Planning a trip to Malta
Visitor Information -- You can find a wealth of information online at www.visitmalta.com.
Language -- Maltese and English (Malta is a former British colony and English is widely spoken).
Currency -- The official unit of currency is the euro. The rate of exchange at press time was $1 = .87 euro.
Getting Around
Ships dock close to the center of town for coming ashore. It's about a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute ride. Taxis are available at the pier. Malta's public transportation system is cheap and efficient. Buses cost less than 50¢, with the longest bus journey taking only 50 minutes.
When to Go
Climate
Malta has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers, influenced by the sea and land around it. Average temperatures in winter are around 54°F (12.4°C) and in the summer 79°F (26.3°C). Average rainfall for the Maltese Islands is 21.8 inches (553.1mm), with 51% falling between October and December.
Calendar of Events
During Carnival in February and March, elaborate floats and crazy fancy dress dominate Valletta and Paceville. When Our Lady of Sorrows statue is carried through Valletta, you know Holy Week’s solemn spectacle has started. Malta International Fireworks Festival (tel: 22/915-136) in April lights up the Grand Harbor with spectacular pyrotechnics. The Festival Mediterranean (tel: 21/550-985; www.mediterranea.com.mt) takes over Gozo each autumn with heritage, arts and food and drink events. Join Christmas celebrations in Valletta, including carols at St John’s Co-Cathedral and pantomime at the Manoel Theatre.
