The jewel of the Mediterranean is an amazing destination! Malta enjoys a privileged location and offers a number of advantages to all those who decide to undertake their tourism, study or work trip to the island.
Europe's sunniest island vibrates with its architecture, prehistoric temples and cosmopolitan atmosphere. But not only that, its health care system, quality education and stable and prosperous economy are other factors that make it a great destination.
Malta is a place with a rich history, cities that seem to be anchored in time and idyllic landscapes. The turquoise water of its beaches and the magic of the hidden coves immediately captivate all its locals and visitors.
Being a place that brings everything together, this picturesque island offers different adventures every day. For this and many other reasons, we share with you the most complete travel guide to Malta so you can immerse yourself in this destination right now.
This is where this tour of one of the Mediterranean's most enchanting destinations begins, and we invite you to learn all about what the island has to offer and how you can experience it at 100% with this travel guide to Malta:
Where is Malta located?
Malta is a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea.in the south of Europe. It is located south of Sicily (Italy) and east of Tunisia (Africa), in the central region of the Mediterranean Sea. The country is made up of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino.
Although it is a small island and looks modest on the map, its strategic location has made it a key point of interest for traders and travelers throughout history.
For many centuries, sailors could not make long voyages without having to make a stopover, so Malta became a beleaguered place in the middle of the voyages between Europe and Africa.
History and culture of Malta
At the present time Malta is a catholic country, but its atmosphere, culture, gastronomy, festivities and architecture reflect the mixture of cultures that have passed through the island.
The Maltese islands were inhabited for millennia by different civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Normans, Romans and Arabs, although the most influential colonizers were the Knights of St. John (Christian forces), who remained in power until the arrival of Napoleon in the eighteenth century. It was also under British rule for several centuries.
Today you can appreciate the cultural mix that prevails in this country thanks to all the civilizations that inhabited it. There are many legacies that they left, for example it is said that one of the most prosperous times in Malta was during the power of the Romans, because the architecture of that time is a sample of comfortable and spacious houses.
When the Knights of St. John defeated the Turks in the 16th century, Malta's construction boom came: the new city of Valletta was built, which is now a UNESCO Intangible Heritage Site, as well as fortifications, watchtowers, churches and palaces.
During the Crimean War (1853-1856), the British Navy made Malta an important naval base and supply station. With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, Malta became one of the main coaling ports on the route between Britain and India.
Malta was under British rule for several centuries and, in 1921, the Maltese began to have greater participation in the political field, being part of the government to make certain decisions. It was only in 1964 that Malta achieved its independence.
In 2004 it joined the European Union and in 2008 it entered the euro zone, which meant substantial foreign investment and diversification of the national economy. Recently, although the islands have been hit by the European financial crisis, they have been largely intact, with steady growth.
Lifestyle in Malta
The Catholic Church continues to maintain a significant influence on Maltese life, and communities revolve around churches and parish activities.
Religious festivities are a time of festivity, with banquets, social interactions, music, processions and fireworks displays. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the year is the annual feast of each parish, which is celebrated on different dates in each locality.
Maltese people have a strong taste for music. The għana (ah-na; traditional song) represents the most authentic and deep-rooted form of Maltese folk music.
Music in Malta reflects the country's geographical location by fusing verses that combine Sicilian balladry with the lament of Arabic music. Historically, għana was considered to belong to peasants, workers and laborers. It is very much a local thing.
If you go to parties, bars and restaurants, you will hear a variety of musical rhythms: electronic, pop, Latin genres, among others.
In the spring and summer months there is a wide range of live music: concerts in pubs and bars, the Jazz Festival, the Arts Festival, the Music Week, the Isle of MTV.
In terms of sport, soccer is a passion and most Maltese follow both national and international teams, especially British and Italian. Other sports that are enjoyed and practiced in Malta are water polo and horse racing.
Its handicrafts stand out, for example Malta is famous for its silver filigree jewelry, textiles and decorative objects made of blown glass or limestone.
Weather and best time to visit
The Maltese islands have one of the most enviable climates in Europe, as the sun shines most days of the year and winters are usually more bearable than in other countries of the continent.
