"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is Malta like in October?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"While Malta in October might not have the temperatures and the amount of sunlight as the spring and summer months, it’s still a popular time to go. Average temperatures during this period are around 22℃ with highs of up to 25℃. Visitors can expect some cloudy weather and light breezes, while there is an average of 11 days of rain during the month. However, because of this, Malta is typically quieter than during its peak season, making it the ideal time to visit for those planning to avoid the crowds."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What food is Malta famous for?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Malta’s food is famous for being a rich blend of seasonal Mediterranean cuisines. The country is perhaps best-known for caponata, a dish similar to ratatouille but with a rustic Maltese influence. Fish caught from the surrounding waters are also popular, especially when eaten as lampuki, otherwise known as fish pie. Malta is also famous for its savoury snacks. Pastizzi, a pastry filled with peas or ricotta cheese, and qassatat, a pastry baked with cheese, peas and spinach, can both be found in many a Maltese bakery."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which part of Malta has the best beaches?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Malta boasts a wealth of great beaches offering crystal-clear waters and soft sands. Mellieha Bay in the north is one of Malta’s largest beaches and is popular with families due to its many nearby bars and restaurants. Offering beautiful unspoilt views, Golden Bay is an ideal spot for visitors searching for a more relaxed environment to soak up some sun. For those looking for a bit of snorkelling, a visit to the secluded Paradise Bay is a must."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long should I spend in Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Some people escape to Malta for months in the winter, taking advantage of the warmer temperatures and easy, slow pace of life. But if you’re looking for a quick getaway, the capital Valletta makes a good base for a weekend packed with history, beautiful views and fine restaurants. A week or more means you’ll have time to really explore the little island, with days to hop over to Gozo to hunt out the wrecks and reefs beneath the waves. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the hottest month to visit Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The hottest, and indeed the busiest, month in Malta is August, when you can expect temperatures to sit around 30°C with sunshine for 11 hours a day. July is almost as hot. Malta is warmed by the sirocco winds from the Sahara, and it’s humid all year round. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What part of Malta is best for couples?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Offering a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of great dining options, Malta makes an ideal destination for holidaying couples. The charming village of Mellieha has a wealth of traditional Maltese character and is just a short journey on foot from Mellieha Bay. Offering unspoilt views and plenty of walks taking in the distinctive white cliffs, the small fishing village of Marsaxlokk makes an ideal option for those who want some alone time. However, couples looking for a more lively holiday should visit the capital of Valletta. The city is home to several stylish hotels, while the many bars down its baroque-styled streets make a great way to spend an evening."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is Malta suitable for families?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Being such a small, manageable island makes it ideal for family holidays. There are no lengthy car trips to endure and life on Malta centres around being outside. Resorts such as Mellieha Bay, Sliema and St Julian’s are most popular with families, with access to vast beaches with great facilities. Many of the museums have interactive exhibitions for kids and, in the summer, there’s a water park with a huge range of water features and fun activities. Hire bikes, go horse riding or take a ferry ride to explore the island and its beautiful sea. \n
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What’s the best holiday resort in Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Malta offers several holiday resorts for those looking to stay on the island. The coastal resort of Sliema is one of the island’s most popular and offers plenty of shops, restaurants and family-friendly activities. Nearby St. Julian’s has several luxury hotels, as well as bustling bars and casinos. The resorts of St. Paul's Bay, Bugibba and Qawra are also a favourite with tourists and, due to growth, these once separate villages have now evolved into one. Here visitors can enjoy a popular waterpark, welcoming restaurants and lively nightlife."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are there historic sites on the island of Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Malta is packed with history and it’s an extraordinary destination for any history buff. With so many influences from conquerors over the centuries, the architecture is a unique blend inspired by Italy, France, North Africa and Great Britain. Gozo is home to the Ggantija Temples, older even than the Egyptian pyramids, and Malta itself is packed with castles, palaces and churches. The Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta allows you to walk through the political history of the island, a good starting point for anyone trying to get a hold on Maltese history. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the best time of year to go to Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Beautiful Malta is worth visiting all year round, though the best time to go is during the spring to early summer months. The weather at this time is typically warm and only sees a couple of rainy days each month. Average temperatures in spring reach highs of 20℃ in the day with average lows of 12℃ in the evening. This time of year also sees several events like the International Fireworks Festival, Malta International Arts Festival and The Harvest Festival of L-Imnarja."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How should I dress in Malta?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Malta is a Catholic country but there are no specific dress codes on the island. In churches and cathedrals, it is respectful to cover your shoulders and legs down to your knees but, otherwise, you must dress for the climate. In the winter, you’ll need warm clothes for the evenings and early mornings but you can still expect to spend many of your days not needing much more than shorts, skirts and T-shirts. Bring an umbrella, though, as there’s a fair chance of rain showers in the winter. "}}]}
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Malta holidays offer something for all travelers. This small, rocky archipelago (the largest island, Malta, is 17 miles by 9 miles) is ringed by dizzying sea cliffs and gentle bays. Remarkably, the islands also play host to some of Europe’s finest prehistoric sites, which predate Egypt’s pyramids.
