Introduction: How I Fell in Love with Budget Travel in Malta
The first time I arrived at Malta International Airport (MLA), I was overwhelmed by the wave of heat that hit me as I stepped off the plane. It was July 2018, and I had impulsively booked a last-minute trip after a tough breakup. I had exactly €600 to last me for 10 days—accommodation, food, everything. I was terrified I’d run out of money halfway through. Looking back now, after five visits to this compact Mediterranean gem, I can’t help but laugh at how wrong I was. Not only did I have money left over at the end of that first trip, but I discovered that Malta is one of Europe’s most underrated budget destinations.
Since then, I’ve returned multiple times, gradually uncovering all the tricks to experiencing this stunning island nation without emptying my wallet. My most recent visit in late 2023 showed me that even with rising prices across Europe, Malta still offers extraordinary value for budget travelers who know where to look.
This guide distills everything I’ve learned about traveling to Malta on a budget, updated for 2025 conditions. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer stay, I’ll show you exactly how to stretch your euros while experiencing the best this incredible island has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Malta on a Budget
Timing is everything when it comes to budget travel in Malta. I’ve visited during every season, and I can confidently say that the difference in prices between peak and off-peak is substantial.
The Sweet Spot: Shoulder Seasons
After multiple visits, I’ve found the absolute best time to visit Malta on a budget is during the shoulder seasons:
- April to early June – Warm enough to swim (18-24°C) but before the summer crowds arrive
- September to October – Still beautifully warm with sea temperatures around 25°C
During my May 2022 visit, I paid just €32 per night for a lovely guesthouse in Sliema that would have cost €80+ in August. The beaches were relatively empty, and I could actually enjoy the sunset at the popular Blue Lagoon without fighting through crowds.
Weather and Price Comparison by Season
| Season | Temperature | Accommodation | Crowds | Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | 12-17°C | Cheapest (€25-40/night) | Very low | Pros: Rock-bottom prices, authentic local experience Cons: Some attractions have limited hours, swimming difficult |
| Spring (Apr-Jun) | 18-24°C | Moderate (€35-60/night) | Low to moderate | Pros: Excellent weather, reasonable prices, wildflowers blooming Cons: Water can be cool for swimming in April |
| Summer (Jul-Aug) | 28-32°C | Expensive (€60-120/night) | Extremely high | Pros: Perfect beach weather, all attractions open Cons: Expensive, crowded, extremely hot |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | 22-28°C | Moderate (€35-55/night) | Moderate | Pros: Warm sea, fewer crowds, beautiful evenings Cons: Occasional rainstorms in October |
Insider Tip: The Secret Winter Advantage
My January 2023 trip to Malta was a revelation. While too cold for swimming (though locals were still doing it!), I experienced a completely different side of the islands. Prices were at rock bottom, locals were incredibly friendly with more time to chat, and I had World Heritage sites like the Hypogeum almost entirely to myself. If cultural experiences matter more to you than beach time, winter in Malta is an absolute steal.
Finding Cheap Flights to Malta
Getting to Malta affordably is your first budget challenge. Having flown to Malta International Airport (MLA) multiple times from different European cities, I’ve developed a system for finding the best deals.
Budget Airlines Serving Malta in 2025
Malta is well-served by budget carriers, particularly from European destinations. The main budget airlines flying to Malta include:
- Ryanair – Offers the most routes to Malta from across Europe
- easyJet – Good options from the UK, France, Italy, and Germany
- Wizz Air – Excellent for connections from Eastern Europe
- Air Malta – The national carrier sometimes has competitive fares
Flight-Finding Strategy
My tried-and-tested approach for finding the cheapest flights to Malta:
- Use Skyscanner with the “Whole Month” option to identify the cheapest days
- Check if flying to a nearby European hub and then to Malta separately is cheaper (I once saved €170 by flying to Sicily first, then taking a separate flight to Malta)
- Set fare alerts on Google Flights 3-4 months before your intended travel dates
- Book Tuesday-Thursday flights which are typically 15-25% cheaper than weekend departures
The Ferry Alternative
A lesser-known option I’ve used twice is taking the ferry from Sicily. Virtu Ferries operates daily services from Pozzallo to Valletta (about 1h45m). In summer 2023, I paid €67 for a one-way ticket—potentially cheaper than flying, especially if you’re already in Sicily. Plus, the ferry journey itself becomes part of the adventure!
