A guide to weather in Malta
It’s no surprise to consider that Malta has one of the warmest climates in the whole of Europe, as far as annual averages go. The island occupies an enviable position in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea that invites sunshine throughout the year.
An average year-round daytime temperature of 23°C is welcome indeed, as are the highs of 30°C and above that grace all parts of the island during the summer months. Much like at home, rainfall occurs mostly in the autumn and winter. However, unlike home, May to August experiences virtually no rain.
Ahead of your Malta holidays, make sure you know what to expect as we look at the temperatures and weather patterns of the various regions of this popular holiday destination.
East Malta
East Malta is where the historic and grand capital, Valletta, rubs shoulders with the nearby cosmopolitan tourist hotspot that is Sliema. Having both the capital and one of the island’s most attractive seaside cities for both locals and travellers should tell you plenty about how the weather is here.
In short, it’s hot, sunny and sublime, with temperatures between May and September frequently topping 30°C. In record-breaking moments, pinnacles of 40°C have even been reported, so make sure you bear that mind if you’re visiting for a particularly hot summer.
In the winter months, namely those between November and February, temperatures are still more welcoming than you’ll find back home. Expect an average of 15°C around Christmas and 12°C shortly after the New Year, and while that’s pleasingly temperate, also bear in mind that rainy days become much more frequent at that time of year.
North Malta
In northern Malta, St Paul’s Bay charms with its history and waterfront laid-back living, yet there’s no denying that the temperature does plenty to boost the appeal of booking cheap Malta holidays here. Summer will see you savouring sunshine to the tune of 30°C, up to 35°C on a good day in the midst of July and August, which is also when the inviting seawater is at its warmest.
If you’re instead motivated by a winter break, you can rest assured of a warm welcome, pun very much intended, because 16°C is the norm here, even in February.
It’s a similar story in Bugibba, the bustling town tucked away to the east of St Paul’s Bay. The resorts were built there for a reason after all, and it’s primarily to take advantage of those consistently sunny days. 33°C in the height of summer is a respectable temperature to anticipate, so make sure that you pack accordingly, complete with suntan lotion and light, breezy fabrics. As with anywhere in hot Malta, remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated too.
In the northwest, destinations like Mellieha Bay have plenty to offer in the way of easy-going living and, of course, limitless summer sunshine. Once again, June and July highs of 32°C and more are very much par for the course, while winter days of 14°C are nothing to be sneezed at either. The sheltered bay gives plenty of freedom from swift sea breezes, letting those temperatures swell to their fullest potential.
Across the northern region of Malta, you’ll only need to be mindful of rainfall in the autumn and winter, with November and December typically offering the highest amount of rainfall. Rainfall averages are actually higher in Malta than the UK from November to January, however it’s still a popular time to travel, and many travellers opt for an extended stay.