Why not take advantage of the many activities you can do in Malta during winter? Low season means fewer crowds and a very different landscape.
WINTER SEASON
Winter season in Malta is relatively short. If you come from a cold country you won’t have a hard time tolerating a Maltese winter because they are really mild. What may catch you by surprise is the humidity, which is always high in Malta. This high humidity tends to amplify how we feel temperature, making our summers feel hotter and, yes, our winters feel colder than they really are. Keep in mind that Maltese homes are built to tolerate the hot summers, which means that they can be quite cold in winter. 99% of homes do not have underfloor heating or radiators, but instead many have air-conditioner units that can heat up a room. The Maltese also tend to use portable gas or petroleum heaters during the winter.
November
During the month of November, the weather starts cooling down, ranging from 14-21℃. You’ll be comfortable in jeans and a light jacket or hoody. Pack an umbrella, because November can be a little rainy although you’re most likely to encounter a good amount of sun.
December
Forget about a snowy Christmas in Malta! December is a little bit cold, with temperatures ranging from 11-17℃. You’ll need a thick jacket or windbreaker, and long trousers or tights under a dress. Scarves are recommended, as well as good waterproof shoes. December is usually a very rainy month, so don’t forget your umbrella.
January & February
The first two months of the year are the coldest in Malta. Temperatures usually range between 13-16℃, however it can feel a lot colder in the evenings and if it’s windy. Sometimes the mercury will dip below 10℃ but not too often. It can be quite rainy in January and February, so remember to pack a good pair of boots and an umbrella or a waterproof winter jacket.
Things to do in Winter in Malta
HIKE
Hiking in Malta is a great choice because of the mild weather. Join the local Ramblers group for an organised walk, or just pick one of the scenic routes along the coast.
Here are our favourite areas for a good hike:
- The Nature Reserves next to Golden Bay
- Dingli Cliffs
- Gozo
- Bahrija
MEET THE ANIMALS
Did you know that there is a really well-maintained petting farm right in the middle of the island, at Ta Qali? Here you’ll find a particularly strong example of different rabbit species, goats, and a very friendly donkey. The perfect outing for a winter day in Malta.
VALLETTA
Truth be told, Valletta is a winning choice in any season. We particularly love it in winter because there are fewer crowds cluttering your photos and it’s a little slower paced.
In December, Valletta is illuminated with street lights for the Christmas celebrations. Lately, the city has been outdoing itself each year with a new spectacular light installation in front of the Law Courts.
BEACH PICNIC
The beach might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a winter day, but as long as it’s not too windy you should definitely experience the beauty of a deserted Maltese beach. Pack a picnic basket and head to your favourite beach (Ghajn Tuffieha is great if you want to include a picturesque hike) and enjoy the peaceful sound of the sea without the summer crowds.
CARNIVAL IN MALTA
Carnival is a huge deal in Malta! It has been part of our traditions for centuries. Around Carnival time, we like to prepare prinjolata which is a sweet treat made of old bits of cake and frosted with egg whites. The Carnival festivities span across both Malta and Gozo, with a huge celebration taking place in Nadur (Gozo) with a street party that lasts until the early hours. In Valletta there is a grand parade of colourful and cheeky floats, topped with flashy dancers and music.
This year Carnival will be celebrated between 28th February – 5th March.
CAFE CULTURE
Sunset seems to come too soon in winter in Malta, so why not wind down with a good cup of coffee? Keep in mind that cafes in Malta don’t always stay open till late, with many shutting around 19:30. Here are some of our favourite coffee spots around the island:
- Caffe Cordina in Valletta
- Flora’s cafe in Naxxar
- Debbie’s cafe in Mellieha
- Sicilia Mia in Valley Road Birkirkara
