Malta holidays: our travel guide
Malta is a small country with a lot of history: a capital built by knights, temples older than the pyramids and a sea that stays warm for much of the year.
Valletta
The capital from the water at night. Photo: Emmanuel Cassar / Unsplash
Malta: a small country with a long season
Malta lies in the middle of the Mediterranean, south of Sicily, and has three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and tiny Comino. It is small enough to see a lot in a week, but has so much history you will never finish.
The Knights of St John built the capital, Valletta, in the 16th century, and the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. English is an official language alongside Maltese, the country uses the euro, and the climate is mild even in winter. That makes Malta a good choice for a winter city break as well as a summer beach holiday.
Malta is one of the countries in Europe we cover.
The streets of Valletta
The enclosed wooden balconies are a Maltese trademark. Photo: Ferenc Horvath / Unsplash
Things to do in Malta
Valletta: wander streets lined with colourful wooden balconies, see St John's Co-Cathedral with its two Caravaggio paintings, and the view from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Mdina: the old walled capital, known as the Silent City. Visit in the evening once the day-trippers have left.
The Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua across the harbour, a short boat ride from Valletta.
The Blue Lagoon on Comino: turquoise water in a channel between two islands. Go early, or outside high season.
Marsaxlokk: the fishing village with its colourful luzzu boats, and a fish market on Sundays.
Gozo: greener and calmer, with the Ġgantija temples and Ramla Bay beach.
The luzzu boats
Photo: CALIN STAN / Unsplash
Where to stay in Malta
Valletta: for history, restaurants and a city break.
Sliema and St Julian's: hotels, nightlife and a seafront promenade, with a ferry to Valletta.
Mdina: quiet and romantic, inland.
Gozo: for peace and nature.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Phoenicia, Valletta
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
The Phoenicia: the grand hotel by the city gate
The classic hotel just outside Valletta's walls, with gardens and a pool looking over the harbour.
Book your city break: See rooms at The Phoenicia
Iniala Valletta: design by the Grand Harbour
A design hotel in Valletta with views towards the entrance to the Grand Harbour. For those who want to stay in the heart of town with the sea just outside.
Book your city break: See rooms at Iniala Valletta
The Xara Palace, Mdina
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
The Xara Palace: inside the Silent City
A small palace hotel within the walls of Mdina, with a terrace looking out over the island. In the evening you have the town almost to yourself.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Xara Palace
When is the best time to visit Malta?
Malta has mild weather all year. April to June and September to November are often best, with pleasant warmth and a warm sea in autumn. Summer is hot and busy. In winter it is too cool for most to swim, but lovely for a city break. See also winter sun destinations in Europe.
Frequently asked questions about Malta
Where is the best place to stay in Malta?
Valletta suits history and restaurants, while Sliema and St Julian's have more hotels, a promenade and nightlife. Mdina is quiet and romantic, and Gozo suits those who want peace and nature.
What is Malta famous for?
The capital Valletta, built by the Knights of St John, its prehistoric temples, the Blue Lagoon on Comino and its clear water. It is also known for a long season and mild weather.
Do they speak English in Malta?
Yes. English is an official language alongside Maltese, and most people speak it well. Malta uses the euro and drives on the left.
How many days do you need in Malta?
A long weekend is enough for Valletta and Mdina. To see Gozo and Comino too, allow a week.
When is the best time to go to Malta?
April to June and September to November bring pleasant weather. Autumn is good for swimming, as the sea is still warm.