Malta Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning Your Trip
What’s the best time to visit Malta?
Answer: Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) are generally recommended for good weather and fewer crowds. July/August are very hot and busy. January is also mentioned as having lovely weather.
How many days are enough for Malta?
Answer: 5-7 days for Malta and a day trip to Gozo/Comino is a common recommendation. Some suggest 8-10 days if you want to explore more thoroughly.
Is Malta safe for tourists?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. It’s generally considered very safe.
Is Malta expensive?
Answer: It’s considered mid-range compared to other European countries, but prices have been increasing. Accommodation in popular areas like Sliema can be expensive. Groceries are relatively high.
What currency is used in Malta?
Answer: Euro (€).
Do I need a visa for Malta?
Answer: (Implied by travelers, but confirm for your nationality) As part of the Schengen Area, standard Schengen visa rules apply.
Is English widely spoken?
Answer: Yes, English is an official language and almost everyone speaks it fluently. You won’t have trouble communicating.
What are some common scams to be aware of?
Answer: Accommodation scams (especially for long-term rentals) and some white taxi drivers overcharging are mentioned. Be cautious with “hop-on-hop-off” bus tours that might be overpriced or unreliable.
What’s the tipping culture like?
Answer: Tipping is appreciated but not strictly mandatory like in some countries. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common.
What should I pack for Malta?
Answer: Light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially in warmer months. If visiting in shoulder seasons, a light jacket for evenings might be useful.
Are there any unusual customs or things to avoid doing?
Answer: Generally, no major unusual customs that would cause offense to tourists. Don’t worry about trying to imitate locals too much.
Is Malta good for solo travel?
Answer: Yes, many travelers have enjoyed solo trips to Malta, finding it safe and easy to navigate.
Is Malta good for families with kids?
Answer: Sliema is mentioned as kid-friendly with playgrounds. Popeye Village is also a popular attraction for families.
Is Malta accessible for people with mobility issues?
Answer: While generally walkable, some areas, especially older cities like Valletta and Mdina, have steep hills and steps. Public transport might be a challenge at times due to overcrowding or unreliability. Consider taxis/Bolt if mobility is a concern.
What’s the internet/connectivity like?
Answer: Generally good, though some bus Wi-Fi can be unreliable.
Getting Around
How reliable is public transport (buses)?
Answer: Mixed reviews. It’s a wide network and cheap, covering most areas. However, buses can be late, overcrowded, and sometimes skip stops. Traffic can be a major issue, especially in summer.
Should I get a bus pass?
Answer: Yes, a week-long unlimited ride pass (around €20) is highly recommended for cost-effectiveness if you plan to use buses frequently.
Is renting a car recommended?
Answer: Debatable. It offers flexibility, especially for reaching less accessible spots and Gozo. However, driving in Malta can be chaotic, traffic is bad, and parking is challenging/expensive. Many suggest using Bolt/Uber instead of driving.
Are taxis readily available?
Answer: Yes, Bolt and Uber are widely available and generally preferred over traditional white taxis due to better pricing and reliability.
How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?
Answer: Buses connect the airport to various parts of the island. Taxis/Bolt are also options, especially for late arrivals.
How to get to Gozo from Malta?
Answer: Ferries run frequently from Cirkewwa (Malta) to Mgarr (Gozo). There’s also a fast ferry from Valletta.
How much does the Gozo ferry cost?
Answer: Around €4.50, usually charged only on the way back from Gozo to Malta.
Can I take a car to Gozo?
Answer: Yes, car ferries are available.
How to get to Comino/Blue Lagoon?
Answer: Boat tours or public ferries from Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo) are options. Be wary of overpriced tours; it’s often cheaper to do it yourself.
Is it easy to walk around Malta?
Answer: Depends on the area. Valletta and Mdina are very walkable, but other areas may require more planning due to distances and traffic.
Accommodation
Where is the best place to stay in Malta?
Answer:
Valletta: Good for culture, restaurants, and central bus terminus access. Can be quieter.
Sliema/St. Julian’s: Tourist hotspots with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping. Good for nightlife (St. Julian’s/Paceville). Can be very busy and commercialized.
Gozo: Quieter, more relaxed, and often recommended for a more peaceful experience with easy access to nature and beaches.
Marsaxlokk: Picturesque fishing village, good for a quieter stay with many seafood restaurants.
Mellieha: Good for sandy beaches.
Are there accommodation scams to be aware of?
Answer: Yes, some travelers have reported issues with shady accommodation agencies, especially for long-term rentals. Be cautious and research thoroughly.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or Airbnb?
Answer: Airbnbs with kitchens can be more cost-effective if you plan to cook to save money on eating out.
What’s a good budget for accommodation?
Answer: For a family of four, expect €1300-€1800/month for a decent apartment in Sliema, potentially less outside of prime areas.
Are there good options for budget travelers?
Answer: Staying in Marsaxlokk or less central areas can be more budget-friendly. Cooking your own meals also helps.
Things to See & Do (Malta Island)
What are the must-visit places in Malta?
Answer: Valletta, Mdina/Rabat, Three Cities, Gozo, Comino (Blue Lagoon), Dingli Cliffs, Marsaxlokk.
