the summer months. The best time to visit is during the summer months, during peak season, which is between June to September.

Festivals and Celebrations in Malta

Maltese people love celebrating with a good fiesta. The best time to get in on a Festa is in September when every Maltese town celebrates the Victoria Day feast.

The island comes to life with celebrations that usually last all day, with processions, fireworks, and band marches.

For those travelling during the winter months, February is a great time to experience Carnival, which is the European equivalent of the North American celebration of Halloween.

SIM Cards and Cellphone Service in Malta

If you’re travelling from outside of Europe, SIM Cards are required for cellphone service in Malta. It is fairly inexpensive and easy to attain.

The Malta International Airport and most cities have mobile SIM card stores, which will serve you outside of Malta and in other places in Europe, however, this depends on the place you purchase a SIM Card. 

Typically, a month’s worth of mobile usage in Malta will run you about €15.

Alternatively, mobile eSIMs such as Airlo are fairly inexpensive and allow you to avoid the hassle of switching and holding onto your regular SIM card.

Where to Stay in Malta

Malta is a relatively small country, which means where you decide to stay won’t greatly impact your experience there.

However, since transportation around the island isn’t great, you’ll want to maximize your potential for things to see within a reasonable distance of your hotel.

I think the best town to stay in Malta is Mellieha, as it is close to multiple beaches and historical artifacts. It’s also the closest major town to Comino and Gozo, which are excellent places to visit for day trips.

Alternatively, Valletta, Sliema, and Floriana are also excellent places to stay. Valletta is the capital of Malta and is located by many points of interest.

Things to Do and Places to Visit in Malta

While Malta has around 53 cities on the island to explore, it is an absolute nightmare to get around. 

Infrastructure needs to be better, and you will likely have difficulty getting around the island.

That said, plan accordingly with the list of towns and cities to visit in Malta below. Note that all cities are ordered according to ease of access if you stay in Mellieha. 

1. Mellieħa

Mellieha is my home town, and, in my opinion, the best place to stay when you’re in Malta. There are a few reasons why I think it’s one of the best places to stay.

The first reason is that Mellieha is one of the most beautiful towns on the island and a few minutes away from one of the best beaches Mellieha Bay and it’s connecting Ghadira Bay.

It is a bustling beach town with many Maltese restaurants.
Some of the best ones in Mellieha that I recommend include Tal-Puzzu, Il Pirata, Belleview, BEI Mellieha, and Champ’s Pastizzi.

There are also various historical attractions, such as the Red Tower, White Tower, Bomb Shelters, and Sanctuaries.

It’s also close to Comino ferries, which allows you to visit Comino, a party beach with crystal blue water and party vibes, and also allows you to catch the Gozo ferries, which is a ferry to Malta’s second island, Gozo, or, as the locals know it, Ghawdex.

2. Comino

Comino is the third largest island in Malta. While there are many natural sites to see, as well as relics from WWII, what draws thousands of tourists here every summer is the Blue Lagoon, a crystal-clear body of water popular for swimming and relaxation.

The picturesque island can be accessed by boat from Mellieha. Be sure to get there early as this is usually a day trip option that can be quite exhausting in the Maltese heat. 

Comino is a very tourist-centric place, with a wide variety of food trucks and souvenir stands. This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s surely a great place to visit if you love hanging out on the beach.

3. Gozo

Gozo is the second-largest Maltese Island. While still relatively small to most other places in Europe, Gozo is charming and considered a very well-preserved part of the Maltese islands.

Take a 30-minute ferry ride from Cirkewwa Passenger Terminal to Gozo, either as a passenger or by car, and you’ll enjoy a scenic route to Gozo.

4. Mdina, Rabat, and Mosta

Mdina, Rabat, and Mosta are three towns within proximity of each other. You can spend a full day exploring sites to see all three.

Mdina
Formerly the old capital, Mdina is a historic place to visit, a small walled city similar to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. 

However, a lot smaller, Mdina has a sprawl of historical exhibits that showcase the melting pot of medieval Malta, with restaurants and patios to complement tourists. Consider a horse trolley ride through the city to see it all.

Rabat
Outside of the walled city of Mdina is the rest of the town of Rabat, which has various shops and cute restaurants, including Crystal Palace, which sells some of the best Pastizzi on the island, so much so that world leaders visited it. 

St. Paul’s Catacombs can also be explored in the city of Rabat. An archeological site showing the tombs of times past is a must for those fascinated with the medieval.

Mosta
Mosta is a small town in Malta that has one major attraction: the Mosta Church, which is one of the most beautiful churches on the entire island. 

There is an amazing story behind this church: during WWII, Malta, which was the most bombed country during the war, the church served as a bomb shelter. Axis forces bombed the church, but the bomb broke through the dome and failed to go off. You can visit this church for a small fee.

5. Valletta, Floriana, and Sliema

Valletta is the capital of Malta, while Floriana and Sliema are neighbouring cities that have a lot to offer. You can visit Valletta, Floriana, and Sliema within a day. Let’s take a look at what each town has to offer.

Valletta
Valletta, the nation’s capital, is a mesmerizing walled city featuring beautiful churches, museums, palaces, monuments, and a massive piazza, with shops and restaurants on every corner. It’s an excellent place to get lost for a day.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers quite a bit to do, including Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, Barrakka Gardens, Grand Master Palace Courtyard, National War Museum – Fort St Elmo, and much more.

Floriana
Floriana is a small town just outside of Valletta. You’ll have to drive through it to visit Valletta. 

Outside, you can find various restaurants, bars, and shops around these beautiful arched hallways or walk around the outdoor parks. I enjoyed some jazz on a Friday night, which was particularly lovely.