My Biggest Flight-Booking Mistake
In 2021, I made the classic error of booking my flight to Malta for August without doing proper research. I paid nearly triple what I would have in May for the same route. Don’t repeat my mistake—avoid July and August unless you absolutely must travel then.
Budget Accommodation Options in Malta
Where you stay will likely be your biggest expense in Malta, but I’ve discovered numerous ways to keep accommodation costs surprisingly low.
Best Budget Neighborhoods
After staying in various areas across the islands, these are my top recommendations for budget travelers:
- Sliema (mid-range) – Great transport connections without Valletta prices
- St. Julian’s (backpacker-friendly) – Hostels and budget hotels with nightlife
- Msida (local experience) – University area with lower prices and authentic feel
- Mellieħa (for beach lovers) – More affordable than other beach areas
- Marsaxlokk (for a quiet escape) – Fishing village with guesthouses often 30% cheaper than Valletta
Accommodation Types and Price Ranges (2025)
| Type | Price Range (Low Season) | Price Range (High Season) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm | €15-25/night | €25-40/night | Solo travelers, ultra-budget |
| Guesthouses | €30-45/night | €50-80/night | Couples, authentic experience |
| Budget Airbnb | €35-60/night | €70-120/night | Longer stays, self-catering |
| Budget Hotel | €40-70/night | €80-150/night | Comfort seekers |
My Secret Accommodation Hack
During my last visit in October 2023, I messaged several guesthouses directly on Facebook instead of booking through major platforms. By cutting out the middleman, I secured a charming room in a 300-year-old house in Birgu for €38/night instead of the €55 listed online. The owner, Martin, even picked me up from the airport for free! This approach works particularly well during shoulder and low seasons when owners are eager to fill rooms.
Cheapest Places I’ve Personally Stayed and Recommend
- Hostel Malti (St. Julian’s) – From €18/night in dorms, incredibly social atmosphere
- Porto del Sol Guesthouse (Marsaxlokk) – From €35/night in low season, run by a lovely local family
- Marina View Apartment (Msida) – Around €42/night for a studio in shoulder season, with simple cooking facilities
Local Phrase to Help with Accommodation
“Tista’ tagħmilli xi skont, jekk jogħġbok?” (pronounced: tis-ta tag-milli shi skont, yek-joj-bok) – “Can you give me a discount, please?” I’ve used this phrase multiple times when booking directly with guesthouse owners, and it’s often met with appreciation for the effort and sometimes an actual discount!
Getting Around Malta on a Budget
Malta’s compact size makes it relatively easy to explore without breaking the bank. After trying every form of transportation on the islands, here’s my honest assessment of your options.
Public Bus System
Malta’s extensive bus network remains the budget traveler’s best friend. The system has improved significantly since my first visit in 2018.
- Single journey ticket: €2 (winter), €3 (summer) – valid for 2 hours
- 12 Single Day Journeys Card: €15 – best for couples or short stays
- 7-Day Unlimited Travel Card: €21 – the absolute best value if staying a week
You can purchase these cards at the airport, main bus terminals in Valletta and Victoria (Gozo), or from kiosks displaying the “Tallinja” logo. The Malta Public Transport mobile app is essential for planning routes.
Bus Money-Saving Tip
During my first visit, I wasted money buying single tickets each time. On my second trip, I discovered that the 7-Day Unlimited card pays for itself with just 7-10 rides. Given that you’ll likely take at least 2-3 buses daily while exploring, this card is a no-brainer for stays of 4+ days.
