Holidays in Malta. Malta: useful information for tourists All about Malta for tourists

Still, the main feature of a beach holiday in Malta is the fact that there are really few sandy beaches on the islands. Moreover, most of them are very small. The main part of the coastline is occupied by rocks. Accordingly, there are more rocky and pebble beaches, and they are most often difficult to access or not equipped for normal recreation. It is also typical for Malta that there are no changing cabins on the beaches, and sun loungers are paid for almost everywhere. But all of the above is more than compensated by the crystal clear sea water off the coast (according to some sources, the most transparent in the entire Mediterranean). I generally liked the rich blue color of sea water, you can see it even if you scoop it with your palm.

When choosing a hotel, be sure to use numerous reviews to find out exactly whether the hotel has its own beach and what kind of beach it is (if this is important for your vacation). As a rule, hotel beaches are kept in perfect condition. By the way, the same cannot be said about the pools: the staff does not spare chlorine, and the cleanliness leaves much to be desired. If the hotel does not have its own beach, then be prepared to get to it (it is not always convenient), in some cases you will have to take a bus for 20-30 minutes to the public beach.

In Malta low crime rate. A common job of police officers (and even then infrequently) is to respond to a minor traffic collision, which happens when tipsy teenagers get behind the wheel after a disco. So don't drive at night. Street purse snatching and pickpocketing are rare occurrences. I read about the theft of cars parked on the streets, but somehow it looks stupid: where can I get off the island? As for not leaving documents and valuables in the car, this is relevant for all countries of the world.

The Maltese police speak good English and, in principle, you can turn to them for help if necessary. They will always listen carefully and politely give useful advice. But at the same time, they clearly (and I would say biasedly) monitor compliance with traffic rules. They are especially vigilant about correct parking.

Malta is a typical Mediterranean resort. In the sense that the local population loves relax more than work. In particular, stores open at 9:00-10:00 am and are open until 13:00. Then they have a siesta. After a long lunch break, they open again at 16:00 to 19:00, although if it is very hot, they may not open at all. On weekends, most shops are generally closed. In busier tourist areas, shops may be open until 22:00 on weekdays, and until 12 noon on Sundays.

And the Maltese go to bed very early, after dark. And already at approximately 20:00 life in the cities practically comes to a standstill. The exceptions are the areas of Sliema and especially Paceville (St. Julian's).

In Malta smoking is prohibited in public places, including on the beaches. Smoking is allowed only in those establishments where special “smoking areas” are designated for smokers. It seems like the police are strictly monitoring this, but there are still smokers on the beaches.

In Malta, you can go to almost all historical places almost “for free”. More precisely, security guards for a nominal fee. You just need to “catch” the moment when the guard is alone and there are no other visitors. As a rule, 1-2 euros for two people is enough. It’s especially good when it’s at odd times (that is, after the facility closes or on a weekend). An additional bonus will be the almost complete absence of other tourists. You can walk everywhere (carefully even where you usually shouldn’t), take pictures and shoot videos. The main thing is not to accidentally catch the eye of any representative of the facility administration. Here whoever is lucky.

Most hotels do not monitor visitors to their pools. Therefore, if your hotel does not have a swimming pool, you can go “for a visit”. Put on your swimsuit and go ahead, the main thing is to be confident. It's a good idea if the hotel you're going to is big. This makes it easier to get lost in the crowd and be invisible. We haven’t tried it personally (and there was a pool in our hotel), but they told us that it works.

I also heard that the entrances to the catacombs of St. Agatha and St. Paul are poorly controlled. Therefore, you don’t have to buy tickets, since it will be difficult to find someone to show them to. Although, on the other hand, entry there seems to be officially free (but voluntary donations are welcome). So payment is a matter of conscience.

In addition, it is believed that in Malta convenient to learn English. After all, English, along with Maltese, is the official state language for this state. Children's language learning groups are organized here during the summer months. As a rule, training in such groups is carried out for 2 weeks or one month, in combination with active recreation, without undue stress. The kids like it.

Regarding tips. If the invoice is not immediately included, then 10-15% of the order value is considered normal.

It’s better to talk to taxi drivers right away final cost of the trip so that there are no questions later about any additional tips (although taxis have meters installed, not everything is so fabulous in practice).

Just in case, I will indicate emergency numbers. It’s better not to need it, but anything can happen.

Police - 191, ambulance - 196, firefighters - 199. Information service - 190.

Antiquities and various artifacts found during excavations and especially in the depths of the sea cannot be exported from the country. At all times, many wars were fought in the area of the Maltese islands, many ships were sunk, etc. Therefore, this advice is more aimed at divers. Moreover, it is forbidden to even touch the detected object - you must immediately notify the relevant authorities.

Finally, I would like to note an interesting fact. I don’t remember exactly what year, but a referendum was once held in the country. His only question sounded something like this: “Are you happy living in Malta?” Do you know the result of the referendum? Be surprised.

97% of the Maltese population are happy to live in their country !!!

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Malta is rightfully considered an ideal holiday destination - its favorable climate, unusual and diverse nature, enormous cultural heritage, luxurious resorts with a consistently high level of service and a developed entertainment industry make this archipelago extremely attractive to hundreds of thousands of tourists. This tiny state is located in the heart of the Mediterranean, and has absorbed all the best that this region can have.

The first thing that captivates you about a holiday in Malta is the unusually favorable climate. It is always warm here, there is no frost, snow or cold rain, even fog never touches the shores of the island. The clearest water of the Mediterranean Sea warms up to +25°C off the coast of Malta, and many interesting attractions of Maltese resorts will make your vacation enjoyable and educational at the same time.

This is where you can spend your dream vacation. If you are interested in an active holiday, then beach sports, diving, rock climbing and golf will be just the thing for you. Those who want to forget about the frantic pace of the modern world for a couple of weeks will certainly enjoy the clean beaches, quiet lagoons and picturesque landscapes of Malta. And lovers of bright holidays and wild fun will not be bored here either - during the day you can visit various historical sights of the island, and then plunge headlong into the noisy nightlife that takes place in numerous bars, restaurants, clubs and casinos.