According to your tastes, we tell you how is the weather in Malta according to the season:
- High season: June, July and August
It is summer, the hottest time, where temperatures can reach very high levels. The good thing about this time is the amount of plans you can make: boat trips, music festivals, parties, swimming at the beaches.
The disadvantage is the price of lodging and the number of tourists. If you go at this time, the best month would be June, because it is a warm climate, but temperatures have not yet reached their maximum. In July and August they can exceed 35°.
- Mid-season: April, May, September and October
In Malta spring is marked by sun and winds, but April and May are very good months to visit the island if you are looking for a cool climate. Of course, the sea temperature is cooler than in autumn.
In these months you can find a mixture of climates: sun, heat and additional rains and winds.
Many people choose to visit Malta in autumn because the intense summer heat has passed and the sea can still be pleasant for swimming. The temperature change to cooler weather begins to be felt in early to mid-October.
- Low season: November, December, January and March
These are the coldest months of the year, with gray, cloudy and rainy days. Between November and December the average temperature is 12°-18°C. January and February are usually colder.
At this time of the year you can find much cheaper accommodations. In addition, carnivals are celebrated.
Highlights in Malta
Among coves, beaches, temples, monuments and charming streets, there are many places to visit in Malta. Here we tell you which ones stand out:
Valletta: The Capital of Malta
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a must-see place on the island. The city was built by the Order of St. John in the sixteenth century and retains the architecture of that time, because wherever you go you will appreciate the fortifications, houses and traditional Maltese balconies: wooden and colorful.
Thanks to its architectural richness, it is considered a true open-air museum with buildings, streets and magical corners. In 1980 the capital of Malta was considered Intangible Heritage of Unesco because of its baroque buildings, fortifications and historic sites.
The fortifications and defensive walls surrounding the city are testimony to its strategic importance in times past. Its beauty and narrow streets are proof of its resistance to the passage of time.
Today modern architecture blends with the past, as the city's entrance, Parliament and Opera House were designed by Renzo Piano. In 2018 Valletta was named the European Capital of Culture.
Both the city and its surroundings are not to be missed. In the streets of Valletta you can enjoy bars, restaurants, museums and hotels. It also enjoys viewpoints from which you can see other parts of the island as the Three Cities (Senglea, Birgu or Vittoriosa and Cospicua).
In Valletta you can enjoy both day and night with its streets and magical corners!
Mdina: The Walled City
Mdina was the ancient capital of Malta and is now one of the most touristic places of the island for the beauty of its houses, streets and baroque buildings. It is a walled city with its own charm and magic, located on a hill, which gives it an imposing and mysterious air.
It is also known as the City of Silence and there you can enjoy the beauty of its medieval style streets, honey-colored houses, balconies and doors adorned with flowers, handicraft stores and restaurants with panoramic views.
More than 4,000 years old, this city reflects a unique beauty that has made it the setting for several films and series, including Game of Thrones. Walking around Mdina you will realize that it is a city that takes you back to the past: its location and wall were decisive to defend itself from invading attacks.
Megalithic Temples of Malta
Thanks to the cultural mix and the millenary legacies, in Malta you can find the most preserved prehistoric architecture on the planet. The megalithic temples, built between 3600 and 2500 BC, are the oldest structures still standing in the world.
It is not yet known what the purposes were, but it is theorized that they were places for religious rituals.
It is presumed that the builders of these impressive temples were descendants of the Neolithic inhabitants of the island, rather than colonizers. Today you can visit some of these structures as temples: Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba and Ġgantija.
One of the treasures most appreciated by the Maltese are the temples of Tarxien and the hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, ideal places for travelers who love history and archeology.
Hal Saflieni is perhaps one of the most impressive ruins in Malta, as it is a subway architectural complex dating back to 2,500 BC, which was first erected as a sanctuary and then transformed into a necropolis.
The hypogeum consists of three levels of natural caves with impressive carvings and decorations, accompanied by numerous objects such as statuettes that are stored in the Archaeological Museum of La Valleta.
Sincerely this is a visit you have to make if you are visiting or living in Malta, because there are not many archaeological sites like this in the world.
