Weather in Malta and best time to go
If you’re looking for guaranteed sunny and warm weather, head to Malta for your holiday. The entire archipelago enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
Malta enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year. From June to August, it hardly ever rains, though it can get very hot, with temperatures exceeding 35 °C. Spring and autumn are the best times for sightseeing, walking tours and travelling between the islands of Malta and Gozo.
For a classic seaside holiday, the best time is from June to October. The sea is at its warmest in August and September, whilst June and the second half of September offer the best combination of swimming, excursions and comfortable temperatures.
The sea is warmer in autumn than in spring. Whilst in May the water is only around 18 to 19 °C, in October its temperature remains at around 23 to 24 °C.
The coldest months are January and February. The heaviest rainfall occurs between October and February, particularly in November and December.
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Do you already know your travel dates? Compare prices for hotels and holiday apartments in Malta too. Accommodation sells out fastest during July and August, at Easter, and around public holidays and major festivals.
Weather and temperatures throughout the year
Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Malta for each month of the year.
Weather in January
Temperatures in Malta in January hover around 13 °C. The weather is mostly cloudy with occasional showers, which occur roughly every other day.
January sees the fewest tourists visiting Malta, and many hotels and restaurants in the seaside resorts remain closed.
The sea temperature is around 16 °C.
January is a good time to explore Valletta, Mdina and other attractions on a budget.
Weather in February
According to statistics, February is the coldest month of the year. Typical daytime temperatures range between 12 °C and 13 °C. At night, they can drop below 9 °C.
It rains in the form of short, frequent showers, on average every other day. There is quite a lot of sunshine, but the days are still short and it gets dark around 7.00 pm.
The sea temperature is around 16 °C.
Weather in March
In March, the number of hours of sunshine increases noticeably as the days get longer.
There is very little rain, and when it does fall, it is only in the form of short, light showers; average daytime temperatures rise to between 14 and 17 °C.
The sea is at its coldest of the year, usually reaching a maximum of 15 °C.
Weather in April
In the first month of spring, expect temperatures between 16 °C and 20 °C and sunny weather. Only small clouds appear in the sky, from which just a few drops fall during infrequent showers.
April is the ideal month for exploring historical sites and natural beauty.
However, the sea is still cold. The water has an average temperature of 16 °C.
Weather in May
In May, Malta enjoys summer-like weather with typical temperatures ranging between 19 °C and 24 °C.
The weather is cloudless and rain-free. A pleasant breeze blows along the coast, and the countryside is in bloom and green after the wetter winter months.
Can you go swimming in Malta in May?
The water is still quite cold. The sea temperature is usually around 18 to 19 °C.
May is better suited to a mix of sightseeing, day trips and the occasional swim than to an all-day beach holiday.
Weather in June
In the first month of summer, expect temperatures of around 26 °C and consistently clear skies. Rain is a rare occurrence in June.
Although the sea is only 22 °C, the beaches are packed with sunbathers and all tourist facilities are now open. The peak season has begun.
Weather in July
The weather in July is very hot and very dry. Temperatures rise to 30 °C, and summer heatwaves with temperatures above 35 °C are common.
The sky is constantly clear with no sign of cloud. There are not even any summer thunderstorms in Malta.
The sea water finally warms up to a pleasant 24 °C.
Weather in August
August is the hottest month in Malta, with temperatures ranging between 29 and 36 °C. The sun is often scorching, and you’ll wait in vain for rain.
August brings consistently sunny skies, and there are no summer thunderstorms.
The sea temperature is 26 °C.
August is the peak season in Malta, with accommodation prices at their highest. Most tourists visiting Malta at this time come from England and Italy.
Book your hotel in Malta in advance
Weather in September
September is still a full-fledged summer month with temperatures ranging between 25 °C and 28 °C.
The sky is mostly clear, although towards the end of the month there are already some clouds and short, sudden showers. Given the temperatures, however, the occasional light rain is more of a pleasant experience than a hindrance to your holiday.
The sea temperature is around 25 °C.
Weather in October
October is the ideal off-peak month for a summer holiday. Prices for services are significantly lower than during the summer holidays, but the weather remains very pleasant.
Air temperatures rise to between 22 °C and 25 °C, and the sea is around 23 °C.