In addition, the Maltese Islands are a great opportunity not only to relax, but also to restore your health. Unique natural resources, a high level of medical care and a huge number of high-quality SPA centers will have a positive effect on both your well-being and appearance.

One of the undeniable advantages of Malta's resorts is their compact location - this makes it possible to see all the sights and visit all the most interesting places with minimal time and effort, getting pure pleasure from your vacation. This is exactly the rare case when excursions are not at all exhausting, even for those who are not too interested in them.

Malta has no rivers or mountain ranges, and the towns are so tiny that they consist of no more than four streets. Not counting the capital, of course.

At the same time, this small country has a great history behind it, the memory of which is embodied in elegant and amazingly beautiful architecture. Here, ancient pagan religious buildings coexist with the very first Christian churches, and there are also buildings that were built long before the construction of the Cheops pyramid.

Valletta is the capital of Malta; this town is home to a huge number of ancient cathedrals and architectural ensembles, which, among other things, contain ancient frescoes and paintings by great masters of past eras. This city is declared by UNESCO as a historical monument of world significance.

But in the Middle Ages, the capital of Malta was Mdina, a very ancient fortress city, in a small area of which castles, temples and museums are concentrated. Here there are cells of the first Christian prophets carved into the rocks and their burials - and all this has remained completely timeless and appears before the eyes of tourists exactly the same as it was hundreds of years ago.

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Even despite the small territory of the country, there are places in it that civilization has not yet touched. All life here is concentrated only in the northeastern part of the island. The thing is that in the south and west Malta is separated from the sea by a rather steep and rocky coast, so here you will not find either luxury hotels or private villas - only stunning landscapes with unique flora. To better see all the richness and diversity of the island, you also need to look at it from the outside, so do not deny yourself the pleasure of taking a boat trip around the coastline of the island, so you can appreciate all the beauty of the bays, bays and crystal clear azure sea.

Malta is famous for its unique diving locations - they say that having dived into the sea here just once, it is no longer possible to resist the temptation to again and again look at the bizarre reliefs of the Maltese archipelago at a depth of several meters and observe the life of hundreds of colorful fish, some of which appear only at sunset . That is why night dives are also popular here, during which the underwater world appears before you in a completely different light.

The main features of the island of Malta, photos of which you will see in this article, are secluded bays, amazingly blue water, medieval citadels, as well as magnificent churches built in the Baroque style. Every year, tourists from all over the world visit the coast of Malta to get acquainted with the architectural monuments of the island, enjoy the taste of seafood or take a walk through the colorful villages. Holidays in Malta can be safely recommended to every person. Do you prefer to sunbathe without rushing? In this case, the beaches of this resort will be the ideal solution for you. Those who choose active entertainment should go sightseeing on the island.

The Maltese archipelago, located in the Mediterranean Sea, includes 3 islands - Comino, Gozo and Malta. Moreover, the latter is incredibly colorful and miniature, as you can see by finding the island of Malta on the map. Its length is 27 km and its width is 14.5 km. This state was previously owned by the Arabs, the Romans, Napoleon, and the Queen of England. Therefore, to explore all its attractions, tourists will need more than one week, although we can safely say that the time spent is worth it.

Malta in autumn

The climatic conditions of autumn in this place have varied characteristics. Holidays in Malta in September are not suitable for everyone. The velvet season begins here, which can both please and sadden. From time to time we have to complain about the rapid changes in weather associated with the proximity of the Mediterranean winter. Although, overall, a holiday in Malta in September is incredibly romantic and hot.

In October the temperature is not so high, although there is still the opportunity to enjoy the echoes of summer. The number of cloudless, clear days is becoming less. This is due to an increase in the amount of precipitation. Although they are short-lived and, apart from increased humidity, do not cause any other inconvenience. It is likely that showers are not the most joyful phenomenon for people, but the same cannot be said about nature. After a hot summer, it comes to life before our eyes, becoming covered with colorful flowers and greenery, which excites the imagination of vacationers on the island of Malta. A holiday here in October suggests that tourists will think through their wardrobe more carefully than usual. You can't rely on temperatures alone. It is also necessary to take into account the piercing winds, due to which the coolness is perceived more sharply, and the periodic absence of the sun. You need to take with you a windproof jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, trousers and a pair of raglans and a long-sleeve sweater.

Climatic conditions here in November are ambiguous. From this month all the islands begin to “cool down”. Autumn is finally taking shape. But we must remember that in this place it is different from ours. During the day it is still very warm, and the sun occasionally appears in the sky. By the way, in November the duration of sunshine is equal to that recorded in the summer in the northwestern region of Europe. There is a huge advantage in traveling to the island of Malta at this time - vacation, the prices for which are usually quite high here, becomes more affordable at this time (a week's trip can be purchased for 25,000 rubles). The hills and valleys are covered with greenery, and bougainvillea and hibiscus begin to actively bloom near the houses of local residents. Pumpkins, pomegranates and olives are ripening in vegetable gardens and orchards. In general, nature does not plan to go to bed. Rather, on the contrary, after the downpours that hit the archipelago, it seems that she gets her second wind, which is why Malta is beautiful this season. Holidays in November will bring pleasure to all nature lovers. Although you should still take warm clothes with you.

Valletta

It’s hard to imagine a holiday in Malta without a visit to Valletta, the capital of the republic. It's best to start exploring the city with a walk from the City Gate to St. John's Cathedral, where every corner is gilded, intricately carved or painted. Next, board a horse-drawn cab and take a ride along the fortress walls, admiring the stunning panorama of the Grand Harbour. By the way, the driver will tell you the whole history of the island in a half-hour ride. The final highlight will be a boat trip on a “sea taxi” around Valletta. There are a great many of these long, colorful boats here.

It is also exciting to travel on rare Bedford buses that carry passengers around the city. The Maltese got these orange and yellow cars after the British, just like the postal stands and red telephone booths. The Maltese are simply in love with these buses! They are everywhere: on towels, refrigerator magnets, ashtrays, mugs... The central bus interchange is located at the City Gate, where it is convenient to start your journey to the knightly fortresses (Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa). In addition, it is not difficult to get to the ruins of megalithic temples, which are at least a thousand years older than the pyramids of Egypt. And, of course, to Mdina - the first capital of Malta, which has a huge number of souvenir shops selling delicate lace, Maltese glass, elegant silver jewelry, as well as models of sailing ships.

