Welcome to Malta

Within the small Mediterranean archipelago of Malta, there is much to see and do. Not only will you find the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state, but you’ll find red-gold beaches, underwater treasures for divers and snorkelers and a multitude of grottoes, caves and lagoons.

The welcoming Maltese people excitingly show off their traditions, from Sicilian- and Middle Eastern-influenced cuisine to colorful carnivals dating back to the rule of the Knights of the Order of St. John. Visit the labyrinthian underground Catacombs, the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta. Soak in the Blue Grotto, less crowded than the Blue Lagoon – consider a morning visit to see the cool phosphorescent glow created by the sunlight.

Explore the Salt Pans on the northern coast of Gozo and learn about the island’s important sea-salt production. And in Valletta, visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral and its ornately painted nave and the Grand Master’s Place, built in the 16th century for the Knights of Malta. With 7,000 years of

Unique Facts

• It is believed that Calypso Cave is the cave Homer wrote about The Odyssey.
• Malta is home to the seven Megalithic Temples, some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures. It is believed that Malta has been inhabited since the early Neolithic period of 5000 BC.
• The capital of Malta, Valletta, has a total area of just 198 acres. It is Europe’s first planned city.
• Malta has no forests nor rivers.
• Not only is the Maltese Cross the country’s only university, it is one of the world’s oldest, established in 1592.

Language

Malta’s official languages are Maltese and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Malta is during July and August, when the days are long and sunny. If you want to avoid the European vacation season, visit in early June or late September.

Airports

Malta International Airport, Valletta

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for three months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of 90 days or less.

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Malta: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type G. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Euro

Getting Around

It is recommended to rent a car when in Malta. You don’t have to rely on expensive taxi or the unreliable local bus service. The main ferry from Malta to Gozo allows cars. Smaller ferries and taxi boats regularly sail between Vallette and Saint Julian’s and Sliema.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Malta
Ta’Qali National Park Street
Attard ATD 4000
Malta
Telephone: +(356) 2561-4000
ConsularMalta@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourist Information Center
Valletta 18
Floriana, Malta

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 112

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Malta. The most common crimes are simple assault, pickpocketing and petty theft. Don’t let personal belongings out of your sight.