The Ultimate Travel Guide to Malta

WHAT TO EXPECT IN MALTA

Language: Maltese people are linguistic pros! Most natives speak Maltese, and nearly 90% speak English, while another 50% also speak Italian.

Credit Cards + Cash: Carry a mix of cash and cards. Most big retailers and restaurants accept cards, although not always American Express. You’ll also still want cash on hand for small purchases.

Climate: With a Mediterranean climate, it’s never too cold in Malta. In the winter, you’ll find temps between 50 to 60, while summer days range from the low 70s to 90.

High Season: June to August gets crazy in Malta. Hotels are booked solid and the beaches can get really crowded. Things also get busy again briefly from Christmas to the New Year. Plan ahead if you’re coming for the high season! There are also big village celebrations that take place all over the islands, so the calendar is packed with events all year long!

European Travel Alert

Starting sometime around November 2023, US travelers between 18-70 years old will need to fill out an ETIAS visa-waiver form prior to their trip, and pay a €7 ($7.25) entry fee, to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. It’s a quick form, and you will most likely receive instant approval—but it’s important to plan and submit ahead.

GETTING AROUND MALTA

Taxis: The islands are small so taxis are affordable and the most common means of getting around. Watch for an official white taxi car and make sure they turn on the meter.

Public Transport: Public transport is reliable and goes to most tourist destinations. If you think you’ll use it regularly, you can grab a 12-trip card for 15 euros.

Ferry: To get from Malta to the other two islands, Comino and Gozo, you’ll need to go by ferry. During most of the year, the ferries leave at least once per hour and it takes less than 30 minutes.

You’ll leave for either island from the Cirkewwa port. You’ll have a few options but generally, you can expect to pay 10 euros or less for round-trip travel.

Walk: Both Malta and Gozo Island have Coastal Walks. These are paths you can take to walk around the entire island. The routes and terrain vary, but if you are up for it, this is a great way to see lots of different views!