This tiny island nation in the Mediterranean is often skipped over by budget travelers, who head instead to places like Eastern Europe or Southeast Asia that are believed to be more affordable. But Malta boasts stunning beaches, ancient history, and a vibrant culture, making it a destination well worth exploring-even on a broke budget.
Being a poor backpacker, you would think that Malta could be outside of your budget. With a little bit of creativity and resourcefulness, though, you can realize everything Malta has to offer without breaking the bank. From affordable accommodation options to delicious, budget-friendly food, Malta has so much more to offer than one might initially think.
In this blog, we explore the ins and outs of broke backpacking in Malta. Sharing our top tips and tricks for saving money, from accommodation to navigating the public transportation system on the island, we will also be talking about some of the best free and low-cost activities to enjoy in Malta, from exploring the stunning beaches to visiting its ancient historical sites. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting out on your travels, this blog will show you that Malta might be a little diamond well within your reach, even on a tight budget.
How to get there:
From Italy
The most common way to get to Malta from Italy is by ferry. Several ferry companies, including Virtu Ferries and Grimaldi Lines, operate daily services from various ports in Italy, including Pozzallo, Catania, and Reggio Calabria. The journey takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route and the type of ferry.
To get to the port of departure in Italy, you can use public transportation such as buses and trains. For example, you can take a train from Rome to Pozzallo, and then catch the ferry to Malta.
From Sicily
Sicily is another popular departure point for ferries to Malta. Several ferry companies, including Virtu Ferries and Liberty Lines, operate daily services from various ports in Sicily, including Pozzallo, Catania, and Augusta. The journey takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route and the type of ferry.
To get to the port of departure in Sicily, you can use public transportation such as buses and trains. For example, you can take a bus from Palermo to Pozzallo, and then catch the ferry to Malta.
From Other Neighboring Countries
While there are no direct ferry services from other neighboring countries such as Greece and Tunisia, it’s still possible to get to Malta with public transportation. For example, you can take a ferry from Greece to Italy, and then catch another ferry from Italy to Malta.
Similarly, you can take a ferry from Tunisia to Sicily, and then catch another ferry from Sicily to Malta. These journeys may take longer and involve more changes, but they can be a fun and adventurous way to see more of the Mediterranean region.
When to go:
Peak Season (June to August)
The peak season in Malta is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is the busiest time of year, with tourists flocking to the island to enjoy the warm weather, beaches, and festivals.
Pros:
- Warm weather and long days
- Festivals and events, such as the Malta International Arts Festival
- Plenty of accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels
Cons:
- Higher prices for accommodation and tourist attractions
- Crowds and long queues at popular attractions
- Heat and humidity can be overwhelming
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October)
The shoulder season in Malta is during the spring and autumn months of April, May, September, and October. This is a great time to visit Malta if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices of the peak season.
Pros:
- Mild weather and fewer crowds
- Lower prices for accommodation and tourist attractions
- Festivals and events, such as the Malta Jazz Festival
Cons:
- Some tourist attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours
- Weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers
Off-Season (November to March)
The off-season in Malta is during the winter months of November, December, January, February, and March. This is the quietest time of year, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
Pros:
- Very low prices for accommodation and tourist attractions
- Fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere
- Festivals and events, such as the Malta Carnival
Cons:
- Cooler weather and shorter days
- Some tourist attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours
- Rain and wind can be more frequent
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Valletta, the capital city of Malta
- Explore the city’s historic center, including the Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens for stunning views of the Grand Harbour
- Wander through the narrow streets of Valletta and explore the city’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Stay overnight in a budget-friendly hostel in Valletta
Day 2:
- Take a ferry to the island of Gozo, known for its stunning beaches and scenic landscapes
- Explore the island’s capital, Victoria, and visit the Citadella, a historic fortress
- Visit the beautiful beaches of Ramla Bay and Marsalforn
- Explore the island’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints
- Stay overnight in a budget-friendly hostel in Gozo
Day 3:
- Return to Valletta and spend the day exploring the city’s many museums and galleries
- Visit the National Museum of Archaeology and the National War Museum
