About Malta

Apart from the crystal blue waters and year-round weather, which are two of the primary reasons why Malta is a popular holiday destination, the Islands contain a number of additional attractions that would entice someone to visit or even live here.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or leisure, tranquility or excitement, one can find it in Malta. Malta offers a diverse range of entertainment options for fans of Mediterranean food, nightlife, sports, music, theatre, the arts; and many more.

Furthermore, although Malta has its own national language, English is regarded as the country’s second language. In fact, the majority of the local Maltese citizens are competent in English and Italian which makes it a great reason why to visit the islands. Learn more about what the islands offer before travelling to Malta. 

Gastronomy

Food is an important element of most tourists’ experiences, and Malta does not fail in this regard. The cuisine of the country reflects the different cultures that have populated the islands over time. The end result is a style that is a mix of Mediterranean and eclectic. Fish pie and beef olives are popular dishes in traditional Maltese cuisine. The Marsaxlokk fish market, which is a lively showcase of exactly how varied the fish harvest can be in Maltese seas on Sunday mornings, is a must-see when here.

Malta Beaches

Despite its rich history, being an island in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is surrounded by numerous sand and rocky beaches all having beautiful oceans. 

There are several sandy beaches, particularly in the northern portion of the island, with Mellieha Bay, Golden Sands, and Armier being the most well-known. Pretty Bay in Birzebbugia is the best sandy beach in the south. Ramla Bay in Gozo is notable for its stunning red sand. Most other beach locations allow for rock bathing.

Because there are no tides, bathing is safe everywhere on the island. In the summer, sea temperatures average 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Bars, restaurants, changing rooms, showers, and umbrellas are all available at any beach during the busy season, which runs from March to October. Speed boats, dinghies, row boats, water skis, surfboards, and other watercraft can be rented on several beaches.

Festivals

Another great reason why to visit Malta is due to the abundance of festivals and cultural events held throughout the year. Feasts in Malta celebrate the traditions of the local Maltese citizens and they bring the Mediterranean roots of the locals. 

Religious feasts honouring a various patron saints are important feasts which are celebrated in all Maltese villages around the islands. 

Feasts like Santa Marija which take place in mid-August are national holidays. 

While cultural events such as the Malta Jazz Festival, Malta International Arts Festivals, Notte Bianca; and many more have established themselves as traditions. 

Some general information about Malta involves: 

Currency

Malta joined the EU on May 1, 2004, and adopted the Euro currency on January 1, 2008. The unit of currency is the Euro (€), which is split into 100 cents.

Banks

Banks in Malta are usually open Monday to Friday’s from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., and up to 11.30 a.m. on Saturdays. 

Foreign exchange services are offered at the airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and at most banks until 4 p.m. ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) may be found in most business and tourist sites.

Water

Tap water is perfectly safe for drinking, however bottled water is preferred due to the desalinization process that tap water goes through.

Religion

Malta is predominantly Roman Catholic, but the Maltese Constitution guarantees freedom of worship. There are also churches belonging to various other religious denominations.