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Planning a holiday but wondering when’s the best time to visit Malta?
You’ve come to the right place!
In this guide, I’ll offer some local tips and advice on deciding what time of the year works best for you.
For most, the best time to visit Malta is in spring and early summer (April/May/June). At that time of year the weather is already quite warm and sunny with average daytime temperatures of around 20-25 °C (68-77 °F). October can also be a good option, with late summer weather still being warm but without the worst of summer heat.
If sun and sea are a priority, July, August and September are considered to be the peak summer months in Malta.
Ultimately, your travel plans might help you decide which is the best time of year to visit. Here are a few pointers to kick off this guide:
Strategically located in the Mediterranean, the island of Malta enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine every year. In short, no matter when you plan on visiting Malta, it’s very likely that the weather on the island will be pleasant.
Of course, you can expect lower temperatures, rain, and heavy flooding during the wintry months. The highest precipitation is generally recorded between the months of late November and February, but overall, Malta is lucky to have mild winters (with rainy or windy days) when compared to other countries across Europe.
As I’ve already highlighted in other sections of this guide, choosing the best time to go to Malta boils down to what kind of traveller you are and what you’d like to do during your trip. Although it’s possible to visit during any time of the year because you’ll most likely have good weather, a couple of differences come with the change of the seasons.
With this in mind, I’ll be pinpointing a couple of differences during specific months and what you should expect if you visit during those particular periods.
Interested in a more in-depth review of the weather to decide when is the best time to visit Malta? Check out the guides below!
If you’d like to get a taste of sightseeing, enjoy the first dip of the summer and ultimately beat the crowds, the best time to visit would be in April, May and June. Here are a couple of reasons why these months are favoured by both tourists and locals alike
Spring is the time of year when the flowers are in full bloom and when some of the best annual events are organised: Medieval Mdina (reenactments in one of the top tourist attractions), the International Fireworks Festival in Valletta, Isle of MTV, Earth Garden, etc. In April/May, local village feasts (festi) – an essential part of Maltese culture – also start becoming more frequent.
For the most part, you usually get the best weather of the year during this period. Expect lots of sunny days and warm temperatures, and May is usually the month when swimmers start heading to the beaches.
What’s more, you beat the tourist high season (July – September), which means Malta is far less busy, you can get better deals on flights, hotels and rental cars, and you also avoid the 30+ °C (86+ °F) temperatures and potential heat waves.
Ultimately, you get to see Malta and Gozo at their best. Summers are hot and dry, so that the islands will be much greener this time of year. Perfect if you want to explore the countryside or the numerous places to visit in Malta.
Hard to find dates in these months? You could also consider late March, although it can still be a gamble weather-wise as to whether it’ll be an early spring in the making or experiencing the last of winter weather.
If your main focus is exploring the Maltese islands, your best bet is basically any month apart from July/August. December, January and February are usually the coldest and wettest months of the year. One year, the weather remains relatively sunny; the next, you could be unlucky with cloudy and rainy weather. It’s a bit of a gamble, that time of year.
If the summer heat is something you long for and actually want for your holiday, you have two options.
Go in July, August or September. There’s a good chance you won’t see a single cloud in the sky during your whole stay, and you’re guaranteed to get a tan even if you stay in the shade. Yes, it will be busy on the beaches, but not to the extent that it’s likely to be an annoyance to you.
If you’re a group of party-goers, this is a great time to visit since boat parties and other events are organised on a weekly basis.
Be aware, though, that the further into August/September you plan your holiday, the more likely it is that the rising humidity will bug you. Further into September, there’s also a chance for freak rainstorms (signalling the change of season) to cause floods in the lower-lying parts of Malta and Gozo.
Alternatively, go in the second half of September or October. Forget about autumn. Malta’s late autumn usually comes and goes in a matter of weeks. Temperatures are still around 22-28 °C (72-82 °F), sometimes even lasting until November.
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Now that you have some better insights on the best time to visit Malta, things to do and everything in between, I’m going to give you some local advice that will come in handy during the planning stages of your trip.
Malta’s events calendar is brimming with events and festivities all year round. Although the majority of events, such as the traditional festa, open-air festivals, boat parties etc., take place during the warmest months of the year, rest assured that there are plenty of things you can do during the low season.
Without any further ado, here are some of the most popular events from January to December.
When: January
Where: Various locations around Malta
Every year, local and international artists perform only the very best pieces of classical music during the Valletta Baroque Festival. The event generally lasts over 2 weeks, with 31 concerts being performed in 17 beautiful venues across the island.
When: February
Where: Mainly in Valletta and Nadur (Gozo), alongside other villages
Carnival is a pretty big deal in Malta. Taking place in February in the lead-up to Lent, giant floats, and performers line the streets of Valletta for a celebration like no other. Dance competitions are organised, the Capital truly comes to life, and in general, you can expect a vibrant atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something a little different, the famous Gozo carnival is one to watch. Lots of locals and tourists flock to the Nadur Carnival for a massive street party featuring grotesque masks and people dressed in all sorts of costumes.