- Explore the city’s many markets and shopping streets, including the famous Strait Street
- Visit the Grand Harbour and take a boat tour of the harbour
- Depart from Valletta in the evening
1-Week Itinerary
Day 1-2:
- Arrive in Valletta and spend the first two days exploring the city’s historic center and many museums and galleries
- Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens
- Explore the city’s many markets and shopping streets, including the famous Strait Street
- Wander through the narrow streets of Valletta and explore the city’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants
Day 3-4:
- Take a ferry to the island of Gozo and spend two days exploring the island’s stunning beaches and scenic landscapes
- Visit the Citadella, a historic fortress, and explore the island’s capital, Victoria
- Visit the beautiful beaches of Ramla Bay and Marsalforn
- Explore the island’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints
Day 5:
- Return to Valletta and spend the day exploring the city’s many historical sites, including the Tarxien Temples and the Mnajdra Temples
- Visit the National Museum of Archaeology to learn more about Malta’s rich history
- Explore the city’s many markets and shopping streets, including the famous Strait Street
Day 6-7:
- Spend the last two days of your trip exploring the northern part of the island, including the towns of Mdina and Rabat
- Visit the famous Blue Grotto and take a boat tour of the nearby caves
- Explore the many beaches and bays along the northern coast, including Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay
- Visit the ancient city of Mdina and explore its narrow streets and historic buildings
2-Week Itinerary
Day 1-3:
- Arrive in Valletta and spend the first three days exploring the city’s historic center and many museums and galleries
- Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens
- Explore the city’s many markets and shopping streets, including the famous Strait Street
- Wander through the narrow streets of Valletta and explore the city’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants
Day 4-6:
- Take a ferry to the island of Gozo and spend three days exploring the island’s stunning beaches and scenic landscapes
- Visit the Citadella, a historic fortress, and explore the island’s capital, Victoria
- Visit the beautiful beaches of Ramla Bay and Marsalforn
- Explore the island’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints
Day 7-9:
- Return to Valletta and spend three days exploring the city’s many historical sites, including the Tarxien Temples and the Mnajdra Temples
- Visit the National Museum of Archaeology to learn more about Malta’s rich history
- Explore the city’s many markets and shopping streets, including the famous Strait Street
- Visit the Grand Harbour and take a boat tour of the harbour
Day 10-12:
- Spend three days exploring the northern part of the island, including the towns of Mdina and Rabat
- Visit the famous Blue Grotto and take a boat tour of the nearby caves
- Explore the many beaches and bays along the northern coast, including Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay
- Visit the ancient city of Mdina and explore its narrow streets and historic buildings
Day 13-14:
- Spend the last two days of your trip exploring the island’s many festivals and events, including the Malta International Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival
- Visit the many markets and shopping streets in Valletta and other towns, including the famous Strait Street
- Depart from Valletta.
Transportation:
Malta has a well-developed public transportation system that makes it easy to get around without a car. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about public transportation in Malta, including buses, ferries, and taxis.
Buses
Malta’s bus network is extensive and covers most areas of the island. The buses are operated by Malta Public Transport, and the network includes over 80 routes that connect all the major towns and villages.
- Bus Routes: Malta’s bus routes are divided into several categories, including:
- Day routes: These routes operate from Monday to Saturday, from 6am to 11pm.
- Night routes: These routes operate on Friday and Saturday nights, from 11pm to 4am.
- Special routes: These routes operate on Sundays and public holidays, and connect major towns and villages.
- Bus Fares: The bus fare system in Malta is simple and affordable. A single ticket costs €2, and a day ticket costs €2.50. You can also buy a weekly ticket for €12.
- Bus Schedules: Bus schedules are available online and at bus stops. You can also download the Malta Public Transport app to plan your journey.
Ferries
Malta has a ferry network that connects the main island to the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino.
- Ferry Routes: The ferry network includes several routes, including:
- Valletta to Gozo: This route operates several times a day, and takes around 30 minutes.
- Valletta to Comino: This route operates several times a day, and takes around 20 minutes.
- Ferry Fares: Ferry fares vary depending on the route and the time of day. A single ticket from Valletta to Gozo costs around €4.50, while a return ticket costs around €8.
- Ferry Schedules: Ferry schedules are available online and at ferry terminals. You can also download the Malta Ferry Services app to plan your journey.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in Malta, but can be more expensive than buses and ferries.
