Malta – A Quick & Quirky Guide
Official name: Republic of Malta (Repubblika ta’ Malta)
Area: ~316 km² – tiny island nation, but big on history and sunshine
Population: ~520,000 (2024)
Location: Southern Europe, central Mediterranean, south of Sicily, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea
Form of government: Parliamentary republic
Head of State: President George Vella
Head of Government: Prime Minister Robert Abela
Capital city: Valletta – ~6,000 (metro ~400,000)
Time zone: Central European Time (UTC+1 / +2 in summer)
Official languages: Maltese and English
Currency: Euro (€)
EU member: Yes, since 2004
Schengen area: No
Top 10 Largest Cities (population approx.)
- Birkirkara – ~24,000
- St. Julian’s (San Ġiljan) – ~13,000
- Mosta – ~19,000
- Sliema – ~20,000
- Qormi – ~17,000
- Valletta – ~6,000
- Mdina – ~2500
- Zebbug – ~11,000
- Rabat – ~11,000
- Marsaskala – ~13,000
Popular Tourist Cities & Regions
- Valletta: Baroque architecture, museums, and the Grand Harbour.
- Mdina: The “Silent City,” full of medieval charm and narrow streets.
- Sliema & St. Julian’s: Shopping, nightlife, and seaside promenades.
- Gozo: Rustic island with cliffs, beaches, and the famous Azure Window ruins.
- Comino: Tiny island, crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
- Blue Lagoon: Turquoise water paradise between islands.
Climate
Mediterranean: hot, dry summers (28–35 °C), mild winters (10–15 °C), and plenty of sun almost all year. Pack sunscreen and a hat — your Instagram photos will thank you.
Culture & Daily Life
- Multilingual: Maltese and English, plus Italian widely understood — language skills not required, but helpful.
- Festivals: Village feasts, fireworks, and religious processions happen frequently.
- History everywhere: Knights of St. John, WWII bunkers, and ancient temples.
- Island pace: Life slows down, especially by the sea — perfect for relaxation.
Food & Drink
- Traditional dishes: Rabbit stew (fenek), bragioli (beef olives), pastizzi (savory pastries).
- Seafood: Fresh fish, octopus, and mussels are local specialties.
- Beverages: Maltese wines, Kinnie (bitter-sweet soft drink), and local beers.
- Desserts: Kannoli, fig-filled pastries, and honey cakes.
Summary
Malta is small but packed with history, beaches, and sunshine. From Valletta’s fortified streets to Gozo’s tranquil landscapes, the islands offer a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure. Sun, sea, and savory pastizzi await — just don’t blink, or you might miss a festival.