When: March or Mid – Late April
Where: All over Malta and Gozo
Easter is one of the most important events on Malta’s social calendar. In the lead-up to Easter Sunday, several events take place.
These include a procession featuring the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows, Palm Sunday, the Seven Visits, where mass-goers visit seven churches to pay their respects on Maundy Thursday, and the Good Friday Procession; a number of towns and villages re-enact the Passion of the Christ in a procession featuring live actors and statues.
The celebrations end on Easter Sunday when families enjoy a meal together, and the statue of the Risen Christ moves along the streets in various Maltese towns and villages until it is carried back to the respective parish church by statue-bearers.
When: April
Where: Mġarr Village
If you happen to be in Malta around April, make sure you head to Mġarr for the annual Strawberry Festival. You’ll be able to sample and buy only the most scrumptious strawberries grown around the village’s fields. What’s more, you’ll be able to sample a range of fruit-based treats such as desserts, drinks and novelty dishes. In short, it’s a great annual event for all the family.
When: June
Where: Valletta
This cultural event celebrates the love for artistic expression in a variety of exhibitions, performances and art. Since the events are organised in some of the most significant cultural buildings in the Capital, the Malta International Arts Festival allows both locals and tourists to experience something unique in an intimate space.
When: Late June / July
Where: Floriana, The Granaries
A highly anticipated event that is great for tens of thousands of party-goers and music lovers. Past editions have welcomed headliner acts such as Jessie J, Jason Derulo, Nicole Scherzinger, Rita Ora, Lady Gaga, The Black Eyed Peas, David Guetta, Akon, Martin Garrixx, and many other artists.
In the lead-up to the main event, you can also attend several open-air clubbing events that are usually organised at Cafe del Mar and Gianpula.
When: September
Where: Different parts of the island
This national holiday is celebrated on 8th September. It commemorates the end of three sieges that are integral to the island’s history. These are the Great Siege of Malta, where the Ottoman Turks were defeated (1565), the Siege of Valletta by the French Blockade (1800) and the Siege of Malta during the Second World War by the Axis Forces (1943).
What’s more, the traditional boat race—locally known as Ir-Regatta, is held at the Grand Harbour.
The 8th of September also honours the Nativity of Our Lady. Locally, it is known as Il-Festa ta’ Marija Bambina. This feast is celebrated in various parts of Malta, including Senglea, Naxxar and Mellieħa. It is also celebrated in Xagħra, Gozo.
When: October
Where: Valletta
Tens of thousands of people attend the yearly Notte Bianca (“White Night”). It’s a highly anticipated event held in the Capital, where people can wine and dine in the city, do some late-night shopping (since the shops stay open for a longer while), and enjoy an array of artistic performances.
When: October / November
Where: Valletta
Although a relatively new addition to Malta’s social calendar, The Three Palaces is a beautiful event where “ our ordinary is actually extraordinary”. The audience is treated to an array of artistic performances that celebrate Malta’s identity as a nation and beyond in some of Malta’s beautiful palaces.
When: Late November – December
Where: Different parts of Malta and Gozo
Needless to say, the festive period is highly anticipated every year. Valletta and other small towns across the island put up Christmas lights, market stalls and Christmas music for you to enjoy as you go about your day. Some of the events that you can attend include Fairyland (just outside City Gate in Valletta) and The Magical Illuminated Trail (Verdala Palace Gardens).
On other notable days, such as Christmas Eve, many towns and villages hold a children’s procession and the yearly Priedka tal-Milied (Christmas Sermon). On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, Maltese people either prepare a home-cooked meal or go out to eat with the rest of their families. All in all, December is truly the best time to visit Malta if you love Christmas and all the festivities.
Interested in other events that are held during the summer months and low season? Check out the best 30+ Malta Events 2024 Coming Up Month-by-Month.
This is subjective as it depends on what your expectations are for the trip, what kind of traveller you are, etc. As a local, I think the Maltese Islands are at their loveliest during springtime (April-early June). The flowers are in full bloom, the fields are green, and, in general, it’s neither too hot nor too cold.
If you don’t mind the crowds and the scorching heat, the summer season might be the ideal time to book your trip. On the other hand, if you’re not fussed about going to the beach, book your trip during any month of the year except July and August.
The hottest months in Malta are July and August. It’s not the first time that the island experienced multiple heatwaves during that time of year. If you plan on booking a summer trip, make sure you stock up on the essentials such as sunblock, a hat and sunglasses. It is also advised to avoid staying out in the sun between 10 am and 4 pm when UV rays are at their strongest.
Due to its position in the Mediterranean, Malta is fortunate to enjoy over 300 sunny days all year round. Winters are mild, with rainy or windy days. The highest precipitation has been measured from November to February, but rain is rare on the island during spring and summer.
Some of the top things to do during a trip to Malta include sightseeing around Valletta and Mdina, taking a boat trip across the Grand Harbour to visit the 3 Cities, planning a day at the beach, planning an off-the-beaten-track hike, swimming and snorkelling in Comino and anything else that suits your fancy.
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Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.
As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.
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I want to visit Malta. Is October a good time?