- Taxi Fares: Taxi fares in Malta are regulated by the government, and start at around €5. You can also hire a taxi for a full day, which costs around €60.
- Taxi Services: There are several taxi services available in Malta, including:
- White Taxi: This is the official taxi service in Malta, and operates 24/7.
- eCabs: This is a popular taxi service in Malta, and operates 24/7.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate public transportation in Malta:
- Buy a Tallinja Card: The Tallinja Card is a reusable card that can be used to pay for bus fares. It’s a convenient and affordable way to travel around Malta.
- Download the Malta Public Transport App: This app allows you to plan your journey, track buses in real-time, and buy tickets online.
- Use the Ferry: The ferry is a convenient and affordable way to travel between Malta and Gozo.
- Avoid Rush Hour: Rush hour in Malta can be chaotic, so it’s best to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9am and 4-6pm).
Top things to do:
Valletta
- Explore the historic center of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, the former residence of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John
- Check out the stunning views of the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens
- Visit the National Museum of Archaeology to learn about Malta’s rich history
- Wander through the narrow streets of Valletta and explore the city’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Visit the Lower Barrakka Gardens, a beautiful park with stunning views of the Grand Harbour
- Explore the Valletta Waterfront, a historic area with shops, restaurants, and bars
Mdina and Rabat
- Explore the ancient city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City”
- Visit the Mdina Cathedral, a stunning example of Baroque architecture
- Check out the views of the surrounding countryside from the Mdina walls
- Visit the Roman Domus, a museum showcasing Roman artifacts
- Wander through the narrow streets of Rabat and explore the town’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Visit the St. Paul’s Catacombs, a network of underground burial chambers
- Explore the Roman Museum, a museum showcasing Roman artifacts and ruins
Gozo
- Take a ferry to the island of Gozo, known for its stunning beaches and scenic landscapes
- Visit the Citadella, a historic fortress in the capital city of Victoria
- Check out the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the Citadella walls
- Visit the Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world
- Explore the island’s many beaches, including Ramla Bay and Marsalforn
- Visit the Ta’ Kola Windmill, a historic windmill that now serves as a museum
- Explore the village of Xaghra, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
Northern Malta
- Visit the Golden Bay, a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters
- Check out the views of the surrounding countryside from the Mellieha Church
- Visit the Popeye Village, a theme park and film set
- Explore the town of Mellieha, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
- Visit the Red Tower, a 17th-century watchtower with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
- Explore the village of Mgarr, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
- Visit the Gnejna Bay, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters
Southern Malta
- Visit the Blue Grotto, a stunning sea cave with crystal-clear waters
- Check out the views of the surrounding countryside from the Dingli Cliffs
- Visit the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, two ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Explore the town of Marsaxlokk, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
- Visit the Tarxien Temples, a complex of ancient temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the village of Zurrieq, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
- Visit the Wied iz-Zurrieq, a scenic valley with stunning views and crystal-clear waters
Other Spots
- Visit the Maqluba, a scenic area with stunning views and crystal-clear waters
- Visit the Malta National Aquarium, a aquarium featuring a variety of marine life
- Explore the Malta Aviation Museum, a museum showcasing historic aircraft and aviation memorabilia
- Visit the Tarxien Temples, a complex of ancient temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the village of Qrendi, known for its historic architecture and stunning views
Food:
Maltese cuisine is an interesting combination of traditional and modern tastes featuring fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and basic meat courses. Luckily for a poor backpacker like you, eating out in Malta can be considered quite affordable; there are plenty of options for budget meals.
Traditional Maltese cuisine has a strong Mediterranean influence as reflected by its strategic location with dishes involving fresh seafood, olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. Perhaps one of the most recognized Maltese dishes is fenkata, a rabbit stew cooked in an intensely rich sauce in tomato, served with crusty bread or Maltese bread, as they refer to it locally: ħobż Malti. Another popular dish is lampuki pie, a fish pie made with lampuki fish, onions, tomatoes, and spices, topped with a flaky pastry crust.
But Malta is also renowned for its pastizzi, flaky pastry pockets filled either with ricotta cheese or with peas and ham. These delicious snacks, to be found in practically every caffe’and bakery on the island, are an excellent option if one wants a meal as quickly and as economically as possible. For a sweet treat, there’s imqaret, date cakes made with dates, sugar, and spices, offered typically with a cup of coffee or tea.
