Malta is a sun-soaked Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and North Africa, renowned for its ancient fortified cities, crystal-clear waters, and 7,000 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage jewel blends baroque architecture, prehistoric temples, and vibrant coastal life into one of Europe's most captivating destinations.
Malta enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The islands receive over 300 days of sunshine per year and almost no rain from May to October. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 33°C with high humidity from the sea, while winters are mild at 12-16°C with occasional rain. The sea temperature reaches 26°C in August, remaining swimmable through November at 20°C.
Best time to visit
Best: June-August (hot and crowded)
Peak Season: June-August (hot and crowded)
Shoulder Season: April-May, September-October (ideal weather, fewer crowds)
Avoid: November-March (mild, quieter, some attractions closed)
Best Reason:
Avoid Reason:
Month-by-month weather
Typical conditions throughout the year.
January
12C/54F
Coolest month, occasional rain, very quiet, Christmas lights still up early Jan
February
12C/54F
Carnival season (pre-Lent) brings festivities; some rain; quiet but lively Carnival week
March
14C/57F
Spring begins, wildflowers emerging, mild and pleasant for walking
April
17C/63F
Excellent conditions for sightseeing, Easter processions, sea warming
May
20C/68F
Ideal month — warm, dry, flowers, sea swimmable (20°C), manageable crowds
June
24C/75F
Early summer, hot and dry, Isle of MTV concert, sea excellent (22°C)
July
27C/81F
Peak heat, very crowded, Jazz Festival, Blue Lagoon packed daily
August
28C/82F
Hottest month (35°C+ possible), sea at 26°C, maximum crowds and prices
September
25C/77F
Best month overall — warm, fewer tourists, sea 25°C, Victory Day September 8
October
21C/70F
Excellent walking weather, sea still swimmable at 22°C, Notte Bianca arts festival
November
16C/61F
First autumn rains, noticeably quieter, lampuki fish season ends
December
14C/57F
Christmas atmosphere, presepji nativity cribs, festive Valletta lights, quiet beaches
The seasons
What to expect in each part of the year.
Spring
Months: Mar-May
Wildflowers carpet Malta's countryside, temperatures are ideal for walking and sightseeing at 16-22°C, and sea begins to warm. Fewer crowds than summer but accommodation costs rising.
Summer
Months: Jun-Aug
Peak season with temperatures 28-35°C, very little rain, and Mediterranean sea at its warmest (24-26°C). Blue Lagoon and beaches at their best but heavily crowded.
Fall
Months: Sep-Nov
September and October are Malta's best months — warm sea (22-25°C), lower crowds, ideal temperatures of 20-26°C, and lower prices. November brings first rains.
Winter
Months: Dec-Feb
Mild at 12-16°C with occasional rain; all major sights open with few crowds. Christmas sees traditional presepji nativity cribs and festive atmosphere. Occasional Grigal northeasterly wind brings rough seas.
Crowds & peak times
When to expect tourists and when to avoid them.
- High Season
- Jun-Aug
- Shoulder Season
- Apr-May, Sep-Oct
- Low Season
- Nov-Mar
Major events & festivals
Time your visit around what matters.
Carnival
Five-day pre-Lenten celebration with parades, costumes, floats, and dancing in Valletta and towns. Malta's biggest party with grotesque masks and satirical floats.
Malta Fireworks Festival
Spectacular pyrotechnic displays over Grand Harbour showcasing Malta's fireworks artistry. International teams compete with elaborate synchronized shows.
Malta International Arts Festival
Three-week performing arts festival in Valletta featuring theater, dance, music, and opera. International and local artists perform in historic venues.
Isle of MTV Malta
Free massive outdoor concert at Floriana Granaries featuring international pop/rock acts. Draws 50,000+ attendees for MTV-produced show.
Village Festas
Traditional parish feasts honoring patron saints with processions, fireworks, street food, and brass bands. Every village celebrates - authentic Maltese culture.
Feast of St Paul's Shipwreck
Valletta celebrates patron saint's shipwreck on Malta in 60 AD with processions, religious ceremonies, and festivities. Important religious holiday.
Malta Jazz Festival
Three-day international jazz festival at Ta' Liesse waterfront featuring world-class musicians. Open-air concerts with harbor backdrop.
Notte Bianca
All-night cultural festival in Valletta with museums, galleries, and attractions open until 2am. Free entry, street performances, special events.
Rolex Middle Sea Race
Prestigious offshore yacht race starting from Grand Harbour, 606 nautical miles around Sicily. Spectacular start with 100+ yachts.
Christmas in Malta
Traditional Christmas markets, nativity cribs (presepji), Republic Street lights, and church celebrations. Midnight mass at St John's Co-Cathedral highlights.
Malta International Food Festival
Weekend food festival at Ta' Qali Crafts Village showcasing Maltese and international cuisine. Cooking demonstrations, tastings, local products.
Malta Marathon
Scenic marathon and half-marathon starting from Mdina through countryside to coast. Popular with international runners, spectacular route.