Malta Travel Made Easy: Essential Tips & Avoidable Mistakes
If you're planning your first trip to Malta, you're in for an unforgettable adventure! This tiny Mediterranean gem is packed with rich history, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. But before you go, there are some important things you should know to make the most of your trip. Here are over 20 must-know tips, plus a few things not to do while visiting Malta!
Malta Basics & Travel Planning Tips
1. Malta is an Archipelago, Not Just One Island
Malta consists of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. While most visitors stay on the main island, Gozo is worth at least an overnight trip, and Comino is home to the famous Blue Lagoon.
2. Plan for at Least 4 Days
Despite its small size, Malta is packed with attractions. If you want to visit Gozo and Comino, plan for at least 4–5 days to explore at a relaxed pace.
3. Malta is Relatively Affordable (But Getting Pricier)
Compared to Western European destinations, Malta offers great value. However, prices in Valletta and Sliema are rising, so consider staying in The Three Cities or more rural areas for better deals.
4. Best Time to Visit? Avoid Summer
Malta's peak season is summer (June–August), but it's also scorching hot, crowded, and expensive. Instead, visit in April–May or September–October for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
5. Malta Uses the Euro & British-Style Plugs
Malta uses the Euro (€), and most places accept cards. Also, they use three-prong UK plugs, so bring an adapter if needed.
Malta Transport Tips & Getting Around
6. Traffic is a Nightmare
Malta is one of the most densely populated countries, leading to constant traffic jams. Avoid driving if possible.
7. Renting a Car? Think Twice
Malta drives on the left side of the road, and roads can be narrow and chaotic. If you want to explore off the beaten path, renting a car can be helpful, but for most visitors, public transport or guided tours are better options.
8. Buses Are Cheap but Unreliable
Buses cost €2 per trip and passes are available, but they are often late or full in peak season. Consider the 7-day Explore Card (€21) for unlimited travel or the 12 Single Journey Card (€15) for a budget-friendly option.
9. Ferries Are a Great Alternative
Malta has fast ferries between Valletta, The Three Cities, and Sliema, as well as Gozo. Ferries are cheap, scenic, and faster than buses.
10. Consider Booking Private Tours
Guided tours and private transfers are surprisingly affordable in Malta. For example, a Gozo day tour with transport and lunch costs around €80.
Malta Culture & Etiquette Tips
11. Learn a Bit About Malta's History
Malta has been influenced by the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, French, and British. Knowing a little history will enrich your experience.
12. English is Widely Spoken
Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Almost everyone speaks English, but learning basic Maltese phrases is appreciated.
13. Malta Feels Surprisingly British
From red phone booths to driving on the left, Malta has many remnants of its British colonial past.
14. Dress Modestly for Churches
Malta has over 365 churches, and many require covered shoulders and knees. Bring a scarf or shawl if you plan to visit religious sites.
Malta Food & Drink Tips
15. Try the Local Specialties
Malta’s cuisine is a delicious mix of Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss:
- Pastizzi – Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas.
- Imqaret – Date-filled pastry, often served with ice cream.
- Stuffat tal-Fenek – Traditional rabbit stew.
- Bigilla – A creamy bean dip.
- Bragioli – Beef rolls stuffed with egg and bacon.
16. Seafood is a Must-Try
For the freshest seafood, head to Marsaxlokk, a charming fishing village known for its Sunday fish market and waterfront restaurants.
Malta Sightseeing & Attractions Tips
17. Visit St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta
This baroque masterpiece is one of Europe’s most stunning churches. Don’t miss the Caravaggio paintings inside!
18. The Azure Window is Gone
One of Malta’s most famous natural landmarks, the Azure Window, collapsed in 2017. Don’t expect to see it!
19. Popeye Village is a Quirky Amusement Park
This colorful village is not a real town but a movie set from the 1980 Popeye film, now an amusement park. It's fun for families but not a must-see for everyone.
20. The Blue Lagoon is Beautiful but Crowded
This iconic swimming spot on Comino Island is stunning, but in summer, it gets crowded like a hotel pool. Visit early in the morning or off-season for a better experience.
What NOT to Do in Malta
❌ Don't Expect Perfect Public Transport
Buses are cheap but unreliable—have a backup plan!
❌ Don't Ignore the History
Malta has older temples than the Pyramids of Giza—don’t miss the historical sites!
❌ Don't Forget Sun Protection
Malta gets very hot—bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated.
❌ Don't Assume It's Just a Beach Destination
While Malta has great beaches, it’s also a cultural powerhouse with UNESCO sites, medieval cities, and unique landscapes.
❌ Don't Skip Watching Movies Filmed in Malta!
Get hyped for your trip by watching films shot here, like Gladiator, Troy, Game of Thrones (Season 1), and Assassin’s Creed.
Essential Malta Travel Recap
Malta is a one-of-a-kind destination with history, culture, nature, and food packed into a tiny archipelago. With these tips, you’re now ready to make the most of your visit while avoiding common mistakes. Happy travels.
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