If you’re visiting the Maltese islands and want to stay connected to the internet (and mobile telephony), don’t worry – it’s easy and straightforward.
Internet availability in Malta is widespread, with internet service providers offering multiple connectivity options, while both private and public sectors provide free internet access through several Wi-Fi hotspots.
So, whether you’re on a business trip with the need to send a quick email, or if you’re just on vacation and need to say hi to your loved ones back home, you can easily find a way to get online.
Compared to other European countries, Internet connectivity in Malta can be more expensive, even though coverage across the Maltese islands is of high quality and there are no download limits. In recent years, the Maltese government embarked on a drive to grow the IT sector, ensuring high standards of services throughout Malta and Gozo.
Access to the Internet is possible through wide Wi-Fi coverage, fast mobile connectivity and more traditional means such as the odd cyber cafe.
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The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) currently manages 192 free Wi-Fi spots across Malta and Gozo. Explore the map below to learn about all the towns and villages that offer free Wi-Fi.
You’ll notice that most public gardens in Malta and Gozo (like the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta) have free and open Wi-Fi coverage.
Wireless Internet is also widely available throughout Malta and Gozo in many hotels, restaurants and coffee shops. In most places (like Costa Coffee outlets, or Cafe Jubilee chain) it would be polite to order a coffee or a snack and then you would be able to ask for the Wi-Fi password. In other places, you won’t even need a password as the connection is freely available.
Getting connected on your travel is a must nowadays and you’ll find that mobile phone networks are of a high standard in Malta. The service providers all have decent plans for Internet connectivity via mobile on 3G/4G networks.
Although all providers offer contracts, it’s good to know that prepaid options are also available, where you can buy a SIM card at a low rate and top up with credit.
SIM cards are usually only for sale at the below mobile telephony providers’ shops, while top-up cards can be purchased also from local stationery shops and supermarkets. Alternatively, depending on the provider, you can opt to charge credit to your SIM card online by credit/debit card, via SMS or through an ATM. International call rates vary, with Melita offering the best rates.
Getting connectivity on a short stay in Malta (7-10 days):
When buying a SIM card, be sure to mention which device you will be using the card with as SIM cards come in different sizes.
USB dongles can be bought for use with laptops, although it might be cheaper to get one with you:
Has your mobile phone stopped working? Or perhaps you lost your smartphone after a day at the beach? It’s easy to get a replacement phone in Malta, with mobile shops practically in every town.
Electronics shops all offer mobile phones from stock as do GO, Vodafone and Melita outlets. You can find these shops in Valletta, Sliema, St. Julians, Birkirkara and in many other locations.
These are a few popular outlets:
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Currently, the following Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer connectivity in Malta and Gozo.
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