Information about Malta

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Malta

The state of Malta sits on a small group of islands in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, just a short distance south of Sicily. This archipelago actually consists of five different islands, though you will only find people living on three of them. The main island, also called Malta, is the largest piece of land in the group, which altogether covers about three hundred sixteen square kilometers. These islands are mostly made of solid rock and do not have any natural lakes or rivers to provide fresh water for the residents.

Geologically speaking, these islands are quite interesting because they are not actually part of the European continent. Instead, they are a piece of the African tectonic plate that is slowly pushing its way toward Europe. Scientists believe that in millions of years, the Mediterranean will vanish, and these islands will become the peaks of a massive mountain range similar to the Alps. For now, they remain a sunny gateway between two worlds with a very unique foundation.

People have been living on these rocky shores since the very beginning of human history. Explorers often find ancient stone structures and the ruins of temples that date all the way back to the fourth millennium before the common era. Based on the amount of ancient sites still standing today, it is clear that the islands were once very crowded. Eventually, the Roman Empire took control of the area after they finished destroying Carthage in North Africa.

Many people believe the name Malta comes from the Roman period and is linked to the name of a goddess or the word for honey. Around the start of the first century, the islands became a significant place for early Christians. This shift happened after the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked on the coast, an event that shaped the local culture for thousands of years. Even though historians debate the details of his visit, you can still find over three hundred churches scattered across this small territory today.

The local language has a very distinct sound because it contains a large number of Arabic words. This is a lasting reminder of the time when Arabs conquered the islands back in the ninth century. Later on, the land returned to Christian control and was eventually given to the Knights of St. John by the Holy Roman Emperor. These knights were famous for building the city of Valletta, which serves as the capital today, and for defending the islands against major invasions.

The Order of the Knights spent centuries building military fortifications, schools, and hospitals all across the archipelago. However, by the end of the eighteenth century, the islands lost their independence when Napoleon’s troops arrived and took over. The French occupation did not last long, as the British soon drove them out and stayed in power until the middle of the twentieth century. British military presence remained a part of local life until the late seventies.

In nineteen sixty-four, the people finally regained their independence and established the republic we see today. Malta is now a member of the European Union and uses the euro as its primary currency. While everyone speaks Maltese and English, it is not uncommon to hear people chatting in Italian or French. It is a place where many different layers of history have stacked on top of each other to create a very modern society.

Regions and resorts Malta

Nature Malta

The natural world in Malta shares many features with other Mediterranean countries, but it also has its own unique character. Because the islands are located right between the eastern and western parts of the sea, they host a mix of plants and animals from both regions. Some of the species found here are truly special because they do not live anywhere else on the planet. This isolation has allowed nature to take a very specific path over thousands of years.

There are about twenty-one types of plants that are completely native to the Maltese archipelago and cannot be found in the wild anywhere else. One of the most impressive sights is the holm oak, which has managed to survive in its natural state for centuries. Some of these trees are estimated to be around eight hundred years old, standing as silent witnesses to history. A large portion of the greenery you see today was actually planted by people to help restore the landscape.

Malta escaped the heavy ice cover of the last glacial period, which means many of the plants here give us a glimpse of what life looked like before the ice age. Many of these ancient varieties are still used for their medicinal properties by locals who know the land well. Despite the rocky terrain, the flora is surprisingly diverse if you look closely at the hillsides. It is a delicate ecosystem that relies on the specific balance of the island weather.

The animal kingdom also has its own set of unique residents that call these islands home. For example, a tiny uninhabited island called Filfla serves as a sanctuary for a large colony of European storm petrels. These birds are quite rare across the Mediterranean and prefer the isolation of the rocky cliffs. They look a bit like large pigeons and have a habit of nesting in burrows to keep their young safe from the elements.

These birds are perfectly suited for the local environment and do not need to fly south for the winter like their cousins in colder climates. The warm waters surrounding the islands provide them with plenty of small fish to eat throughout the year. Watching them dive and swoop over the waves is a common sight for anyone spending time near the coast. It is one of the few places where you can see such a concentrated population of this specific species.