We tell you more in our article: A walk through Tarxien and the hypogeum of Hal Saflieni
Dream Beaches
The Maltese islands are surrounded by the turquoise blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that is why one of the great attractions of Malta are its beaches. Here we tell you which are the 5 best beaches in Malta according to our experience on the island:
- Għajn Tuffieħa: a beautiful beach with fine sand and natural wave, without buildings around. You can find it in the northwest of Malta. Undoubtedly the most remarkable thing is its tranquility
- Mġarr Ix-Xini: is a quiet cove, located on the island of Gozo, and is one of the most recommended beaches for swimming and snorkeling, due to its crystal clear waters. It is still not one of the most popular, which gives it a "private" air that we love.
- Paradise BayThe little cove. In the north of Malta you will find a beach with a beautiful, open and clean view of Gozo and Comino. Moreover, the beach, although small, has a lot of sand at the entrance, making it perfect to spend long hours enjoying the sea.
- Ġnejna Bay: one of the beaches with the most crystalline waters. It is located next to Golden Bay. It is a calm beach, with little affluence of bathers and most of those who come are Maltese.
- Ramla Bay on the island of Gozo: The quintessential Gozo beach, very characteristic for its red sand, Ramla is an ideal place for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
Maltese Gastronomy
The autochthonous gastronomy of Malta is a fascinating fusion of Sicilian and Middle Eastern influences, using a variety of characteristic local ingredients, such as rabbit and honey. Other foods that stand out in Maltese cuisine are fish, vegetables, meat, pasta, puff pastry, dates and olive oil.
When it comes to fruit, strawberries stand out and, as a traditional street food, we have the famous pastizzi: a puff pastry dough filled with ricotta cheese, meat or vegetables.
Traditional dishes you must try
The kitchen of Malta is a sample of all its past and the cultures that inhabited it: a place where you can enjoy both Italian and Arabic food, but if we talk about traditional Maltese dishes, these are the must:
- Aljotta: fish soup served with tomatoes, lemon, garlic and herbs
- Lampuki: one of its most emblematic fish, which you can try in the village of Marsaxlokk, in the southeast of the island. It is eaten grilled or baked.
- Fenek Stufat: this is a rabbit stew with peas, onions or carrots, and wine or meat broth is added.
- Ftira: If there is something that Malta stands out for is the quality of its bread, so you can not miss the Ftira, a bread that is eaten as a pizza and to which you add different ingredients such as tomatoes, olives, sardines, among others.
- Pastizzi: as we have already mentioned, it is a puff pastry that is filled with cheese, vegetables or meat. It is found in most Maltese cafeterias.
Maltese wines: a delight for the senses
A trip to Malta will not be complete without immersing oneself in the world of its cellars and the magic hidden in its wines.
The tradition of winemaking in Malta has a history that dates back to Roman times, however, it was in the twentieth century when the first wineries such as Emmanuel Delicata and Marsovin were born. Thanks to this, international grape varieties were introduced to the islands.
In addition to the two native varieties, Gellewza (red) and Ghirgentina (white), today several international varieties are grown, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscatel and others.
Activities and entertainment
This enchanting island offers a wide range of options for those seeking excitement and fun.
For diving enthusiasts, Malta is an underwater paradise. If we talk about day trips or several, Gozo is a haven of peace and nature, with breathtaking scenery, dream beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
When night falls, you will find parties, bars and restaurants with the best atmosphere. Here we tell you more:
Diving in the Maltese Reefs
Diving in Malta is a true delight for the senses: caves, sunken ships, reefs are some of the wonders that you will be able to appreciate in your experience.
The good news is that you can dive with certified and specialized diving agencies in all the islands that make up the archipelago: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Just as novices can do the famous "baptism" and have a one-day experience, there are all kinds of diving plans for the more experienced.
We tell you which are the popular dive sites in Malta:
- Ghar Laps: In Malta there is Ghar Laps, a fishing village located on the south coast. Its access to the water is easy, as it has a bay with calm waters, where numerous openings allow sunlight to illuminate a series of shallow underwater caves.
