Malta is in Europe. Its capital is Valletta. It ranks #80 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about ~3.0 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
Every figure links to its source.
Malta is a Mediterranean island nation. It has deep history and clear seas. Valletta is a baroque UNESCO capital. English is an official language.
Malta sits in Europe, with Valletta as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Valletta first, then branch out. Add Sliema and for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Malta itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Valletta | The fortified capital. |
| Sliema & St Julian's | Seafront and nightlife. |
| Gozo | A quieter sister island. |
| Mdina | The old silent city. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit April to June or September to October. Summers are hot and very busy.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Malta trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Pastizzi | Flaky filled pastries. |
| Rabbit stew | Malta's national dish. |
| Ftira | A Maltese bread sandwich. |
| Lampuki pie | A seasonal fish pie. |
| Kinnie | A bittersweet local soda. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| Village festas | Summer | Fireworks and processions. |
| Carnival | February | Costumes and floats. |
| Isle of MTV | Summer | A big music concert. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Maltese. English before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa. See the official source: Schengen visa.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Valletta or Sliema. Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $90–150 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Valletta, Sliema. Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $70–100 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $150–230 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $250–400 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $90–150 a night. Meals add around $40–60 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Euro (EUR, €). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Maltese and English. |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Maltese and English goes a long way.
The main language is Maltese and English. English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Euro (EUR, €). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $90–150 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $250–400. Food adds around $40–60 a day. Budget days cost about $70–100; mid-range about $150–230.
What to bring for Malta's climate and culture.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
A little extra background.
Malta is compact and sunny. English makes travel very easy. History spans Knights to the British. The euro is the local currency. Seas are clear and swimmable. Buses and ferries link the islands. Summers are hot and crowded. Gozo offers a slower pace. Prehistoric temples predate the pyramids. Diving and boat trips are popular. It is safe and walkable. Spring and autumn are ideal.
Malta is in Europe. Its capital is Valletta.
Visit April to June or September to October. Summers are hot and very busy.
A mid-range hotel costs about $90–150 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $250–400. Meals add around $40–60 a day. Backpackers manage on about $70–100 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $150–230 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 4-6 days for Malta. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Valletta, Sliema. Base yourself in Valletta first. Then branch out to the others.
Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Malta uses the Euro (EUR, €). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Maltese and English. English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About ~3.0 million international visitors.
Try Pastizzi, Rabbit stew and Ftira. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Malta is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
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