As temperatures drop across Europe, Malta beckons with its mild Mediterranean climate, where average winter temperatures hover around 15-17°C (59-63°F). If you’re seeking a sunny escape, rich history, or vibrant culture, Malta offers the perfect winter getaway, and trust me, it’s a destination you won’t forget.
Why Choose Malta for Your Winter Holiday?
- Mild Climate: You’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures and up to 6 hours of sunshine daily. It’s the perfect climate for sightseeing or just relaxing. Check out the Malta weather forecast to stay updated.
- Fewer Crowds: Winter means you can explore Malta’s top attractions—like Mdina, Valletta, and Hagar Qim—without the summer rush.
- Festive Atmosphere: The island comes alive with Christmas markets, sparkling lights, and local traditions. Plus, New Year’s Eve in Malta? Unforgettable.
- Cultural Events: There’s no shortage of things to do. From the Valletta Baroque Festival in January to local artisan markets, winter in Malta is anything but dull.
Getting to Malta: Winter Flight Options
Getting to Malta in winter is easier than ever. Malta International Airport (MIA) welcomes visitors from across Europe and beyond. Here’s how you can reach our sunny shores this season:
From Major European Hubs
- Vienna: Daily flights with Ryanair or Air Malta
- Amsterdam: Regular services with Air Malta
- Rome: Ryanair or Air Malta, both with multiple daily flights
- Paris: Choose Air Malta from Charles de Gaulle (daily) or Vueling from Orly (on select days)
UK Connections
- London: Fly daily from Heathrow (Air Malta), Gatwick (Air Malta, Ryanair, easyJet), Stansted (Ryanair), or Luton (Ryanair)
- Regional UK: Flights from Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh with Ryanair. easyJet flies from Manchester, too.
Eastern European Gateways
- Poland: Flights from Krakow, Warsaw (Wizz Air, Ryanair), and Gdansk (Ryanair)
- Hungary: Budapest (Ryanair, Wizz Air)
- Romania: Bucharest (Ryanair, Wizz Air)
Southern European Connections
- Spain: Barcelona (Ryanair, Vueling) and Madrid (Ryanair, Air Malta)
- Italy: Milan, Rome, and Catania with multiple options from Air Malta and Ryanair
Long-Haul Connections
- Dubai: Daily Emirates flights
- Istanbul: Daily flights with Turkish Airlines
For the latest updates on flight schedules, be sure to visit Malta International Airport’s website.
Winter Activities in Malta
Winter in Malta is the perfect time to dive into an array of activities, both on land and at sea. Whether you’re a history buff or an adrenaline junkie, here’s what you can do:
- Explore Historic Sites: Malta’s temples and medieval cities offer history without the hassle of tourist crowds. Don’t miss Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of stunning Baroque architecture. If you’re intrigued by art, you can also explore the works of Mattia Preti, one of Malta’s most celebrated painters, who left a lasting mark on the island’s churches (Read more about Mattia Preti’s Malta).
- Museums: History lovers, rejoice! From the National Museum of Archaeology to the War Museum at Fort St. Elmo, Malta’s museums are full of treasures waiting to be uncovered. Prefer the outdoors? Consider a self-guided tour to explore Malta’s hidden gems at your own pace (Discover more on self-guided tours).
- Mountain Biking: Take on Malta’s rugged terrain with a mountain bike adventure. Whether you’re looking for a scenic ride along the coastline or a more challenging inland route, Malta has it all. For more information on routes, check out this guide to mountain biking in Malta.
- Wine Tasting: Indulge in a tasting experience of Malta’s Girgentina and Gellewza grapes at local wineries. Here’s everything you need to know about wine tasting in Malta and where to sip some of the island’s finest bottles.
- Climbing: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, don’t miss Malta’s rock climbing opportunities. The island offers everything from sea cliffs to inland crags. Check out this primer on rock climbing in Malta for routes and tips.
- Food Experiences: Malta’s culinary scene is a delight, especially in winter. Tuck into hearty dishes like stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew) or Aljotta (fish soup) at cozy restaurants. Want to dive deeper? Explore the Maltese food scene and discover what locals love to eat in winter.
- Scuba Diving: While the water is cooler, winter diving in Malta is still a must-do. The island is known for its shipwreck dives and abundant marine life. If you’re new to diving, this guide will get you started, or if you’re an experienced diver, consider tackling one of Malta’s more advanced underwater sites.
- Self-Guided Tours: Fancy some independent exploration? Winter is the perfect time for a self-guided tour around Malta, taking in everything from scenic coastal paths to hidden historical gems. Read more about how to plan your route and the best places to see.
Packing Tips for Malta’s Winter
- Light layers for those pleasant but cool evenings
- A waterproof jacket for occasional rain
- Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
- Swimwear if you plan to hit the heated pools—or dare to take a dip in the sea!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Malta warm in winter?
A: Absolutely! While the rest of Europe shivers, Malta enjoys mild winters with temperatures of 15-17°C (59-63°F).
Q: What is the best month to visit Malta?
A: Winter (November to March) is ideal for mild weather, fewer tourists, and lots of unique cultural events. December is especially magical with festive markets, lights, and events across the island.
Q: Are restaurants and attractions open in Malta during winter?
A: Yes, most places remain open and, in fact, many offer more favorable winter hours and rates, making it a great time to visit.
Q: Where is the best place to stay in Malta?
A: Sliema and Gzira are the most popular tourists spots and this is because they offer some of the best restaurants, promenades and swimming spots. They are very well connected to the rest of the island. Our two favourite Short term flats are these two : Sliema Short let and Gzira Short let.
Book Your Malta Winter Escape Today!
Ready to experience Malta’s winter charm? Whether you’re planning a cultural getaway or an active adventure, Malta has something for everyone this season. Book your flights and your accommodation in Sliema or Gzira start your sunny Mediterranean adventure today! For more travel inspiration and insider tips, check out the official Visit Malta website and Malta International Airport.
