Malta Travel Information

Malta is an island nation located in the heart of the Mediterranean, and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the culture, history, and natural beauty of this unique and charming island. Here are the top 10 things to do in Malta:

1. Visit the Megalithic Temples

Malta is home to several ancient megalithic temples, which are considered to be some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The most famous of these temples is the Ggantija Temples, which are believed to have been built between 3600 and 3200 BC.

2. Explore the Valletta

Valletta is the capital city of Malta and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its well-preserved 16th-century architecture and is home to many cultural and historical sites, including the Grand Master's Palace and St. John's Co-Cathedral.

3. Walk through Mdina

Mdina is a medieval walled city located in the center of Malta, and is often referred to as the "silent city". It is a well-preserved example of a fortified medieval city and is a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture.

4. Visit the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a stunning natural wonder located on the island of Comino, and is known for its crystal clear waters and beautiful scenery. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

5. Explore the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is an underground prehistoric temple located in Paola, and is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Malta. It is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and is an interesting and unique place to visit.

6. Walk along the Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village located on the south coast of Malta, and is known for its picturesque harbor and colorful fishing boats. It is a great place to relax, sample local seafood, and enjoy the scenery.

7. Visit the Mosta Dome

The Mosta Dome is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, and is located in the town of Mosta. It is known for its impressive architecture and interesting history, including a miraculous event during World War II when a bomb passed through the dome without exploding.

8. Explore the Hal Tarxien Temples

The Hal Tarxien Temples are a group of four megalithic temples located in Tarxien, and are believed to have been built between 3150 and 2500 BC. They are an interesting and well-preserved example of prehistoric architecture and are a must-visit for those interested in history and archaeology.

9. Walk along the Sliema Promenade

Sliema is a popular seaside town located on the northeast coast of Malta, and is known for its long promenade, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere. It is a great place to relax, go for a walk, or enjoy a meal with a view.

10. Visit the Red Tower Museum

The Red Tower Museum is a 16th-century tower located in St. Julian's, and is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Malta. It is a great place to learn more about the island's rich history and heritage.

Climate

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 30°C, while the coolest months are January and February, with temperatures around 12°C. The island also experiences a relatively high level of humidity, especially in the summer months.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Malta depends on what you're looking to get out of your trip. If you're interested in soaking up the sun, the months of June through September are the best time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, the spring months of March to May, or the autumn months of September to November are better choices. Regardless of when you visit, you're likely to experience warm, sunny weather in Malta, as the island gets an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine each year.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Hotels are a popular choice for visitors to Malta, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. There are many hotels located in tourist hotspots such as Sliema, St. Julian's, and Valletta, as well as more secluded locations like the quieter northern coast.

Resorts

Malta is home to several large resorts, which offer a range of facilities and services for guests, including swimming pools, restaurants, and fitness centers. These resorts are a good choice for families and those looking for an all-inclusive holiday experience.

Hostels

Hostels are a great budget-friendly option for travelers to Malta, with prices starting from as low as €10 per night. Hostels in Malta are often located in popular tourist areas and offer shared dorm rooms as well as private rooms.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals, such as apartments and villas, are another popular option for visitors to Malta. These offer more privacy and space compared to hotels, and are often more budget-friendly for families and groups.

B&Bs

Bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) are a great option for visitors who want a more personal and homely experience. B&Bs in Malta are typically run by local families, who offer comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast.

Buses

Buses are the main form of public transportation in Malta, with a large network of routes that cover the entire island. Bus services are frequent and affordable, making it easy for visitors to get around.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Malta, and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Taxis are a convenient option for those who don't want to navigate public transportation, but they are generally more expensive than buses.

Rentals Cars

Rental cars are another option for visitors to Malta, allowing for greater flexibility and independence when exploring the island. There are several rental car companies located in Malta, with a wide range of vehicles available.

Bicycle Rentals

Bicycle rentals are a popular option for visitors who want to explore Malta at a more leisurely pace. There are many rental shops around the island, with a variety of bikes available to suit different needs and preferences.

Ferries

Ferries are a convenient option for visitors who want to explore the smaller islands off the coast of Malta, such as Gozo and Comino. Ferries run regularly from the main island to these smaller islands, making it easy for visitors to experience the beauty and culture of these locations.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.