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✓ Updated January 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Valletta, Malta: Jan or Feb 2026

Valletta, Malta travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise over the Grand Harbour from Fort St. Angelo during ideal visiting season
Image: St Sebastian Curtain (cropped).jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

Spring, particularly from April to June, offers an elegant embrace of Valletta, Malta. Imagine strolling through its honey-colored streets under a gentle sun, the air alive with the scent of blooming bougainvillea and the distant murmur of the sea. The days are long and pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring ancient fortifications and enjoying al fresco dining as golden sunsets paint the Grand Harbour. Later, in September and October, the summer crowds recede, leaving behind a serene atmosphere where you can still bask in the Mediterranean warmth and savor the elegant charm of this historic capital.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprMayJunOctNovDec

Airport Code

MLA

Coordinates

35.90°, 14.51°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise over the Grand Harbour from Fort St. Angelo

Witness the ancient fortifications of Vittoriosa bathed in the soft glow of dawn, a truly magical spectacle. This historic fort offers unparalleled views of Valletta across the water, and visiting early means you'll have the ramparts largely to yourself.

A Taste of Maltese Pastizzi at a Local Bakery

Seek out a small, unassuming bakery tucked away in a side street for the most authentic pastizzi experience. These savory, flaky pastries, typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas, are a cheap and delicious local staple, best enjoyed warm straight from the oven.

Exploring the Hypogeum's Ancient Depths

Descend into the UNESCO-listed Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a prehistoric underground burial complex carved from rock. The acoustics and the sheer age of this sacred space are profoundly moving; booking tickets months in advance is essential due to limited visitor numbers.

Strolling Through the Upper Barrakka Gardens at Sunset

As the day cools, wander through these beautifully manicured gardens offering sweeping vistas of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Arrive before sunset to catch the daily cannon firing ceremony at noon or 4 PM, a tradition that adds a touch of historical drama.

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

Forget renting a car for Valletta itself; the streets are incredibly narrow and parking is a nightmare. Instead, rely on the excellent public bus system (get a Tallinja card for cheaper fares) or simply walk everywhere within the city walls. For longer distances, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are available and more affordable than taxis.

food

Don't leave Malta without trying pastizzi! These savory, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas are a local staple and ridiculously cheap (often just 30-50 cents each). Grab them from a local pastizzeria – chances are, if there's a queue of locals, it's the real deal.

culture

Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its history is palpable. Take advantage of the Malta Pass if you plan on visiting multiple historical sites like St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master's Palace; it can save you a significant amount. Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) when entering churches, even in the heat.

money

While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, always carry some Euros for smaller establishments, local markets, and those delicious pastizzi. ATMs are readily available, but it's wise to inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any card-blocking issues.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, often up and down steep streets. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen, as the Maltese sun can be intense, especially during summer months. A reusable water bottle is also a smart addition to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

safety

Valletta is generally a very safe city, but like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings to guard against petty theft. The biggest 'danger' you'll face is probably getting lost in the charming maze of streets, which is part of the fun!

💡 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
12 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan15°C9°C59°F48°F59mm
10 days
10h
Feb16°C9°C61°F48°F41mm
8 days
11h
Mar18°C11°C64°F52°F37mm
7 days
12h
Apr20°C13°C68°F55°F20mm
5 days
13h
May24°C17°C75°F63°F11mm
3 days
14h
Jun28°C21°C82°F70°F3mm
1 day
15h
Jul31°C24°C88°F75°F0mm
0 days
15h
Aug32°C25°C90°F77°F1mm
1 day
14h
Sep29°C23°C84°F73°F36mm
5 days
13h
Oct26°C19°C79°F66°F69mm
8 days
11h
Nov21°C15°C70°F59°F75mm
10 days
10h
Dec17°C11°C63°F52°F79mm
12 days
9h

Valletta, Malta Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Valletta, Malta? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

15°C°C / 59°F°F

10 days rainy days • 59mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Feb in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

16°C°C / 61°F°F

8 days rainy days • 41mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Mar in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

7 days rainy days • 37mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Apr in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

20°C°C / 68°F°F

5 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

May in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

24°C°C / 75°F°F

3 days rainy days • 11mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

28°C°C / 82°F°F

1 day rainy days • 3mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Valletta, Malta

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

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

Aug in Valletta, Malta

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

1 day rainy days • 1mmmm

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.

