Best times to explore Malta for hiking, festivals, and sunshine

Known as one of Europe's sunniest spots, Malta's islands are perfect for a getaway filled with swimming and sunbathing.

Situated in the Mediterranean – 96km south of Sicily and 386km east of Tunisia – this small yet significant nation has been a favorite for travelers for generations, boasting over 300 sunny days each year. This allure, however, attracts many tourists, remote workers, and English learners, which tends to raise prices during the busy summer season.

Yet, this archipelago holds charm throughout the year.

Traveling during the shoulder seasons of early spring or late autumn, along with the winter off-season, offers visitors ideal weather for hiking, rock climbing, cycling, and appreciating the islands' stunning landscapes, along with comfortable conditions for exploring the remarkable ancient temples found here.

In summary: Malta offers much more than just beaches, and our seasonal guide will prepare you for what to expect no matter when you choose to visit.

Spring is the ideal season for exploring and hiking.

Malta and Gozo boast some of the world’s oldest temples alongside breathtaking coastal hiking trails. Spring's sunny yet pleasantly cool days are perfect for enjoying both. From March to May, expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°–24°C (64°–75°F). You can comfortably explore Malta’s ancient temples, particularly the remarkable limestone structures of Ħagar Qim and its nearby counterpart Mnajdra. Archaeologists trace these monuments back to around 3700 BCE, suggesting they were built by prehistoric inhabitants for sun worship and to mark seasonal changes.

Exploring the stunning coastal trails of Malta, particularly the Dingli Cliffs and Fawwara Trail, is best enjoyed in spring before the summer heat sets in. This season also brings significant Easter celebrations, marked by week-long festivities featuring parades, markets, and local bakers selling figolli—sweet almond-filled cakes shaped like lambs or bunnies.

Summer is the prime season for evening festivities.

Summers in Malta are extremely hot, reaching highs of 30°–38°C (86°–100°F) with humidity up to 85%. From June to late September, the best way to enjoy Malta and Gozo’s stunning beaches is during the day, as the heat makes outdoor activities challenging. Once the sun goes down, dive into local festa celebrations. The summer is also filled with international music festivals. The Isle of MTV, organized annually since 2007, attracts major pop stars to Floriana, offering free admission. Since 2016, Glitch Festival has welcomed top EDM artists to the island. Film enthusiasts can enjoy summer festivals like Kinemastic (short films) and the Mediterrane Film Festival (features).

The festa season beautifully showcases Maltese culture, as each village, town, and city hosts its own unique event. Every year, the local patron saint is honored with a procession, food market, and a fireworks display that often turns competitive between towns. With a festa happening nearly every weekend, be sure to check the schedule if you're visiting in summer—you’re bound to enjoy a spectacular sight.

Fall offers the most ideal weather.

Mid-September to late October brings Malta's finest weather, characterized by long, sunny days as the intense summer heat begins to subside. This is the perfect time for beach outings in the still-warm Mediterranean while also exploring the sights without feeling overheated. Stroll through the charming streets of Mdina, visit the Roman villa ruins in Rabat, marvel at Neolithic temples like Tarxien and the underground Hypogeum, or take a boat trip to Comino and the Blue Lagoon—all without turning lobster red (but do remember to apply SPF 50).

Some of our top swimming spots in Malta include St Peter’s Pool (keep an eye out for Leli and his diving dog), the salt pans in Sliema, Ghar Lapsi near Ħaġar Qim, the beautiful terracotta sands of Ramla Bay, and the unique Inland Sea in Gozo. However, on the small islands of Malta and Gozo, you’re never far from a fantastic place to dive into the sea, no matter where you are.

Winter is the ideal season for budget-conscious travelers.

From November to February, Malta experiences its off-season, with January and February being the wettest months (and the greenest). These winter months are also the most cost-effective time to visit Malta, offering great deals on accommodations. Hostels and Airbnbs that are pricey in summer (from May to October) become affordable options—sometimes even true bargains—during the cooler months.

Winter is also an excellent season for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and even scuba diving. You can dive year-round here, with numerous shipwrecks located close to shore, including the HMS Maori near Valletta. Visibility is usually quite good—unless a storm rolls in, of course.