There are also secluded rocky beaches near Valletta. They can be easily reached by renting a bicycle. Diving is especially good here, since the clear local waters contain the remains of once sunken ships, colorful fish rush past in flocks, and octopuses can be found in the rocks.

Sights of Malta

If we talk about holidays in Malta, then all kinds of excursions are its highlight. A description of all local attractions could take more than one article.

Particularly noteworthy are the megalithic ancient temples (for example, Ggantija, which is located on the island of Gozo), the Ar Dalam and Hypogeum caves, the catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha (in Rabat), as well as the temple in Mosta.

Those who are still more drawn to nature should go to see the cliffs of Ta"Cenc and Dingli Cliffs, as well as Azure Window - an amazing natural arch. Among the most unusual attractions are the tracks of prehistoric carts in Ta"Cenc, Clapham Junction and on the territory of San Gwann.

Gastronomic pleasures of Malta

If you are planning a holiday in Malta, be sure to try rabbit cooked in wine sauce. Each restaurant prepares it differently, depending on the wine used. But the best way to experience the flavor of local cuisine is to find yourself in the capital’s bus terminal, where the square contains a huge number of stalls stuffed with buns, national sweets, and pies. These treats cost pennies, but at the same time they allow you to fully experience Malta “taste”.

Beaches of Malta

The sandy beaches of the island stretch along the entire coast, turning into a gently sloping, pleasant sandbank at the border with the sea.

The most popular beach is Mellieha Bay. In addition, it is the longest: its length is fifty meters of pure golden sand. It is located near Mellieha, in fact, and received its name in his honor.

On the western coast, it is worth paying attention to Golden Bay Beach - a sandy bay, which is located between two capes.

But on Ain Tuffeeha you will have to go down the stairs from the hotel to find yourself on the beach. This is, of course, an excellent workout for the muscles, but for a holiday with children this option may not be the most convenient.

To get to Jneina Bay, you will need to drive through the town of Mgarr, which is famous for its market, as well as sellers who are willing to offer discounts. The beach is bordered by white flat rocks in the shape of platforms, and this gives the entire landscape a special charm. The combination of the bright azure sea and snow-white rocks is striking in its beauty.

In the central part of the coast there is Paradise Bay - a very small sandy beach. There is a ferry nearby to Gozo. At this point you will also find stairs from the hotel to the beach.

In the town of Birzebbugia in the south-eastern region of the coast of Malta there is a very quiet and lovely Priti Bay - a great place for a secluded, relaxing holiday.

Right on the beach you can buy or rent beach accessories (beach mats, sun loungers, swimsuits, towels and umbrellas), quench your thirst with all kinds of non-alcoholic soft drinks or cocktails, dine in a restaurant or have a snack in a cafe.

Among the entertainments on the beaches of Malta, the most popular are boat trips on water skis, canoes and scooters, as well as parachute and paragliding flights. Children will love banana rides.

Excursions and entertainment

Tourists will appreciate the widest range of opportunities for active recreation. Until mid-autumn, the Maltese Islands offer scuba diving, sailing, canoeing and jet skiing, paragliding, parachute jumping - it’s difficult to list everything. Fans of the sea will be able to go on a cruise to admire the beauty of the secluded corners of the country and see a lot of interesting things in a short time. But you need to hurry: the navigation season closes at the end of September. Those who are not limited in time can choose bus excursions to explore the archipelago, as well as independent trips in a rented car. Malta is an island museum, striking in its abundance of monuments of forgotten civilizations, which testify to the diversity of its entire history.

But if you are one of those people who welcome everything unusual and new, then you will be interested in a half-hour excursion by train, whose route runs past the main historical attractions, including: the Greek Gate, the Roman Villa, the Monastery of St. Dominic.

Splash-and-Fun, amusement park

Located in Bahar ich-Chak, between St. Paul's Bay and Sliema. The park consists of a theme park and a water park, which contains the largest water slides in this area of the Mediterranean. There are also 2 swimming pools with sun umbrellas and sun loungers. The park features a railway, models of prehistoric animals, roller coasters, carousels, and bouncy castles in which children can jump to their heart's content.

Mediterraneo Marine Park, marine park

It is located near Splash-and-Fun. Here the underwater world is represented by sea lions, Black Sea dolphins, as well as many fish in a huge aquarium. The park hosts performances several times a day, in which sea animals are active participants.

Popeye Village amusement park

The park is located near Mellieha, near Anker Bay. In 1980, a film about the sailor Papaya was shot in Malta. After filming, all the scenery was preserved, and the set was turned into Popeye Village Park. This place has a swimming pool, roller coasters and water slides, a lazy river, a children's railway, many attractions, children's electric cars, and a cinema center.

Animation shows and free skating are held here for children. Visitors, weather permitting, are invited to take a 20-minute schooner tour along the bay coast.

Language classes

Many people go to Malta to combine their vacation with learning another language. The resort offers a huge variety of activities, regardless of the level of experience and age of people. In addition to general courses, there are also specialized ones - for example, for people traveling abroad or students.

The openness of the island's residents to foreigners makes it possible to instantly overcome the language barrier - in prim England it is more difficult to step over oneself. Not every Maltese speaks the language perfectly, so they perfectly understand the difficulties we face.

The schools are taught by islanders, as well as invited teachers from the USA or England - this is necessary when you dream of learning to speak without an accent or training your ear for pronunciation.

Why is Malta so popular among language learners? To begin with, it is worth noting that the prices here are humane. So, the general course will cost you 100 euros per week, and the intensive course will cost you 144 euros. You can live in hostels or in a family, with the latter option costing 120 euros per week, and cheaper in winter. In addition, in your free time, the whole of Malta is open to you: beach holidays, ancient cities, seaside cafes are always at hand. Thus, a trip here is the most enjoyable method of learning a language.