Sep in Valletta, Malta

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

5 days rainy days • 36mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Oct in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

26°C°C / 79°F°F

8 days rainy days • 69mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

21°C°C / 70°F°F

10 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Dec in Valletta, Malta

⭐ Best Time

Weather

17°C°C / 63°F°F

12 days rainy days • 79mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Valletta, Malta

Sunrise over the Grand Harbour from Fort St. Angelo

attraction

Witness the ancient fortifications of Vittoriosa bathed in the soft glow of dawn, a truly magical spectacle. This historic fort offers unparalleled views of Valletta across the water, and visiting early means you'll have the ramparts largely to yourself.

Best time: Apr-Oct

A Taste of Maltese Pastizzi at a Local Bakery

food

Seek out a small, unassuming bakery tucked away in a side street for the most authentic pastizzi experience. These savory, flaky pastries, typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas, are a cheap and delicious local staple, best enjoyed warm straight from the oven.

Exploring the Hypogeum's Ancient Depths

cultural

Descend into the UNESCO-listed Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a prehistoric underground burial complex carved from rock. The acoustics and the sheer age of this sacred space are profoundly moving; booking tickets months in advance is essential due to limited visitor numbers.

Best time: Year-round, but book well in advance

Strolling Through the Upper Barrakka Gardens at Sunset

nature

As the day cools, wander through these beautifully manicured gardens offering sweeping vistas of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Arrive before sunset to catch the daily cannon firing ceremony at noon or 4 PM, a tradition that adds a touch of historical drama.

Discovering the Streets of the Three Cities by Electric Bike

activity

Rent an electric bike and leisurely explore the charming, less-crowded streets of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. This allows you to easily navigate the narrow alleyways and discover hidden courtyards and waterfront cafes at your own pace.

An Evening of Live Jazz at Bridge Bar

nightlife

Experience Valletta's vibrant nightlife at Bridge Bar, a unique venue set on a historic bridge overlooking the city walls. Enjoy expertly mixed cocktails and the soulful sounds of live jazz under the stars, a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Best time: May-Oct

Shopping for Hand-Blown Maltese Glass

shopping

Venture into artisan workshops in Valletta to find exquisite hand-blown glass pieces, a testament to Malta's craft traditions. Look for unique vases, bowls, and decorative items, often featuring vibrant colors inspired by the Mediterranean.

A Culinary Journey Through Is-Suq Tal-Belt

food

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Valletta's covered market, now a modern food hall. Sample a diverse range of Maltese and international delicacies from various stalls, from fresh seafood to traditional rabbit stew, offering a true taste of the island.

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Valletta, Malta

Malta Public Transport Buses

The primary way to get around Valletta and the rest of Malta. The network is extensive, reaching most corners of the island and connecting to Gozo. Buses are frequent, especially on main routes, and are a budget-friendly way to explore.

Cost:Single journey tickets are €2.00 in summer (June-October) and €1.50 in winter (November-May), valid for 2 hours. A 7-day unlimited travel card costs €21.
Tip:Download the 'Tallinja' app for real-time bus tracking, route planning, and purchasing the 7-day travel card. Avoid waiting at bus stops during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) if possible, as buses can get very crowded. Always have small change ready for single tickets, as drivers often don't carry much. Be aware that bus numbers can change, so always double-check your route on the app.

Valletta Ferry Service

A delightful and efficient way to cross the Grand Harbour between Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, Cospicua). It offers stunning panoramic views of the fortifications and is much faster than taking a bus around the harbour.

Cost:Around €1.50 per single trip, or €2.80 for a return ticket. A weekly pass is also available.
Tip:The ferry is perfect for a quick hop to explore the historic Three Cities or enjoy a sunset view from the Sliema promenade. The app 'Valletta Ferry' can provide schedules. Avoid the temptation to take a taxi for this short hop; the ferry is scenic and cost-effective. Boarding is usually straightforward, but be mindful of the tide's effect on the docking points.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing (e.g., Bolt)

Taxis are readily available, especially at tourist hubs and the airport. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt operate in Malta and can often be more affordable and transparent than traditional taxis.