The archipelago also sits right in the middle of a major highway for birds that migrate between Europe and Africa. Every year, millions of birds stop here to rest before continuing their long journey across the sea. You can also find many local species that stay year-round, including various types of warblers and colorful bee-eaters. The islands are also famous for having a huge population of lizards, including one type that is found only in this part of the world.

Life under the water is just as busy and diverse as the life on the land. The coastal waters are home to tuna, mackerel, and various types of sardines that have supported local fishermen for generations. It is one of the last places in the Mediterranean where you can still find sea bass and certain rare species of grouper. Divers often explore the reefs to find moray eels and barracudas hiding in the shadows of the rocks.

If you are lucky, you might even spot a dolphin playing in the wake of a boat or a rare monk seal resting on a quiet beach. The insect world is surprisingly vibrant as well, with over six hundred different kinds of butterflies flitting through the fields. There are also hundreds of species of bees and ants that keep the ecosystem moving. Interestingly, there is only one single species of frog that lives on the islands, making it a bit of an outlier.

Climate Malta

The ancient people who first decided to settle on these islands chose a place with a very forgiving climate. The weather here is mild enough that you do not really need a heavy heating system during the winter months. In the summer, the surrounding sea helps to keep the air from getting quite as unbearably hot as it does in nearby Africa. The transition between the seasons is very subtle, making the year feel like one long, shifting period of warmth.

Even though the winters are technically mild, visitors from colder countries often find themselves surprised by how chilly it feels inside a Maltese home. Back home, central heating keeps indoor temperatures very steady, but here the damp air can make a room feel quite cold. Without a dedicated heater, you really feel the drop in temperature during the night. It is a different kind of cold that seems to soak into the thick stone walls of the buildings.

There are really only two months out of the entire year when the temperature feels absolutely perfect for everyone. April and October offer a gentle warmth that is neither too hot nor too cold, making them the best times to explore. Once May arrives, the islands begin to feel the influence of the hot air blowing across from the African continent. This marks the beginning of a long stretch of intense heat that defines the entire summer season.

Local residents are not always fans of the summer months because the constant heat and humidity can be quite draining. While tourists flock to the water, the people who live and work here often stay indoors to escape the sun. You will not actually see many locals spending their days at the beach when the sun is at its peak. They have to keep up with their daily routines and jobs despite the heavy, stagnant air of July and August.

Autumn brings its own set of challenges, as this is the time when the islands can experience heavy storms and sudden flooding. These weather events are often quite dramatic, with powerful winds and rain that can wash across the narrow streets. By the time January and February arrive, the air turns crisp and the humidity makes the outdoors feel much colder than the thermometer suggests. Snow is almost unheard of, appearing perhaps only once in a whole generation.

Maltese people generally enjoy the winter because it offers a break from the scorching sun, even if they have to deal with the damp air. Most families rely on electric heaters to stay warm, though they are very careful about how much energy they use. Because of the way the cold affects the body in such a humid environment, many people struggle with minor illnesses. It is actually quite common for long-term residents to develop issues like arthritis over time due to the damp conditions.

This climate creates a unique rhythm of life where everything slows down when the sun is high and speeds up in the cooler evenings. People have adapted their architecture and their habits to deal with the lack of modern climate control in older buildings. Despite the occasional storm or summer heatwave, the consistency of the weather is one of the things that keeps people coming back. It is a place where you can truly live in harmony with the Mediterranean cycle.

Transport in Malta

Getting around this small island nation is surprisingly straightforward because of its compact size. You can reach almost any corner of the country by simply hopping on a public bus. These buses are very easy to spot because they are painted in the traditional national colors of white and yellow with a bright orange stripe. The main bus terminal is located right in the capital city of Valletta, sitting just outside the entrance to the historic old town.

A single transport company manages the entire fleet, ensuring that the service is consistent across the island. The buses start running early in the morning and continue until late at night, usually wrapping up around eleven o'clock. If you are out on the weekend, you can even find special night buses that run through the early morning hours starting on Friday. With buses arriving every ten or fifteen minutes, you never have to wait very long for a ride.

