✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Malta: Jan or Feb 2026

Malta travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Over the Three Cities during ideal visiting season — Image: Flag of Malta.svg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For an inspiring Maltese escape, aim for the shoulder months of April-June or September-October. During these times, the Mediterranean sun casts a warm glow, perfect for exploring ancient Valletta or the Blue Lagoon without the peak summer crowds. Imagine leisurely strolls through historic streets, the air alive with the scent of wildflowers in spring, or the gentle lapping of waves as you witness inspiring, golden sunsets over the sea in autumn. Even the winter months offer a unique charm, with milder temperatures ideal for discovering archaeological wonders and enjoying local festivities in a more intimate setting.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprMayJunOctNovDec

Airport Code

MLA

Coordinates

35.94°, 14.38°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Over the Three Cities

Wake before dawn and head to the Valletta waterfront or a vantage point in Senglea to witness the sun paint the sky over the historic Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. The ancient fortifications glow in the soft morning light, offering a peaceful and profoundly beautiful start to the day, far from the midday crowds.

Exploring the Hypogeum's Ancient Echoes

Descend into the mysterious depths of the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 4000 BC. This underground necropolis offers an unparalleled glimpse into prehistoric Malta, with its carved chambers and acoustic marvels. Booking tickets months in advance is essential due to extremely limited visitor numbers.

A Taste of Gozo's Rural Charm

Rent a bicycle or an e-scooter and meander through Gozo's picturesque villages, stopping at a local bakery for pastizzi or a ftira. Seek out the Ggantija Temples at dawn or dusk for a more atmospheric visit, and don't miss the salt pans near Marsalforn, especially after a good rain.

Diving into the Blue Hole's Depths

For experienced divers, the Blue Hole in Dwejra, Gozo, offers a world-renowned dive site with dramatic underwater formations and vibrant marine life. Even if you don't dive, the surrounding coastal scenery is spectacular, and you can enjoy swimming in the clear waters nearby.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Don't rely solely on taxis; Malta's public bus system is surprisingly efficient and incredibly affordable for getting around. Grab a Tallinja Card upon arrival for easy tap-and-go payments, and use the Tallinja app to check real-time bus schedules – it's a lifesaver, especially for reaching more remote beaches or villages.

food

Embrace the pastizzi! These savory, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas are a national treasure and cost mere cents. Look for local 'pastizzerias' away from the main tourist drags in Valletta for the most authentic and budget-friendly experience – they make a perfect cheap breakfast or snack.

culture

Respect the siesta, especially outside of major tourist hubs. Many smaller shops and businesses close for a few hours in the early afternoon (roughly 1 PM to 4 PM), so plan your shopping or errands accordingly. It's a great time to enjoy a leisurely lunch or explore a museum.

money

While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, always carry some Euros for smaller establishments, local markets, and bus fares. ATMs are readily available, but withdrawing smaller amounts frequently can incur more fees, so plan ahead.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, often on uneven cobblestone streets. Don't forget a scarf or shawl; it's essential for covering your shoulders and knees when visiting churches and religious sites to show respect.

safety

Malta is generally very safe, but be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like Valletta's main streets or during local festa celebrations. Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly near popular attractions, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

10 days

Feb

8 days

Mar

7 days

Apr

5 days

May

3 days

Jun

1 day

Jul

0 days

Aug

1 day

Sep

5 days

Oct

8 days

Nov

10 days

Dec

11 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	15°C	9°C	59°F	48°F	55mm	10 days	10h
Feb	16°C	9°C	61°F	48°F	40mm	8 days	11h
Mar	18°C	11°C	64°F	52°F	30mm	7 days	12h
Apr	20°C	13°C	68°F	55°F	15mm	5 days	13h
May	24°C	17°C	75°F	63°F	10mm	3 days	14h
Jun	28°C	21°C	82°F	70°F	5mm	1 day	15h
Jul	31°C	24°C	88°F	75°F	0mm	0 days	15h
Aug	32°C	25°C	90°F	77°F	5mm	1 day	14h
Sep	29°C	23°C	84°F	73°F	30mm	5 days	13h
Oct	25°C	19°C	77°F	66°F	60mm	8 days	12h
Nov	20°C	14°C	68°F	57°F	75mm	10 days	11h
Dec	17°C	11°C	63°F	52°F	70mm	11 days	10h

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Aug in Malta

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Sunrise Over the Three Cities

attraction

Best time: Apr-Oct

Exploring the Hypogeum's Ancient Echoes

cultural

Best time: Year-round

A Taste of Gozo's Rural Charm

activity

Best time: Mar-Jun, Sep-Nov

Diving into the Blue Hole's Depths

activity

Best time: May-Oct

Savoring a Traditional Maltese Dinner in Marsaxlokk

food

Experience the authentic flavors of Malta at a waterfront restaurant in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, especially on a Sunday when the colorful fishing boats (luzzijiet) are docked. Indulge in fresh lampuki pie or grilled fish, soaking in the lively atmosphere and the scent of the sea.

Best time: Year-round, but Sundays are vibrant

Discovering Mdina's Silent Streets

attraction

Wander through the 'Silent City' of Mdina in the late afternoon or early evening, when the day-trippers have departed. The honey-colored stone buildings and narrow, winding alleys exude an almost magical tranquility, and the panoramic views from the bastions are stunning as the sun sets.

Best time: Year-round

Browsing the Ta' Qali Crafts Village

shopping

Escape the tourist throngs and explore the Ta' Qali Crafts Village, housed in former WWII aircraft hangars. Here, you can watch artisans at work creating intricate glass, pottery, and filigree jewelry, and find unique souvenirs directly from the makers.