Despite its miniature size, this place has gorgeous beaches, over 300 days of sunshine per year, an electric nightlife scene, and culture by the bucketload. Speaking of culture, Malta is home to not one but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the pre-historic Megalithic Temples, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (an impressive underground burial site), and the beautiful city of Valletta – we’ll get to that later.
The islands’ location at the heart of the Mediterranean has given them an enormous historic importance, and their towns are dominated by ornate Baroque architecture built by Christian warrior-medics, the Knights of Malta. Malta’s Grand Harbour is a wonder in itself – an enormous sheltered loop of sea, surrounding the handsome capital of Valletta. Local culture is full of life and colour, with village feasts year-round – the Maltese never miss an opportunity to set off fireworks. Open-air festivals fill the calendar with music from opera to trance, so expect a great atmosphere.
There is more to Malta holidays
Malta’s small sister island, Gozo, is the perfect place to slow the pace down to a wander – stay in a farmhouse and cycle or walk the extraordinarily scenic hills. With shipwrecks on all sides, the islands are often ranked among the world’s best diving locations, but there’s lots for adrenaline-seeking non-divers as well, with activities ranging from horse riding to paragliding, and from rock climbing to sailing. With awe-inspiring scenery, a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, and a fascinating history, the melting pot of Malta is a perfect place for a holiday, with something to suit every taste.
Malta and Gozo have many impressive prehistoric sites, but most extraordinary is this underground chamber, with carvings and paintwork preserved for more than 5000 years.
See Valletta’s Cathedral
Valletta Cathedral is a Baroque masterpiece, with a lavish gold and mosaic interior lined by ornate chapels, as well as the world’s largest Caravaggio painting.
Zip around in a speedboat
The Maltese love to hang out in boats, and with good reason – it’s the only way to island hop and visit hidden caves and coves.
Wied Musa Battery, Marfa
Love a bit of local history? Get yourself over to Marfa Bay, where you’ll find one of Malta’s best-preserved semi-circular gun platforms. Step back in time while enjoying the views over to Gozo.
Malta National Aquarium, Qawra
As an island country, it’s not surprising that a big part of Malta’s culture is rooted in its marine history. The aquarium in Qawra is the best place for kids – and adults – to learn about what’s swimming off the shores.
Valletta
It’s tricky to pick just one highlight in Valletta; Malta’s capital is one big cultural hotspot. If you only have time to see one or two, try the National War Museum, or the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Isle of MTV
A huge music lovers’ event in June/July, this is Europe’s largest free pop festival, with open-air concerts featuring plenty of the industry’s biggest names.
Summer
The hot summer months see some of Malta’s major arts events take place, with outdoor arts and jazz festivals and performances in the streets.
Parish feasts
There are village feasts every month, with food stalls, music and fireworks. The largest cluster of events is on 15 August for Assumption Day, a major Catholic holiday.
Maltese wine
Malta is home to two native grapes: the white Girgentina and the red Ġellewża. Both wines are pretty hard to get hold of back home, so make sure to sample a glass or two during your holiday.
Fresh seafood
You’re surrounded by sea everywhere you look in Malta, so fresh fish is quite easy to come by. One of the best ways to try it is in lampuki pie; a British-inspired dish with just a dash of Arabic flavour.
Malta has so much more than just the casinos for which it is famous. Although it’s fun to dress up and channel your inner James Bond for an evening, you should plan to head beyond the glitz and glamour of the roulette table. During the summer, there are endless festivals that entice international DJs and Europe’s party crowds to the island. Outdoor clubs keep going through the night. Paceville is where you’ll find most of the clubs. There are also some on the outskirts of Rabat.
Valletta has a family-friendly vibe, with restaurants, cinemas and cafes that ideal for children. The seafront of Sliema has a broad promenade lined with restaurants and bars, perfect for views across Valletta’s stunning skyline as the sun goes down. If you’re after something a little quieter, the baroque churches often feature classical music concerts in extraordinary surroundings and the gardens of San Anton Palace are used for open-air Shakespeare performances.
Bugibba’s bars
Bugibba is one of Malta’s modern areas. After a day spent at the local water park or the mini golf course, it’s time to head out to the lively pubs and bars. Bugibba is a resort that’s full of energy, if that’s what you’re looking for.
Maltese Spritz
The big question: what to order? For something different, try a Maltese spritz. It’s a sparkling rosé mixed with bajtra, a local Maltese cactus liqueur. It’s a bit like an Aperol spritz, with a sweet twist.
Paceville, St Julian’s
Malta’s party capital, Paceville is abuzz with bars. There’s a pretty good mix of wild nightclubs, laid-back British pubs, and chic cocktail bars, so you’ll always find something that tickles your fancy.
A country with a rich history, Malta is home to the legacy of the Knights of St John, which is still very much alive in the island's Baroque palaces and churches. The Grandmasters Palace, built between the 16th and 18th centuries, can be found in the capital of Valletta and offers popular tours.
