Malta Travel Guide: Highlights, Itinerary & Travel Tips
Merħba! In this Malta travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to explore this sun-drenched archipelago — from the Baroque fortifications of Valletta and the narrow, silent alleys of Mdina to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon in Comino.
Malta in 2026 is a destination of year-round celebration. Spring kicks off with one of Europe’s largest St. Patrick’s Day gatherings on March 17, 2026, where the streets of St. Julian’s and Spinola Bay become a massive pedestrian festival. This is followed by the spectacular Malta International Fireworks Festival in late April, which lights up the iconic Grand Harbour. Foodies should time their visit for the Festa Frawli (Strawberry Festival) on April 12, 2026, in the village of Mġarr.
I've been to Malta twice already and in my mind Malta is one of the best destinations in Europe. You have beautiful beaches, affordable prices, a nice culture and a lot to experience!
Best Time to Visit Malta (2026)
Malta enjoys 300 days of sunshine, but 2026 has some specific peak moments you won't want to miss.
- Spring (March–May): The "Sweet Spot." Experience St. Patrick's Day (March 17) and Easter (April 5), followed by the Fireworks Festival. The islands are green, and the temperature is a perfect 20°C–24°C.
- Summer (June–August): The time for sea and sound. July features Isle of MTV Malta (July 15), Europe's largest free music festival, while August is the peak for Village Festas and boat parties.
- Autumn (September–October): Ideal for history buffs. Notte Bianca (October 3) sees Valletta’s museums and palaces stay open all night for free. The sea is still warm enough for swimming.
- Winter (January–February): Quiet and cultural. The Valletta Baroque Festival (January 9–25) and the colorful Malta Carnival (February 13–17) provide plenty of indoor and street-side entertainment.
Entry Requirements for Malta (2026)
For international travelers in 2026:
- ETIAS Authorization: Starting in late 2026, travelers from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia must apply for ETIAS online. It costs €7 and is digitally linked to your passport for 3 years.
- Schengen Zone: Malta allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure. Note that passports older than 10 years are not accepted for ETIAS applications.
- Biometric Entry: The EES (Entry/Exit System) is now active at Malta International Airport (MLA), involving a quick digital scan of your face and fingerprints.
Getting Around the Islands
- Public Buses (Tallinja): The only public transport on the islands. In 2026, Single Day fares are €2.00 (Winter) or €2.50 (Summer). Tap your contactless card on the bus for the easiest experience.
- Gozo Fast Ferry: A high-speed catamaran that links Valletta’s Lascaris Wharf to Gozo in just 45 minutes. It’s the most scenic way to visit the sister island.
- Ferries (Sliema/3 Cities): Instead of the bus, take the small ferries across the harbors for €1.50—the views of the Valletta skyline are unmatched.
- Walking: Valletta and Mdina are entirely pedestrian-friendly. Wear sturdy shoes, as the 16th-century limestone paving can be slippery!
- Uber: Uber prices are quite affordable and you can get easily to other places.
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| Sliema |
2026 Bucket List: Malta Highlights
St. Peter's Pool
St. Peter’s Pool, a natural horseshoe-shaped swimming hole carved into the limestone of Delimara Point, is the ultimate spot for turquoise-water dips and adventurous cliff jumping into the deep Mediterranean below.
It's in the south of Malta and you can get there by Uber.
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| St. Peter's Pool |
Sliema
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| Sliema |
Explore Valletta
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| Valletta |
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| Valletta |
The Silent City (Mdina)
Malta's medieval capital. Visit at night in 2026 for a truly atmospheric experience when the lanterns illuminate the narrow alleys. Grab a slice of cake at Fontanella for the best views over the island.
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| Mdina |
The Blue Lagoon (Comino)
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| Boat Tour to the Blue Lagoon |
The most famous swimming spot in the Mediterranean. Pro Tip for 2026: Take the earliest boat possible (8:30 AM) to enjoy the crystal water before the tour boats arrive at 11:00 AM. There are a lot of tour companies offering the trips.
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| The Blue Lagoon |
The Three Cities
Explore Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These maritime towns offer a more authentic, less crowded glimpse into Malta's history. Visit Fort St. Angelo to see where the Great Siege was won.
Typical Costs in Malta (2026)
Malta uses the Euro (€). It is generally more affordable than Italy or France:
- Hostel/Boutique Guesthouse: €30 – €80 / Luxury Hotel: €180 – €350
- Pastizzi (Traditional Pastry): €0.50 – €0.70
- Main Course at a Local Bistro: €15 – €22
- Bottle of Cisk Beer: €3.00 – €5.00
- Tallinja Explore Flex Card: €21.00
Final Thoughts on Malta
Malta in 2026 is an island that proves good things come in small packages. Within a 20-minute drive, you can move from a futuristic film set to a temple that predates the Pyramids. While the 2026 summer heat and festival crowds are intense, the island’s unique blend of British, Italian, and Arabic influences creates a culture found nowhere else on earth. Pack your swimsuit, a high-SPF sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses for that famous Maltese glare.
Grazzi—enjoy the Maltese Islands!
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