Travelers have a few different options when it comes to paying for their fare, including single tickets or longer-term passes. A standard ticket for an adult covers a two-hour window of travel and costs about two euros and twenty cents. For those staying longer, there are passes available for thirty or even ninety days that make getting around much cheaper. It is a very efficient system that allows you to see the sights without needing your own vehicle.

The second largest island, known as Gozo, operates in much the same way as the main island. All the small villages and towns are connected to the main hub of Victoria by a reliable network of buses. These buses depart from the central terminal in the city and are easy to distinguish because they are colored grey with a red stripe. You can buy your ticket at a terminal machine or directly from the driver when you step on board.

To travel between the different inhabited islands, most people rely on the regular ferry services that run back and forth. There are frequent trips connecting the main island to both Gozo and the tiny island of Comino. Another popular ferry route runs between the capital of Valletta and the nearby town of Sliema, providing a scenic way to cross the water. Most of these boat trips take only about thirty minutes from start to finish.

These ferries are designed to carry both foot passengers and personal vehicles, making it easy to take a car to the other islands. The price for an adult passenger changes slightly depending on the season, but it generally stays under five euros. If you want to bring a car along, the price will be higher, usually ranging between eight and fifteen euros. The short trip from Valletta to Sliema is a favorite for visitors because it is incredibly cheap and offers a great view.

If you are in a hurry or prefer a more private way to travel, there are plenty of taxis available, though they can be quite expensive. A trip from the airport to various parts of the island can cost anywhere from ten to thirty-five euros depending on the distance. There are five main taxi companies operating across the country that you can call or find at designated stands. While convenient, the costs can add up quickly if you use them for every single trip.

Many visitors find that renting a car is the best way to explore the hidden corners of the islands at their own pace. To do this, you just need a valid driver license from your home country or an international permit. Most rental companies require the driver to be at least twenty-five years old, and younger drivers might find it difficult to get a vehicle. Interestingly, the cost of renting a car here is often lower than what you would find in mainland European countries.

Money and shopping in Malta

Since the Republic of Malta is a member of the European Union, the official currency used everywhere is the euro. While the paper bills look the same as they do in France or Germany, the coins have a local touch with the Maltese cross stamped on them. These coins are often kept as small mementos by travelers who like to collect unique currency from different countries. It is a small detail that makes the money feel like a part of the local heritage.

The cost of living here is quite similar to what you would find in major cities across mainland Europe. When you are planning your trip, it is a good idea to budget somewhere between fifty and one hundred euros for your daily expenses. This should cover your meals, travel, and entry into various attractions without feeling too restricted. Of course, you can spend much more if you opt for high-end dining and private tours every day.

To give you an idea of specific costs, a full-day bus pass will set you back about two euros and sixty cents. A round-trip ferry ride between the two main islands costs less than five euros, which is quite a bargain for the experience. If you want to see all the major historical sites, you can buy a combined museum pass for thirty euros. Eating out can vary, with a nice dinner and wine costing fifty euros, while a quick lunch at a cafe might only be ten.

Major credit cards and digital payment methods are accepted in almost all restaurants, hotels, and larger shops. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you for smaller transactions. Many of the tiny family-owned shops and the public buses only accept physical coins and bills. You will not have any trouble finding a place to exchange your money, as the airport and main city streets are full of banks and exchange offices.

Tipping is a common practice in Malta, and most people leave about five to ten percent of the total bill if the service was good. If you were not happy with the experience, there is no obligation to leave anything extra. The islands also have a tax-free shopping system, but it involves a few specific rules and a bit of paperwork. You have to spend a certain amount at a single store and a larger total across the country to qualify for a refund.

If you happen to visit right after the Christmas season, you can take advantage of massive winter sales with discounts up to seventy percent. This is a great time to buy clothing because most of the items are manufactured in Europe rather than being imported from far away. The quality of the garments is generally very high, and you can find many luxury brands in the shopping centers. Most of the high-end fashion boutiques are located in the coastal resort area of Sliema.