What can I do in Valletta?
Answer: Explore St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace, Upper Barrakka Gardens (for views), walk the old streets, visit museums (e.g., Malta Maritime Museum), take the Barrakka lift, and enjoy the waterfront.
Is Mdina worth visiting?
Answer: Absolutely. Known as the “Silent City,” it’s beautiful, especially in the late afternoon/evening when crowds thin out.
What to do in Rabat (near Mdina)?
Answer: Visit St. Paul’s Catacombs, and try pastizzi at Serkin.
What are the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, Cospicua)?
Answer: Historic fortified cities across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. Explore Birgu’s waterfront and narrow streets, visit Fort St. Angelo, and enjoy views from Gardjola Gardens in Senglea.
How to get to the Three Cities?
Answer: Ferry from Valletta is a quick and scenic option.
Is the Blue Grotto worth it?
Answer: The boat trip itself is short (around 10 minutes) and the bay can be crowded. Some find it less impressive than the Blue Lagoon. Combine it with Hagar Qim temples if visiting.
What are the best beaches in Malta?
Answer: Golden Bay, Riviera (Ghajn Tuffieha), Mellieha Bay, Paradise Bay. Note that many beaches are rocky.
What are the best swimming spots besides Blue Lagoon?
Answer: St. Peter’s Pool (though access can be tricky, some suggest Delimara nearby), various spots around Gozo.
Are there ancient temples to visit?
Answer: Yes, Hagar Qim & Mnajdra temples are significant archaeological sites. Ggantija temples are in Gozo.
What about Popeye Village?
Answer: A fun, colorful film set often recommended for families. You can also swim in the bay.
Are there any hidden gems or less-touristy spots?
Answer: Għadira Nature Reserve (for chameleons), local Kazini (Band Clubs) for cheap drinks and traditional food, some smaller towns and villages.
What about nightlife?
Answer: Paceville in St. Julian’s is the main clubbing area, known for bars and clubs. Be aware it can be rowdy.
Any good museums?
Answer: Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu, various museums in Valletta.
What’s there to do outdoors?
Answer: Hiking (e.g., Dingli Cliffs, Ghajn Tuffieha), snorkeling, diving (Malta is known for dive spots).
Should I book tours or explore independently?
Answer: Many travelers advocate for exploring independently using public transport or Bolt/Uber, as organized tours can be overpriced.
What’s the Hypogeum? Do I need to book in advance?
Answer: A UNESCO World Heritage site, an underground prehistoric burial complex. Absolutely book months in advance, as daily entry is limited and it sells out quickly.
Are there good places for shopping?
Answer: Sliema is the main shopping area, with The Point shopping mall.
What is the Verdala Palace and Buskett?
Answer: Verdala Palace is the official summer residence of the President of Malta, surrounded by Buskett Gardens, one of the few wooded areas in Malta.
What’s St. Paul’s Bay like?
Answer: Has the Malta National Aquarium and Cafe del Mar (with an infinity pool, good in summer).
Can I do a wine tasting?
Answer: While not heavily discussed, Malta does have local wineries. Lord Chambray brewery in Gozo is mentioned for craft beer.
Is it worth visiting Malta in winter?
Answer: January is mentioned as having lovely weather. It will be quieter, but some seasonal attractions might be closed.
Are there any good places for sunsets?
Answer: Dingli Cliffs are often recommended for sunset views.
What’s the deal with Maltese “train tracks”?
Answer: Refers to the mysterious “cart ruts” found in various locations, ancient parallel grooves in the rock. A point of historical curiosity.
Is it possible to scuba dive?
Answer: Yes, Malta is well-known for its dive spots.
Are there any good places for a nature walk?
Answer: Fomm ir-Rih in Mgarr and Ghajn Tuffieha are suggested for nature walks.
What about Fort Manoel?
Answer: Can be seen from Hastings Gardens in Valletta. It’s a historic fort.
Things to See & Do (Gozo & Comino)
Is a day trip to Gozo enough?
Answer: A day trip is feasible to hit the highlights, but many suggest spending at least a couple of days there for a more relaxed experience.
What are the must-sees in Gozo?
Answer: Citadella (Victoria), Ggantija temples, Ramla Bay, Ta’ Pinu Church, Salt Pans.
Is Comino’s Blue Lagoon worth the hype?
Answer: It’s extraordinarily beautiful with crystal clear water, but it gets very crowded, especially in summer. Arrive early or later in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Are the Comino caves worth paying extra for?
Answer: Many travelers say no, it’s a 30-second experience and not worth the additional cost.
Can I stay overnight in Gozo?
Answer: Yes, many recommend it for a quieter and more relaxed experience. Victoria is a good base.
What’s the transportation like on Gozo?
Answer: Buses are available but less frequent than Malta. Renting a car or scooter is common for exploring. Taxis are also an option.
Are there good snorkeling spots in Gozo?
Answer: Yes, Gozo is highly rated for snorkeling. Look online for specific recommendations.
What about Xlendi Bay in Gozo?
Answer: A popular bay in Gozo, often included in boat tours.
Is the Azure Window still there?
