Malta's Size, Language & Culture
1.Malta is tiny—measuring just 27 km in length and 14.5 km in width—but it’s densely populated. With over 500,000 residents and millions of tourists visiting each year, it ranks among the most densely populated countries in Europe.
2.The island’s rich and layered history reflects centuries of occupation by diverse powers, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, the Knights of St. John, the French, and the British. This melting pot of influences has shaped Malta’s architecture, culture, and identity.
3.Maltese (yes, we have our own language!) is a unique Semitic language with Arabic roots, blended with Italian and English influences. It’s spoken only in Malta—and it's just as eclectic as our culture.
4.While nearly everyone speaks English, learning a few Maltese words goes a long way. Try saying “Bongu” (Good morning) or “Grazzi” (Thank you)—you’ll earn smiles and warm responses.
Practical Tips Before You Arrive
5.Malta is very safe—but use common sense. Violent crime is rare, but keep your belongings close in touristy areas, just like anywhere else.
6.Cash (€s) is still useful. While cards are accepted almost everywhere, smaller vendors sometimes prefer cash.
7.Be sure to bring a travel adapter—Malta uses the British-style 3-pin plug, not the standard 2-pin plugs found in most of Europe.
8.Things run a bit slower here—delays happen, people take their time, and schedules aren’t always strictly followed.
Getting Around Malta
9.No trains or trams—just buses, taxis, and ferries. Malta relies on buses, taxis, and ferries.
10.Public transport gets you around—but Bolt is better. Buses are cheap and connect all major towns, but they can be slow and crowded. Make sure to download the Tallinja app for buses and Bolt for rides—(Bolt’s our go-to here but we also have Uber and eCabs).
11.Short distances don’t mean short travel times. A 10 km trip can easily take 45 minutes with traffic. Always budget extra time.
12.We drive on the left (and parking can be a nightmare). Malta follows UK-style driving. Parking at beaches and popular sights can be limited—especially on weekends. Renting a car is great if you plan to explore Gozo.
Explore Malta Beyond the Main Tourist Spots
13.Malta Isn’t Just Valletta and Mdina. Explore beyond the most popular sites—like the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, Dingli Cliffs, or the temples of Ħaġar Qim. Gozo also offers stunning nature and a slower pace.
Summer in Malta
14.The heat is real and Malta's summer sun is no joke. Sunscreen, a hat, and lots of water are must-haves—especially if you’ll be walking or sightseeing.
15.Summer weekends = packed beaches. Locals love the sea too! Get to the beach early or go midweek for a better spot, especially up north (like Għadira or Golden Bay).
16.Avoid Comino at peak hours. Blue Lagoon is stunning but overcrowded. Visit early, late, or take a boat tour instead.
17.We take our fireworks seriously. From June to September, village feasts (festas) light up the skies. Expect colourful fireworks, processions, and band marches—it’s loud, festive, and uniquely Maltese.
Food & People
18.The food is incredible. I may be biased—but Maltese food is fantastic. You’ll find Italian-level pizza and pasta, plus local favourites like fenek (rabbit stew), pastizzi (ricotta or pea pastries), and ħobż biż-żejt (bread with tomato, tuna, capers, and olives). We also have tons of international options—from sushi to Filipino to Korean.
19.Take the time to connect with locals—you’ll find them warm, welcoming, and always happy to share tips or stories about Malta.
20.Malta is incredibly diverse—despite its small size, the island is home to people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds.
Happy Travels! x
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