The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Malta: What First-Time Visitors Need to Know

Planning your first trip to Malta in 2026? This complete guide covers everything you need to know before arriving: when to visit, how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and the best things to do.

If you want to explore Malta with curated local experiences, visit www.hiddengemsmalta.com and book your adventure.

Overview: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Best times to visit: April to June and September to October
  • Malta is sunny, safe, and easy to navigate
  • Most beaches are rocky, not sandy
  • Gozo is unmissable
  • Transportation works best when you combine buses, ferries, and ride apps
  • Booking activities in advance is recommended
  • Find the best tours at www.hiddengemsmalta.com

1. When to Visit Malta in 2026

Malta has a warm Mediterranean climate all year, but each season offers a different experience.

Best overall months: April, May, June, September, October
These months bring warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and great sea conditions.

Peak summer: July and August
Expect strong heat, busy beaches, and higher accommodation prices. Ideal for nightlife and beach clubs.

Low season: November to March
Mild weather, great for exploring Valletta, Mdina, and Gozo. Swimming is possible but not guaranteed.

2. How to Get Around Malta

Buses
The bus network covers most of the island. It is affordable but can get crowded in summer. Download the Tallinja app for real-time schedules.

Ferries
A fast and scenic way to move between key points such as Sliema, Valletta, and Gozo.

Ride apps
Bolt and eCabs are reliable and inexpensive, especially during peak tourist months.

Boat trips
The best way to reach Comino, the Blue Lagoon, sea caves, and hidden coves.
Book boat tours at www.hiddengemsmalta.com.

Valletta Historic Streets

3. What to Pack for Malta in 2026

  • Swimwear
  • Water shoes
  • Light clothing
  • Sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A hoodie for spring or autumn evenings
  • A camera, drone, or GoPro for landscapes

Malta's sun is strong all year, so sunscreen is essential.

4. Money and Budgeting

Currency: Euro (€)
Payment: Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is useful for buses or small markets.

Average budget:

  • Budget travelers: €35–€60 per day
  • Mid-range: €60–€120
  • High-end: €150+

Food in Malta is affordable, but prices increase in summer and in touristy areas.

5. Best Areas to Stay in Malta

Sliema
Central, safe, and connected by ferries. Great for most travelers.

St. Julian's and Paceville
Lively, full of bars and restaurants. Ideal for nightlife lovers.

Valletta
Historic, beautiful, and quiet at night. A great premium option.

Mellieħa
Closer to sandy beaches and perfect for families.

Gozo
Peaceful, scenic, and great for nature lovers. Staying 2–3 nights here is highly recommended.

6. What to Eat in Malta

  • Pastizzi
  • Rabbit stew
  • Ftira
  • Aljotta
  • Imqaret
  • Bigilla
  • Kinnie, the local soft drink

Maltese cuisine mixes Italian, North African, and British influences, creating a unique Mediterranean flavor.

Blue Lagoon Comino

7. Common Mistakes Tourists Make

  • Going to Blue Lagoon at peak time
  • Skipping Gozo
  • Expecting sandy beaches everywhere
  • Using only buses during summer
  • Underestimating the strong sun
  • Staying only in tourist centers and missing local gems

8. Best Things to Do in Malta in 2026

  • Walk through Valletta's historic streets
  • Visit Mdina, the Silent City
  • Swim at Golden Bay or Għajn Tuffieħa
  • Take a boat trip to Comino
  • Spend a day in Gozo
  • Watch the sunset at Dingli Cliffs
  • Explore the Blue Grotto
  • Hike the Victoria Lines
  • Try a sunset cruise or cave tour

Discover curated tours and activities at www.hiddengemsmalta.com.

9. Is Malta Safe?

Yes, Malta is considered one of the safest countries in Europe.
Crime rates are low, and walking at night is generally safe. Still, use normal caution with belongings in crowded places.

Gozo Island

10. Final Tips for the Perfect 2026 Trip

  • Download the Tallinja app
  • Wear water shoes
  • Bring sunscreen everywhere
  • Explore beyond tourist hotspots
  • Take at least one boat tour
  • Spend one full day in Gozo
  • Enjoy sunsets on the west coast
  • Stay hydrated during summer

Book Your Malta Experience

Ready to experience Malta like a local?
Find the best boat tours, cultural activities, and hidden-spot adventures at:

👉 www.hiddengemsmalta.com
Book your experience today.