62 Questions & 62 Answers about Malta – Direct from the Island

Malta – an archipelago in the Mediterranean – is best known for its sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and historic old towns. But actually, Malta offers much more than that.

Whether you are planning a trip to Malta, attending one of the numerous iGaming conferences, or researching the economic benefits of the island for your business – here are my compact answers to the most frequently asked questions about Malta.

Where is Malta located?

The Maltese archipelago is located in the central Mediterranean, approximately 160 km (100 miles) south of Sicily.

Who does Malta belong to?

Malta is an independent nation and, at the same time, the smallest member state of the European Union.

What language is spoken in Malta?

There are two official languages in Malta – Malti (Maltese) and English. The national language, Malti, originally stems from Arabic but incorporates numerous Italian, English, and French terms. Because of its history as a British colony, English is spoken by almost everyone.

How big is Malta?

The Maltese archipelago covers a total area of 316 km².

What is the population of Malta?

Malta has a population of approximately 540,000 people. With a size of 316 km², this results in a high population density of over 1,600 inhabitants/km².

Is Malta its own country?

Yes, the Mediterranean island of Malta is its own independent country and, with around half a million inhabitants, the smallest member state of the European Union.

What is the weather like in Malta in January?

As a sunny Mediterranean island, Malta has a subtropical climate. However, January is one of the wetter months, bringing an average of 18 rainy days. Daytime temperatures usually range between 9-16°C (48-61°F), while the sea is around 16°C. You can still expect an average of 4 hours of sunshine per day.

How long is the flight from London to Malta?

A direct flight from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted) to Malta takes just over 3 hours. Airlines like Air Malta (now KM Malta Airlines), British Airways, Ryanair, and EasyJet fly this route daily.

How long is the flight from other parts of Europe?

From major hubs like Frankfurt or Munich, the flight takes about 2.5 hours. From further north, like Manchester or Amsterdam, expect a flight time of around 3 to 3.5 hours.

Where should I live in Malta?

There are many beautiful residential areas on the island. Expats particularly love the towns of Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Paceville for their vibrancy. Those who want to be close to Malta's banking and government centre often prefer the quieter capital, Valletta, or Floriana. Seniors and holidaymakers often favour the seaside resorts in the north, such as St. Paul’s Bay, Qawra, and Mellieħa.

What kind of country is Malta?

Malta is a sovereign state and a republic. The country gained independence from Great Britain in 1964 and has been an EU member state since 1 May 2004.

How much is the ferry from Sicily to Malta?

You can cross from Sicily to Malta via Pozzallo. The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. A passenger ticket costs around €70-85 depending on the season. Taking a car with two people costs around €220 return. Ferries run multiple times a day.

Which ships are in the Grand Harbour?

You can check the MarineTraffic website to see which ships are currently docked in Valletta. Malta is a popular stop for major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line, and TUI Cruises.

What is the port of Valletta like?

Valletta has a stunning natural harbour, the Grand Harbour, located very close to the city centre. Cruise ships dock at the Valletta Cruise Terminal, from where you can easily reach the city centre on foot or by lift.

How long does it take to fly to Malta from mainland Europe?

Flight times from central Europe generally range from 2 to 3 hours. It's a quick hop for a completely different climate.

When did Malta join the EU?

The island nation of Malta joined the European Union on 1 May 2004.

Which movies were filmed in Malta?

Malta's sunny beaches and historic cities have long been a popular film set. Famous productions include Gladiator, Troy, World War Z, and By The Sea with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The 1980 musical Popeye with Robin Williams was also filmed here (the set is now a tourist attraction). And of course, Game of Thrones famously used Malta for King's Landing in its first season.

How hot does it get in Malta?

Malta typically has hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. In summer (July/August), temperatures can exceed 32°C (90°F), with hardly any rain. Winters are wetter; from December to February, temperatures drop to around 16°C (61°F) during the day and sometimes just below 10°C (50°F) at night.

What is the best time to travel to Malta?

