Things to Know Before Going to Malta

Planning a trip to Malta? There are a few things to know before going to Malta that will make your visit easier and help you get the most out of your time there.

Malta might be a tiny country, but there’s an incredible amount packed into its islands. From ancient temples and historic cities to beautiful swimming spots and traditional villages, there’s much more to Malta than you might expect.

We spent seven days exploring Malta and Gozo, relying entirely on public transport, and discovered a few things along the way that would have been handy to know beforehand.

Some things, like driving on the left and English being widely spoken, make Malta particularly easy for Australian travellers. Others, like how long it can take to get from one side of the island to the other, might surprise you.

Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer holiday, these practical Malta travel tips will help you arrive prepared and spend more time enjoying everything the islands have to offer.

If you’re still deciding what to see, take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Malta. You can also find more planning information in my Malta Travel Guide.

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Malta Drives on the Left

Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road, just like Australia and the UK. For Australian visitors, this makes hiring a car a little less daunting.

However, Maltese roads can be narrow, particularly in older towns and villages, and traffic can be heavy. If you’re planning to hire a car, be prepared for some tight streets and interesting parking situations!

We didn’t hire a car during our week in Malta, instead using public transport for our entire visit.

If you do want to drive, you can compare rental car prices with Discover Cars.

English is Widely Spoken

Malta has two official languages, Maltese and English, so English-speaking visitors should have very few communication problems.

Almost everyone we encountered spoke excellent English, and I don’t recall having any difficulty understanding the local accents.

You’ll see both languages on signs, although place names are often in Maltese.

You might also notice that Maltese looks quite different from other European languages. It’s a fascinating language with Semitic roots and influences from Italian and English.

The Currency is the Euro

Malta uses the euro (€), making it easy to include in a longer European holiday without changing currencies.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, particularly in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. However, it’s worth carrying a little cash for markets, smaller businesses and occasional purchases.

ATMs are readily available in tourist areas.

Check the Entry Requirements Before You Travel

Malta is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area.

Visitors from many countries, including Australia, the UK and the US, can generally visit Malta visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Remember, this limit applies to your time across the Schengen Area, not just Malta.

The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is now operating, so most non-EU visitors entering for short stays will have biometric details recorded at the external Schengen border.

A separate travel authorisation system, ETIAS, is also planned for visa-exempt travellers, so check whether it has commenced before your trip.

Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality and can change. Check the latest information with the Malta government’s official visa information service before departure.

Public Transport is Cheap, but Can Be Slow

Malta has an extensive bus network covering most of the main island and Gozo, making it easy to explore without hiring a car.

We relied entirely on buses during our seven days in Malta, and they worked well for us.

However, buses aren’t always quick. Traffic congestion, frequent stops and indirect routes can mean journeys take longer than expected. Popular routes can also get crowded, particularly during summer.

You can buy tickets on board using cash or a contactless card. There are also travel passes worth considering if you’re planning to use buses regularly.

The Tallinja app is useful for planning routes and checking bus information.

For more details, read my guide to getting around Malta without a car.

Malta is Small, but Getting Around Takes Time

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a Malta itinerary is assuming that because the island is small, you can get everywhere quickly.

Malta is only about 27 km long, but narrow roads, traffic and winding bus routes mean travelling between attractions can take surprisingly long.

If you’re relying on public transport, try grouping attractions in the same area rather than travelling back and forth across the island.

This is particularly important if you have only a few days to explore.

Don’t Forget About the Ferries

Buses aren’t the only way to get around Malta. Ferries can be a quicker and more enjoyable alternative, particularly around Valletta.

Regular passenger ferries connect Valletta with Sliema and the Three Cities, saving you from travelling all the way around the harbours by road.

There are also ferries to Gozo, including the vehicle ferry from Ċirkewwa and high-speed passenger services from Valletta, Sliema and Buġibba.

Ferry services can be affected by weather conditions, so check schedules before travelling.

For current timetables, see Malta Public Transport for the harbour ferries and Gozo Highspeed for high-speed services to Gozo.