Best time: Year-round

Hiking the Dingli Cliffs at Sunset

nature

Take a leisurely hike along the Dingli Cliffs, Malta's highest point, as the sun begins its descent. The rugged coastline offers dramatic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the uninhabited island of Filfla, creating a serene and awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov

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Getting Around Malta

Malta Public Transport (Buses)

The primary mode of public transport on Malta and Gozo, buses connect almost every village and town. They are essential for reaching many historical sites and beaches, especially if you're not renting a car.

Cost:Single journey tickets are €2.00 in winter and €2.50 in summer (valid for 2 hours). A 7-day unlimited travel card costs €21.

Tip:Download the 'Tallinja' app to plan routes, check real-time bus arrivals, and purchase your travel card. Avoid peak hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM) if possible, as buses can get very crowded. Don't be afraid to signal the driver well in advance if you want to get off; a raised hand is usually sufficient. Many tourists miss the 2-hour validity of single tickets and buy new ones unnecessarily.

Taxis (e.g., eCabs, Uber-like services)

Taxis are readily available, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. Services like eCabs offer a more modern, app-based experience similar to Uber, providing fixed prices upfront.

Cost:Expect around €15-€25 for a typical journey within Valletta or to nearby towns. Airport transfers can range from €15-€30 depending on the destination.

Tip:Use the eCabs app or similar services for transparent pricing and to avoid haggling. Traditional white taxis are also available but can be more expensive; agree on a fare before starting your journey. Be aware that surge pricing can occur during peak times. Many travelers opt for airport transfers booked in advance, which can be slightly more expensive but offer peace of mind.

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

These tourist-oriented buses cover major attractions across Malta and Gozo with designated routes and stops. They are convenient for a quick overview of the island's highlights.

Cost:Around €20-€30 for a 1-day pass, with options for 2 days or including Gozo. Prices vary slightly between operators.

Tip:Check which operator covers the areas you're most interested in, as routes differ. These are best for a first-time visitor wanting to see the main sights without the hassle of public transport logistics. Don't try to see everything in one day; spread it out if you have time. The audio commentary is generally informative but can sometimes be a bit dated.

Ferries (Gozo Channel Line)

The Gozo Channel ferry is the main way to travel between Malta (from Cirkewwa) and Gozo (to Mgarr). It's a frequent and reliable service, offering pleasant sea views.

Cost:Around €4.65 for a passenger ticket (paid on return from Gozo to Malta). Vehicle fares are extra.

Tip:The ferry runs 24/7, but check the schedule for the last departures, especially late at night. You only pay when you return to Malta, so you can go to Gozo without immediate payment. The journey takes about 25 minutes. Consider taking the bus to Cirkewwa or using a taxi; some travelers underestimate the travel time to the ferry terminal.

Scooter and Bicycle Rentals

For shorter distances and exploring towns like Valletta or Mdina at your own pace, renting a scooter or bicycle can be a fun option. Some companies offer electric bikes.

Cost:Scooter rentals can start from €15-€20 per day, while bicycles might be slightly cheaper. Electric bike rentals are typically €25-€35 per day.

Tip:Be extremely cautious with traffic; Maltese roads can be narrow and drivers can be assertive. Helmets are mandatory for scooters and highly recommended for bicycles. Ensure your rental includes insurance. Many tourists underestimate the hilly terrain, especially outside of Valletta, so an electric option might be wise if you're not a strong cyclist.

Water Taxis/Private Boat Hire

For a more exclusive experience or to visit less accessible coves, hiring a private boat or water taxi is an option, particularly around the Three Cities and Comino.

Cost:Can range from €50-€100+ per hour, depending on the boat size and duration. A trip to the Blue Lagoon from Sliema might cost €300-€500.

Tip:This is a splurge, best for groups wanting a unique day out. Always agree on the price and itinerary beforehand. For a more affordable water taxi experience, consider the small boats (dghajsas) that ferry people across the Grand Harbour between Valletta and the Three Cities for a few euros. Don't confuse these with larger tourist boat tours.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Malta to balance good weather with fewer crowds?

For that sweet spot of sunshine without the peak summer crush, aim for late April to early June or September to October. You'll still get glorious weather perfect for exploring ancient sites and swimming, but you'll find the popular spots a bit more relaxed and accommodation prices a tad kinder.

Is it easy to get around Malta without a car, and what's the local transport like?

Absolutely! Malta has a surprisingly efficient and affordable bus system that connects most towns and villages. While it can get a bit crowded during rush hour, it's a fantastic way to see the island like a local. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available if you prefer more direct routes, especially for late-night travel.

Beyond Valletta and Mdina, what's a truly unique, less-touristy experience I shouldn't miss?

You absolutely must explore the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua) across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. They offer a glimpse into Malta's maritime history with stunning fortifications and charming waterfronts, but without the overwhelming crowds. Wander through their narrow streets and discover hidden chapels and local eateries – it feels like stepping back in time.

What's a common local custom or etiquette tip I should be aware of in Malta?

Maltese people are generally very hospitable, but it's polite to dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites – cover your shoulders and knees. Also, don't be surprised if conversations involve a bit of animated gesturing; it's just part of the vibrant Maltese culture!

Are there any specific food or drink experiences that are quintessentially Maltese?

Definitely seek out a pastizz! These savory, flaky pastries filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas are a national obsession and incredibly cheap. For a drink, try Kinnie, a unique bittersweet soft drink made from oranges and herbs – it's an acquired taste for some, but a true Maltese staple you'll find everywhere.

How many days do you need in Malta?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Malta to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Malta expensive to visit?

Malta can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Malta famous for?

Malta is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

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