Malta Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Malta: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

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Top 10 Most Searched Questions About Malta

The capital of Malta is Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its baroque architecture and historic fortifications.

Malta is part of the Schengen Area. EU, US, and Canadian citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Check with the Malta Government for specifics.

Malta uses the Euro (EUR). Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros; banknotes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros.

Yes, Malta is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s—stay vigilant.

Official languages are Maltese and English. English is widely spoken, making it easy for tourists to communicate.

Malta is known for its ancient history, including the UNESCO-listed Valletta, the Blue Lagoon on Comino, the Ġgantija temples on Gozo, and its clear Mediterranean waters.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather (20-25°C) and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is hot (30°C+) and ideal for beach visits.

Malta is moderately priced. Budget travelers can manage on $60-90/day, though costs in tourist hubs like Valletta and St. Julian’s can be higher.

Tap water in Malta is safe to drink but has a distinct taste due to desalination. Many prefer bottled water, which is widely available.

Top spots include Valletta’s old town, the Blue Lagoon on Comino, the Ġgantija temples on Gozo, Mdina (the Silent City), and St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

Malta, a Mediterranean gem south of Sicily, boasts a rich history and stunning coastlines. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO site with baroque charm. Highlights include the turquoise Blue Lagoon on Comino, the ancient Ġgantija temples on Gozo, and the medieval town of Mdina, blending culture and natural beauty.

Visa & Passport for Malta: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay with at least one blank page.
  • Visa Requirements: Malta is in the Schengen Area. EU, US, and Canadian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. Others should check with the Malta Government.
  • Health Entry Rules: No specific vaccinations are required. Check for health advisories on the Malta Ministry of Health.

Driving in Malta: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their license for stays over 12 months.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the left, a legacy of British rule. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas like Valletta, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 80 km/h on major roads. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are narrow, especially in older towns like Mdina, and can be congested in Valletta and Sliema. Watch for pedestrians and scooters, especially in summer.
  • Parking: Parking in Valletta is limited—use public lots or metered spaces. Free parking is easier to find in less touristy areas like Marsaxlokk.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is available through services like the Malta Automobile Association.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Visit Malta.

Malta Currency: Using the Euro for Your Trip

  • Euro: Malta uses the Euro (EUR). Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros; banknotes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros.
  • Currency Exchange: Euros are standard, but you can exchange money at banks or bureaus in Valletta and Sliema for the best rates. Avoid exchanging at airports due to high fees.
  • Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in tourist areas like Valletta and St. Julian’s. Smaller vendors on Gozo may prefer cash—carry some euros.
  • ATMs: ATMs are plentiful in Valletta and tourist hubs, with banks like Bank of Valletta offering reliable services. Some ATMs may charge fees for foreign cards.

Malta Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public intoxication may result in fines—drink responsibly.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Maltese people are welcoming but conservative—dress modestly when visiting churches like St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Greet with a smile and “Hello” or “Bongu” (Maltese).
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography is fine in most places, but ask permission at religious sites or private property. Avoid photographing military installations.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are generally discreet. Smoking is banned in public indoor spaces—use designated areas.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine and 200 cigarettes duty-free within the EU. Declare cash over 10,000 EUR upon entry or exit.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact local police in Valletta at +356 2122 4001.

Travel Safety in Malta: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Malta: Malta is safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in busy areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Valletta’s markets—keep belongings secure.
  • Road Safety: Roads are narrow, and driving on the left can be challenging for some. Be cautious of scooters and pedestrians, especially in summer when tourist areas are crowded.
  • Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water is safe but may taste odd due to desalination—many prefer bottled water. Use sunscreen; summer UV levels are high.
  • Natural Hazards: Malta has a hot, dry climate with no major natural hazards. Summer temperatures can exceed 30°C—stay hydrated and avoid midday sun.
  • Medical Facilities: Malta has good healthcare, with hospitals like Mater Dei in Msida offering quality care. Pharmacies are widespread—look for “Pharmacy” signs.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. Pharmacies in Valletta and Sliema are well-stocked for over-the-counter meds.
  • Public Transport Safety: Buses are safe and connect major spots like Valletta to Mdina. Ferries to Gozo and Comino are reliable—book ahead in summer for Comino trips.

Flights to Malta: Travel Options

Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa is the main gateway, with flights from major European cities like London, Paris, and Rome. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet also serve the airport.