The best time to visit is from May to October. The shoulder months are great for cultural trips or hiking, while the hot summer months are perfect for a beach holiday. Personally, I find spring ideal because the temperatures are pleasant and the island is still green.

Where should I go on holiday in Malta?

Malta offers so many different attractions that you should choose your destination based on your planned activities. St. Julian's for nightlife, Mellieħa for beaches, or Valletta for culture.

Why is English spoken in Malta?

Malta was under British rule from 1800 and became a colony in 1814. It gained independence in 1964 but kept English as an official language. The British influence is still visible in the red phone booths, the driving on the left, and the language.

How do you get from Malta to Gozo?

Gozo is Malta's smaller sister island to the northwest. It can only be reached by ferry. The crossing between Cirkewwa (Malta) and Mgarr (Gozo) takes about 25 minutes. There is also a fast ferry from Valletta for foot passengers.

How much is the ferry from Malta to Gozo?

The standard car ferry costs about €4.65 for foot passengers and around €15.70 for a car and driver. Interestingly, you only pay on the return trip from Gozo back to Malta.

Which airlines fly to Malta?

KM Malta Airlines (the successor to Air Malta) is the national carrier connecting the island to major European cities. Additionally, almost all major European airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer direct flights to Malta International Airport.

What is the name of Malta's airport?

Malta International Airport (IATA code: MLA) is the only international airport. It is located near the town of Luqa, about a 20-minute drive from the capital, Valletta.

What is the weather like in Malta in November?

The average temperature in November is around 17-18°C. Statistically, there are about 17 rainy days, but the sea temperature is still around 21°C, so swimming is possible for the brave.

What is the weather like in Malta in October?

October is often still warm with average temperatures of 21-22°C. The sea is still warm (23°C), making it a popular month for an autumn break, though you might see some rain.

What is the weather like in December?

December is usually the wettest month in Malta. Temperatures range between 11°C and 17°C. It’s mild compared to northern Europe, but damp.

How many days of sunshine does Malta have?

Malta is one of the sunniest countries in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Even in winter, rainy days are often interspersed with sunny spells.

Where is the most beautiful spot in Malta?

It's hard to pick just one. Highlights include the capital Valletta, the silent city of Mdina, the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, the Blue Hole in Gozo, and the Dingli Cliffs. There is something for everyone.

What is the capital of Malta?

The capital is Valletta. It is the smallest capital city in the EU, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and an architectural masterpiece built by the Knights of St. John.

Is Malta in the EU?

Yes, Malta has been a member of the European Union since May 2004 and is also part of the Eurozone and the Schengen Area.

What is the food like in Malta?

Maltese cuisine is Mediterranean with British and Italian influences. We eat a lot of fish and vegetables, and use plenty of olive oil. National dishes include Lampuki (fish pie), Stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), and Bragioli (beef olives).

What is the nightlife like in Malta?

Malta has a very active nightlife. The hub is Paceville in St. Julian's, where you'll find clubs like Havana, Sky Club, and Twenty Two. In summer, open-air clubs like Gianpula Village are very popular.

Where can you dive in Malta?

Malta is a world-class diving destination with wrecks, reefs, and caves. Popular spots include Cirkewwa in the north of Malta and the Blue Hole in Gozo.

Which 5-star hotels are there in Malta?

For luxury travellers, Malta offers excellent options like the Hilton Malta, InterContinental, The Westin Dragonara, The Phoenicia just outside Valletta, and the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz on Gozo.

Are there direct flights from the UK?

Yes, there are direct flights from almost all major UK airports, including London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton), Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and Edinburgh.

How do you get from Malta to Sicily?

Virtu Ferries operates a high-speed catamaran between Valletta and Pozzallo (Sicily) multiple times a week. The journey takes under 2 hours.

What is public transport like in Malta?

Public transport consists entirely of buses. The operator, Malta Public Transport, runs a comprehensive network. While the buses are modern and air-conditioned, they can be crowded in summer and traffic can cause delays. There are no trains or trams.

What is the history of Malta?

