First-Timer Travel Tips for Malta: What to Know Before You Go

Malta in a nutshell

Malta is a tiny Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and North Africa, made up of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. It is sunny, walkable in parts and packed with 7,000 years of history. A little preparation makes a first visit smoother.

Plugs and voltage

Malta uses the UK-style Type G three-pin plug, a legacy of British rule. The supply is 230V at 50Hz.

• If you are coming from the UK or Ireland, your plugs fit as-is.
• From the EU, US or anywhere else, pack a Type G adapter (sold at the airport but cheaper beforehand).
• Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage, so you only need an adapter, not a converter.

Language basics

Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Almost everyone speaks fluent English, so you will have no trouble. Italian is also widely understood. A few Maltese words go a long way:

• Bonġu - good morning
• Grazzi - thank you
• Jekk jogħġbok - please
• Saħħa - cheers/goodbye

What to pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing - summers are hot and dry, often above 30C.
• Sun protection - high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. The Mediterranean sun is strong.
• Comfortable walking shoes - Valletta, Mdina and the coastal paths have steep streets and uneven steps.
• Modest layer - shoulders and knees must be covered to enter St John's Co-Cathedral and other churches.
• Swimwear and water shoes - many swim spots are rocky rather than sandy.

Getting around

There is no train or metro. Public buses (Tallinja) reach almost everywhere; a single fare is around 2 euros in summer. Cabs, Bolt and the Gozo ferry fill the gaps. Driving is on the left.

Staying connected

Malta is in the EU, so EU roaming caps apply for European SIMs. For everyone else, an eSIM is the easiest option. Reliable mobile data lets you check bus times on the Tallinja app, navigate Valletta's grid and translate a menu on the spot.

7 quick tips

• Carry euros in small notes; many kiosks dislike large bills.
• Tap water is safe but heavily desalinated and tastes flat - locals drink bottled.
• Book the Blue Lagoon on Comino early in the day to dodge crowds.
• Take the ferry to Gozo for a slower, greener day trip.
• Many shops close midday and on Sundays outside tourist zones.
• Tipping is around 10 percent and appreciated, not mandatory.
• Summer heat peaks midday - sightsee early, rest, then explore again at dusk.

Stay connected in Malta

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so maps, translation and bookings just work with no roaming bills or hunting for Wi-Fi.