For those looking for a more traditional souvenir, the islands are famous for products made from local goat wool. You can find handmade sweaters, scarves, and socks that are incredibly warm and much more durable than standard wool. A high-quality sweater might cost around fifty euros, but it is a piece of clothing that will last for many years. Local artisans are also well-known for their intricate silver jewelry and delicate filigree work.

The local women have a long tradition of creating beautiful lace from linen thread, which is a favorite among tourists. You can also find impressive glassware made by local masters, ranging from simple kitchen items to complex animal figurines. If you prefer to bring home something edible, look for local honey, goat cheese, or cactus liqueur. Sun-dried tomatoes and sea salt harvested from the local coast are also great ways to take a taste of the islands home with you.

Main attractions Malta

Malta is a place where history feels alive at every corner, and it is no surprise that Hollywood directors love it so much. When you walk through its ancient streets, you might recognize scenes from famous movies like Gladiator, Troy, or The Da Vinci Code. Even the Count of Monte Cristo and several popular TV series were filmed against this stunning backdrop. If you are planning a trip, keep in mind that Sundays are very quiet here because museums and most local shops take a day off, so plan your sightseeing for the rest of the week.

A great way to start your journey is by exploring the capital, Valletta, which is small enough to see in about half a day. You can begin at the impressive Triton Fountain, which stands right next to the massive city walls that have protected the capital for centuries. From there, take a slow walk down Republic Street, the heart of the city’s pedestrian life. On your way, you will see an open-air theater that was cleverly built from the ruins of an opera house destroyed during the last great war.

The real crown jewel of Valletta is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, located right on the same main street. It was built back in the 16th century and looks quite simple from the outside, but the interior is a complete masterpiece of gold and art. It serves as both a place of worship and a museum housing world-class treasures, and it is open every day except Sunday. Not far from there is St. George’s Square, where you can find the President’s Palace and the Parliament building, surrounded by dancing fountains.

If you want a glimpse into how the Maltese nobility lived, stop by Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century palace that still feels like a home. They offer tours in English, and while the entrance is technically free, it is common practice to leave a small donation to help with the upkeep of the historic building. For some of the best views in the country, head over to the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens. From these green spaces, you can look out over the Grand Harbour and the busy port, and if you are there at noon or five in the afternoon, you will hear the traditional cannon fire from the battery nearby.

Beyond the capital, you really should take the ferry over to the island of Gozo for a day or two. Dwejra Bay is one of the most stunning spots there, perfect for boat rides or diving in crystal-clear water. You should also visit the Citadel in Victoria, which offers a panoramic view of the entire island and costs nothing to enter. For history buffs, the Ggantija temples are a must-see because they are actually older than the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge.

The silent city of Mdina is another highlight, serving as the old capital with its narrow, winding alleys and the beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral. Right next door in Rabat, you can explore mysterious underground catacombs or visit the Aviation Museum if you enjoy vintage planes. For something a bit more lighthearted, Popeye Village is a fun stop in a picturesque bay. It was originally built as a film set for a musical but is now a full-blown theme park with a beach, actors, and boat trips that will keep you entertained for hours.

Tourism in Malta

Malta is a place that people visit all year round, drawing in travelers from Europe and every other corner of the globe. There are plenty of reasons why this tiny Mediterranean island is such a magnet for tourism. One of the biggest draws is the genuine hospitality of the Maltese people, who are incredibly welcoming to everyone. Since almost everyone on the island speaks English fluently, you will never have a hard time asking for directions or striking up a conversation with a local.

The weather is another huge plus for anyone looking to escape the cold or gray skies. Summer here is long and sunny, stretching from May all the way through September, which is perfect for beach lovers. Even in the winter, the temperature rarely drops below fifteen degrees during the day. While it can get a bit windy or rainy during the colder months, it still feels much milder than most of Europe, making it a great destination for a winter break.

If you enjoy spending time by the water, you will find that the beaches here are exceptionally clean and well-maintained. Many of them hold the Blue Flag status, which is an international mark of high environmental and quality standards. The sea around the islands is often cited as some of the clearest in the entire Mediterranean. This makes Malta a paradise for water sports, whether you want to go scuba diving, windsurfing, or just take a leisurely trip on a sailboat.