Apart from traditional Maltese food, one can also find many different international restaurants in Malta, starting with Italian and Greek and ending with Indian and Chinese. Many of these restaurants have a number of budget options for travelers on a tight budget, including pasta dishes, pizza, and stir-fries.
If you wish for an authentic dining experience, try stopping by one of many markets in Malta, such as the Valletta Market or the Marsaxlokk Market. These bustling markets offer a great way to get a wide range of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other traditional snacks and drinks typical to Malta. You will even have the chance to try bigilla, a traditional Maltese dip made with beans, garlic, and olive oil.
For a country of its size, Malta boasts a very healthy craft beer scene, with several breweries producing a variety of great-tasting beers on this island nation. Popular varieties include the Cisk Lager, Hopleaf Pale Ale, and Blue Label Amber Ale. One more area in which Malta is famous is its coffee culture. There are cafes offering strong espresso-style coffee and delicious pastry everywhere.
Generally speaking, the food in Malta is delicious and reasonably priced, reflecting the voluptuous history and culture of the island. From traditional Maltese cuisine to international flavors, or even just for a quick snack or drink, Malta has something for every kind of traveler.
Culture:
The culture of Malta is a complex tapestry of rich and colorful elements, interwoven throughout its long history, stunning architecture, and resilient people. A small island nation, Malta has always been a confluence of cultures, with various civilizations leaving their mark on the island’s language, customs, and traditions.
The Maltese are renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, as found in the numerous festivals and celebrations on these islands. The Maltese love to get together and celebrate special occasions such as the Festa, which is a traditional village festival occurring all over summer. These festivals are kaleidoscopic with color and sound; traditional music, dance, and food lying at their core.
The multilayered history of Malta has profoundly influenced the character of the country’s culture, which has seen various rulers come and go, from the time of the Phoenicians through the Romans and Knights of St. John, the French, to the British. This complex history is reflected in the island’s stunning architecture, which ranges from ancient megalithic temples to Baroque churches and modernist buildings.
It is also the case in Maltese, with most people having Maltese as their mother tongue. The uniqueness of the Maltese language is evident in its close relation with Arabic and Sicilian, and due to that fact, it is considered one of the official languages of the European Union.
Besides the cultural richness, one may also find in Malta a very lively artistic scene, comprised of different galleries, museums, and festivals that proudly host both local and foreign artists’ works. The island’s natural beauty has been the breeding ground for many artists, writers, and musicians through time, and still acts as a magnet for creatives nowadays.
Catholic heritage also runs deep in the culture of Malta, with several beautiful churches and cathedrals around the island. The people are devoted Catholics, and most of the festivals and commemorations on the island revolve around major Catholic holidays, such as Easter and Christmas.
Malta, though small in size, is a peculiar place with its own culture waiting to be found. From the wonderful architecture and history that blankets it to its vibrant arts scene and friendly hospitality, Malta is one of those cultural gems that will surely leave indelible marks in the minds of all who visit.
Accommodations:
For the broke backpackers, Malta’s hostel scene is a treasure trove of crazy and amazing experiences that one will never experience in his lifetime. While other travelers still go to luxury hotels or Airbnb apartments, Malta’s cheapest hostels hold an incomparable opportunity to be involved with the culture and to meet other travelers around the world.
The best thing about the hostels in Malta is that you never quite know what you’re going to get. You book the cheapest option, and who knows if it’s going to be a small, cozy dorm with an awesome view of the Mediterranean, or just some family-run hostel that’s really warm and welcoming? The not knowing is half the fun.
A number of Malta’s hostels are also great places to meet other travelers, with often full dorms offering endless possibilities of finding someone to have a chat with. Many hostels also offer communal kitchens, lounges, and outdoor spaces where socializing with others and making new friends is easy.
Of course, there are also the characters running the hostels. Many of the owners and staff at Malta hostels are quite a colorful and eccentric bunch, full of stories to tell and advice to share. They’ll regale you with tales of Maltese history and culture, recommend the best local restaurants and bars, and invite you to join them for a traditional Maltese feast.
But perhaps the best thing about Malta’s hostels is the sense of community they foster. With travelers coming and going at all hours, the atmosphere is always lively and in flux. You might find yourself joining an impromptu jam session in the hostel lounge or getting swept up in a heated game of cards with fellow travelers.
