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Malta sits in the Mediterranean 60 miles south of Italy. With a hint of the cultures that have come before, from the French and British to Knights of St John, there's much to discover as you enjoy the favourable climate and carefree atmosphere.
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- National language: Maltese and English
- Time difference: Malta is typically 1 hour ahead of UK time
- Flight time: Average flight time to Malta is 3 hours
Did you know?
Small in size
Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world with a land-mass of just 316 km, making it smaller than the Isle of Wight (380 km)
Malta isn't just one island, it's made up of seven tiny islets.
The two largest islands, Malta and Gozo, are inhabited; the third biggest, Comino, features a single holiday resort. The remaining four are totally uninhabited.
You won't find a single forest area in Malta. There are also no mountains or rivers across all seven islands.
It’s where movies are made!
Due to its unspoilt nature, quiet coastline, ancient architecture and relative obscurity, Malta has been used as a film-location for some familiar Hollywood blockbusters.
Film scenes from Malta can be seen in Gladiator, Troy, World War Z and Captain Philips as well as the much acclaimed TV series Game of Thrones.
Older than Stonehenge and the great pyramids of Egypt, Malta's Megalithic Temples are the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world.
Famous Knights
The Knights of St John of Jerusalem (also known as the Knights of Malta) were given control over Malta in 1530 by Charles V of Spain.
Mostly remembered for successfully defending the island against the Ottomans during The Great Siege of 1565, they were finally defeated by Napoleon in 1798.
Traditional Maltese boats
What's the public transport like in Malta?
Getting around in Malta is relatively straightforward, thanks to its compact size and various transport options. Here are some common ways to travel around the islands of Malta and Gozo:
1. Buses: The public bus system is the most popular and affordable way to get around Malta. Operated by Malta Public Transport, buses connect major towns, tourist attractions, and beaches. They run frequently, especially in urban areas, but can be less frequent in rural areas.
2. Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Malta at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road, and some roads can be narrow and winding.
3. Taxis and ride-sharing: Taxis are available throughout Malta, and ride-sharing services like Bolt operate on the islands. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey or make sure the meter is used.
4. Ferries: Ferries are a great way to travel between the main island of Malta and the smaller island of Gozo. The Gozo Channel Ferry operates regular services, and there are also ferries to the island of Comino, known for the Blue Lagoon.
5. Bicycles and scooters: Renting a bicycle or scooter can be a fun way to explore Malta, especially in areas with less traffic. However, be cautious of narrow roads and hills.
6. Walking: Many of Malta's towns and cities, such as Valletta and Mdina, are best explored on foot due to their historic centres and pedestrian-friendly streets.
7. Boat tours: Consider taking a boat tour to explore Malta's coastline, visit hidden coves, or enjoy a day trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon.
When planning your travel, consider purchasing a Tallinja Card for unlimited bus travel over a set period, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to use public transport frequently.
What activities can you do in Malta?
Malta offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, from exploring historical sites to enjoying outdoor adventures. Here are some popular activities to consider when visiting Malta:
1. Explore historical sites: Visit the ancient city of Mdina, the fortified capital Valletta, and the prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
2. Visit the Blue Lagoon: Take a boat trip to the island of Comino and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, a popular spot for snorkelling and sunbathing.
3. Discover Gozo: Explore Malta's sister island, Gozo, known for its rural charm, beautiful landscapes, and attractions like the Citadel in Victoria and the Azure Window site.
4. Diving and snorkelling: Malta is a top destination for diving, with numerous dive sites featuring shipwrecks, caves, and vibrant marine life. Popular spots include the Blue Hole in Gozo and the wreck of the Um El Faroud.
5. Walking and hiking: Enjoy scenic walks along the Dingli Cliffs, explore the countryside trails of Gozo, or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
Sun, sea and culture
Malta gets more than 300 sunny days a year and is surrounded by clear blue waters, some of the cleanest in the Mediterranean, much enjoyed by visiting swimmers, snorkellers and divers.
- Malta has a greater density of historic sights than any other country.
- It features unique prehistoric temples, some of the oldest stone buildings in the world.
- Other historic sites include Roman catacombs, medieval towns, and the architectural and artistic legacy of the Knights of St John (the Knights of Malta).
- Malta offers fantastic beaches and colourful carnivals.
- Notable attractions include Fort St. Angelo and the Argotti Botanic Gardens.
- Malta embodies 6,000 years of civilisation and is renowned for its friendly hospitality.
As a responsible travel insurer we recommend you always check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice before visiting any country. Read the latest FCDO advice for Malta.
What does our travel insurance cover?
Our travel insurance for Malta offers:
• Up to £10 million of emergency medical cover.
• Compensation of up to £10,000 if you have to cancel your trip.
• Cover for groups of up to 10 people on one policy.
• Cover for travellers over the age of 65.
If you’re a frequent traveller, you may want to consider our multi-trip cover.
Optional extras can be added to protect you against theft of bags and their contents, valuables and money. If you’ve got an action-packed trip planned, check the activities covered in our policies to make sure yours are included.
Just be mindful, in case you’re looking to get a job during your trip to Malta, that work-related incidents aren't covered.
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