30 frequently asked questions about Malta

Coming to Malta on holiday soon? Here are some essential facts to help you on your way!

We’ve put together all the practical information you need to know about Malta in a nutshell.

From internet access and electrical adapters to average temperatures and tipping advice, here are 30 of the most frequently asked questions about Malta.

FAQS ABOUT MALTA

1. Where is Malta? Malta is located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, around 93 km or 58 miles south of the Italian island of Sicily.

2. How many people live in Malta? We have a population of about 461,000.

3. What is Malta’s capital city? Valletta.

4. Where are the major tourist resorts? St Julian’s, Sliema, St Paul’s Bay, Qawra, Bugibba, Marsaxlokk and Mellieha as well as Marsalforn and Xlendi in Gozo.

5. When is the best time to visit Malta? Malta has a classic Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

• Spring (March, April, May) – seeing leaves and plants bursting into life, Easter, average temperatures of around 19°C.
• Summer (June, July, August) – swimming at the beach, enjoying an ice cream, average temperatures of around 31°C.
• Autumn (September, October, November) – strolling in the sunshine with average temperatures of around 22°C.
• Winter (December, January, February) – lounging by cosy fires, taking winter walks, celebrating Christmas with average temperatures of around 14°C.

6. What language is spoken in Malta? While English and Maltese are the official languages of Malta, English is the language used in business, tourism and education. Italian is also widely spoken.

7. Is Malta still British? No, Malta was granted independence from the UK in 1964, however the island is a member of the Commonwealth.

8. Are people from Malta called Maltesers? No, citizens of Malta are Maltese. People from Gozo are known as Gozitans.

FAQS FOR BEFORE YOU VISIT MALTA

9. Do I need any vaccinations to visit Malta? No.

10. Do I need travel insurance? You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel. If you’re coming to Malta you should also get a free European Health Insurance Card before leaving home.

11. What is the electricity supply like in Malta? Malta enjoys a constant electricity supply throughout the country, including Comino. Nowadays, power cuts are rare and are usually fixed very quickly.

12. Is it safe to drink the tap water? Yes, Malta’s water is perfectly safe to drink from the tap.

13. Will I be able to access the internet? Wi-fi is available in a number of public squares in Malta and Gozo, as well as on the buses. You should also be able to access roaming data from your phone. Charges vary though so please check with your provider before you visit us.

14. Can I use my mobile phone? Your mobile should switch onto a Maltese network while you’re here, though charges for calls and data vary. Check with your own provider before your holiday.

15. What are the typical shopping hours? Shops are normally open between 9am and 1pm and between 4pm and 7pm. In tourist areas, many shops remain open from 8am to 10pm. Shops are normally closed on Sundays and public holidays.

16. How late are bars and nightclubs open? Most bars and pubs stay open till midnight while nightclubs will be open longer.

17. What is the legal drinking age in Malta? 17.

18. What about smoking laws? Smoking is not allowed indoors in public places, including bars, restaurants, buses, cinemas, hospitals and schools.

19. How many passengers can a taxi take? Taxis you see in the street will usually accommodate 3 or 4 people, depending on the size of the taxi.

FAQS FOR WHEN YOU’RE IN MALTA

20. What side of the road should I drive on? Left, like Britain and Australia.

21: Is there a speed limit in Malta? There are speed limits of 80 km/h on the open road and 50 km/h in built-up areas, unless otherwise indicated on relevant road signs.

22. What is the emergency number? 112.

23. What is the international dialling code for Malta? +356.

24. What type of electrical adapter will I need? Type G. Malta’s plugs are exactly the same as those in Britain.

25. What money should I bring? Malta’s currency is the Euro.

26. Do I need to tip? Although there isn’t a big tipping culture in Malta, it is quite common to tip in restaurants or taxis when you receive good service.

27. How much should I tip? 10 percent is a good rule of thumb though most people will be delighted with any amount of tip.

28. Is Malta ‘gay friendly’? Yes. Malta holds first place in the world rankings measuring LGBTQ rights.

29. Where are the best beaches?  Golden Bay, Pretty Bay, Riviera Bay, Paradise Bay, Mellieha Bay and Ramla Bay are all popular sandy beaches.

30. If I’m unwell, can I get free treatment? All Maltese, British and EU citizens have free access to Malta’s state health centres and clinics. It’s important to take your E111 card and passport with you.

These facts may prepare you for your visit but to truly understand Malta nothing beats the experience of a trip here!