For those who prefer to stay active on land, the islands offer beautiful natural reserves that are perfect for hiking or mountain biking. Renting a bike is a fantastic way to discover hidden landscapes and coastal paths that you might miss if you were traveling by car. Getting to Malta is also quite easy, with direct flights available from many major cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. If you want to see more of the region, you can even hop on a ferry for a quick trip to Italy.

The cultural calendar in Malta is always packed with events, so there is never a dull moment. Throughout the year, you can find jazz and rock festivals, classical music concerts, and even a massive beer festival. If you visit in October, you can catch the exciting Grand Prix auto races or watch the colorful sailing regattas. For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, the island comes alive in the summer with world-class DJs performing at various clubs and outdoor venues.

History lovers will find Malta to be a giant open-air museum with secrets waiting to be uncovered. You can stand in front of stone structures that were built two thousand years before the pyramids was even a thought in Egypt. Learning about the Knights of St. John, who founded the capital, adds a layer of chivalry and intrigue to your visit. From ancient fortresses to grand cathedrals, the sheer amount of history packed into such a small space is truly mind-blowing and makes every walk an adventure.

Accommodation in Malta

Finding a place to stay in Malta is an interesting experience because the country sits right in the middle of the price spectrum. It is definitely not the cheapest destination in the Mediterranean, but it is also far from being the most expensive. Most of the accommodation options are aimed at people with a mid-range budget, offering good value for the money. If you are looking to save a little bit more, you might find that staying on the neighboring island of Gozo is slightly more affordable.

The islands offer a huge variety of choices when it comes to where you put your bags down for the night. You can pick anything from a high-end five-star hotel to a cozy private apartment or even a traditional villa. These options are scattered across every town and village, so you can choose to stay right in the heart of the action or in a quiet rural area. Interestingly, you might notice that a double room often costs less per person than a single room, and families traveling with children can usually find great discounts regardless of the season.

There are a few things to keep in mind when budgeting for your stay to avoid any surprises. Many hotels will charge a bit extra if you want a room with a nice view of the sea or the harbor. You will also see different price points depending on whether you want breakfast included, a half-board plan, or a full all-inclusive experience. In apartment-style hotels, you usually pay for the entire room rather than per person, but some places might ask for an extra fee to use the air conditioning.

If you are traveling with a larger group or just want more privacy, renting a villa is a fantastic option. These are typically standalone houses that come with their own gardens, outdoor seating areas, and barbecue setups. Villas are usually rented out by the week, and you can expect to pay around a thousand euros or more depending on the luxury level. If you decide to stay for a much longer period, like six months or more, the monthly rate usually drops significantly compared to a short holiday rental.

Renting a standard apartment is also very popular, but it comes with its own set of rules. Most landlords will ask for a deposit upfront and expect you to pay for your water and electricity based on what the meters show at the end of your stay. If you go through a rental agency for a long-term lease, they might even ask for proof of income to ensure you can cover the costs. For a short stay of just a few days, the price of an apartment will usually be quite similar to what you would pay for a budget hotel room.

The time of year you choose to visit will have the biggest impact on your housing costs. During the peak summer months, prices for everything go up because demand is so high across the islands. If you are looking for a bargain, consider visiting during the winter or the shoulder seasons like spring and autumn. During these quieter months, you can often find high-quality accommodation for a fraction of the summer price, allowing you to enjoy the island’s beauty without the crowds or the high costs.

Kitchen and dishes Malta

Maltese food is a wonderful reflection of the island's history, blending Mediterranean traditions with influences from Spain and the Arab world. One of the first things you will notice is the heavy use of fresh ingredients like olives, capers, and a wide variety of seafood. While many countries rely on beef or chicken, the locals here have a real passion for rabbit meat, which is considered a staple of the national diet. Every meal is usually enhanced with aromatic herbs like marjoram and plenty of garlic to bring out the flavors.

