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InternationalTravel.ai > Malta

Malta

Coastal Beaches

Best Season to Visit: Spring

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: November

Famous For: Historic sites, Diving, Cuisine

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (Malta Public Transport, relatively safe)

Tourist Visa: Malta is part of the Schengen Area, so many travelers, including those from the EU, USA, and Canada, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Others may need to apply for a Schengen visa, which allows travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Malta, a Mediterranean archipelago, is a treasure trove of historical sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Mdina, with its silent streets and medieval architecture, or the bustling streets of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with baroque landmarks like St. John's Co-Cathedral. The island's prehistoric temples, such as Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, offer a glimpse into a civilization dating back over 5000 years. For those interested in military history, the Lascaris War Rooms and Fort Rinella provide insight into Malta's strategic importance. Gastronomy is a highlight, with Maltese cuisine offering a fusion of Sicilian and Middle Eastern flavors, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants in Marsaxlokk or the night markets of Birgu. Outdoor enthusiasts can dive into Malta's crystal-clear waters, home to vibrant marine life and historic shipwrecks, or hike the rugged trails of Gozo's coastline. Unique events like the Malta International Fireworks Festival and the Valletta Baroque Festival celebrate the island's culture and history. With its compact size, Malta is ideal for travelers who want to experience a rich tapestry of attractions without extensive times.

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Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Planning Your Trip to Malta

Weather: Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. Spring and autumn are pleasantly warm with moderate rainfall. The island has an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest countries in Europe.

Festivals: The Malta International Fireworks Festival lights up the sky with spectacular pyrotechnic displays, while the Notte Bianca in Valletta offers a night-long celebration of arts and culture.

Best Destinations for Kids: The Popeye Village in Anchor Bay provides a fun and interactive experience for children, while the Playmobil FunPark offers imaginative play areas based on the popular toy figures.

Hidden Gem: The fishing village of Marsaxlokk offers a quieter side of Malta with its colorful luzzu boats and traditional markets, often overlooked by tourists.

Budget-Friendly Advice: Malta can be a budget-friendly destination with options like guesthouses and hostels offering rooms from €15-€30 per night. Dining at local pastizzerias for traditional pastries like pastizzi or ftira can cost as little as €1-€3. Public buses cover the main island and Gozo, providing an affordable way to explore at €1.50-€2 per journey. Free attractions, such as the Mdina old city and numerous public beaches, offer entertainment without the expense. Visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can result in lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds. Outdoor activities like hiking the Dingli Cliffs or swimming at the Blue Lagoon in Comino are cost-effective ways to enjoy Malta's natural beauty.

Accessibility: Malta has made efforts to improve accessibility with initiatives like the Valletta lift and accessible public buses, but some historic areas with cobblestone streets and steps may be challenging for older visitors.

For the Solo Traveler: Solo travel in Malta is generally safe and rewarding. The island's small size and friendly locals make it easy to navigate and connect with others. English is widely spoken, which simplifies communication. Solo travelers can join group tours to historical sites or diving excursions to meet like-minded individuals. Accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses provide social environments and are budget-friendly, with prices starting around €15-€30 per night. While Malta is considered safe, it's

Planning a 1 Week Stay: A week in Malta should include visits to Valletta, Mdina, and the island of Gozo, with time for historical tours, beach relaxation, and sampling local cuisine.

Planning a 1 Month Stay: Over a month, travelers can deeply explore Malta's rich history, enjoy various festivals, take leisurely hikes, and participate in water sports while embracing the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.

Delving into the Culture

Movies Set: The Count of Monte Cristo, Gladiator, World War Z

Popular Foods: Maltese cuisine reflects a blend of Mediterranean influences. Popular dishes include pastizzi, which are savory pastries filled with ricotta or peas, and rabbit stew, known locally as stuffat tal-fenek. For dessert, the traditional sweet called kannoli, tube-shaped crispy pastry filled with a ricotta mixture, is a favorite.

Unusual Eats: Ġbejniet is a traditional Maltese cheese made from sheep's milk, often served dried or peppered, which might be unusual for visitors. Another unique item is bigilla, a thick pate made from mashed beans and garlic, which can have a very strong taste.

Popular Sports: football, water polo, horse racing

Popular Teams: Valletta FC (football), Sliema Wanderers (football), Neptunes WPSC (water polo)

Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid: When in Malta, it is important to show respect during religious occasions and in places of worship, as the country is predominantly Roman Catholic. Dressing modestly in such settings is expected. It's also considered impolite to refuse food or drink when offered by a host, as Maltese people take pride in their hospitality.