The Ghar Lapsi area is no deeper than 15 to 20 meters and is characterized by a wide extension of reefs that harbor typical Mediterranean marine fauna.
- Cirkewa Reef: located in the north of the island, Cirkewa is one of the favorite places for scuba diving, as it offers a wide range of underwater experiences.
In this destination you will find a little bit of everything: from deep sea dives to exploring shipwrecks, exploring tunnels and diving into fascinating crevices, the possibilities are endless!
- Anchor Bay ReefThe dive site: stands out for its narrow corridors and numerous boulders, making it a unique dive site in this area. It is especially fascinating for underwater photography enthusiasts, as it offers a captivating spectacle of algae and light effects.
- Cumin: is a tiny island located between Malta and Gozo. Around it, there are several dive sites that attract visitors.
In general, the dives in this area are shallow and offer crystal clear waters, allowing exploration of caves and, surprisingly, a sunken ship. Comino is also famous for its iconic "Blue Lagoon".
Boat tour of Malta's Blue Cave: Blue Grotto
One of the island's flagship sites is Blue Grotto, a site with sea caves that form between rock cliffs, where the blue of the sea stands out and makes it a natural spectacle. It is located in Zurrieq, south of Malta.
The plan is to go in the morning, because the sunlight is projected on the rocks and the sea water reaches a striking blue. In addition, it is also a diving area, as the Um El Faroud shipwreck is located nearby.
To get there you can do it by public transport and, in the same place, you can hire the boat tour. In the area there are also restaurants with idyllic views and cafes.
Excursions to Gozo
Gozo is a natural paradise, an island with a calm and relaxed atmosphere. From dreamy beaches to ancient megalithic structures, Gozo offers a unique experience full of discovery and adventure. It also stands out for being a more rural place than Malta.
From Malta It is very easy to travel to Gozo: the plans are varied, since you can travel by ferry to this island to visit its emblematic places and traditional villages or hire a diving experience with safe and certified agencies.
The island of Gozo is famous for its places of interest. Some of them include the Calypso Cave and the Neolithic temples of Ġgantija, which are among the oldest man-made structures. It also has famous beaches such as Ramla Bay.
You can choose a whole day to tour it or book accommodation for more days, in which you can combine visits to villages, cathedrals and temples, with days at the beach or diving.
Gozo invites you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and connect with the serenity and charm of this small but extraordinary island in the archipelago of Malta.
Nightlife in Paceville
When the sun goes down, Paceville is the place to enjoy the nightlife. At night its streets come alive with an exciting mix of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and discos that attract locals and tourists alike.
It is located in the renowned Saint Julian's neighborhood and is noted for its lively nightlife along four main streets: Dragonara Road, Wilga Street, St. Georges Road and St. Rita Steps.
We are sure that in any of these streets you will find the perfect place to enjoy according to your preferences: music lovers enjoy a wide variety of genres to enjoy, from electronic music to Latin and pop rhythms.
Some of the most famous nightclubs in Paceville are Havana, Sky Club, Hugo's, Medasia and Nordic Bar.
Other places to experience Malta's nightlife include Sliema (bars and restaurants) and popular nightclubs such as Gianpula, located in the town of Rabat; and Level22, located in the Portomaso Hotel in Saint Julian's.
Travel Tips for Malta
We answer the most common questions that travelers ask before traveling to Malta to have the most complete experience.
First, arriving in Malta by airline. low cost is very easy. When entering the European space, you can take a flight with companies such as Ryanair, Vueling or Air Malta at good prices.
Required Documentation
The documentation required to travel to Malta in 2023 will depend directly on your country of origin:
- If you are from a member country of the European Union, you do not need permission to visit Malta as a tourist or student, you only need to enter with your ID card. In this link you can find out if your country of origin belongs to the European Union. European Union.
If your stay is for study or work, you must apply for a residence permit.
- If you are from a non-EU country or from Latin America you must meet several requirements such as these:
- Valid electronic or machine-readable passport whose expiration date is more than six months from the end of the stay.
- Round trip ticket not exceeding 90 days.
- In case of staying in private residences of relatives or friends in the countries you are visiting, it is necessary to have the original invitation form or document. The format and conditions vary from country to country. Consult the website of the Embassy of the country you are visiting or go to the relevant consulate.