It is prohibited to appear on the beach in this place without a swimsuit.
It is customary to tip here.
It is prohibited to enter the church wearing beachwear or a hat.
In Malta you cannot smoke in public places. At the same time, citizens can report those establishments that do not comply with this ban.
Residents of Malta go to bed at 20:00. Life in cities comes to a standstill after dark.
Hotels in Malta have two and three pole sockets. There is no need to bring an adapter from home; they can be purchased on the island.
On the island of Malta, prices are quite high - a six-day hotel stay starts from 1,800 euros, and you don’t have to take money with you - there are ATMs everywhere.

Possible dangers

Too hot sun can cause heatstroke. Therefore, you need to use any available methods of protection: creams, a hat, sunglasses - all this can be purchased near the beach. There is no need to sunbathe between 11:00 and 17:00, when the sun is especially harmful.

At sea, due to inattention, you can get a huge number of cuts from underwater sharp stones. There are especially many of them on rocky beaches. In order to return home without wounds and rested, you need to buy rubber slippers.

Nocturnal jellyfish, sea urchins and fireworms are often found close to the beach in shallow waters. Communication with these creatures can cause a lot of trouble. Although you can eliminate a jellyfish burn yourself: you need to moisten the wound with sea water, then remove the poison and carefully rinse with vinegar.

Holidays in Malta: reviews from tourists

Vacationers have varying opinions about the island, although this is mainly due to what time of year they find themselves here. So, from the beginning of spring to mid-autumn, those who come here are delighted with the wonderful climate, turquoise water and excellent recreational opportunities. But those who want to spend a holiday in Malta in October-November have different reviews - the rainy season begins here, which makes few people happy. Although at this moment nature “wakes up”, beginning to delight the eye with all its colors. In addition, there is an excellent opportunity to leisurely explore the island with all its many attractions.

Customs restrictions

Every passenger over 17 years of age, if his visit to Malta is not limited to one day, can carry the following goods duty free:

Tobacco products: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 grams of smoking tobacco Alcoholic drinks: 1 liter of strong spirits, 1 liter of wine. Perfume: 60 ml, eau de toilette: 250 ml. Any goods imported in industrial quantities (both for sale and for transit) must be declared in the red corridor.

The following goods are prohibited for import:

Any drugs in any quantity Firearms, ammunition, explosives. Books, magazines, photographic films, video cassettes, laser discs, computer disks and other media containing obscene materials. Animals or birds, living or dead (say, stuffed animals), as well as products made from protected species: hide, ivory, reptile skin. Meat and poultry, as well as products made from them (whether cooked or in the form of semi-finished products). Wireless communication devices (walkie-talkies, cordless phones, etc.). Any plants, including trees and bushes, as well as soil. Counterfeit goods.

Banks

There are 4 banks in Malta: BANK OF VALETTA, HSBC, APS BANK, LOMBARD.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday, usually from 08.30 to 12 hours, on Saturdays from 08.30 to 11.30 hours. At Laki Airport, the exchange office is open all year round, 24 hours a day. There are ATMs in the most important business and tourist centers. You can also change money at any hotel, but at a less favorable rate than in banks.

Telephone communications

There are two cellular operators in Malta - VODAFONE MALTA and GO MOBILE. If you are not here for a long time, it is more profitable to use GO MOBILE for calls to Russia. If you plan to stay on the island or come here regularly, then it is better to buy a local SIM card from this VODAFONE (the number can be stored for up to 15 months from the date of last activation).

The cheapest way is to call from automated machines, which are located at every step.

Most of them are card ones, a minority are coin ones (yellow “coin phone” booths).

There are EasyLine and Telecard cards in denominations of 2, 5 and 10 lira. They are sold in souvenir shops, gas stations, department stores, and hotels. Tariffs for calls when using EasyLine cards:

59 cents per minute of conversation with Russia - from 8-00 to 18-00
47 cents per minute of conversation with Russia - from 18-00 to 8-00

A call to Moscow is made as follows: “00 7 495 city_number”.

Useful phones

Unified Rescue Service – 112
Fire protection – 199
Ambulance – 196
Help Desk – 118 2
Information desk for tourists – 115 2
Police Head Office - 21224001/9, 191 (General), 562040 (Gozo)
Embassy of the Russian Federation – 21371905/07,
Consular Section – 21371906
Air Malta office – 21690890
Aeroflot office – 21236241
Gozo Ferry Service – 21243964/6

The shops

The most famous shopping complexes:

Bay street complex ((Paceville) works from 10 – 22, without a break, except Sunday
The Plaza Shopping Center (Sliema) is open from 09.00 – 13.00, 16.00 – 19.00 except Sundays.
Arcadia Shopping Mall (Gozo) is open from 08.00 to 19.00 with a siesta break.

For those who are planning to come to Malta for a long time, here are some prices for goods in local stores:

Chocolate. 38 cents per 100 gram bar (Ritter Sport)
Pasta – from 14 cents
Sugar – from 14 cents Shampoo – from 80 cents to lira
Toothpaste – 38 cents
Dry red wine La Valletta 0.99-1.15 Lm
Beer Cisk 0.33 can – 40 cents, glass at the bar – 45-50
Guide to Malta in any language (including Russian) – 2.5-3 liras
Maps of Malta - from 85 cents to 3 liras, bus route maps - 25 cents
Ice cream from 20 cents to lira
Cigarettes – from 90 cents to Lm1.20 per pack
Yogurts. Local - 14 cents per piece, Danone - 25 cents per piece.
Drinking water - 25 cents for a large plastic bottle (2-2.5 liters, local bottling), around 1 lira for a pack of six such bottles.
Instant coffee - 47 cents per 50-gram jar.

Beaches

There are few sandy beaches on the island; most of the coast is occupied by rocky and pebble beaches, almost unequipped and not always easily accessible. Most beaches do not have cabanas or sun loungers. But the perfectly clear water off the coast (considered the clearest in the Mediterranean) more than compensates for this deficiency.

For diving You must obtain a local permit - "Card C". It is issued at diving centers upon presentation of a medical certificate (can be obtained on site), two photographs, a ship's book and payment of a fee. To sail solo, you must obtain a certificate equivalent to CMAS/2. Schools also provide lessons for beginners and accept CMAS or PADI level exams.