Hi John, yes, generally October is a good time to visit Malta. The weather will still be warm but you won’t have the stifling summer heat to deal with, making it much more comfortable for sightseeing. The one downside of planning around an October visit is that the weather can be unpredictable. One year it’s mostly sunny, other years there’ll be quite a bit of rainfall.
Good, pertinent information, thank you!
Hi, we would like tot come to Malta in the last week of May. What is the weather like there at this time of the year? we have visited Malta previously in July/August which was supper hot and we really liked it but this time we are coming with 2 years old daughter. So we think July/Aug will be to hot but wondering if May is not to cold, specially the sea temperature.
Hi Anna! In the last week of May it’ll usually be warm spring weather, so you’ll likely hit the sweet spot in balance between hot summer and early spring. The sea temperature, however, will still be a little cold even though most locals will take their first dip of the year at this time. mid- to late-June would be a much better choice in that regard.
I wish I would have read your articles before my Malta visit in February, 2019. Though it was not the best month to visit, still way warmer than Finland. I had really great time Malta. I visited few not so popular touristic places. I will remember your articles if I re-visit the island.
Hi Thanks for the details. How about travelling in April , is it too cold for swimming?
Hi Sunil, to the average person it’ll definitely be too cold for swimming at that time still!
Edward is it still warm at the end of September in Malta?
It sure is Chris, often well into October even.
Planning a 7 day trip to Malta in mid February. Is this a good time to go?
Coleen
Hi Coleen, that’s pretty early in the season and unless you’re very lucky the weather’s unlikely to be warm and sunny. “Museum weather”, so to speak.
We’re looking for a beach holiday somewhere warm/hot for our family of 3 teenagers in October 2018. Ideally somewhere that offers some water-sports stand-up boarding, cycling, walking, gym. Will Malta have anything to offer?
Hi Anne, it’ll still be warm at that time of year and watersports are available at a few of the more popular beaches like Mellieħa Bay and Golden Bay. Cycling/mountain biking I would only really recommend in Gozo, as Malta’s roads are pretty busy and don’t cater for cyclists much at all. Gozo is still relatively quiet so easier/safer to get around by bike. There are several gyms around in the more popular areas and happy to suggest a few once you decide where in Malta/Gozo you’d like to stay. I hope that helps!
Thank you 🙂
My girlfriend and I are going for a couple at days in late October. Is the island still busy with tourists or will it be a little quieter?
Hi Luca, it’ll be a lot quieter than July/August but the downside is that the weather can be a little unpredictable (even though warm, temperature-wise).
Hello Ed,
My husband and I are planning a trip to Sicily in October. I stumbled upon your wonderful website while doing some pre -trip research, on Malta! I am most fascinated with Malta’s long history and it’s beauty. I would like to include Malta either prior to or after our trip to Sicily. The Sicily tour begins on October 16 th in Palermo, although we were thinking about going to Catania for a few nights prior and then taking a train to Palermo to begin our tour. Your website is very informative, and I so happy to have discovered it!
I am hoping you can help me though, since The details of doing this side trip have me in quite a conundrum!
First, the longest I think we can afford to stay ( based on the accommodation prices would be 4 nights, unless you know some convenient places that are under 135/ night? I had heard pirices in Malta arevery reasonable, but so far the hotel, B and B costs look pretty steep.
Secondly, I’m wondering if you can suggest where we should stay if we would like to go to Gozo also? I’m not thrilled about having to stay more than one place, but we will if that’s the best way.
Third, I have read many mixed reviews about the public transit, but I’m a bit concerned about
where we can park, ( as well as driving on the right side!) the trafffic, and best place to rent a car if we get one? At the airport or once we get to Valetta or wherever we stay?
We were going to also try to visit the small towns in the “boot” of Italy, but I think Malta is going to be our choice instead due to its convenience to Sicily!
I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Thank you in advance for your help,
Barbara
Hi Barbara, thanks, glad you like the site! I’d need a bit more info (e.g. where you’re looking to stay in Malta and how much time you’re looking to spend in Gozo) though I’ll do my best:
1) Accommodation is often cheaper searching on Airbnb (Added a link that gives you a small discount). Rates will be a lot lower than nearby hotels though you’ll only be able to get self-catering options there, renting directly from property owners.
2) Gozo – First off, I’d only consider staying there if you feel a day trip isn’t enough. For transport a hop on/hop off is probably the quickest/easiest way around though if you decide to actually stay there (and spend more than a day) I’d highly recommend renting a car. Driving there is easy (even if on the right hand side) and public transport generally gets worse reviews than in Malta.
3) Where to park really depends on where you’re looking to stay. Worst places are probably Sliema, St. Julian’s and the Bugibba area at this time of year. If you decide to go for Airbnb you could try and get a place with parking included, that could be an option. Otherwise let me know where you want to stay and I’ll give you an idea. Valletta as such isn’t practical for parking for sure, unless again, your choice of accommodation includes private parking. Otherwise you’ll have to park outside city limits and include a 10-15 minute walk. Renting from the airport or Valletta doesn’t make much difference, though perhaps if you’re nervous about driving on the right hand side you’re better off arranging for a car to be delivered at the location of your stay, which is usually included with the price. I hope that helps!