- In case your stay is in a hotel, present proof of reservations where you are staying.
- Sufficient financial resources for your stay during the trip, which are estimated between 50 and 100 euros per day depending on the country you are visiting and whether your stay is in a hotel or in a private residence.
- Have medical insurance in case of accident or emergency.
- International certificate of yellow fever vaccination, in case of returning or originating travel from an endemic area, within the last 6 days.
Keep in mind that everything varies depending on your objective, as you can visit the island as a tourist, to study or to working in Malta. If you want to find out more details, we leave you our post on Requirements and documents to enter the European Union
Transportation on the island
Malta has a well-functioning public transportation system that is free for residents and students.
Tourists must pay the costs per trip: €1.50 in winter, €2.00 in summer and €3.00 for night buses.
To get the Tallinja, which is the transportation card for the island, you must register on the official website of the transportation company, pay the registration fee and wait one or two weeks to receive your card at your accommodation.
You can also rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle for more comfort and flexibility in your trip. Apps such as Bolt and Uber are available in Malta.
Currency and forms of payment
The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Be sure to carry some cash for small expenses and verify that your credit or debit card is accepted in the country.
Language and communication
In Malta, the official language is Maltese, which has a rich linguistic heritage with influences from Arabic, Italian and other Mediterranean languages.
English is also official on the island and is spoken in official, commercial and educational contexts. This coexistence of languages facilitates communication for international travelers visiting the country and has made it a study destination for learning English.
At Boom Studies we provide educational consulting so that you can study English in MaltaYou will be able to pursue a master's degree of any kind or an MBA and achieve your dream of studying abroad.
Lodging in Malta
In Malta you have many accommodation options ranging from hotels, hostels, Airbnb, Maltese homestays, student residences and much more.
Although the most famous areas to stay in are Saint Julian's and Sliema Because of its central location and proximity to shopping centers, bars, restaurants and English schools, we will tell you about the best lodging options in Malta so that you can choose the option that best suits you:
Hotels in Valletta
Staying in Valletta is an excellent choice: the capital of Malta stands out for the stunning beauty of its old town and all its history and culture.
Despite the fact that Valletta has visitors all day long and it is full of restaurants and bars, the city is very quiet and the night activity is very relaxed. It is a central point of Malta, where you can find the main bus station to move to any point of the island.
If you are looking for a quiet place of cultural interest, you can find beautiful hotels in this area. Some of them are:
- Phoenicia Hotel: a luxury hotel that stands out for its terrace and pool overlooking the rest of the city. It is characterized by good service and a unique experience.
- Osborne Hotel: located in one of the best streets of Valletta, with affordable prices and in a quiet area.
- Gran Harbour Hotel: 200 meters from Malta's promenade overlooking the harbor, this hotel is a great choice for amazing views and good value accommodation.
- Melior Boutique Hotel: a small hotel, with good prices and close to the Upper Barrakka gardens (tourist attraction of Valletta) and the promenade.
Accommodations in coastal areas
Malta and its beaches are always a good plan, so we present you some coastal areas where it can be a great option to stay if you are looking for plans of lots of sea and sun:
Mellieja, the north of the island:
In this region, a short distance away, are the famous beaches of Malta: Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha.
The atmosphere is quite serene and pleasant, with a few restaurants, but no nightclub or bar life at night.
On the other hand, if you also plan to explore the island, you should consider that the bus ride takes approximately over an hour if you depart from areas such as Valletta.
If you decide to rent a car, this place is an ideal option to stay in Malta, as it will allow you to enjoy the beaches and explore the island with flexibility.
Some outstanding hotels in this area are:
- Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands
- db Seabank Resort + Spa All Inclusive
- Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa
St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba and Qawra
This coastal area is very close to Mellieja, so if you are looking for accommodation near the great beaches of Malta, you could find good options in any of these three locations: St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba and Qawra.
It is a place with a lot of life in the summer and where you feel more the Maltese essence, as it is very residential and familiar. The nightlife of the area is in Bugibba, but it is much quieter than Paceville.
