Breaking travel news: KM Malta Airlines has just announced 30 additional flights for the 2024 holiday season, making Malta more accessible than ever for your festive getaway. From enchanting traditions to cozy accommodations, here’s your comprehensive guide to experiencing a magical Mediterranean Christmas and New Year.
Why Choose Malta for Your Holiday Season?
Malta, a gem in the Mediterranean, transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. The mild climate, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for those looking to celebrate Christmas and New Year in a unique way. With KM Malta Airlines adding 30 extra flights between December 21st and January 5th, getting here has never been easier.
Learn more about : Where is Malta? Is Malta a country?. Fascinating facts about Malta
Latest Flight Additions for Christmas 2024
| Destination | Extra Flights | Travel Period | Approximate Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | 10 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 3h 10m |
| Vienna | 7 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 2h 30m |
| Paris | 6 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 2h 45m |
| Zurich | 3 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 2h 20m |
| Munich | 2 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 2h 15m |
| Rome | 2 | Dec 21 – Jan 5 | 1h 30m |
Maltese Christmas Traditions
Santa’s Toy Town at Popeye Village
- Popeye Village in Mellieħa transforms into Santa’s Toy Town, perfect for families and children. Themed shows, holiday décor, and activities like cookie decorating and crafting add to the festive feel.
Christmas Pantomimes
- Enjoy a seasonal performance with a distinctly Maltese twist. The local Christmas pantomime is a humorous take on well-loved tales and is family-friendly. Teatru Manoel in Valletta and other theaters typically host this interactive performance that’s a hit with both locals and visitors.
Caroling and Choir Performances
- Tourists can enjoy choir performances and Christmas caroling in various towns, such as Sliema, Birgu, and around Valletta. These choral performances are open to the public, adding holiday spirit to shopping streets and church squares.
Visit Traditional Artisan Villages
- Ta’ Qali Craft Village, near Mosta, offers unique, handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and souvenirs. Here, visitors can meet local artisans, enjoy glass-blowing demonstrations, and purchase one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
Church and Parish Decorations
- Many Maltese parishes and churches are decorated with stunning lights and nativity scenes, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Notably, St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is a beautiful and ornate setting for experiencing Christmas traditions and Midnight Mass services.
Malta’s Historic City Christmas Lights
- Many historic streets, like those in Mdina and Birgu, are lit with elegant Christmas lights and decorations. These picturesque settings create an enchanting holiday atmosphere, perfect for evening strolls and photo ops.
Festive Shopping at Local Markets
- Many towns hold small pop-up Christmas markets, especially around weekends, where you can shop for local products and crafts, such as handmade jewelry, candles, and food items, while enjoying festive music and seasonal treats.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides in Valletta
- For a special holiday experience, take a karozzin (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the festive streets of Valletta. The carriages are often decorated with Christmas lights and offer a charming way to see the city’s decorations.
Try Local Christmas Lunch and NYE dinner’s at local restaurants
- For those interested in a traditional Maltese Christmas meal, many local restaurants serve festive holiday menus around Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Dishes like baked pasta, roast turkey, and Maltese-style desserts offer a unique culinary experience.
Evening Cruises Around Christmas-Lit Harbors
- For a different perspective on Malta’s holiday decorations, take an evening harbor cruise around the Grand Harbour, Valletta Waterfront, and Sliema. The cruise offers a scenic view of the city’s lights from the water, creating a memorable holiday experience.
