Malta is a Southern Europe nation in Europe, with Valletta as its capital and home to around 484,630 people. The currency is the Euro (EUR). The main languages are English, Maltese. From its landscapes and cities to its cuisine and traditions, Malta offers travelers a distinctive slice of the world to explore.
Capital
Valletta
Population
484.6K
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Languages
English, Maltese
Timezone
GMT+1
Calling code
+356
Malta has a rich history shaped by its position in Europe and the cultures of Southern Europe, leaving a legacy visible in its landmarks, cities and traditions today.
Culture in Malta is expressed through its food, festivals, music and daily rhythms — a warm invitation to experience local life first-hand.
May–June & September–October for mild weather and thinner crowds
Visitors from outside the EU, including Americans, must fill out a landing card, available on board some arriving flights (sometimes) or in the entrance hall of the airport from a small box between the customs agents. As of January 2020, American travellers report having their passports stamped into the Schengen Area and being waved straight on to baggage claim.
Major currencies other than the euro are not acceptable as an over-the-counter currency. In the past, they were widely accepted years ago and changed on the fly at restaurants and bars. So if you have dollars or pounds, it's best to change them at the plethora of exchange bureaus or banks across the island prior to going out. The Lombard Bank doesn't charge any ATM withdrawal fee.
The island of Malta is pretty densely populated and there is no rail transport of any kind, so expect crowded streets no matter how you try to get around. On the plus side, distances are relatively short and bus fares are low compared to Western Europe. ===By bus===
The official languages are Maltese and English. By law, all official documents in Malta are in Maltese and English and many radio stations broadcast in both languages. Virtually all Maltese citizens speak English fluently and some even speak with a standard British accent.
Malta is generally considered safe. However, visitors to Paceville at night should exercise caution. Due to Malta being a major Mediterranean port, sailors with shore leave tend to become quite rowdy after long voyages. As well, the advent of low-cost air travel coming to Malta has brought an influx of teenagers from across Europe enjoying short cheap weekend breaks in the sun.
The main health risk in Malta is the fierce sun in the Spring and Summer, which can scorch unsuspecting tourists. Apply sunblock liberally to avoid getting sunburned! Water from the tap is safe to drink but has a slightly salty taste to it because much of it is obtained through desalination.
===Mobile networks=== The country has three mobile phone networks available: EPIC, GO Mobile, and Melita Mobile. Due to international agreements with providers around the globe, EPIC, GO and Melita are sure to be a part of your carrier's roaming plan. Malta uses GSM for its mobile services and alternatively, travellers can get a SIM card for their own unlocked smartphone to roam with.
Practical guidance for Malta is summarised from Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Always confirm official visa, health and safety requirements before you travel.
A suggested loop connecting Malta's major cities by proximity — a practical order for a multi-city trip.
Estimated total (your figures)
$3,160
≈ $1,580 per person · $451 per day
This tool only multiplies the numbers you enter — no prices are assumed.