Ferry Services
Malta’s ferry services provide scenic connections that are often faster than buses:
- Valletta to Three Cities: €1.50 one-way
- Valletta to Sliema: €1.50 one-way
- Malta to Gozo: €4.65 return for passengers (increases to €15.70 if you bring a car)
- Gozo to Comino: €10 return (seasonal)
Car Rental: Is It Worth It?
I’ve rented a car twice in Malta, and my honest assessment is that it’s only worth it in specific circumstances:
| Rental Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | €30-45/day in low season, €55-80/day in high season (plus fuel) |
| Parking | Extremely difficult in Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s |
| Traffic | Heavy congestion during rush hours |
| Driving side | Left side (UK-style) |
| When it makes sense | If staying in remote areas, traveling with family, or planning to explore many sites in Gozo |
My Car Rental Mistake
In 2019, I rented a car for my entire 7-day stay and regretted it. I spent at least €15 per day on parking alone, got stuck in terrible traffic, and found the narrow streets stressful to navigate. On my next trip, I only rented a car for 2 days to explore the more remote parts of Malta and Gozo, which was perfect. The rest of the time, I used buses and ferries, saving over €200.
Walking and Alternatives
Many budget travelers don’t realize how walkable certain areas of Malta are. The promenade connecting St. Julian’s, Sliema, and Gżira is a beautiful 5km stretch perfect for walking. In Valletta, everything is within a 15-minute walk.
For 2025, Malta has expanded its Nextbike bike-sharing scheme, which costs €1.50 for 30 minutes or €10 for a weekly subscription. Electric scooters are also available through apps like Bird and Bolt, starting at €1 + €0.15/minute.
Eating Well on a Budget in Malta
Food was where I initially went wrong during my first Malta trip, blowing too much money at tourist restaurants. Now, after multiple visits, I’ve mastered the art of eating deliciously without overspending.
Typical Food Costs (2025)
- Tourist restaurant main course: €15-25
- Local restaurant main course: €9-15
- Fast food meal: €7-10
- Pastizzi (local pastry): €0.60-1.00
- Supermarket sandwich: €3-5
- Coffee: €1.50-3.50
- Local beer (in a bar): €2.50-4.00
- Glass of local wine: €3.50-6.00
Budget-Friendly Local Specialties to Try
Maltese cuisine offers some delicious, filling options that won’t break the bank:
- Pastizzi – Flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas, perfect for breakfast or snacks
- Ftira – Maltese bread sandwich typically filled with tuna, olives, tomatoes, and capers
- Hobz biz-zejt – Bread rubbed with tomatoes and topped with olive oil, tuna, and herbs
- Timpana – Pasta baked in a pastry case, hearty and filling
- Rabbit stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek) – Malta’s national dish, often better priced at inland restaurants
My Favorite Budget Food Spots
These places have consistently provided excellent value across my multiple visits:
- Crystal Palace (Rabat) – Famous for the best pastizzi on the island (€0.60 each)
- Gululu (St. Julian’s) – Local food with lunchtime specials from €9.95
- Ta’ Nenu Bakery (Valletta) – Amazing ftira from €5-7
- Café Jubilee (Gzira) – Great breakfast and reasonable dinner prices
- Nenu’s Restaurant (Victoria, Gozo) – Traditional food at lower prices than Malta
During my last visit, I discovered that ordering the “catch of the day” at Marsaxlokk’s waterfront restaurants on a weekday is about €8-10 cheaper than the weekend, when tourists flood in. The fishermen’s cooperative sells directly to restaurants daily, making Monday’s fish just as fresh as Sunday’s, but at a fraction of the price!
Self-Catering Strategies
The best way to save money on food is to self-cater some meals. Malta has several supermarket chains, with Lidl and Tower Supermarket offering the best prices. The Ta’ Qali Farmers Market (Tuesday and Saturday mornings) is excellent for fresh, local produce.