Enchanting Christmas Markets
- Explore Valletta Water front and Sliema’s Christmas markets to find Maltese Christmas treats like nougat and honey rings, along with artisan crafts and decorations.Try the Traditional Christmas Food
Don’t miss Maltese holiday dishes like Imbuljuta tal-Qastan (a chestnut and cocoa drink) and the traditional Maltese Christmas log. Many restaurants also offer seasonal menus. See more : Malta Christmas Food and Maltese Christmas Log Recipe
see more : Christmas in Malta
December Events in Malta
December in Malta is filled with holiday cheer and unique events, making it easy to create lasting memories. Whether you’re captivated by local traditions or want a mix of celebrations, here’s a rundown of what you can expect:
- Fairyland Santa’s City 2024/25
Located in Pjazza Tritoni, Valletta, this magical Christmas village captures the holiday spirit for all ages. Dates: 7/12 – 6/1 (at least in previous years) - Christmas in Valletta & Across Malta
Kicking off December 1st, “Christmas in the Capital” fills Valletta with lights, music, and a series of activities through January 6th. Midnight masses at local churches add a traditional touch, complete with carol singing and a touching message from a young child. - Valletta NYE Celebrations 2024/25
Ring in the New Year with fireworks and a countdown over Valletta Waterfront starting at 10:00 PM on December 31st. - The Malta International Christmas Festival
Held from December 6–8, 2024, this festival brings together international performers in Valletta and beyond. - L-Istrina Charity Marathon
Join the Maltese community on December 26th for a televised 12-hour fundraiser supporting the Malta Community Chest Fund. - Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem 2024/25
Just a short walk from the Gozo ferry, this life-sized nativity village in Għajnsielem brings the story of Christmas to life across 20,000 square meters. - Natalis Notabilis 2024
Rabat’s historic core transforms into a five-day Christmas wonderland with food stalls, choral concerts, and a nativity trail. - The Magical Illuminated Trail
Verdala Palace in Rabat becomes a wonderland of lights, art installations, and interactive displays in support of the Malta Community Chest Fund. Dates are to be announced. - Traditional Christmas Cribs
Visit Malta’s popular crib exhibitions in locations like Għajnsielem and Lija, where locals bring nativity scenes to life in costumes. - Malta Village Feasts in December
December in Malta wouldn’t be complete without traditional village feasts, which mix religious devotion with community festivities.
Explore Beyond Christmas Activities
Malta isn’t just a holiday escape – it’s a year-round destination for adventure and culture lovers. Take a break from the holiday events to experience Malta’s other wonders.
1. Adventures
- Explore Malta’s rugged terrain with a winter-friendly biking tour, ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Popular trails like the ones near Golden Bay offer breathtaking views. Mountain Biking Malta
- Zip Lining with Santa
- Scuba Diving in Malta
- Malta’s Big Five Multiday Hiking
- Charity Walks for a good cause
2. Historic Forts and Sites
- Malta’s historic forts, such as St. Elmo Fortress in Valletta and Fort St. Angelo, offer a window into the island’s fascinating past. St. Elmo Fortress in Malta and Fort St. Angelo: A Cultural Icon
3. Sliema Attractions and Scenic Walks
- Sliema is bustling with shops, cafes, and scenic walks along the waterfront. Ideal for both relaxation and exploring local culture.
- Link to: Things to Do in Sliema and 20 day trips from Sliema
Weather in Malta in December
Malta enjoys a mild winter climate.
- Temperatures: Daytime averages between 13-19°C (55-66°F).
- Evenings: Cooler nights around 10-15°C (50-59°F).
- Sunshine: Approximately 7 hours of sunshine daily.
Packing Essentials:
- Layers: Light sweaters and jackets.
- Rain Gear: A compact umbrella or raincoat for occasional showers.
- Comfortable Footwear: Ideal for exploring historic sites.
- Swimwear: Some brave souls take part in the traditional New Year’s Day swim!
Check out our Malta Packing List for a detailed guide.
For a deeper look into what to expect: Weather in Malta During December
Where to Stay: Airbnb Options for the Perfect Festive Retreat
If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Malta, you might want to consider Airbnb options in Malta for a cozy, home-away-from-home experience. And for those digital nomads out there, Malta is becoming quite the hotspot – check out our guide on remote work from Malta to see if you could make this Mediterranean paradise your office for the holidays!
Consider our two favourite accommodations. Checkout the one in Sliema or the one in Gzira.e bedroom
Malta offers a festive, culturally rich, and adventure-packed holiday season that’s easy to access with KM Malta Airlines’ additional flights. Whether you’re here to celebrate Christmas, enjoy the local sights, or seek outdoor thrills, this Mediterranean gem has everything you need for an unforgettable holiday season.
External Resources:
- KM Malta Airlines Holiday Flights: https://www.kmmaltairlines.com/
Also check :
Ryan Air flights
Winter flight schedule