You can also easily visit Café del Mar, one of the most touristic places for those looking for a party, good food and a very nice pool overlooking the sea.
Here you can stay in hotels such as Santana, II Palazin, Dolmen or in rented apartments.
Hotels are recommended options for short term tourists, but for those who travel to study or work, the best option is to book a hostel, hotel or Airbnb for a few weeks and then get a rented apartment near the school or workplace.
Here we leave you 10 reasons to study and live in Malta
Budget for travel to Malta
In general, the cost of living in Malta is moderate compared to other European countries. Accommodation, food and transportation costs are generally affordable, but may vary depending on the location and type of accommodation chosen.
Average cost of meals and activities
You know that the costs of your trip depend a lot on the areas you visit and where you stay, so here we will tell you the general average of the prices of the meals and activities you can do on the island:
Eating in Malta:
| FOOD | PRICES |
| Menu of the day including beverage | In central and popular areas between € 20 and € 30. In other areas between € 10 and € 15. |
| Fast food (Mc' Donalds, Burger King or hamburger places, hot dogs...) | Between € 8 - €15 per meal |
| Bottle of good quality Maltese wine | Between € 9 and € 10 |
| Bag of sliced bread | € 0.80 |
| 1.5 liter bottled water | € 0.50 |
| Liter of milk | € 0.90 |
| Dozen eggs | Between € 2 and € 3 |
| 1kg cheese | € 8 |
| 1 chicken breast | Between € 7 and € 8 |
| 1 kg of tomatoes | € 4 |
| Domestic beer in supermarkets | € 1 |
| Cappuccino | € 2,20 |
| 1kg of potatoes | € 2 |
| 1kg apples | € 2 |
Activities in Malta:
| 2 movie tickets | € 24 |
| 2 theater tickets | € 28 |
| Cocktails and drinks in bars and restaurants | € 12 |
| Dinners in restaurants located in the most popular areas such as St' Jullians, Sliema and Valletta with starter, main course, dessert and beverages (2 persons) | € 125 |
| Dinners in restaurants located in other areas of the island (2 persons) | € 50 |
Tips for saving money on your trip to Malta
Although the cost of your stay in Malta Depending on your lifestyle and organization of your finances, there are always ways to know how to save so that your budget doesn't overflow.
Also remember that Malta is one of the countries with the lowest cost of living in the EU, so you can have a good quality of life, at affordable prices.
- We tell you that the portions of the dishes in Malta are generally very large, so often, with a single dish can eat two people. Look at the neighboring tables to see the size of the plate and you can share.
- In most cafes on the island you can find the famous pastizzi that serves for breakfast or as a snack at any time of the day. It will not cost you more than €2.
- Fruit juices are usually expensive, so use water to accompany your meals.
- The party in Paceville is at an affordable price, as almost no place asks for value for admission.
- In Gozo the price of accommodation and food is much cheaper than in Malta.
- Many products are imported into Malta, so try to buy and consume those fruits and vegetables that are in season and shop at local markets.
- On Sundays you can visit the village of Marsaxlokk, where you can buy fresh fish at a very good price.
- The best way to move around the island is by bus for its price, but you can also use a bicycle or skateboard to get around and save more.
Useful information for travelers
When exploring this enchanting island, it is essential to be informed about key aspects that can affect your travel experience.
From medical emergencies and health services to cultural etiquette, understanding and taking into account these important considerations will allow us to fully enjoy all that Malta has to offer.
Emergency and health services
Whenever you travel, you should always buy medical insurance, as we are never exempt from experiencing a health emergency.
Latin American citizens require a valid travel insurance to enter the Schengen Zone as tourists (Malta is included). This insurance must have a minimum coverage of €30,000, covering the costs of emergency medical care and repatriation for medical reasons.
It is important to note that many credit cards offer these insurances when purchasing travel tickets with them. However, we recommend verifying with the bank whether the coverage provided is sufficient, and if not, consider the option of paying a supplement to obtain the necessary coverages.
Generally, these insurances work as follows: when the illness or emergency occurs, you must contact the insurance company's hotlines and they authorize you to go to a care center. Then, after sharing your medical history and other documents such as prescriptions, they will reimburse you.