Spearfishing is prohibited, there are even several archaeological zones where scuba diving is prohibited. If you find any archaeological value underwater, it is prohibited to touch it - you should report the find to a museum or diving school.

Transport

Bus. Tickets are usually sold by the driver right at the entrance, but sometimes (mainly at the final stops) this is done by the conductor. All stops are on demand, but if someone is standing at it waiting for a bus, the driver, as a rule, will stop without additional votes. And if you need to get out, then in each salon there is an original “driver warning system” - either a rope is stretched across the ceiling connected to a bell, or buttons are placed along the windows - in any case, before getting out, you should pull or press so that the driver I realized that I needed to slow down. You should know that many buses stop operating at 8-11 pm.

Taxi. Taxis in Malta come in two colors – black and white. Black ones are cheaper (about 2 times). A taxi can be ordered by phone from anywhere. Private cars don’t provide transportation; voting on the roads makes no sense.

Car rental. Renting a car is the most convenient option for getting around the island. Car rental prices in Malta are at least 2 times lower than the European average. Lowest car rental prices in Bugib on Pioneer road.

All roads in Malta are free and unimportant. The maximum permitted speed is 60 km/h, in a populated area - 40.

Driving is on the left.

Don't forget to give way to pedestrians who sometimes forget to look both ways.

Entertainment

The generally recognized entertainment center in Malta is Paceville, an area located in the north of the island. Everything is concentrated here - discos, restaurants, bars, and on the seashore (Dragonara Peninsula) the largest casino (of the two) in Malta is located. It is recommended to come to the casino in a suit.

The second most important resort area is the territory of the cities of Qawra-Bugibba-St.Paul's Bay, which is also located on the northern coast of Malta. It is more modest than Sliema-St.Julians-Paceville, everything is more compact here, there is less loud music and chic buildings, but this area is more modern.You can drink beer at McDonalds, alcoholic beverages are allowed here.

Health

No vaccinations are required to visit Malta. Take anti-allergy medications with you. Allergies can occur to various shellfish, which are abundant in Maltese cuisine.

In Malta, desalinated seawater is often used. It is not dangerous to health, but its taste may seem strange. Therefore, it is better to drink bottled water. You can eat whatever you want, even in inexpensive eateries.

Voltage

Malta's electrical network has a single-phase AC voltage of 240 volts, a frequency of 50 hertz, and three-pole sockets. A special adapter for electrical equipment can be purchased in Malta.

Malta is a country of Catholics, and very devout ones at that. You won't find striptease or sex shows here; the attitude towards women is almost the same as in Muslim countries. It is prohibited to appear on the beaches without the top part of a swimsuit for women or without any clothing at all.

Visitors to the island must respect religious traditions. Visiting monasteries and churches in shorts and low-cut clothing is prohibited.

In 4-5 star hotels it is not customary to go out to dinner in beach or sportswear.

You cannot leave items in rental cars parked on the roadway.

Do you want to visit one of the most ancient, but at the same time one of the most cozy places on the planet? Malta is a country with a rich historical heritage, a mild Mediterranean climate, developed infrastructure and friendly local people. It is ideal for almost any type of holiday and is very conducive to tourism.

Fine THERE I have collected the most useful information that will help you form an impression of the country before your trip. We wish you a pleasant virtual acquaintance with this unique country!

General information about Malta

Location of the island Republic of Malta

To find the Maltese archipelago on the map, pay attention to the small dot in the center of the Mediterranean Sea. It consists of 10 islands (three of them inhabited: Malta, Gozo, Comino, and six uninhabited: Cominotto, Filfoletta, Filfla, Manoel, Mushroom Rock and the island cluster of St. Paul).

Neighboring continents and states
The Republic of Malta is closest to Italian Sicily (90 km), the next farthest is Tunisia on the North African coast (230 km).

External and internal reservoirs
Located directly in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta does not have any inland waters. Imagine - not a single river or lake within the entire country!

Population

429,344 people (as of 2015)

Locals

man - Maltese, woman - Maltese

Currency

Euro (approximate exchange rate as of 02/01/2018: 1 Euro = 1.25 dollars, 1 Euro = 70 rubles)

Control form

Parliamentary republic

Language

two official state languages - Maltese and English, Italian is quite common

Religion

Catholicism (about 97%)

Country dialing code

Important numbers for tourists

Emergency rescue number – 112
Help – 190
Police – 191
Ambulance – 196
Firefighters - 199
Russian Embassy - +356-21-371-905 (either on end 6 or 7)

hotels: for porters 1-2 € per bag, for room cleaning 2-3 €
restaurants: from 5% to 10%. However, if the service charge is already included, then there is no need to leave a tip.
taxi: usually not required, but if you don’t mind, round up the amount for the trip or leave 10%

But for tourists there is an interesting bonus: thanks to the TAX FREE system, when leaving the island you can return about 15% for purchased goods (each receipt must be at least 55 Euros, and their amount must be at least 315 Euros). Items must be unused and receipts must be available. The refund amount will be sent to you at the specified address within three months, minus administrative costs.

Climate, when is the best time to go?

The climate here is subtropical Mediterranean: sunny, hot and dry in the summer, and quite mild in the winter, with rare rains and an absolute absence of frost and snow. Average monthly temperatures: in summer about +26 °C, and in winter about +13 °C. Malta is a real record holder for the number of sunny days per year on the entire European continent. It's almost always sunny here!

So, when is the best time for you to go to this sunny island? Yes, at any time of the year!

Summer- Naturally, for lovers of heat and sunshine, it is better to go from June to September. The temperature at this time can reach +40 °C, but generally fluctuates around +35 °C. The Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Malta warms up to +27 °C in the summer season. If an umbrella is useful, it is only for protection from the sun.
Off-season- for people who prefer summer weather that is fairly dry, but not too hot, we recommend going to the archipelago in May, September or October. These months delight vacationers with comfortable air temperatures (about +25 °C) and water (about +20 °C).
Winter- and if you want to breathe fresh sea air, visit this country during the low season. The sea breeze and periodic short-term rains perfectly cleanse the atmosphere, which during the day mostly stays at +15 °C and does not fall below +5 °C (even at night). The water temperature in winter is about +12 °C.

