The Best Time to Visit Malta
The best time to visit Malta depends on what you want to get out of your trip. Malta has a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot summers, mild winters, and relatively low rainfall. While the islands can be visited year-round, weather conditions, travel costs, and crowd levels change significantly depending on the season.
For most travelers, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the best balance of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. Summer is ideal for beach holidays, but it comes with higher costs and heat, while winter is quieter and more affordable, but less suitable for swimming.
Malta Weather Overview
Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild with occasional rain.
Typical conditions include:
- Summer temperatures: 28 to 34°C
- Winter temperatures: 10 to 18°C
- Rainfall: Mostly between November and February
The sea remains warm well into autumn, which makes Malta popular for late-season travel compared to many other European destinations.
Malta Travel Seasons Explained
Peak Season in Malta (June to August)
Summer is peak season in Malta. This period offers the best conditions for beaches, swimming, and boat trips.
What to expect:
- Very hot weather, especially in July and August
- Higher accommodation and flight prices
- Busy beaches and tourist areas
- Frequent events and festivals
Summer is ideal if you prioritize sea activities and nightlife, but it may feel crowded and expensive.
Shoulder Season in Malta (April to May, September to October)
The shoulder seasons are widely considered the best time to visit Malta.
Advantages include:
- Warm but comfortable temperatures
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Lower prices than peak season
- Good conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities
October is especially popular because the sea is still warm while temperatures are more moderate.
Low Season in Malta (November to March)
Winter is the quietest time to visit Malta.
Pros:
- Lower accommodation prices
- Fewer tourists
- Mild temperatures compared to northern Europe
Cons:
- Cooler sea temperatures
- Some beach-focused businesses reduce operations
- More rainfall than in other seasons
Winter suits travelers interested in culture, history, and a slower pace rather than beach holidays.
Malta Weather Month by Month
- January to February: Coolest months, mild temperatures, occasional rain. Suitable for sightseeing.
- March: Warmer days begin, fewer tourists.
- April: Pleasant weather, good balance for travel.
- May: Warm and sunny, excellent for exploring and early swimming.
- June: Start of summer heat, rising crowds.
- July to August: Hottest months, peak tourism season.
- September: Still hot, slightly fewer visitors.
- October: Warm sea, cooler air, one of the best months to visit.
- November: Cooler and wetter, quieter atmosphere.
- December: Mild winter conditions, festive but calm.
Is Malta Expensive to Visit?
Malta can be moderately priced compared to other European island destinations, but costs vary by season.
Key factors:
- Accommodation: Highest in summer, more affordable in winter
- Food: Reasonably priced, especially outside tourist zones
- Transport: Public buses are inexpensive, and taxis cost more
Visiting outside peak summer months helps reduce overall travel costs significantly.
Public Holidays and Local Events in Malta
Malta observes several national public holidays, along with many local celebrations. During public holidays, government offices and some businesses may close, while tourist services generally continue operating.
Travelers should be aware that:
- Accommodation demand can increase during major holidays
- Transport may be busier on certain dates
- Some attractions may operate on reduced schedules
Planning ahead during holiday periods helps avoid inconvenience.
Travel Basics to Know Before Visiting Malta
Before planning your trip, here are a few essential things you need to know about Malta.
- Visa requirements:
Malta is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from visa-free countries can usually stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. Others may need a Schengen visa before arrival. Always check the latest official requirements. - Schengen status:
Malta is a Schengen country. Entry rules follow standard Schengen regulations, and time spent in Malta counts toward your total Schengen stay. - Currency used in Malta:
Malta uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for small shops or local transport. - Language spoken in Malta:
English is one of Malta’s official languages and is widely spoken. Travelers can communicate easily in hotels, restaurants, public services, and transportation.
When Is the Best Month to Visit Malta?
The best month to visit Malta depends on your travel style, budget, and tolerance for crowds. While the islands can be visited year-round, different periods suit different types of trips.
Best overall balance: April, May, and October
These months offer the best combination of pleasant weather, manageable crowd levels, and reasonable travel costs. Temperatures are warm without being extreme, making them suitable for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and light beach time. October is particularly appealing because sea temperatures remain warm while summer crowds begin to fade.
Best for beaches and swimming: June to September
This period is ideal for travelers focused on beach activities, swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. The weather is hot and dry, and the sea is at its warmest, especially in July and August. However, these months also bring higher prices and crowded coastal areas, particularly during school holiday periods.
Best for budget travel: January to March
Winter months are the most affordable time to visit Malta. Accommodation prices are lower, and tourist areas are quieter. While the sea is generally too cool for swimming, the mild winter climate is suitable for city exploration, cultural attractions, and dining without crowds.
Best to avoid crowds: Late autumn and winter
From November to March, Malta experiences its lowest tourist numbers. This period suits travelers who prefer a slower pace and a more local atmosphere. Visitors should expect shorter daylight hours and occasional rain, but also a calmer travel experience overall.
For most visitors, May and October provide the most comfortable conditions, offering a balance between good weather, lower crowds, and better value compared to peak summer months.
An Island Getaway Doesn’t Mean Going Offline
Having mobile data in Malta is useful for navigation, transport apps, bookings, and general travel planning. An eSIM can be a practical option, as it removes the need to purchase or swap physical SIM cards during your trip.
Eskimo offers different eSIM options depending on your travel plans, including a Malta eSIM for local use, a Europe eSIM for multi-country trips, and a Global eSIM for travel across multiple regions.
Eskimo’s eSIM works with one installation and can be used across supported destinations. Key features include:
- Long data validity, with fixed data plans remaining valid for up to two years
- Data rollover, where unused fixed data can be extended when purchasing a new plan
- Universal eSIM, allowing you to install once and use the same eSIM across destinations
- Instant data transfer, enabling paid data to be sent or received between Eskimo users
- Flexible activation, as plans only activate when connecting to a supported network
Travelers can choose the plan that best fits their itinerary, whether staying only in Malta or continuing on to other countries in Europe or beyond.
New users can also get a free Global eSIM with 500MB of data, which can be useful for testing coverage before purchasing a full plan.
FAQs
Do I need a visa for Malta?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Malta follows Schengen visa rules, allowing many travelers to enter for short stays of up to 90 days without a visa. Others must apply for a Schengen visa before arrival.
Is Malta a Schengen visa country?
Yes, Malta is part of the Schengen Area. Time spent in Malta counts toward your total Schengen stay, and a valid Schengen visa generally allows entry.
Is Malta expensive to visit?
Malta is moderately priced compared to other European destinations. Travel costs are highest in summer, while winter and shoulder seasons are more affordable.
Do they speak English in Malta?
Yes, English is one of Malta’s official languages and is widely spoken in daily life, including tourism services and public offices.
Which is the best month to go to Malta?
April, May, and October are usually the best months, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better value than peak summer.