If you want to experience the charm of Floriana at night, visit Il-Gazin Vilhena, a restaurant and bar serving Maltese food with a side of live jazz music on Friday nights.

Sliema
Sliema is for those who love to do a bit of shopping. One of many coastal cities, Sliema is known as the area where people go if they want to go shopping.

Still, it’s not just about shopping here. You can visit many of the cathedrals it offers and archeological sites of interest.

5. Paceville and St. Julian’s

If you’re the type to love a good bar scene or nightclub scene, look no further than Paceville and St. Julian’s for a taste of Malta’s nightlife. It’s here you can also find casinos to enjoy some late-night gambling. 

If you’re more of a sightseeing and culture type like myself, St. Julian’s and Paceville might be better for you during the day, as you can admire coastal sites.  

6. Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

Known as the Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Conspicua, (or by their Maltese names, Birgu, Isla, and Bormla) are historical cities that date hundreds of years old.

The three cities are within proximity of each other and are a must-visit for people who want to see churches and marines while visiting some great restaurants and bars in the area.

Food and Drink to Try in Malta

If you thought Maltese cuisine wasn’t too intricate or unique, you’re pretty wrong! Malta has a unique approach to cuisine and drink, and there’s a lot to explore here, so let’s not waste any more time and jump into it.

1. Pastizzi

The pride of Malta, the most beloved food to ever grace the island. 

Easily the favourite of the Maltese and those lucky enough to know someone from there. 

Pastizzi are unique, versatile snacks that make for a great breakfast or savoury late-night eat, and just as good at any time in between.

These flaky pastries are traditionally available in two flavours: ricotta and mashed peas with minced meat. Both are incredible and a favourite among locals.

Pastizzi have become available in recent years with other fillings, and while it’s a divisive topic, chicken and mushroom, along with other flavours, have become available.

You will find pastizzi everywhere. From fine dining restaurants to food stands known as pastizzerias which also sell Malta’s delicious pizza variations. The best choice is to go early in the morning when they’re fresh.

2. Ftira

Ftira is Maltese bread and served traditionally as a sandwich containing tune, tomato, onion, capers, and olives, though many exist, including sardines, potato, and even sausage and bacon. 

You’ll find Ftiras all over Malta, served at most restaurants across the island. It is the perfect Maltese meal, often made with fresh tuna caught by Maltese fishermen.

3. Fenek Moqli (Fried Rabbit)

Rabbit is another staple of Maltese cuisine and is available in several dishes, predominantly as a stew or as a side to spaghetti or fries.

Rabbit may need to be bolder for those not very adventurous with their palate. However, it’s a Maltese staple and tastes quite similar to chicken. Those who try it won’t be disappointed.

4. Qassatat (Maltese Meat Pie)

Qassatat is a Maltese pastry that is similar to an English meat pie. It is served at most places serving pastizzi or other Maltese foods.

5. Twistees (Maltese Baked Cheese Snack)

Twistees can be best described as a Maltese take on Cheetos. They’re baked cheese snacks that are delicious and available in various flavours, such as regular, barbeque, and chicken.

Twistees are an essential part of your trip to Malta. Best of all, they’re inexpensive and packed.

6. Imqaret (Fried Dates)

Imqaret are fried dates that are some of the few remnants of the Arab reign over Malta. Made with spices and fried to perfection, Imqaret is available at most bakeries across Malta. 

When I was a child, my mother used to buy them for me and my brother while waiting for the bus from Valletta back to Mellieha.

7. Gbejniet (Maltese Peppered Cheese)

Gbejniet is a simple Maltese peppered cheese that has a similar texture to goat cheese. Typically, this is a light snack many enjoy with Maltese water crackers called galletti.

8. Hobz Biz-Zejt (Bread with Oil)

Hobz Biz-Zejt translates to bread with oil. However, is a sandwich served with Maltese bread, tomato, capers, olive oil, and tuna. Hobz Biz-Zejt is a great light sandwich.

9. Kinnie (Maltese Soda)

Like Italy’s Brio, Kinnie is a Maltese pop made from fermented oranges and wormwood. 

Sweet, then bitter, Kinnie isn’t exactly everyone’s favourite, but to Maltese people, it’s a tradition and a must. 

It was also made and invented by the same manufacturers brewing Cisk, Malta’s favourite beer.

10. Cisk (Maltese Beer)

Cisk is Maltese beer, dating back to 1923. The brewer offers various kinds of Cisk Beer, however, its prime import is recognizable by its yellow can and red text.

Cisk is served in both cans and bottles, though I prefer it in cans, as bottles tend to have a barley odour.

My Final Thoughts: Visit Malta

Malta is an incredibly underrated country. While many people living in Europe can easily access the country, it is difficult for those living outside of the content to make a trip down to the country.

If you make the choice to spend a few days or weeks in Malta, I guarantee you will not regret it. Enjoy the warm hospitality and friendly people that have made this island well worth the visit, for thousands of years.

FAQs about Malta

What is the best time to visit Malta?

Visiting Malta is best between July and September. Weather is usually the hottest between these months. Furthermore, there’s an array of religious celebrations during September.

How can I get around in Malta?

You will need a car to drive around Malta. However, public transportation and ride-share options like Uber have become available recently.

What is the local currency in Malta, and can I use credit cards?

Malta is a part of the European Union and uses the Euro. Most places take credit card and smartphone payments. However, many old-school diners and shops won’t take cards, so having cash on hand is a good idea.

​Is Malta safe?

Yes. Malta is incredibly safe for tourists. However, it is very unsafe when it comes to driving. Please be cautious when walking or driving through the island.

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