Essential Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to Malta

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Essential Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to Malta

Malta is an excellent destination for those looking to study English, gain work experience through an internship, or simply enjoy an enriching experience abroad. With its welcoming, multicultural environment, stunning landscapes, and a strategic location in the Mediterranean, Malta offers a unique blend of history, modernity, and island charm. However, to make the most of your stay, it is essential to be prepared. This guide covers everything you need to know before travelling to Malta, from cultural traditions and transport to everyday costs and safety tips.

Maltese Culture and Traditions

Malta has a deep-rooted cultural heritage shaped by its history, location, and strong Catholic traditions. Here are some key aspects of Maltese culture and customs.

Religious Celebrations

Religious celebrations are an integral part of Maltese life. Every town and village has a ‘festa’ dedicated to its patron saint, featuring processions, marching bands, fireworks, and street decorations. Important religious events include:

  • Holy Week & Easter – Processions, re-enactments, and solemn ceremonies take place across the island.
  • Feast of Santa Maria (15th August) – One of the most significant feasts, celebrated with grand fireworks and festivities.
  • Feast of Saint Paul’s Shipwreck (10th February) – Commemorates Saint Paul’s arrival in Malta and the introduction of Christianity.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Beyond religious celebrations, Malta has a rich calendar of cultural events. Visit our events calendar to discover upcoming events.

 

Local Customs and Etiquette

  • Dress code – While Malta is a relaxed and welcoming country, modest clothing is expected in churches and religious sites. Topless sunbathing and nudity are not permitted on any beach.
  • Language – Maltese and English are the official languages. Italian is also sometimes spoken by some older locals.
  • Tipping – While not mandatory, tipping around 10% is appreciated in restaurants and for good service.

Local Food

Maltese cuisine is a delicious mix of Mediterranean influences. Traditional dishes you must try include:

  • Pastizzi: Pastry filled with ricotta cheese or mashed peas.
  • Rabbit stew (Fenkata): A national dish, typically slow-cooked in a rich sauce.
  • Ftira: A traditional Maltese sandwich with tuna, olives, and tomato paste.
  • Lampuki pie: A seasonal fish pie popular in autumn.

For more information about Maltese food, check our blog

Weather in Malta

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm temperatures most of the year:

  • Summer (June–September) – Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing are essential.
  • Winter (December–February) – Mild but can feel chilly indoors due to lack of heating. Rain showers are common between November and February.
  • Spring & Autumn (March–May, October–November) – Pleasant temperatures and mild weather, making them ideal seasons for exploring the island without large crowds.

Be Sea-Smart: Enjoying Malta’s beaches safely

Malta’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, but safety should always come first:

 

Beach flags in Malta are typically displayed at official swimming zones, such as public beaches, beach clubs, and lifeguarded areas. The flags are placed near the shoreline or lifeguard stations to indicate current sea conditions. The flag system in Malta helps swimmers understand the safety conditions of the sea. Here’s what each flag means and what you should do:

  • Green Flag: Safe to swim. The water conditions are calm, and there are no major hazards.
  • Yellow Flag: Caution is required. There might be moderate waves, strong currents, or other risks, so only experienced swimmers should enter the water.
  • Red Flag: Dangerous conditions. Swimming is strongly discouraged due to strong currents, rough seas, or other safety concerns.
  • Double Red Flags: Swimming is strictly prohibited due to extremely dangerous sea conditions. If you see a double red flag, do not enter the water under any circumstances.
  • Purple Flag: Indicates the presence of jellyfish or other marine hazards. If you see this flag, it’s best to avoid swimming in that area to prevent stings or injuries.

 

Before heading into the water, always check which flag is displayed and follow lifeguard recommendations to stay safe.

 

Jellyfish: If you get stung, do not rub the area. Rinse with seawater and apply vinegar or baking soda to reduce pain.

 

Sea conditions: Check the wind forecast before swimming. Currents can be dangerous, especially when the wind blows out to sea.

Everyday costs

While Malta is relatively affordable compared to other European destinations, costs vary depending on lifestyle and location. Here’s a general guide:

  • Groceries: Around €50-€75 per week
  • Meal in a budget restaurant: Between 10€ and 15€ per person.
  • Meal in a high-end restaurant: Between 40€ and 60€ per person.
  • Coffee in a café: Around 2€ – 3€.
  • Gym membership: Around €50 per month
  • Private Doctor Visit: Between €15 to €30 for a General Practitioner

Transport in Malta

Malta has a public transport system based on buses. It is the only form of public transport, so it is important to understand the fares and how it works:

  • Each bus trip costs 2€ in winter and 3€ in summer.
  • There are various cards that can save visitors money if they plan on making multiple bus trips. Check them out and see which one suits your needs best.
  • To check real-time schedules and routes, you can download the Tallinja App. However, Google Maps also works just fine.

Other transport options include:

  • Private taxis and ride apps: Bolt, Uber and Ecabs are the most popular services, with Bolt usually being the cheapest option. There are also other local taxi services, but the cost may vary.
  • Bike rental: You can rent bicycles or electric scooters, but road conditions and the hot Summer weather are not always great for cycling.
  • Walking: Malta is a small country, so walking is often the best way to move around, especially in towns and cities. In the Summer months, we recommend against walking long distances during the day.
  • Ferries: Ferries connect Valletta with Sliema and the Three Cities, as well as Gozo and Comino.

Other Important Information

  • Plugs: Malta uses the same plugs as the UK (Type G). You may need an adapter.
  • Tap water: Safe for showering and cooking but not recommended for drinking. Bottled or filtered water is preferred.
  • Driving: People drive on the left, like in the UK. Roads are narrow, and traffic can be chaotic, especially at rush hour.
  • Currency: Malta is in the EU, and the currency is the euro (€). ATMs and card payments are widely available.
  • Entertainment: Malta offers plenty of activities, from historic sites and diving to nightlife and cultural events. Explore our blog on things to do in Malta!

Conclusion

Whether you’re visiting Malta to study, work, or explore, being prepared will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. From stunning beaches and vibrant festivals to delicious food and a welcoming culture, Malta has something for everyone. Now that you know what to expect, all that’s left to do is pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

 

If you’re considering studying English in Malta, check out our English courses to make the most of your time on the island!

Book your English Course at GV Malta

Welcome to GV Malta, where language learning meets Mediterranean charm! Since 1999, our vibrant school has thrived within a picturesque Maltese villa nestled in the bustling seaside town of St. Paul’s Bay. Just a stone’s throw from the glistening sea, GV Malta combines the warmth of a family atmosphere with the expertise of a top-tier institution. With a cozy capacity for 100 students, we pride ourselves on fostering meaningful connections and tailoring our approach to each individual, ensuring a truly personalized learning experience. Dive into our world of language education and discover why GV Malta is your perfect language learning destination.

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