8 Reasons to Visit Malta

Often overlooked, Malta's historical and cultural heritage is truly exceptional. The archipelago, which covers only 316 km², is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the fortified city of Valletta, the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean sanctuary over 5,000 years old.

This tiny territory boasts an incredible wealth of monuments and relics, a legacy of Malta’s strategic role over the centuries at the crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations. Prehistoric structures older than the Egyptian pyramids stand alongside medieval fortifications built by the Knights of the Order of St. John. Malta's heritage is unique: every stone bears witness to the various invasions and influences – Phoenician, Arab, British, or Napoleonic – that have shaped the archipelago's history.

Malta's coastline is one of the archipelago’s greatest assets and one of the main reasons for its popularity with travelers. Fine sandy beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear lagoons: Malta is entirely surrounded by a translucent, turquoise sea that invites both relaxation and adventure.

The Maltese coast alternates between limestone cliffs, sandy stretches ideal for families, and wild spots popular with thrill-seekers. Among the must-sees, Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay are loved for their accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere. St. Peter’s Pool cove, with its natural platforms perfect for diving, delights young people in search of fun and excitement. And of course, the iconic and unmissable Blue Lagoon in Comino offers a true postcard setting with its shallow waters and small Caribbean-style beach area.

With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Malta boasts one of the best climates in Europe. The weather in Malta is pleasant all year round: winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 12°C, while summers are hot and dry, with temperatures above 30°C.

This typical Mediterranean climate allows visitors to enjoy outdoor terraces, hiking, and even swimming throughout the year. Each season suits a different type of traveler: summer is ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing and water activities, while the months from October to April are perfect for cultural visits or hiking, with fewer tourists and ideal temperatures for exploring the island without the heat.

Beyond its postcard landscapes, the archipelago also stands out for the variety of activities available in Malta. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a sports lover, or on a family trip, the island has something to offer everyone.

Being an island, water sports play a central role: kayaking, paddleboarding, boat cruises, parasailing, flyboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Malta offers almost every water-based activity imaginable. But Malta isn’t just about the sea: it also abounds in cultural treasures, such as the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Manoel Theatre – one of the oldest still in operation in Europe – or the fortified city of Mdina, a true medieval gem.

Younger visitors will enjoy family-friendly attractions such as the national aquarium, a water park, and two theme parks: Popeye Village and the Playmobil FunPark, sure to thrill little adventurers.

Finally, for thrill-seekers, the neighboring island of Gozo is perfect for quad or jeep excursions through more rugged landscapes.

In short, activities abound in Malta, and the archipelago’s small size means most places of interest are reachable in under an hour’s drive.

Malta also charms visitors with its festive atmosphere that enlivens the archipelago year-round. It’s a popular destination for young adults aged 18 to 30, especially due to its vibrant nightlife. The famous Paceville district in Saint Julian's, with dozens of clubs and bars open every day of the week, attracts thousands of partygoers each night.

But beyond nightclubs, Malta also offers a rich and varied cultural program, surprising for such a small country. Carnival, Isle of MTV Malta, SummerDaze Festival, international jazz festival, and performances by many global artists. In 2024, for example, DJ Snake, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, and RAYE performed in Malta.

The island buzzes with artistic events all year long, and there’s a good chance a major event will coincide with your stay, especially if you visit Malta during the summer months.

Unlike other Mediterranean destinations, Malta remains relatively affordable (except during summer). Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from youth hostels to five-star luxury hotels, allowing every traveler to find something within their budget.

Public transport costs less than two euros for two hours of travel (€1.50 in the off-season), and Private Hire Vehicle like Bolt or Uber will take you almost anywhere on the island for around ten euros. Restaurant prices are generally 15 to 20% lower than in France, especially for drinks.

This affordability is even more pronounced outside the peak season. From November to March, hotel prices can drop by 50% or more, with four-star hotel stays available for under €50 between January and March. This makes the archipelago accessible to a wide audience, offering the opportunity to discover Malta during a weekend or week-long stay at a lower cost.

The island is also easily accessible thanks to numerous low-cost flights from continental Europe, with tickets often below €50. Great value for money is yet another reason to visit Malta without breaking the bank.

Malta is a safe destination for travelers and is known as one of the safest countries in Europe, with a low crime rate. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, whether in large cities like Valletta or in more remote villages. Travelers can walk around freely, even at night, without feeling unsafe, regardless of their attire.

This setting appeals to families, solo female travelers, and young students on their first language trip abroad.

Emergency services are efficient, and English – used daily – makes communication with authorities easy in case of any issue.

Malta is one of only three European countries (two within the European Union) where English is an official language. It’s also the only European country where English is spoken under the sun – not under Ireland or the UK’s downpours ;).

This sunny Mediterranean setting has become a popular destination for language stays, with many certified English schools offering courses for all levels, for both adults and children.

This unique, cosmopolitan, and dynamic environment attracts nearly 56,000 students each year from all over the world, seeking a more affordable English-speaking context than the UK, while enjoying the sun.