Cities and resorts

Thanks to its small size and location, you can be on the coast at any time. By car you can drive the length of the entire country in an hour, and the width in half an hour (the length of the main island is 27 km and the width is 14.5 km). At the same time, there is something to see and actively spend time here!

A few words about the capital of the Republic of Malta

The capital of the Republic of Malta is located on the largest island of the archipelago. This is an impressive port city with a rich historical heritage, narrow sunny streets with bright doors and balconies decorated with flower beds. The city is protected by UNESCO and is literally an open-air museum. After all, with an area of only 50 hectares, it accommodates about 320 cultural monuments and attractions. For 2018, Valletta received the status of European Capital of Culture.

Largest cities in Malta

In general, the settlements on the islands are small, with the maximum number of inhabitants (about 25,000 people) living in the town of Birkirkara. Also among the largest cities are the following cities: Mosta, Qormi, Zabbar, Nashshar, Rabat, Zeitun, Zebbuj, Fgura, Attard. Many settlements actually have no borders and smoothly transition into each other, being, by and large, regions of the island.

The most popular tourist and resort towns of the archipelago

Cities that attract tourists can be divided into resort cities and those of cultural value:

The current capital with an incredible number of attractions from different historical eras. The fortified port city, despite its grandeur, is very conducive to walks and a pleasant cultural holiday. This is literally a paradise for tourists - there is something to see here, and at any time - you can relax in some pleasant establishment with a cup of aromatic coffee or a glass of delicious Maltese wine, and also enjoy truly haute local cuisine.

Valletta, Malta

The perfectly preserved ancient capital of Malta deserves special attention. It is also a fortified city and, despite its high popularity among tourists, remains an extremely quiet place, ideal for thoughtful walking.

Mdina, Malta

The most prestigious and popular resort town with a cozy promenade and a sufficient number of shopping centers, boutiques and shops for a pleasant shopping experience.

Sliema, Malta

Here, perhaps, are the most ideal conditions for staying with your family: developed infrastructure and transport system, plus comfortable beach areas and numerous historical places to visit.

Bugibba, Malta

Here is the largest sandy beach in the entire archipelago. An ideal place for a relaxing beach holiday, as well as for a comfortable stay with children.

Mellieha, Malta

The place where the popular film about the fisherman of the same name was filmed. The remaining decorations served as the basis for creating a place to attract tourists.

Popeye Village, Malta

A fishing village with a fairly large market for local products and a beautiful port area with boats of all kinds.

Marsaxlokk, Malta

It has small but cozy beaches. Due to its close proximity to Patchville, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations.

St Julian's, Malta

It will especially please young people, lovers of parties and noisy nights out. This is where the entire club life of the archipelago is concentrated.

Paceville, Malta

Features of staying in Malta for Russians

Of course, the features of the colorful Republic of Malta cannot be described in three words, but we will still try to tell you the main points that you should pay attention to for a comfortable stay among the locals.

A brief history of the country, the main milestones of its formation and level in modern times

To complete the picture, it is necessary to understand the main historical events that affected the formation of Malta. This is the oldest state, with a history that dates back centuries, which is confirmed by the oldest megalithic temples of the island on the planet. The first mentions of this country marked the beginning of our era. Christianity has flourished here since the 60s, brought here by St. Paul. Being on the Mediterranean trade route, the country was of interest to numerous conquerors, but each time the Maltese managed to free themselves from the invaders. Since 870, the country was in the hands of the Arabs, then became part of Sicily, and in 1530 it was transferred to the sovereign Knightly Order, thanks to which the golden age began here. But in 1798, Napoleon recaptured the islands from the knights for two years, surrendering their positions in 1800 to the British army called to help. After defeating the French, the British remained in the archipelago until 1964. Complete independence from Great Britain was proclaimed here in 1974. And since May 2004, the country joined the EU. This is such a difficult history, full of wars and battles, which at the same time has strengthened this majestic people. Modern Malta is a free, successful, cultural and progressive country.

Features of the Maltese people

The Maltese, having a very multifaceted history and roots intertwined with a large number of nationalities, due to numerous conquests, are a very peaceful people themselves. However, you should be extremely careful when communicating with them. Unlike overly polite Europeans, locals are much more sincere in their reactions, in some places even hot-tempered and impulsive. But it is worth noting that they are not at all aggressive, they simply will not keep silent if it seems to them that you have somehow violated their foundations, which they have preserved and honored for centuries. Religiosity and traditionalism are perhaps the two main and fundamental features of the Maltese. Family traditions are especially deeply respected here.

Oh yes. Also, they don’t like to rush and rush. But this is more a common feature of residents of hot countries.

Economic mood of the country

For the Maltese, recent decades have seen significant improvements in the economic well-being of the country as a whole, as well as its residents. This happened thanks to successful development in several areas: light industry, trade and, of course, tourism!

All conditions have been created for tourists here, allowing them to spend their time in a variety of ways and in comfort. At the same time, do not overpay as in other countries of a similar level in the European Union. Malta offers the best combination of price and quality of holiday.

Level of safety and culture of behavior in society

The Republic of Malta has the lowest crime rate in the EU. There are practically no thefts and no thefts here. Everyone who has ever visited Malta notes the highest level of culture, responsiveness and hospitality of the local people. Here you feel absolutely safe even at night. This is due to the deep religiosity in Maltese society and innate chivalric principles. As for knighthood, this may be a little exaggerated, but the level of education of local residents is really decent. But we recommend not to ignore the first point. In Maltese society, jokes using the names of Saints are highly discouraged. In general, in order to avoid getting into an unpleasant situation, you should behave as decently as possible, as well as be attentive and respectful to everyone around you. We agree, this is a universal advice for all countries, but believe me, in Malta you should definitely use it!

Popularity of different types of recreation taking into account seasonality

Now let's decide on the reason for the trip! What to do in Malta during your holiday? A question with a thousand answers (and this is not a joke)! Of course, we won’t list all the variations, since it’s simply beyond the scope of this article - but know: holidays on the sunny archipelago can be incredibly varied and it’s incredibly difficult to get bored here.