Malta’s history is incredibly rich. The Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs all left their mark. The Knights of St. John ruled from 1530, followed by the French briefly, and then the British from 1814 until independence in 1964.

Do I need a plug adapter in Malta?

Good news for UK travellers: Malta uses the British 3-pin plug (Type G). You do not need an adapter. If you are visiting from mainland Europe or the US, you will need an adapter for the UK-style sockets. The voltage is 230V, 50Hz.

Is Malta expensive?

Malta is generally more affordable than London or major northern European cities, but prices have risen. Eating out and services are reasonably priced, though imported goods in supermarkets can be slightly more expensive than on the mainland.

What is the average income in Malta?

The average salary in Malta is lower than in the UK or Germany, but so is the tax burden for many. The average gross annual salary is roughly around €20,000 - €25,000, though this varies hugely by sector (iGaming and finance pay significantly more).

Is there Uber in Malta?

Yes. When I first wrote about this, there wasn't, but now Uber, Bolt, and eCabs all operate on the island. You can book rides easily via their apps. For more on getting around, check out my guide to living in Malta.

What are the most famous sights in Malta?

Top sights include St. John’s Co-Cathedral (with its Caravaggio paintings), the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Grandmaster’s Palace, the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim, and the Blue Grotto.

Where can you celebrate Christmas in Malta?

As a Catholic country, Malta celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm. Midnight Mass at St. John’s Co-Cathedral is special. You'll see elaborate cribs (presepju) everywhere. It's a festive, family-oriented time.

What time zone is Malta in?

Malta is in the Central European Time (CET) zone. It is one hour ahead of the UK (GMT+1) and shares the same time as Paris, Berlin, and Rome.

What is the cost of living in Malta?

Rents in popular expat areas have increased, reaching levels comparable to some European cities, though still cheaper than London. Groceries can be slightly pricier due to importation. However, dining out and public transport remain good value. Read more in my detailed guide.

Is Malta safe?

Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe. Violent crime is rare. Pickpocketing can happen in busy tourist areas or nightlife spots, but generally, you can walk around safely at night.

What is Malta's GDP?

Malta has had one of the fastest-growing economies in the EU in recent years, driven by tourism, iGaming, and financial services.

What is the minimum wage in Malta?

The minimum wage is around €800-€900 per month, which is lower than in the UK or Germany, but reflects the local cost structure.

Do you drive on the left in Malta?

Yes. Just like in the UK, we drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is a legacy of the British period.

How high are taxes in Malta?

This is my area of expertise. For companies, Malta has a corporate tax rate of 35%, but through the Full Imputation System, shareholders can receive a refund that reduces the effective tax rate to 5%. There is no wealth tax and no inheritance tax. For more details, read my article on the Malta Limited.

Where are the nice sandy beaches in Malta?

Popular sandy beaches include Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay (Għadira), and Għajn Tuffieħa. On Gozo, Ramla l-Ħamra is famous for its red sand. The Blue Lagoon on Comino is stunning but gets very crowded.

What do I need to enter Malta?

Since Malta is in the Schengen Zone, EU nationals can enter with a valid ID card. UK citizens (post-Brexit) need a valid passport (issued less than 10 years ago and with at least 3 months left). You can stay for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa.

What is the Malta Pass?

The Malta Pass is a sightseeing card that gives you free or discounted entry to over 40 attractions. It can be good value if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in a short time.

How can I move to Malta?

EU citizens can move here freely under EU freedom of movement rules. UK and other non-EU citizens need to apply for residence. There are specific schemes like the Global Residence Programme for high-net-worth individuals. If you are looking to relocate, I recommend looking into the Ordinary Residence scheme for EU nationals or the specific programmes for non-EU nationals.

Which countries neighbour Malta?

Malta has no land borders. Our closest neighbour is Sicily (Italy) to the north, and Tunisia is to the west.

Is it safe to swim in Malta?

Yes, swimming is safe. The water is clean and generally calm in the designated bays. Just watch out for the flag system on beaches – if the red flag is up, usually due to strong undercurrents or wind, do not swim.