In October, there is a rain shower on average every third day. However, these are usually brief showers lasting no more than an hour.
Can you go swimming in Malta in October?
Yes. The sea remains warm after the summer, and the first half of October is usually very good for swimming.
In the second half of the month, there is an increased risk of wind, showers and cancelled boat trips, but the water temperature remains pleasant.
Weather in November
November is a pleasant autumn month for exploring sights and natural beauty.
Temperatures range between 17 °C and 20 °C. The weather is partly cloudy with frequent cloud cover, but there are also long spells of clear skies.
According to statistics, November sees the most rainfall of the year, with rain falling roughly every second day. These are mostly short showers, and all-day rain is rather rare.
Can you go swimming in Malta in November?
Sometimes, yes, but November is no longer suitable for a typical beach holiday.
The sea temperature is around 20 to 21 °C. You can swim on sunny, windless days, but when it’s windy or overcast, it will feel significantly colder.
Weather in December
December is the darkest month due to the short days, with dusk setting in as early as around 4.30 pm.
During the day, however, the sun often shines, alternating with partly cloudy skies. Temperatures typically reach 15 °C, and rain mainly falls in the form of showers.
The sea cools down to 17 °C in December.
Sea temperature in Malta
Malta has a long swimming season, but the sea warms up more slowly in spring than one might expect given the air temperature.
For most travellers, the water is pleasant from the second half of June until the end of October. It is usually warmest in August and September, when it reaches around 25 to 26 °C.
In autumn, the sea is significantly warmer than in spring:
- in May it is usually around 18 to 19 °C
- in June, it is around 22 °C
- in July, 24 to 25 °C
- in August and September, 25 to 26 °C
- in October, around 23 to 24 °C
- in November, around 20 to 21 °C
You can find specific places to swim in our guide to the most beautiful beaches in Malta. Bear in mind that much of the Maltese coastline is rocky and there are fewer traditional sandy beaches than in Cyprus, for example.
Table of temperatures during the year
Valletta - Tiny Malta has the same weather everywhere
When to go to Malta
Malta is a year-round destination. It just depends on what you’re planning to do there.
When to go for a swim
Head there for a swim from the second half of June to the start of October.
June offers a sufficiently warm sea and more bearable temperatures than the peak holiday season. August has the warmest water, but also the hottest weather, the biggest crowds and the highest prices.
We consider September to be the best month for a beach holiday. The sea is perfectly warm, the weather remains summery, and as the new school year begins, the number of families with children gradually decreases.
When to go for sightseeing and day trips
For Valletta, Mdina, archaeological sites and longer walking tours, we recommend April, May, October or November.
In July and August, the cobbled streets and open-air archaeological sites get very hot. You should therefore plan your visits for early in the morning or in the evening.
What’s more, Malta is much greener in spring than during the arid summer.
When to visit Malta with children
For a family holiday, we’d recommend June or September.
The sea is warm enough, but the weather isn’t as sweltering as in July and August. It’s also easier to combine beach days with day trips.
Families with young children often opt for the area around Mellieha Bay, where you’ll find one of the largest sandy beaches with a gentler slope into the water. You can find more tips among the best beaches in Malta.
When to go for lower prices
You’ll usually find the lowest prices for flights and hotels from November to March, excluding Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Easter.
May, the first half of June and October also offer good value for money in terms of both price and weather. Accommodation may be cheaper than during the peak holiday season, but the weather is still suitable for most activities.
Compare hotel prices in Malta in winter
Is Malta worth a visit in winter?
Yes, if you want to explore the towns, sights and islands without the crowds of tourists.
From December to February, expect daytime temperatures of around 15 to 18 °C, cooler evenings, wind and the possibility of showers. Sunny days can be very pleasant, but the sea is too cold for regular swimming.
In winter, it’s best to stay in Valletta, Sliema or St Julian’s, where restaurants, transport and other services operate all year round. You’ll find a detailed comparison of the areas in the section ‘Where to stay in Malta’.
Which month is best for visiting Malta?
- For a mix of swimming, sightseeing and day trips ➡️ June or late September.
- For a beach-only holiday ➡️ September.
- For sightseeing without the intense heat ➡️ April, May, October or November.
- For the lowest prices ➡️ from January to March.