My typical self-catering strategy to save money:
- Breakfast in my accommodation (yogurt, fruit, cereal)
- Pack a picnic lunch (ftira or sandwich, fruit, water)
- Enjoy a proper meal at a local restaurant for dinner
This approach typically saves me €15-20 per day compared to eating every meal out.
Water-Saving Tip
Malta’s tap water is safe to drink, but many tourists don’t like the taste. Instead of buying bottled water, I bring a filter water bottle. Alternatively, look for the free water refill stations installed in major tourist areas in 2023-2024 as part of Malta’s sustainability initiative. I saved approximately €25 on my last 10-day trip by not buying bottled water.
Free and Affordable Attractions in Malta
Some of my most memorable experiences in Malta have cost little or nothing. After five visits, I’ve compiled my favorite budget-friendly attractions.
Absolutely Free Highlights
- Upper Barrakka Gardens (Valletta) – Spectacular harbor views and the noon cannon firing
- Mdina Walking Tour – The silent city’s medieval streets are magical in early morning or evening
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral (Valletta) – Free during prayer times (though you miss some areas)
- Marsaxlokk Fish Market (Sunday mornings) – Colorful boats, local seafood, and vibrant atmosphere
- Dingli Cliffs – Breathtaking sunset views from Malta’s highest point
- Għadira Nature Reserve – Bird watching paradise, open weekends from November to May
- Beach hopping – Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Paradise Bay are all free public beaches
Low-Cost Must-See Attractions
| Attraction | Price (2025) | Value Rating | Money-Saving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni | €35 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Book 2-3 months in advance online to secure a spot |
| Blue Lagoon (Comino) | €10 (ferry) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Go before 10am or after 3pm to avoid crowds |
| Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Temples | €10 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Combined ticket with Tarxien Temples saves €5 |
| Marsaxlokk & St. Peter’s Pool | €2 (bus fare) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds |
| Gozo Day Trip | €15-25 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Self-guided with bus pass instead of €45+ tour |
| Lascaris War Rooms | €12 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Combined ticket with National War Museum saves €5 |
Heritage Malta Multisite Passes
If you’re planning to visit multiple historical sites, consider these passes:
- Heritage Malta Multisite Pass: €50 for 30 days access to most Heritage Malta sites
- Valletta City Pass: €25 for key Valletta attractions
On my third trip to Malta, I bought the Heritage Malta pass and visited 8 sites over 7 days, saving over €35 compared to individual tickets. However, if you’re only visiting 2-3 sites, individual tickets are cheaper.
Hidden Gems I’ve Discovered
After multiple visits, I’ve found these lesser-known spots that offer great experiences without the crowds or high prices:
- Għar Dalam Cave and Museum (€6) – Fascinating prehistoric animal remains in a natural cave
- Delimara Peninsula (free) – Wild swimming spots and the beautiful St. Peter’s Pool
- Ta’ Qali Crafts Village (free) – Watch artisans at work and find unique souvenirs
- Dwejra Bay (Gozo, free) – Though the Azure Window collapsed, the Inland Sea and Blue Hole remain stunning
- Malta at War Museum (€12) – Less visited than other war museums but incredibly immersive
Free Walking Tours
I discovered Malta Free Tours on my second visit and have joined them three times since. They offer excellent 2-hour walks through Valletta starting at 10:30am daily from the City Gate. While technically free, a tip of €10-15 is appreciated (still much cheaper than paid tours at €25-35).
Money-Saving Hacks for Malta
Over my five visits to Malta, I’ve developed some insider money-saving strategies that most guidebooks don’t mention.
Three Insider Budget Tips You Won’t Find Elsewhere
1. The Local SIM Card Strategy
Rather than paying roaming charges or buying tourist SIM packages, do what I learned on my second visit: go to any Epic store and ask for their local monthly prepaid plan. In 2023, I paid €10 for 20GB of data and unlimited local calls, compared to the €20 “tourist SIM” with only 10GB. You’ll need your passport for registration.