Be Prepared for Hills, Steps and Uneven Streets

Many of Malta’s historic towns are wonderful places to explore on foot. Valletta, Mdina and Birgu are compact, with plenty to discover as you wander through their narrow streets.

However, don’t mistake compact for flat!

Valletta, in particular, has some very steep streets and long staircases. You’ll also come across uneven paving and cobblestones in older areas.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you’re planning a full day of sightseeing.

If you’re arriving in Valletta from the Grand Harbour, the Barrakka Lift saves you a steep climb up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Malta Has a Mediterranean Climate

Malta enjoys hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a destination you can visit year-round.

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 30°C, particularly in July and August. It’s ideal if you’re planning a beach holiday, but sightseeing in the middle of the day can be uncomfortable.

Spring and autumn are generally more pleasant for exploring historical sites, walking and spending time outdoors.

We visited in March and had mostly comfortable sightseeing weather, although we still had a couple of days when the sun was surprisingly strong.

Winter tends to be cooler and wetter, but it can still be a good time to visit if you’re more interested in history and culture than swimming.

For a closer look at the seasons, read my guide to the best time of year to visit Malta.

Don’t Underestimate the Sun

Malta gets plenty of sunshine, and the UV levels can be high, especially during the warmer months.

Pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, and carry water when you’re out exploring. Many of Malta’s archaeological sites and historic attractions have very little shade.

Even during our March visit, there were times when I needed to cover up to avoid getting sunburnt.

If you’re visiting in summer, plan outdoor activities for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when possible.

Tap Water is Safe to Drink

Malta’s tap water is generally safe to drink, although you might not particularly enjoy the taste.

Much of the country’s drinking water comes from desalinated seawater, blended with groundwater, which can give it a different taste from what you’re used to.

Some visitors prefer filtered or bottled water, but there’s no need to avoid tap water for brushing your teeth or making tea and coffee.

A refillable water bottle is worth bringing, especially if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing.

Malta Uses UK-Style Power Plugs

Malta uses Type G electrical sockets, the same three rectangular-pin plugs found in the UK.

The standard electricity supply is 230V at 50Hz.

Australian, European and American visitors will generally need a plug adaptor unless their devices already have UK-style plugs.

Most modern phone chargers, laptops and cameras support a wide voltage range, but check your devices before travelling, particularly if you’re bringing appliances such as hair straighteners.

Staying Connected in Malta

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants and cafes, and mobile coverage is generally good across the main islands.

If you have a mobile plan from another EU country, you may be able to use your existing roaming allowance in Malta under the EU’s roaming rules, subject to your provider’s conditions.

For visitors coming from further afield, an eSIM or international roaming package can be an easy option.

Having mobile data is particularly useful for checking bus routes, navigating unfamiliar streets and looking up opening hours while you’re out exploring.

Tipping is Appreciated, but Not Compulsory

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Malta, but it’s appreciated when you receive good service.

In restaurants, leaving around 5–10% is fairly common if you’re happy with the service. Check your bill first, though, as a service charge may already be included.

For taxis, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture, while a small tip for hotel staff is always welcome.

There’s no need to tip for everything, so don’t feel obliged.

Dress Appropriately When Visiting Churches

Malta has a strong Catholic heritage, and you’ll find beautiful churches and chapels almost everywhere you go.

When visiting churches, including the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, dress respectfully. Shoulders should generally be covered, and very short shorts or skirts may not be permitted.

Carrying a lightweight scarf is handy if you’re sightseeing in summer and want to visit a church along the way.

Remember that these are still places of worship, so be mindful of services and people visiting to pray.

Some Shops Close in the Afternoon

In smaller Maltese towns and villages, you may find that independently owned shops close for a few hours in the early afternoon, often around 1 pm to 4 pm.

This isn’t universal, particularly in busy tourist areas and shopping centres, but it’s worth remembering if there’s somewhere specific you want to visit.

Attractions, restaurants and museums generally follow their own opening hours, so check before heading out rather than assuming everything will be open.

Public holidays and religious celebrations can also affect opening times.

Malta is Packed with History

One of the things I loved about Malta was just how much history there was to explore. For such a small country, it has an extraordinary collection of archaeological sites, fortifications, palaces and churches.