Cost:Metered taxi fares can vary, but expect around €15-€25 for a trip from Valletta to St. Julian's. Bolt prices are usually displayed upfront in the app, often ranging from €10-€20 for similar distances.
Tip:Always ensure the taxi meter is running or agree on a fare *before* starting your journey if hailing a cab on the street. Bolt is generally the preferred app for its reliability and pricing. A common mistake is assuming taxis are always the quickest option; during peak traffic, buses or ferries might be faster for certain routes.

Walking

Valletta itself is a compact, UNESCO World Heritage city, and the best way to experience its charm is on foot. The streets are steep in places, but the architecture, hidden alleys, and stunning viewpoints are best discovered by wandering.

Cost:Free!
Tip:Wear comfortable shoes – those cobblestones and inclines are no joke! Carry water, especially during the summer months, as it gets very hot. Don't be afraid to get lost; many of Valletta's most beautiful spots are found off the main thoroughfares. Look out for the 'Valletta Card' if you plan on visiting many museums, as it includes public transport and some entry fees.

Electric Scooters and E-Bikes

Several companies offer electric scooter and e-bike rentals via smartphone apps, providing a fun and flexible way to cover short to medium distances, especially along the waterfronts or between adjacent towns.

Cost:Typically charged per minute, with unlock fees. Expect around €0.20-€0.30 per minute after an initial unlock fee of €1-€2.
Tip:Download apps like 'Bolt' (which also offers scooters) or specific local providers. Be aware of local regulations regarding where you can ride (sidewalks are usually prohibited) and parking zones. A common mistake is riding too fast in crowded areas; be considerate of pedestrians. Always check the battery level before starting a longer journey.

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

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Valletta, Malta, if I want to avoid the biggest crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather?

For that sweet spot between great weather and manageable crowds, I always recommend the shoulder seasons: April to early June, or September to October. You'll get plenty of sunshine perfect for exploring the city's fortifications and enjoying outdoor cafes, without the intense heat and packed streets of July and August. Plus, the sea is still warm enough for a dip in September!

I'm planning to explore Valletta on foot. Are there any specific things I should know about navigating the city's layout?

Valletta is built on a grid system, which is fantastic for getting around, but be prepared for hills! The city is essentially on a peninsula, so streets run up and down from the bastions to the harbor. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, and don't be afraid to use the public elevators (like the one near the Upper Barrakka Gardens) to save your legs on those steeper inclines.

Beyond the main attractions like St. John's Co-Cathedral, what's a 'must-see' that often gets overlooked by first-time visitors?

You absolutely must seek out the Casa Rocca Piccola. It's a beautiful, inhabited 16th-century noble palace that offers a glimpse into Maltese aristocratic life. Unlike a sterile museum, you'll see family heirlooms and hear stories from the family themselves – it feels incredibly personal and authentic.

What's the deal with Maltese language and currency? Do I need to worry about communication or payment?

Maltese is the official language, but English is also an official language and spoken by virtually everyone, so you'll have no trouble communicating. The currency is the Euro (€), just like in many other European countries. Most places accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller shops or local markets.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting churches or religious sites in Valletta?

Maltese culture is deeply rooted in Catholicism, so when visiting churches, dress respectfully – shoulders and knees should be covered. It's also customary to be quiet and mindful of worshippers. You'll often find locals lighting candles or praying, and it's important to show that same reverence.

I'm looking for a truly local dining experience away from the main tourist drag. Any recommendations?

Skip the restaurants right on Republic Street and head into the side streets, especially towards the Grand Harbour side. Look for 'Nenu the Artisan Baker' for traditional Maltese dishes served in a unique setting, or find a small 'pastizzeria' for delicious and cheap pastizzi (savory pastries) – a true Maltese staple that locals adore.

How many days do you need in Valletta, Malta?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Valletta, 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 Valletta, Malta expensive to visit?

Valletta, 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 Valletta, Malta famous for?

Valletta, 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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