Basic ideas for organizing a holiday when visiting the Maltese islands:

Beach holiday– delights vacationers from May to October. Perhaps the only type of tourism in Malta that is limited by seasonality.
Diving– available here all year round. Malta has literally become a European diving center, thanks to the clearest water off the coast and low diving prices.
Study tours– attract here students of different statuses and ages from all over the world, who come for the European level of teaching English. In addition, after learning from native speakers, you can have a wonderful time and relax while continuing to actively train your language skills. During the low season, schools offer good discounts on tuition.
Gastronomic tourism– very developed in Malta due to the highest level of local cuisine at fairly low prices (relative to European ones). Gourmets from all over the world come here to enjoy the great tastes of Mediterranean dishes.
Excursion tourism– one of the most popular holiday destinations. Countless ancient sights (including megalithic ones), perfectly preserved to this day, attract tourists from all over the world.
Ecotourism– is actively gaining momentum among tourists from all countries. The ecological situation on the island, year-round good weather and evergreen nature encourage visiting local settlements and villages (especially in winter).
Business tourism– is also becoming increasingly popular (especially among European companies). Local conditions are ideal for holding all kinds of forums and conferences.

In general, a holiday in Malta is comparable to a holiday on the shores of Sicily or Italy. A wide range of services and a high level of service will satisfy even the most demanding travelers. That is why rather picky and demanding Europeans love to come here. After all, here you can find ideal conditions for both relaxing relaxation and active pastime.

The most exciting events and holidays

Sorry, it’s impossible to resist summarizing in advance - how these tanned and smiling Maltese know how to have cultural fun! With what enthusiasm and pleasure they organize street celebrations and incredible fireworks displays for almost any occasion, be it religious festivals or calendar holidays - you must see this with your own eyes! The Maltese people love to celebrate and do it sincerely, in an organized and truly beautiful way. Here we list only those events that are the largest and most significant:

January 1 – The New Year holiday is celebrated here with obligatory folk festivities and fireworks.
February 9 – The five-day Carnival is famous for its widespread costumed and very colorful processions.
March 31 is Freedom Day, which is a national and widely celebrated holiday.
Floating dates at the end of June/beginning of July - Day of the Apostles Peter and Paul. At the end of June, the annual MTV Festival in Floriana (a world-class music event) is held.
September 8 is Triple Victory Day, as well as the Feast of the Virgin Mary the Victorious with an annual regatta in her honor.
September 21 - Independence Day is celebrated on a national scale and the hoisting of the flag in Floriana.
December 13 – Republic Day is also the most important date in the history of Malta.
December 25 – Catholic Christmas is celebrated with the deep religiosity and commitment to tradition inherent in the Maltese.

Due to the fact that Valletta (the capital of Malta) became the European Capital of Culture in 2018, a huge amount of funds has been allocated to the reconstruction of the historical values of the archipelago. The year will also be marked by an incredibly rich cultural and entertainment program, complementing the already incredibly busy calendar of holidays and events.

Maltese traditional cuisine

Do you like to eat delicious food? Then you will definitely like it in Malta - the Maltese know a lot about food! Oh, how they can cook deliciously! Believe me, there is not a bit of exaggeration in these words. Perhaps, on the contrary, their deep passion for nourishing, incredibly tasty and beautifully presented food cannot be expressed in words. At the same time, national dishes are quite simple, which allows them to preserve the bright natural taste of high-quality products, which they invariably use in preparation. In general, the delights of local cuisine are characteristic of the central Mediterranean, with the addition of interesting notes brought from Italy, Spain, Sicily, France and even North Africa. Despite this, Maltese cuisine has its own and very bright flavor.

What is a must-try in Malta?

Hot pastizzi– small puff pastries with delicate fillings (mainly ricotta or lentil paste). A favorite snack of the Maltese and guests of the island.
Torti– no less popular local pies with a wide range of fillings.
Cannolly– baked rolls with creamy ricotta, chocolate and candied fruits.
Bagilla– tender bean paste with added spices.
Raviul– the most delicate ravioli with goat cheese.
Stuffat tal Arnit– stewed octopus with vegetables (the dish can also be made from pork).
Stufat tal Fenech– rabbit stew (one of the most popular dishes among tourists).
Excellent tart Maltese wines and local Chisk beer.

A standard question from tourists is - where is it better to eat and where is it not worth it?

Thanks to the Maltese's high standards for food, almost all of the numerous small restaurants on the embankments and in the narrow streets of the cities are worthy of a visit. Here you can taste superbly prepared dishes of national or more universal cuisine without worrying about your health and well-being.

In Malta it is extremely difficult to find a place where you can get tasty food. Even very small establishments for locals spread appetizing smells throughout the street, and inside such eateries hospitality and comfort reign.

How expensive is it to eat delicious food in Maltese restaurants?

With an average bill of about 10 Euros, you will not only get acquainted with Maltese cuisine, but also be well fed. Portions in establishments are not just large, they are literally huge! All these facts have created interest among tourists all over the world in gastronomic tours to Malta.

Local shops and supermarkets have shelves with Russian products. If you wish, you can buy the usual buckwheat, condensed milk, cucumbers and much more there. The choice of domestic products is not very large, but with a sudden surge of nostalgia, it is quite sufficient.

Where is the best place to stay in Malta?

Tourist comfort in this country is practically at the forefront. In general, almost all accommodation offers here are capable of providing a decent, well, at least acceptable level. Wide choose hotels, villas and apartments allows you to find a cozy option even in high season. Not to mention the huge selection of half price offers during the low season.

Since many people go to Malta to study English, some choose accommodation in host families. This type of accommodation has its advantages - after all, it is not only a way to better get to know the culture of the country, but also, often, an opportunity to live in a historical house. However, living in someone else's house can cause natural discomfort, since you have to accept the principles and rules of the owners of the house. This is why many choose to live in hotels or aparthotels. Thanks to quite reasonable prices for accommodation, this option in Malta is optimal.

Traveling to the Maltese archipelago is a fairly simple undertaking. It only sounds far away, but in fact it is very close! In addition, this is one of the most friendly European countries towards us. So what do you need to know to make a travel decision?

Do I need a visa and how to get it?