Rain, wind and storms
The rainiest part of the year lasts from around October to February. Rain often comes in the form of showers, but autumn and winter thunderstorms can also bring several hours of heavy rain.
Conversely, from June to August, rain is extremely rare.
Does it rain all day in Malta?
It can, but it’s not the most common scenario. Shorter showers or a few hours of rain, followed by a return to fine weather, are more common.
When planning a winter trip, therefore, don’t rely solely on the rain icon in the long-term forecast. A single symbol can mean anything from a brief morning shower to a downpour lasting several hours.
Is Malta windy?
Yes. Wind is a common feature of the Maltese weather and is at its strongest from autumn to spring.
In summer, a coastal breeze can make the high temperatures more bearable. In winter, on the other hand, it significantly lowers the perceived temperature.
The direction of the wind also affects the waves at individual beaches. When one part of the coast is too rough, the sea on the opposite side of the island can be considerably calmer.
Malta, Gozo and Comino: does the weather differ?
The temperature differences between the main island of Malta, Gozo and Comino are very small.
The main differences tend to be in the wind and the perceived temperature. The open countryside on Gozo and Comino feels cooler in windy weather than the densely built-up towns around Valletta.
Gozo is better suited to a more peaceful holiday, enjoying nature and going on walking trips. Comino is primarily a destination for day trips by boat and swimming.
If you’re planning a trip to Gozo lasting more than a day, take a look at the 17 places worth visiting on Gozo. We describe ferry options and car transport in the section ‘How to get to Gozo’.
How to plan your itinerary according to the weather
During the heat of the day
Visit the sights first thing in the morning and spend the hottest part of the day by the sea.
Explore Malta’s most beautiful beaches, plan a trip to Comino, or choose a hotel with a swimming pool and air conditioning.
In pleasant spring and autumn temperatures
Visit Valletta, Mdina, Gozo and the natural sites inland.
April, May, October and November are the best months for visiting a large number of sights without the exhausting heat.
When it rains
Make the most of the rain by exploring the city’s sights, museums, cathedrals and restaurants in Valletta, Mdina or the Tri-City.
Postpone your boat trip to Comino and any open-water coastal routes to another day.
Where to stay depending on the season
Your choice of location is mainly influenced by the type of holiday you’re planning, rather than significant differences in temperature.
In summer, consider Mellieha for its sandy beaches, or Sliema and St Julian’s for their wide choice of hotels, restaurants and transport links.
For a winter break or a sightseeing holiday, Valletta, Sliema or St Julian’s are practical choices, as most services operate all year round and it is easy to get to other parts of the island from there.
We compare specific areas, prices and hotels in a separate section on Accommodation in Malta.
Do you need a car in Malta?
For Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s, Mdina and the main tourist attractions, buses are sufficient.
Hiring a car makes more sense if you want to explore more remote beaches, the coastline and the less-visited parts of the island. During the peak season, however, you should expect heavy traffic and more difficult parking.
You’ll find full details in the Transport in Malta section.
Compare car hire prices in Malta
What to pack for Malta
From June to September
Take light clothing, a hat, sun cream and a water bottle. Air conditioning in hotels is practically a necessity in July and August.
In April, May, October and November
Pack summer clothes, a jumper or light jacket for the evening, and a waterproof layer in case of showers.
From December to March
You’ll need long trousers, a jumper, a jacket and something to protect you from the rain. When choosing an apartment, check the heating, as stone houses can get quite chilly inside during winter.
Malta, Cyprus, Tenerife or Madeira?
Malta is best for travellers who want to combine historic towns, sights, short distances and swimming.
- Cyprus has warmer seas and a longer main swimming season. In July and August, however, it is even warmer than Malta.
- Tenerife offers more stable conditions for a winter sun break, but the Atlantic Ocean is significantly cooler than the sea off Malta.
- Madeira is better for nature, mountains and hiking. For a classic beach holiday, Malta is more suitable.
If you want to swim in warm seas whilst exploring historic towns, choose Malta in June, September or early October.
How to start planning your trip
Most travellers arrive at Malta MLA Airport, which is located near Valletta and is connected by bus routes to the whole island.
You can find specific bus routes, fares, Bolt, Uber and taxi information in the guide ‘Transport from Malta Airport’.
When planning the rest of your trip, proceed according to the type of trip:
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