Malta

Malta is a small country nestled in the Mediterranean Sea. The nation is formed of 3 main islands, each with a unique history that dates back some 5,000 years. However, it is not a place that time left behind. The modern age is also here, creating a unique blend of modern and antique features.

In this page you will find practical information to plan a scuba diving trip to Malta:

Where to stay?

Tourism is a major industry in Malta. The three major islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino each have attributes that attract tourist. Malta island is the main island of the country and is the hub of tourism.

• Valletta is the capital city of Malta and is on the east coast. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site with many examples of medieval architecture.
• Set along a rugged coast line with great beaches, the north coast is the largest tourism destination. The towns of Buġibba, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, and Mellieħa are the heart of this region. St. Julian’s and Paceville are considered to have the best nightlife in the area.
• All of Malta is considered laid back, but Gozo takes it a step further.

In term of accommodations, it’s mostly between the islands of Malta and Gozo. In fact, Comino is largely inhabited, except for one small resort and few campgrounds.

• There is a nice selection of two to five star hotels and resorts on both islands.
• You can rent a farmhouse, many of which are more than 400 years old. While old, they have been update with modern conveniences.
• Guesthouses & Bed and breakfast style accommodations are cozy and quaint.
• When you are looking for a fun place to stay and at a low price, nothing beats a hostel.
• Upscale private accommodations.
• Small apartments available for weekly, or longer, rentals – such as AirBnb.
• Camping! Nothing beats the outdoors on Malta, and there’s plenty of campgrounds on all of the three islands.

Activities and excursions in Malta

Valletta and the Three Cities make a good day ashore for anyone interested in Malta’s harbours and fortifications. On Gozo, Dwejra offers a shorter outing around the Inland Sea and the cliffs. In rough weather, enjoy the coastline from well back on the paths.

Best time to visit Malta

Anytime of the year is good for visiting Malta. Indeed, the weather is always comfortable, and even too hot during the summer months! Here’s a quick list of the seasons and what to expect:

• April to June may be the best months as it’s not too hot, but has nice weather for any activity! Also, April and early May is the end of the festival season. May and June sees nice weather and conditions are acceptable for swimming and water activities.
• July, August and September are the peak tourist season with hot weather and many tourists.
• The shoulder season of October and November will still see temperatures warm enough for water activities.
• December to March will see periods of rain and cooler temperatures.

Health and Safety

Eligible travellers can use an EHIC for medically necessary public healthcare in Malta, under the same conditions as locally insured patients. Private treatment and repatriation require separate arrangements. Before a Gozo dive, ask your insurer about diving cover and keep its assistance number with you. European Health Insurance Card guidance

If you are planning an upcoming dive trip or travelling to Malta, it is a really good idea to invest in travel insurance for scuba diving, because you never know what could happen and when you might need it (because accidents do happen!). I recommend this diving insurance as they offer worldwide coverage and focus on providing scuba divers a quality insurance and medical assistance service.

Where is Malta located in the world?

The Maltese islands lie south of Sicily in the central Mediterranean. Malta is the international arrival island, Gozo is a separate ferry crossing, and Comino lies between them. Keep those three names distinct when booking accommodation, a ferry or a boat excursion.

How to get to Malta?

Malta International Airport at Luqa is the air gateway for both Malta and Gozo. For a Gozo stay, allow time for the overland journey to Ċirkewwa, the ferry crossing and transport from Mġarr to your accommodation.

Do I need a visa for Malta?

For visitors covered by the Schengen short-stay rule, time spent in other Schengen countries counts towards the same limit of 90 days in any rolling 180-day period. Whether you need a visa depends on your passport and circumstances. Check the official guidance for your nationality before travelling. European Commission visa guidance

Getting Around

Local buses serve both main islands. For an early boat or a shore dive with bulky gear, check whether your centre meets at its shop, collects guests or expects you at the site. A ferry ticket between Malta and Gozo covers a different leg of the journey from a bus or taxi.

Malta is a destination that offers more than what you might first envision. One that will capture your heart and soul.

Malta Photos

Scuba diving

You will find all information about sea life, best time to visit, top dive spots, etc. in our review: Malta Diving