Malta holidays

Popular holidays

Holidays to Malta serve up more than just history – you'll also find lively towns, great nightlife, and a calendar packed with cultural events.

Small but mighty

For such a small island, Malta packs a lot in. You’ve got beaches, chic harbour towns, and enough centuries-old sights to keep you busy for weeks. It’s a real up-and-comer on the clubbing scene, too, and has a calendar that’s crammed with carnivals, festivals and parties.

History lessons

When it comes to history, Malta’s up there with Italy and Greece. The island boasts so many sights, it’s like a vast open-air museum. You’ll find the best of the bunch in the UNESCO-listed capital, Valletta. Must-sees include the 16th-century St John’s Cathedral and Casa Rocca Piccola, a grand palazzo.

Beach variety pack

Malta’s other big draw is its coastline. It’s pretty rugged, with rocky coves mixed in with a few sandy spots. The biggest swathe of sand is at Mellieha Bay, while resorts like Qawra and Bugibba have flat rocks and platforms for stretching out in the sun.

Neon nightlife

Sliema, on the east coast, is a former fishing village that’s now better known for its stylish restaurants and wine bars. Wander north along the promenade and you’ll hit St Julian’s, an upmarket town with a decent helping of bars and clubs. The music keeps going until the early hours, and the sea-facing promenade’s flush with cafés for a bite to eat the morning after.

Popular hotels in Malta

Facts about Malta

Capital

Valletta

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Population

412,961

Language

Maltese and English

Time zone

GMT +1

Flight duration

3 hours from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What should I pack for Malta?

For Malta, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. Include a light jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear for beach activities.

What's the nightlife like in Malta?

Malta centres nightlife in Paceville with clubs, bars and live music venues drawing a lively crowd. Head to Valletta for cocktail bars and cultural performances. Sliema offers waterfront dining and late night lounges, while Bugibba has family friendly entertainment and seaside bars for a relaxed evening.

What are the best beaches in Malta?

Malta offers varied coastal spots from sandy bays to rocky coves. Golden Bay has soft sand and clear waters ideal for families. Mellieha Bay is the island's longest sandy beach with shallow waters, while Ghajn Tuffieha Bay sits in a more secluded setting with hillside access.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Malta?

When visiting Malta, it's polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations.When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. English is widely spoken, but learning a few Maltese phrases is always appreciated.

Where can I try local food in Malta?

Traditional Maltese cuisine can be found in local restaurants across the island. We recommend trying 'pastizzi' (savory pastries) from street vendors in Valletta. For a full Maltese meal, visit family-run restaurants in villages like Mgarr or Marsaxlokk. Many resorts also offer Maltese nights featuring local specialties.

Where are the best places to shop in Malta?

Malta offers diverse shopping experiences. You'll find modern shopping centres in Sliema and St. Julian's for international brands. For local crafts and souvenirs, we recommend exploring the charming streets of Valletta or the Sunday market in Marsaxlokk. Many resorts also have convenient shops for essentials and gifts.

Should I tip in Malta?

Tipping in Malta is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a service charge is often included, but if you're pleased with the service, leaving an additional 5-10% is common. For other services like taxis or tours, rounding up the bill or giving a small tip is a nice gesture.

What travel adapter do I need for Malta?

When visiting Malta, the standard electrical outlets use the three-pin British-style plugs Type G. We recommend bringing a UK-to-European adapter if your devices have European plugs, as these are also sometimes found in Malta.