If you’d prefer a more laid-back stay in Malta, a trip to the Blue Lagoon is in order. This secluded beach makes the perfect spot for kicking back and enjoying the crystal-clear waters and striking cliffs. If exploring is more your thing, then Malta's 12 historical wreck sites, as well as reefs and caverns, certainly won’t disappoint. Maybe you’d prefer to stay on land; try a day spent on one of the many cycle trails, or a walk along the island's highest point of the Dingli Cliffs.
British favourites
Malta is still part of the British Commonwealth, and there’s a certain familiarity as you walk through its shopping districts. You’re certain to find some recognisable favourites from back home.
Sliema’s commercial district
Valletta’s pretty good for shopping, but Sliema’s even better. It’s got an active commercial district and a sprawling shopping mall; well worth checking out if you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs.
Traditional Maltese nougat
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you can’t come home without a pack of qubbajt in your suitcase. There’s a soft version, but the traditional treat is a harder, caramelised sugar brittle packed with almonds.
Malta may be small – just 27 by 14½ kilometres, so you can drive from one end to the other in an hour – but it’s packed with variety. There are temples from 3300 BC, underground tunnels from World War II, and shallow shipwrecks that are perfect for beginner Scuba divers. And there are golden sand beaches, pretty squares alive with the chatter of cafe terraces, and picture-perfect quaint harbours. The capital Valletta is a series of winding alleys and cobbled streets that lead from one dramatic historic building to another, then there’s the quiet fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
Nearby, there’s Gozo, an even smaller island just 20 minutes by ferry from Malta. It has everything from a winery to a temple older even than the Egyptian pyramids. The checkerboard landscape of salt pans in the north is a world away from the perfect sands of Ramla Bay next to crystal clear waters. Holidays to Malta have something for everyone.
Highlighting natural resources
Regenerative farms and businesses selling fresh produce populate much of the island, allowing tourists and locals alike to purchase locally-sourced honey, jams, beeswax candles, and more. Travellers can also explore a number of hiking trails that cut through nature reserves, freshwater lakes, and woodland areas, while a dedicated marine conservation park manages and preserves the island’s marine biodiversity.
Amongst the island’s flora and fauna lies its equally rich history, and a number of food and walking tours guide travellers from the UNESCO-listed capital of Valletta, to Moorish-era cities like Rabat and Mdina. With so many environmentally-friendly options in such easy reach, Malta is a great choice for tourists looking to explore the great outdoors.
Book a half-day tour of Valletta highlights. Visit John's Co-Cathedral, the Church Museum and exterior of Grand Master's Palace. Experience Malta's history.
Book a half-day guided tour of Mdina. Explore the city's bastions, Dingli cliffs and San Anton botanic gardens. Unravel the rich history with your guide.
Book a full day tour of the Mdina highlights. Discover the sights and explore the catacombs, Dingli cliffs, San Anton botanic gardens and Mosta's dome.
Book a full day tour to discover Gozo. Learn of Gozo's history from your guide and visit the island's popular landmarks. Refuel with a three-course lunch.
Book a full day tour to Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Sail past the bays of St Julians, St Andrews and St Pauls. Take some free time to swim and explore the beach.
Book a full day cruise on a Turkish gullet as you sail to Gozo, Comino and the Blue Lagoon. See Malta's popular sights from the sea. Take some to swim and sunbathe.
Enjoy a half-day cruise of two natural harbours in Malta. Travel to battle sites, explore Valletta and the Three Cities from the sea. See Sliema's main shopping area.
Enjoy a full day tour in Malta, experience the local lifestyle and visit temples. Visit Hagar Qim and Marsaxlokk market. Take a boat ride to the Blue Grotto.
Visit the Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk Sunday market on a half-day tour. Walk through the various market stalls and take a boat ride through the Blue Grotto and caves.
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
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Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
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Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK
Extras included
Our beach holidays include a 23kg bag and transfers
Holiday better
We offer a selection of certified sustainable hotels for better holiday choices
Best price guarantee
We’ll beat the price if you find the same holiday cheaper elsewhere
Low deposit
Book your holiday with a deposit of just £60 per person
Easy ways to pay
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
Freedom to change
Change your holiday online with low change fees up to 28 days before departure
Refund guarantee
Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as credit
Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
Great offers & discounts
Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK
Extras included
Our beach holidays include a 23kg bag and transfers
Holiday better
We offer a selection of certified sustainable hotels for better holiday choices
Best price guarantee
We’ll beat the price if you find the same holiday cheaper elsewhere
Low deposit
Book your holiday with a deposit of just £60 per person
Easy ways to pay
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
Freedom to change
Change your holiday online with low change fees up to 28 days before departure
Refund guarantee
Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as credit
Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
Great offers & discounts
Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK
Your questions answered
Malta is packed with history and it’s an extraordinary destination for any history buff. With so many influences from conquerors over the centuries, the architecture is a unique blend inspired by Italy, France, North Africa and Great Britain. Gozo is home to the Ggantija Temples, older even than the Egyptian pyramids, and Malta itself is packed with castles, palaces and churches. The Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta allows you to walk through the political history of the island, a good starting point for anyone trying to get a hold on Maltese history.