Weather in Malta, forecasts and temperatures

Valletta is one of the most visited places by travellers in Malta, whatever the weather, it is possible to visit and discover the capital and its knightly past. However, the fortified city can quickly become sweltering in the height of summer, so it is best to visit Valletta when the temperature is between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius.

The city of Mellieħa is very popular among travellers. One of the largest beaches in Malta: Għadira Bay, as well as Popeye Village are located there. The town is ideal for water and beach activities, so it is best to visit on hot, sunny days.

Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, benefits from a slightly cooler climate than the main island, the island is also subject to more rainfall. Gozo is ideal for trekking and hiking activities, so it is best to avoid too hot days to discover the island.

The best months to travel to Malta may vary depending on one’s expectations and interests, and the most suitable month to visit the archipelago can vary greatly. Lovers of leisure, beaches and summer activities (concerts, festivals, etc.) will particularly appreciate the summer months. Travellers looking for cultural or historical visits and tranquillity will prefer spring or autumn.

May, June, September and October are the most pleasant months in Malta. It is possible to swim, enjoy the sun and the island without being overwhelmed by the sun or heavy rain. Hotels and transport prices are also cheaper in the off-season and there are fewer tourists.

June is undoubtedly the best month to travel to Malta. The sun begins to fully set during the day (UV protection is already a must) and the nights remain mild and comfortable. Visitors can take advantage of all the cultural sites without limitations and, at the same time, all the nautical activities (diving, water sports, jet-skiing, etc.) are on offer. A month that suits young and old and all traveller profiles.

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate, strongly marked by a climatic phenomenon: the arrival of the Sirocco.

The Sirocco is a wind coming from the Sahara, a wind that is both very dry and very hot, which transforms Malta’s climate in a few days. The Sirocco arrives in Malta in late spring and settles in during the summer.

Summers in Malta are very hot and dry. Winters are mild and wet. Rainfall, although infrequent, can be heavy during the winter and turn the island into a veritable waterfall. A particularity of the island, the archipelago is prone to storms and sea winds. The presence of the coast also creates an ambient humidity after sunset from October to April.

The average annual temperature is 20 degrees Celsius. In winter, temperatures rarely drop below 10 degrees Celsius. From the beginning of June and the arrival of the Sirocco, temperatures rise to over 30 degrees.

The water temperature is pleasant from May to the end of October. However, swimming is possible all year round for those who are less cold. It is common to see Maltese swimming in Spinola Bay in mid-December.

January in Malta is the coldest month in the archipelago, it is also a very windy month. The air temperature does not usually drop below 10 degrees, the thermometer usually ranges between 12 and 16 degrees, but the feeling is usually below this due to the humidity.

The water temperature is about 15 degrees. Some locals swim all year round, even in January. January is one of the quieter months on the island, most tourist activities and excursions are still available, but it’s important to wrap up warm and avoid rainy days.

In February, the weather in Malta is similar to January, with a difference of one or two degrees. The air temperature is a little milder than in January, but the water temperature drops a few degrees. February is the ideal month for budget travels in Malta. Hotel prices in Malta are at their lowest in February, so you can find very good deals.

In March, Malta’s islands are back in colour and the thermometer starts to turn red again. Temperatures range between 15 and 20 degrees, with some days around 20 degrees. It is still a bit early to think about water activities, the water remains cold at around 16 degrees. It will also be difficult to sunbathe on the beaches. March is a month that is very suitable for trekking activities and cultural visits such as a visit to Valletta.

In April in Malta, spring is in full bloom, everything is flowery and fragrant within walking distance of the main towns. The air warms up to 18-20 degrees. The sea water is still cool. It’s not too hot yet, so it’s a great month to explore the island.

May marks the beginning of the best period to come to Malta and therefore one of the most pleasant months. The Mediterranean warms up to 18 degrees and this marks the beginning of the nautical activities. It is not too hot yet, the air temperature is around 25 degrees. It is already advisable to use sunscreen, the sun is shining brightly.

In June, the summer season begins with the arrival of the Sirocco, which within a few days raises temperatures and marks the start of the high season. With the temperature of the Mediterranean Sea rising above 20 degrees, the tourist season officially begins in Malta. The month of June is very pleasant and yet much less crowded than July and August, so if you are looking for sunshine and still some peace and quiet, this is the ideal month to travel to Malta.

July is the hottest month in Malta. During the day, it’s best to be near the sea, because it’s a dry heat. If you rent a flat, make sure there’s air conditioning. Remember to wear sunscreen with 50+ protection and stay well hydrated.

The water temperature warms up to 26 degrees, rainfall is exceptional. July is suitable for heat lovers, but it is quite difficult for daily activities and visits.

August is the most popular, most touristy and most expensive month. Malta does not have a tropical climate, the dry heat is constant day and night. In August in Malta you will find the highest water temperature and sunshine all day long.

The air temperature is above 30 degrees Celsius during the day and the water temperature stays above 26 degrees Celsius. Occasionally, there may be one or two showers related to heat storms.

The weather in Malta in September is very pleasant. September is one of the best months to visit the archipelago, with May, June and October. Neither cold, nor too hot with a very high water temperature. The wave of tourists begins to fade with the end of the European school holidays. It is possible to really enjoy Malta and its activities.

October is a sunny and warm month. Contrary to popular belief, there is no monsoon season in Malta, but periods of rain are expected from the end of October onwards. Tourists continue to bask in the October sunshine on the beach. There is no sweltering heat and the air temperature is very comfortable. This is the best time to relax and explore the island’s archaeological and historical sites.

The weather in Malta in November is very changeable. The first decade of the month is characterised by sunny days, while almost all of Europe is already starting to prepare for winter, the weather in Malta remains warm. From the second half of November onwards the rainy season starts in Malta, the weather is constantly changing. It can be sunny in the morning and turn stormy with heavy rain in the afternoon.

The weather in Malta in December is beautiful in its own way. December is a cool month. The temperature does not drop below 11 degrees, but the nights are cool and damp. The island can turn into a New Year’s fairytale with temperatures of around 20 degrees during the day. The island can also become a natural waterfall. Sea storms, heavy December rains and the lack of an efficient rainwater harvesting infrastructure sometimes make the island chaotic.