Discover Malta 2025: Your Ultimate Free Guide
- The Trusty Tourist
- Jun 14, 2025
- 4 min read
When I first landed in Malta, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I heard about Game of Thrones filming locations and stories of ancient temples older than the pyramids. People rave about the Blue Lagoon’s Instagrammable blue waters. But what I didn’t expect was how quickly Malta would get under my skin… In the best way possible. This little archipelago packs a punch. With layers of history, unapologetically loud village festas, and some of the clearest water I’ve ever swum in, Malta’s charm is both immediate and long-lasting.
Let me break it down for you: from how to get around, to blending in with the locals, dodging tourist traps, and staying safe while enjoying the stunning Maltese islands.
Transportation to/from Malta Airport
Malta’s only airport is small but efficient. Once you collect your bag, you’ve got three solid options:
Bus: For just €2 in winter or €3 in summer, you can hop on a direct line to major hotspots. I took the X4 to Valletta on my first day and while it was cheap, there was an hour of traffic. Great if you’re on a budget and not in a rush. (Cash only or buy a card at one of the kiosks).
Bolt: The best option for convenience. For €15–20, you can get to Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s in under 25 minutes.
Pre-booked white taxis: Safe and reliable, but not cheap. Just don’t hop into a random car outside the terminal, unlicensed taxis are a thing here, and they love overcharging wide-eyed newcomers.
The Best Travel Hack!
My biggest travel tip is getting an eSIM card! Buying one from the airport will be very expensive, and to safely get to your hotel, it's best to get an eSIM first before buying a cheap one (with more data) later in the city center. To avoid roaming charges for non-EU visitors, an eSIM is highly recommended, if your phone is compatible. You can buy a virtual SIM card on your laptop/mobile, and after scanning the QR code following purchase, the eSIM card will be downloaded electronically onto your device. In Europe, they are very cheap.
If you are only visiting Malta, you can buy a local eSIM card for as low as 2$ using code ZAC1844 here.
If you are doing a Euro-trip, you can also buy an eSIM with data in 27 EU + 12 non-EU countries for as low as 2$ using code ZAC1844 here.
Top Must-Do Activities in Malta
(Under Construction)
Understanding Local Customs and Etiquette:
Malta may seem laid-back, but it has deep-rooted traditions. Show some cultural respect, and you’ll be welcomed warmly.
Greetings: A firm handshake with good eye contact makes a strong impression. Bonus points if you greet people with “Bonġu” (Good morning) or “Il-lejl it-tajjeb” (Good night).
Churches: Malta is deeply Catholic, and the churches here are architectural stunners. If you’re stepping inside, cover your shoulders and knees, especially during mass.
Festas: These village feasts are wild. Fireworks, confetti, brass bands, and life-sized saint statues paraded through town. It’s tempting to get in close for the perfect photo, but don’t block the procession. Trust me. . . The crowd will let you know if you’re out of line.
Tipping: Not expected, but always appreciated. I usually round up the bill or tip around 10% if service was exceptional.
Common Scams and How to Avoid Them
While Malta’s quite safe overall, there are a few classic rip-offs to be aware of:
Beach Chair Scam: At places like Golden Bay or Għadira, some vendors jack up chair and umbrella prices after you’ve already sat down. Ask and agree on the cost before you get comfy.
Taxi Shenanigans: Avoid taxis that “forget” to start the meter or take the scenic (i.e., long) route. Stick with the Bolt app or insist on metered pricing before the car moves.
Fake Boat Tours: This is a big one in Sliema. Touts will promise the “best” Blue Lagoon or Comino tour for a steal, but it’s often overcrowded, late, or just sketchy. I book through Viator or GetYourGuide. Better safe than stranded on a floating sauna with 80 strangers and no bathroom.
ATM Skimmers: Stick to machines from established banks like BOV, they dont usually charge fees on foreign cards. Avoid the random ATMs in tourist zones. Check for skimmers, cover your PIN and trust your gut, if the machine looks dodgy, walk away.
Online Scams: Unsecured Wi-Fi networks may seem harmless, but they're often playgrounds for hackers. With a VPN service like NordVPN you can relish your favourite pastizzi while your digital footprints stay safeguarded. Enjoy unrestricted access to your preferred content, as a VPN helps you bypass any geo-restrictions. For just $3.39/month and a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensure your journey in Malta is secure both offline and online. Click here to secure your digital adventures now!
Staying Safe in Malta
Let’s keep things real: Malta is hot in the summer, and the sun doesn’t play nice.
Sun Protection: The UV index regularly hits 11. If you're pale like me and underestimate it, you'll look like a boiled lobster by noon. SPF 50+, a wide-brim hat, and constant hydration are your best friends.
Sea Hazards: Malta’s cliffs are stunning (Dingli Cliffs is my personal fave) but don’t even think about swimming near them when there’s a red flag or strong winds. The currents are fierce, and rescue options are few.
Paceville at Night: Known for its wild nightlife, Paceville is where things get rowdy. Keep your drink in hand, your wallet zipped up, and avoid dark alleyways. Malta’s safe, but like anywhere, drunken tourists are easy targets.
Emergency Services: Call 112 if you need help. Most locals speak English, and emergency response is usually quick and reliable.
Finally, consider securing a comprehensive travel insurance plan like Ekta Traveling to protect you from unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage. For as low as $0.99, you can enjoy your adventure in Malta with peace of mind. Ekta is a trusted European name for global nomads, offering flexible and affordable coverage. So, before you dive into the charm of Malta, secure your safety net with Ekta Traveling. Stay safe and make your travel journey an unforgettable experience.
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