Answer: No, the natural arch collapsed in 2017. There are other rock formations and coastal views to see.
What’s Mixta Cave in Gozo?
Answer: A cave overlooking Ramla Bay, offering great views.
Is it possible to quad bike on Gozo?
Answer: Yes, quad bike tours are a popular way to explore Gozo.
Food & Drink
What are some traditional Maltese foods to try?
Answer: Pastizzi (ricotta/peas pastries), Qassatat, Maltese platter (bigilla, gbejniet, sundried tomatoes, olives, hobz tal-Malti), Rabbit stew (fenkata), Bragioli (beef olives).
Where do locals eat?
Answer:
Pastizzi: Local pastizzerias (Maxims, Sphinx, Champs pastizzeria for wraps too).
Traditional Maltese: Il-Merill Restaurant (Sliema), Ta’ Kris (Sliema), Diar il-Bniet (Had Dingli), Mgarr (various restaurants), Ta Victor (Marsaxlokk), Tal Familja (Marsaskala), Gululu (St Julian’s).
Fish: Marsaxlokk (many restaurants, Tartarun is excellent but pricey).
Rabbit: Many restaurants, especially in Mgarr or specific “rabbit places” in Salini.
Band Clubs (Kazini): For cheap drinks and “home-made” food.
What are Cisk Beer and Kinnie soft drink?
Answer: Cisk is the local Maltese beer. Kinnie is a bittersweet, fizzy orange drink, a local favorite.
Are there good seafood restaurants?
Answer: Marsaxlokk is the best place for seafood. Tartarun is highly recommended.
Is eating out expensive?
Answer: Can be, especially in tourist areas. Supermarkets are much cheaper for groceries if you want to cook.
Are there options for dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free)?
Answer: Mentioned that gluten-free pastizzi might be hard to find, but generally, restaurants are becoming more accommodating.
Any good coffee shops?
Answer: Not specifically highlighted, but generally available in urban areas.
What’s a good place for a cake/dessert?
Answer: Fontanella in Mdina is famous for its cakes and views.
Where can I find affordable food?
Answer: Pastizzerias for cheap snacks, supermarkets for cooking, and local band clubs.
Are there good fine dining options?
Answer: Yes, despite some opinions, there are fine dining options available. Sciacca Grill is mentioned for excellent meat.
What are some unique Maltese drinks?
Answer: Cisk beer and Kinnie soft drink.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Answer: While generally safe, many prefer bottled water due to the taste.
Practicalities & Tips
What’s the best way to save money on a trip to Malta?
Answer: Cook your own meals (stay in accommodation with a kitchen), use public transport (with a bus pass), minimize hold and large hand luggage to save on plane fees, and consider doing laundry to pack less.
Is it common to have power cuts in summer?
Answer: Yes, some travelers mention power cuts during hot summer months due to strain on infrastructure from AC use.
How is the traffic in Malta?
Answer: Always bad and congested, especially during peak hours and in summer.
Are the roads good for driving?
Answer: Driving can be hectic. Roads can be winding and congested.
What’s the weather like in summer?
Answer: Brutally hot, often above 35-40°C. High humidity can make it feel worse. Advised to stay indoors during midday heat.
Is September a good month to visit?
Answer: Yes, often recommended. Still lovely weather but less crowded as kids are back in school. Some find it more humid than earlier summer months.
What about safety at night?
Answer: Generally safe, but be cautious in Paceville due to potential fights and pickpocketing.
Are there public restrooms available?
Answer: Available in tourist areas, but it’s always good to plan.
What are some common tourist behaviors that bother locals?
Answer: Not explicitly detailed, but generally being respectful of local culture and avoiding excessive noise or littering would apply.
Is it worth staying longer than a week?
Answer: Depends on your interests. For some, a week is enough to see the main highlights, others find plenty to do for longer stays.
What are some local superstitions or beliefs?
Answer: Not widely discussed for tourists, but Maltese culture has deep roots in Catholicism and folklore.
Are there any specific apps I should download for my trip?
Answer: Bolt (for taxis), Tallinja (for public transport, though live tracking can be unreliable).
What’s the best way to get a local experience?
Answer: Visit local Kazini (Band Clubs), explore less-touristy towns, try local pastizzi.
Is it true that Malta has unpredictable weather?
Answer: While generally sunny, some travelers mention occasional rain even in August, and heat can be severe.
Are there many stray animals?
Answer: Not a major topic of discussion, but like many Mediterranean countries, there might be stray cats.
What’s the voltage and plug type in Malta?
Answer: Type G (UK style) plug, 230V. Bring an adapter if needed.
Is it easy to find pharmacies?
Answer: Yes, pharmacies are widely available.
Are there any local markets to visit?
Answer: Marsaxlokk has a popular fish market on Sundays.
What’s the best way to handle late arrivals at the airport if going to Gozo?
Answer: The last direct bus from the airport to the Gozo ferry port typically leaves around 22:50. Later connections might require a change. Consider staying overnight in Malta if arriving very late.
Is it possible to visit both Sicily and Malta on one trip?
Answer: Yes, there are ferries connecting Malta to Sicily, making it a feasible combination for a longer trip.