You can visit prehistoric temples that are older than the Egyptian pyramids, wander through the medieval streets of Mdina, or learn about Malta’s important role during the Second World War.

In Valletta, don’t miss St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to two remarkable Caravaggio paintings, including The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, his only known signed painting.

Over on Gozo, the Ġgantija Temples are another fascinating glimpse into Malta’s ancient past.

If history interests you, allow more time than you might initially think. It’s easy to fill several days with historical attractions alone.

For inspiration, take a look at my 30 Things to Do in Malta and my guide to visiting Gozo on a day trip.

Respect Local Traditions and Celebrations

Malta has a strong sense of tradition, particularly when it comes to religion, family and community life.

Throughout the year, towns and villages celebrate their patron saints with colourful festas, featuring decorations, processions, music and fireworks.

If you happen to come across one during your visit, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience a little local culture.

You don’t need to know much Maltese to get around, but learning grazzi (thank you) is a nice touch.

Malta is Generally Safe, but Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

Malta is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, including solo travellers.

As with anywhere, it’s worth taking normal precautions, particularly in crowded areas, on busy buses and around popular tourist attractions.

Keep valuables secure and avoid leaving bags unattended on beaches or in cafes.

There’s no need to be overly concerned, but a little common sense goes a long way.

Check Swimming Conditions Before Entering the Water

Malta is famous for its beautiful clear water, but not every swimming spot is a sandy beach.

Much of the coastline is rocky, with swimming platforms, ladders and natural pools providing access to the sea. Water shoes can be useful, particularly if you’re exploring less-developed swimming spots.

Jellyfish are occasionally a problem, including the painful mauve stinger. Check local warnings and look for jellyfish before entering the water.

Wind and rough seas can also make some swimming locations dangerous, even when the weather seems lovely.

Pay attention to beach flags and local safety advice, particularly around exposed coastal areas.

Visit Local Markets for a Taste of Malta

Markets are a great place to experience a little everyday Maltese life, particularly if you enjoy trying local food.

The Sunday market in Marsaxlokk is one of the best known, with stalls selling fish, produce, souvenirs and other goods. The colourful traditional fishing boats in the harbour make it worth visiting even if you’re not planning to shop.

You’ll also find smaller markets in towns around the islands.

Keep an eye out for local products such as honey, olive oil and traditional Maltese sweets.

And while you’re exploring, don’t miss the chance to try pastizzi, Malta’s delicious flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas.

Book Popular Attractions in Advance

While you can visit many of Malta’s attractions without much planning, a few are worth booking ahead.

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is the big one. This remarkable prehistoric underground site has strictly limited visitor numbers, and tickets can sell out well in advance.

You can check availability and book directly through Heritage Malta.

St John’s Co-Cathedral is another popular attraction, particularly during the busiest tourist months.

If there’s something you particularly want to see, check whether tickets need to be booked before you arrive.

You don’t need to schedule every minute of your trip, but booking a couple of must-see attractions can save disappointment.

Malta Has Three Main Islands Worth Exploring

When planning your trip, remember that Malta isn’t just one island.

The three main inhabited islands are Malta, Gozo and Comino, and each offers a different experience.

Malta is the largest, with the capital Valletta and most of the country’s major towns and attractions. Gozo has a quieter, more rural feel, while tiny Comino is best known for its Blue Lagoon.

We visited Gozo as a day trip, but you could easily spend longer there.

If you have a week or more in Malta, I’d recommend including at least a day on Gozo. Here’s my guide to planning a day trip to Gozo.

Make the Most of Your Time in Malta

Malta is a fantastic destination for independent travellers, and you don’t need to organise every detail before arriving.

However, knowing a little about transport, opening hours and the locations of attractions can make a big difference to how much you fit into your visit.

We managed to see a lot during our seven days without hiring a car, but there were still plenty of places we didn’t get to.

My biggest tip is to allow more time than you think you’ll need. Malta may be small, but there’s an enormous amount to discover.

If you’re putting together your itinerary, have a look at my 7 Day Malta Itinerary for ideas.