In Malta the main hospital is a public hospital called Mater Dei. It is a very large care center that has almost all medical specialties. There are also private hospitals such as St Jaimes Hospital, with several locations on the island.
On the other hand, most pharmacies in Malta provide medical attention. You should check the opening hours of this service, make an appointment and pay the consultation fee.
For more details on this topic, we recommend our post about the Access to health care in Malta.
Cultural aspects and etiquette in Malta
The Maltese are a hospitable and patriotic people, committed to caring for their country and preserving traditions. Therefore, if you are interested in their traditions, you are sure to find Maltese friends easily.
They take great care of their parks and churches and celebrate with great commitment the patron saint festivities.
Although this committed attitude towards their country may generate some distrust towards foreigners, you should not be afraid of aggressive behavior. Keep in mind that what really bothers them is tourism that damages and disrespects.
On the other hand, the Maltese will appreciate it if you show genuine interest in their country and customs, take care of the places, don't leave litter and respect their beliefs and celebrations.
They are very Catholic and still maintain an etiquette to enter the churches: you must be well dressed and in formal clothes, as they still prefer modesty and discretion in this type of events and religious rituals. Also, in Malta there are no nudist beaches and it is not allowed to go to church. toples.
However, these traditions and attitudes do not make it a backward country. Malta has policies that reduce the wage gap between men and women, promotes equality, respect and inclusion of diverse communities, among other things.
Best souvenirs of Malta
In the main cities of Malta you will always find the best souvenirs to take as a souvenir a part of its culture, traditions and historical sites. It is also the best detail for your loved ones.
In the souvenir stores in Malta there are hundreds of fun and original products to take with you. Here we tell you which are the most traditional ones:
Traditional souvenirs to take home
From handicrafts to the famous Maltese wines to gastronomic delights. These are some of the most popular and representative souvenirs of Malta:
Handicrafts
- Limestone objects: is an essential element of the island, as it is present in everything: in nature and in all the buildings. When you go to souvenir stores you will find different objects such as candles, picture frames, plates and all kinds of limestone decorations.
- Filigree jewelry: one of the most traditional crafts of the island and ideal for all those who love fine jewelry. Filigree is based on intertwining delicate gold or silver threads to make elegant ornaments or detailed jewelry.
- Blown glass: vases, plates, glasses and more colorful objects and made with a technique that makes them unique. The Maltese often decorate and have blown glass items in their homes.
- Bizzilla: also known as Maltese lace, is one of the oldest and most traditional handicrafts in Malta. Its origin is linked to the nobility and it is a highly appreciated type of lace, so much so that it is used by the high clergy and even auctioned in houses of international renown.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Malta is a unique destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality.
This small island offers a great diversity of experiences ranging from its fascinating historical heritage to its dreamy beaches.
Summary of highlights of Malta
- A paradise for history lovers: With its megalithic temples, medieval cities and ancient fortifications, Malta is a real treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Exploring its archaeological sites and museums immerses you in a journey through time.
- Beaches for all tastes: Malta has dream beaches for those looking to relax in the sun or enjoy exciting water activities such as scuba diving. From golden sandy beaches to rocky coves, there is something for everyone.
- A fusion of cultures and flavorsMalta's gastronomy reflects the island's rich history, with Mediterranean and international influences. Tasting traditional Maltese dishes and exploring its culinary scene with cuisines from all over the world will enrich your palate.
- An open country: travelers will feel welcome and will find a cozy atmosphere that will make you feel at home.
- Tour the three islands: Exploring not only the main island of Malta, but also Gozo and Comino, provides a complete overview of the beauty and diversity of the Maltese archipelago.
- A year-round destination: Malta offers a pleasant climate for much of the year, making it an ideal destination in any season. Whether enjoying the sun in summer or exploring its charm in winter, Malta has something to offer in all seasons.
In short, Malta is a destination that combines history, culture, high quality education programs and dreamy natural landscapes, making it a must for all types of travelers and students.
From history buffs to sun and beach lovers, this Mediterranean gem has a lot to offer and will never cease to amaze those who visit.