Vegetables play a huge role in the local kitchen, and you will often see them served boiled, baked, or stewed as a side dish. The islands also produce their own unique cheeses, which are frequently used in salads and appetizers. If you have a sweet tooth, you are in for a treat because the local bakeries are full of pastries and desserts that often follow traditional Arabic recipes. Walking past a bakery in the morning when the fresh bread is coming out of the oven is an experience in itself.

A very popular snack or light meal is a traditional sandwich made from thick, crusty bread baked in a wood-fired oven. The bread is soaked in olive oil, rubbed with ripe tomatoes, and topped with a mix of tuna, chopped olives, and capers. It is simple, fresh, and incredibly filling. You will also find many salads based on beans and legumes, usually dressed with a simple but delicious combination of olive oil, garlic, and either wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice.

Soups are a big deal in Malta, and they are usually quite thick and hearty. Whether they are made with vegetables, fish, or meat, they are almost always packed with ingredients to make them a full meal. It is very common to find pasta, rice, or various beans added to the pot to give the soup more substance. These are the kinds of dishes that feel like a warm hug, especially during the cooler months of the year when the sea breeze picks up.

The way the Maltese prepare meat is also quite unique, as they are not afraid to use traditional offal and less common cuts. You might come across dishes made from snails, horse meat, or even beef and sheep brains, which are prepared with great care and local spices. However, the most famous meat dish is definitely rabbit. It is often slow-cooked with wine and garlic until the meat falls off the bone, or even used as a rich filling for savory pies.

Pasta is another huge part of the local diet, and some would argue that the Maltese love it even more than their Italian neighbors. They have their own way of doing things, often mixing pasta with eggs, vegetables, and savory sauces made from tomatoes, bacon, and peas. You will also find it served with creamy ricotta cheese or a smooth pea puree. Seafood lovers will be happy here too, with fresh catches like swordfish, tuna, octopus, and calamari appearing on menus everywhere, usually served simply with potatoes or grilled vegetables.

Culture and traditions Malta

The people of Malta are known for being incredibly friendly and helpful, but they also have that passionate Mediterranean spirit. You might see them getting quite animated when they are debating a point or sharing an opinion, which is just part of their lively nature. One very interesting thing about the local culture is that people generally respect each other’s privacy. They are not the type to sit around gossiping about the personal lives of their friends or neighbors, which creates a very relaxed social atmosphere.

When you are visiting the islands, there are a few local customs and rules that are good to know. For instance, smoking in public indoor spaces is strictly prohibited, and you won’t find anyone sunbathing topless on the beaches as it is not allowed. If a local invites you over for a cup of tea or a meal, try your best to accept, as turning down an invitation can sometimes be seen as a bit offensive. Also, remember that Malta is a place where people value their rest, so if you are staying in a residential area, it is polite to keep the noise down after ten o’clock at night.

If you want to take photos inside the beautiful churches and cathedrals, always make sure to ask for permission first, as some places are quite strict about it. Maltese people also have their own unique body language that might be confusing at first. For example, if someone tilts their head back and touches their chin while turning their palm outward, they are actually saying no. When it comes to clothing, it is best to stick to a classic style when you are walking around towns or villages, as wearing beachwear away from the water is generally frowned upon.

One of the most exciting parts of Maltese life is the village festa. Every single town and village has its own patron saint, and from May to September, the islands are alive with celebrations. These festivals involve colorful street parades, brass bands playing loud music, and massive communal feasts where everyone is welcome. The biggest of these celebrations is the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, which brings the whole country together in a spectacular display of tradition and joy.

You cannot talk about Malta without mentioning the Knights of St. John, who shaped the island's identity for centuries. The Order still exists today, though they are now based in Rome and focus on humanitarian work in some of the world’s most struggling regions. Their legacy is visible everywhere, from the architecture of the capital to the iconic eight-pointed cross that has become a symbol of the nation. Religion still plays a massive role in daily life, and the vast majority of the population is Catholic.

Religious traditions like baptisms, first communions, and regular church attendance are deeply woven into the fabric of society. However, the country is also home to a small and respected Muslim community, showing the island's role as a bridge between cultures. Education is also highly valued here. While many young people choose to study in other parts of Europe to gain international experience, the University of Malta remains a respected institution that draws students from all over the islands.