The Republic of Malta belongs to the countries of the Schengen area. If you have a Schengen visa, a separate visa confirmation from Malta is not required. When receiving a visa, for example, from Moscow, it will take about 5 days to wait for a decision and 5,000 rubles for the entire package of documents. If you have submitted your biometric data, then a visit to the embassy is not necessary. But, in any case, it is necessary to have air tickets (round trip) and insurance purchased before submitting the visa request.

What are the ways to get to the place?

Considering the geographical location of the island, the best way to get there is by plane! There are a large number of transit options through Europe. Also, you can use a complex and lengthy method - on transfers, using water transport. If you are a keen lover of road adventures, we sincerely wish you good luck and the easiest possible journey!

Average ticket price for main flight options from Moscow

There are many ways to get to Malta. Here are the prices for the simplest, fastest and most convenient:

Direct flight AirMalta in low season - about 200 Euros, in high season - about 270 Euros.
Transit flight TurkishAirline in low season - about 140 Euros, in high season - about 250 Euros.
The cost of air tickets is reduced by purchasing tickets in advance and issuing round-trip travel documents at once. Plus, all airlines periodically have promotions and discounts. By using these opportunities wisely, you can purchase tickets much cheaper than the listed prices.

How long does it take to arrive?

It depends where you are! But seriously, we will give approximate information on five Russian cities:

from Moscow – 4 hours 10 minutes
from St. Petersburg – 4 hours 20 minutes
from Kazan (via Moscow) – about 20 hours
from Yekaterinburg (via Moscow) – about 12 hours
from Vladivostok (via Seoul and London or Paris) – about 2 days

Subtleties of movement on the ground

The main transport here is your feet. And this, by the way, is not a joke! The local distances, views and climate are more than conducive to walking! Often, neighboring cities can easily be reached on foot in 15-20 minutes. Well, if you need to get to a more remote location, unfortunately, there is not much choice. This is either a taxi or a rented car (an ideal option, given the low cost and ease of renting). If you have a limited budget, no license or desire to change lanes for right-hand drive traffic, you can use public transport. Bus travel costs 1.5 Euro (with the option of using the ticket all day to travel around the island). There are also weekly bus passes, the price of which varies depending on the season. It is worth paying attention to the complex route system and schedule of this type of transport.

What to bring from the country as a souvenir?

Every tourist knows that when leaving, you need to take with you as many souvenirs as possible that remind you of your vacation! At least it seems so. Often these purchases are spontaneous and caused by fresh impressions of the country, which dissipate over time, erasing from memory the excitement with which they were purchased. And for some, on the contrary, small memorable gifts become the keys to warm memories.

Small authentic gifts are worth purchasing in small shops here. What should you pay attention to? Most often, the finest lace products woven by local craftswomen or products made from goat down are brought from Malta. Also popular are multi-colored glass souvenirs, often blown right in front of you. Well, the list is completed by small figurines of Knights and local silver items.

Tasty items include local products: wine or Limoncello, Jbeinite (goat cheese), high-quality honey from local apiaries, olive oil and delicious sea salt mined here.

What cannot be exported?

We remind you that it is strictly prohibited to export any items of artistic or historical value from the country.

So, should you go to Malta or not?

If your list is missing the most obvious pros and cons that you can expect from a visit, we will try to fill this gap:

7 advantages of Malta

Excellent Mediterranean climate and the cleanest coastal waters in the entire Mediterranean and free beaches.
This is an all-season holiday resort with European quality, but lower prices.
Everything is very close, but at the same time there are huge opportunities for spending time for every taste.
It is safe even at night, and the residents are quite friendly towards visitors to the country.
English is the second language and all residents speak it, which is convenient for tourists all over the world.
The oldest buildings on Earth, as well as the highest density of attractions, are here.
An opportunity to inexpensively visit any country included in the Schengen zone.

7 disadvantages of Malta

High subtropical air humidity may seem quite difficult to perceive for some.
There are no green thickets and widespread sandy beaches here. There is both, but not in such quantities as, for example, in Thailand.
A unique public transport system, represented by a single bus system with complex routes and schedules.
Not everywhere there are ATMs or the ability to accept plastic cards. To successfully purchase lunch in a small restaurant, it is better to have cash with you.
The fresh water in the tap is obtained through desalination and should not be drunk. Drinking water is purchased in stores here.
The lack of central heating in winter forces the room to be heated on cool days using electric heaters.
In winter, a rather cold wind can blow from the sea.

What you should definitely get to know in this country

Swim in the inland sea in Gozo.
Visit Fort Moel, the Grand Master's Palace and the Armstrong Cannon.
Visit the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and admire the views of the Great Gulf.
Take a walk through the ancient former capital - the city of Mdina in the evening and get aesthetic pleasure. A historical, but at the same time very romantic place.
Descend to the Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni (building around 3500 BC). It is somewhat creepy here, but leaves a lasting impression, allowing you to feel the power and strength of these places!
Scuba diving and seeing the 13-ton statue of Christ is a mesmerizing sight.
Enjoy the freshest giant shrimp sold at the market in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
Try cacti.

Minimum program for the first and last day in Malta

On the first day of your stay in Malta– Visit the capital city of Valletta. Since everything is very close in Malta, from the airport to Valletta is a 20-minute bus ride. And, having passed through Valletta all the way to the coast (along the main street called Republic), get into a horse-drawn carriage that will slowly take you along the embankment of this beautiful city. Such an excursion will not take much time (about 15 minutes at most), but it will allow you to immediately immerse yourself in the best views of the archipelago and the city itself, as well as feel the mood of these places.

On the last day We recommend going on a romantic farewell walk to Malta. It is advisable to walk along the Sliema embankment. Such a walk will help you settle down your emotions received on vacation, and also recharge your desire to come again. Believe me, even travelers who don’t visit the same countries twice come back here. And, of course, be sure to throw a coin from the pier if you still want to visit here again!

We wish you an unforgettable trip to the sunny island of Malta!

Well, are you ready for the trip? Bookmark this article so you don’t forget the most important points!

Well... We almost forgot about one of the most important places to visit in Malta. Don't miss the chance to visit Blue Lagoon on Comino Island to enjoy crystal clear waters and white sand.