Malta is one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations, offering crystal-clear waters, ancient history, dramatic coastlines, and warm, sunny weather throughout most of the year. Whether you’re planning a beach escape, an adventure-packed break, or a relaxing holiday with fewer crowds, Malta offers something for every type of traveller.
In this seasonal guide, we’ll help you decide the best time to visit Malta based on sunshine, activities, and crowd levels, plus how car hire can help you get the most out of your trip.

Best Time to Visit Malta for Sunshine: June – September

If your goal is non-stop sunshine, warm seas, and long summer evenings, Malta’s peak season is ideal.

Weather

• Temperatures: 28°C – 35°C

• Sea temperature: Perfect for swimming

• Sunshine hours: 9–12 hours per day

What to Experience

• Golden Bay & Mellieħa Bay for beach days

• Comino’s Blue Lagoon for turquoise-water swimming

• Valletta’s summer events, including outdoor concerts and festivals

• Boat trips, snorkelling, and sunset cruises

Why Go Now?

This is the season for travellers seeking pure Mediterranean summer vibes. The island is buzzing, the nightlife is vibrant, and the beaches are at their best.

Tip: If you want to explore the island comfortably in the heat, car hire is essential. It gives you the freedom to escape to quieter beaches and air-conditioned comfort between stops.

Best Time for Adventure & Outdoor Activities: March – June & September – November

The shoulder seasons offer ideal weather for exploring Malta’s nature, history, and outdoor adventures.

Weather

• Temperatures: 18°C – 26°C

• Comfortable breezes

• Pleasant walking and hiking conditions

Activities to Enjoy

• Hiking in Dingli Cliffs and Fomm ir-Rih Bay

• Exploring Mdina, the Silent City

• Rock climbing and coasteering along rugged coastlines

• Kayaking around Gozo and Comino

• Visiting prehistoric temples like Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra

Why This Season Is Perfect for Adventure

The weather is warm without being overpowering, the trails are accessible, and sightseeing is far more enjoyable compared to the hot summer months.

Tip: Hiring a car makes it much easier to reach Malta’s hidden coves, cliff viewpoints, and historical sites that aren’t well connected by public transport.

Best Time for Good Weather with Fewer Tourists: April – May & October

If you want the best of both worlds, great weather AND lower crowd levels, these months are ideal.

Weather

• Temperatures: 22°C – 27°C

• Sea warm enough for swimming

• Fewer tour groups and shorter attraction queues

Perfect For…

• Relaxed sightseeing

• Affordable accommodation

• Scenic coastal drives

• Enjoying popular spots like Mdina, Marsaxlokk, and Valletta without peak-season crowds

• Visiting Blue Grotto or St. Peter’s Pool with space to enjoy it

Why Visit in Spring or Autumn?

These periods strike the perfect balance: glorious weather, room to explore, and more competitive prices, especially for flights and car hire.

Malta may be small, but its best beaches, temples, and viewpoints are spread across the islands, and some of the most beautiful spots are not easily accessible by bus. Hiring a car in Malta gives you full flexibility to explore on your own schedule.

With a car, you can:

• Visit hidden beaches like Għajn Tuffieħa

• Drive to cliff viewpoints for sunrise or sunset

• Explore Gozo’s countryside and coastal routes

• Fit more into your day without waiting for transport

It’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to see everything Malta has to offer.