All this, of course, is done on the cheap. Well, at no cost whatsoever. The cheapest hostels in Malta have an unbeatable mix of price and atmosphere, making them well-suited for a broke backpacker. So why not take a leap of faith and book the cheapest one? You never know what amazing experiences and memories you might create.
Nightlife:
Malta’s nightlife scene is a kaleidoscope of bars, clubs, and lounges that offer a variety of tastes and flavors for any event or preference. As the sun sets into the Mediterranean, the island springs to life with a rhythmic energy that is not that easy to resist. From the laid-back beach bars to pulsating dance clubs, Malta’s nightlife has something for everyone.
As you explore the island’s various towns and villages, you’ll discover a diverse range of nightlife options. In the capital city of Valletta, for example, you’ll find a sophisticated selection of wine bars, cocktail lounges, and upscale clubs. These establishments often feature live music, from jazz and blues to rock and pop, and offer a refined and elegant atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.
The resort towns of St. Julian’s and Paceville, on the other hand, are known for their more dynamic and energetic nightlife scenes. You will find innumerable bars, clubs, and lounges in this area. Most are targeted at younger audiences and usually offer a selection of DJs and live music, with drinks and cocktails also available at rather inexpensive prices. The ambiance is generally pretty lively and energetic, with a focus on dancing, socializing, and having a good time.
Venture further afield, and you will discover it is not only the main towns and cities that boast Malta’s nightlife. Many of the island’s smaller villages and coastal communities pride themselves on their very own inimitable nightlife scenes, often based around local bars, restaurants, and cultural events. These tend to be much more relaxed and genuinely native, featuring traditional Maltese music and food, along with drinks.
What sets Malta’s nightlife scene apart is just how different and all-embracing it is. Whether you are a young backpacker, an older couple on a romantic getaway, or simply a group of friends looking for a lively night out, there is something for everyone in Malta. Equally impressive is that all of Malta’s nightlife scenes are considered very safe and friendly, with a real sense of community and camaraderie.
The longer the night wears on, the more pulsed the music seems to be, carrying you deep into the infectious energy of Malta’s nightlife scene. From traditional to modern, from easy-going to boisterous, Malta’s nightlife is something to remember. Why not come and experience it for yourself?
Backpacking Malta costs:
Daily Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: €5-€10 per night for a hostel dorm (average €7.50 per night)
- Food: €5-€10 per day for basic meals like pasta, sandwiches, and street food (average €7.50 per day)
- Transportation: €1-€2 per ride for buses, or €4-€6 per day for a bus pass (average €2.50 per day)
- Attractions: €5-€10 per person for entrance fees to historical sites and museums (average €7.50 per day)
- Miscellaneous: €5-€10 per day for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals (average €7.50 per day)
Total daily budget: €30-€50 per day (average €37.50 per day)
Weekly Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: €50-€70 per week for a hostel dorm (average €60 per week)
- Food: €35-€50 per week for basic meals like pasta, sandwiches, and street food (average €42.50 per week)
- Transportation: €10-€20 per week for buses, or €20-€30 per week for a bus pass (average €17.50 per week)
- Attractions: €20-€30 per week for entrance fees to historical sites and museums (average €25 per week)
- Miscellaneous: €20-€30 per week for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals (average €25 per week)
Total weekly budget: €150-€230 per week (average €190 per week)
Note: These estimates are very rough and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Additionally, prices may be higher during peak season (June to September).
Conclusion:
As you near the end of your broke backpacking trip in Malta, you’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for this tiny island nation steeped in history, with gorgeous landscapes and warm hospitality. Despite its small size, Malta is punching above its weight when it comes to offering up an unforgettable travel experience, and with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can enjoy all Malta has to offer without breaking the bank.
From exploring the ancient streets of Valletta to island-hopping in Gozo and Comino, Malta is a place with which one easily can and will fall in love. And with its affordable accommodation options, delicious and affordable food, and plenty of free or low-cost attractions, Malta is the perfect destination for broke backpackers.
Besides being a fantastic destination in itself, when looking for a place to travel that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty-all without a hefty price tag-then Malta is perfect for you. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, incredible landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Malta is a destination that will have you reaping memories that will last an eternity.
