10 Days in Malta

What You Should Know Before Going On A Malta Tour

Is Malta Expensive?

Malta is pretty average across Western European cities. If you’re comparing it to the likes of London, Paris, and Geneva, it’s more affordable than the major cities. The costs seem pretty similar to Spain and Italy, but compared to Eastern Europe, it’s fairly expensive.

Summer months are going to be more expensive than off-season or even winter months, so it may be worth it to consider going in the cooler months to get a better deal. While it may be a bit too chilly to swim in the water, winter averages are often in the upper 50s to low 60s.

What Language do they Speak in Malta?

There are two official languages in Malta: Maltese and English. Both are spoken fairly fluently across the country. Among other Maltese people, you’re likely to hear them talking in Maltese. For tourists, English is well known and often spoken.

Common phrases in Malta

Locals always appreciate it when visitors make an attempt to speak their local language! Of course, they don’t expect you to be fluent, but a little effort goes a long way.

Here are some of the common Maltese phrases:

Hello: à Hello (Pronounced hello)

Welcome: à Merhba (Pronounced Mer-heba)

Good Morning: à Bongu (Pronounced Bon-ju)

How are you?: à Kif Int? (Pronounced Kiff int)

What is your name?: à  X’jismek? (Pronounced Shee-yis-mek)

My name is: à Jisimni (Pronounced Yis-im-nee)

Please: à Jekk joghgbok (Pronounced Yek yoh-jbok)

Thank you: à Grazzi (Pronounced Grats-ee)

Do you speak English?: à Titkellem bl-Ingliz (Pronounced Tit-kell-em blin-gleez)

I don’t understand: à  Ma nifhimx (Pronounced Maa ni-fimsh)

What is the weather like in Malta?

Overall, the weather in Malta is pretty ideal year-round. Winter averages in the low 60s, with spring and fall averaging 70 degrees. Summer is pretty hot, but you’re on an island! Cool down from the summer highs of around 90 degrees by taking a dip in the Mediterranean.

Summer boasts hot sunny days. Winter brings lots of rainy days. Late Spring and Early fall bring enough sunny days and warm enough sea temperature for comfortable swimming.

Best time to go to Malta

The best time to go to Malta is easily the summer. There are many outdoor activities, great beach time, and plenty of water activities. The water is warm, everything is open (some activities shut down in the winter due to weather and lack of visitors). This brings a lot of visitors. If you’re trying to still soak in the great weather but don’t want to deal with as many people, consider a trip in May or October.

Things are opening up for peak season (or getting ready to shut down in the fall), weather is still sunny and pleasant, and you get better prices than summer. If you aren’t requiring water activity, April and early November are still ideal times to go. Winter is the off-season, and reasonably so. Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall results in a drop of visitors. Winds are high.

Christmas is an exciting time to visit, as is February for the annual carnival. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, Malta is still worth a visit in the winter. If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday, the best time to visit Malta is going to be in the fall.

What to Pack for Malta

-Sun protection. The sun is hot and Malta has over 300 days of sunshine. Be prepared by bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a good sun hat to keep your body covered and protected.

-Closed toe shoes. Especially if you want to go out and walk in the countryside, you’ll be met with limestone and shrubs. Not ideal for flip flops or other open-toed shoes.

-Flip flops – on another note, bring a pair of open-toe shoes. You’re on an island. Flip off the flops and enjoy some beach time. If you’re not on the sand, at least you’re prepared for warmer weather, where you want your feet to feel free.

-Cover ups - Some Malta sites require that shoulders and knees are covered, so make sure you bring a shirt or scarf that covers your shoulders, and a skirt, dress, or pants that cover your knees. If you’re dressed inappropriately, you may be refused entry.

-Layers - Malta can be sunny and warm, but chilly when the sun drops. Since you’re near the water, you can feel the breeze, making it feel colder than it actually is. A light jacket is smart to bring if you’re taking a ferry or boat ride.