2. The Museum Café Hack
Many of Malta’s museums and historical sites have cafés that you can visit without paying the entrance fee. The café at the MUŻA art museum in Valletta has a beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy coffee for €1.80 while soaking in the atmosphere of a 16th-century building. Similarly, the café at the Maritime Museum in Birgu offers harbor views that tourists pay to see.
3. The Valletta Elevator Shortcut
Valletta is built on a hill, which means lots of climbing. Most tourists don’t know about the Upper Barrakka Lift connecting the Grand Harbour to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. It’s free to go up and costs just €1 to go down, saving you a steep 15-minute climb. I use it multiple times a day when exploring Valletta and the Three Cities.
Sustainable Budget Travel Tips
- Refillable water bottle – Malta installed new water refill stations in 2023-2024 across tourist areas
- Local markets – Shop at farmers’ markets in Marsaxlokk and Ta’ Qali for local produce with minimal packaging
- Bus travel – The 7-day unlimited bus pass is both economical and environmentally friendly
- Off-peak visits – Traveling outside summer helps reduce strain on Malta’s resources during water-scarce months
- Beach cleanups – Join the free Malta Beach Cleanup events and get a free drink afterward
Avoid These Common Tourist Traps
After multiple visits, I’ve learned which “deals” to avoid:
- Hop-on-hop-off buses – At €20-25 per day, they’re far more expensive than public transport
- Blue Lagoon boat trips with lunch included – Usually poor quality food at premium prices
- Currency exchange offices in tourist areas – Offer terrible rates; use ATMs instead
- Horse-drawn carriages (Karozzin) – Often charge €45 for what’s essentially a 20-minute tour
- Waterfront restaurants in Valletta – Same food as places two streets back but 30-50% more expensive
Absolute Cheapest Week in Malta
If you’re on an extremely tight budget, here’s how I’d structure a week in Malta based on my experiences:
| Expense | Budget Option | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostel dorm (low season) × 7 nights | €140 |
| Transport | 7-day unlimited bus pass | €21 |
| Food | Self-catered breakfast, pastizzi lunches, 3 budget restaurant dinners, 4 self-catered dinners | €120 |
| Attractions | Free beaches, free walking tour (€10 tip), one paid museum | €25 |
| Miscellaneous | SIM card, small souvenirs | €20 |
| Total (excluding flights) | €326 |
During my first visit in 2018, I challenged myself to spend under €40 per day and succeeded, even treating myself to a nice dinner on the last night. It required some planning but was completely doable without feeling deprived.
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for a Budget Malta Trip in 2025
After five visits to Malta spanning six years, I’ve refined the art of experiencing this incredible Mediterranean destination without emptying my wallet. Here’s your actionable plan to make the most of Malta on a budget in 2025:
Step 1: Plan Your Timing Strategically
Book your trip for May, early June, September, or October when prices are 30-40% lower than peak season, weather is ideal, and crowds are manageable. If swimming isn’t essential, consider the winter months (November-March) for rock-bottom prices and a more authentic experience.
Step 2: Book Smart Transportation
Set fare alerts 3-4 months in advance, be flexible with dates, and consider flying to Sicily first if significantly cheaper. Once in Malta, purchase a 7-day unlimited bus pass (€21) immediately upon arrival and download the public transport app.
Step 3: Choose Accommodation Wisely
Stay in budget-friendly areas like Msida or Mellieħa rather than Valletta or St. Julian’s. For stays longer than 3 days, contact guesthouses directly for potential discounts. Consider hostels (even private rooms) for excellent value and built-in social opportunities.
Step 4: Craft a Mixed Sightseeing Strategy
Balance paid attractions with Malta’s abundant free offerings. If visiting multiple Heritage Malta sites, calculate whether the multisite pass is worth it for your itinerary. Join the free walking tour early in your trip to get oriented and insider tips.
Step 5: Eat Like a Local, Not a Tourist
Self-cater breakfasts, enjoy pastizzi and ftira for quick lunches, and seek out restaurants where locals eat (usually one or two streets back from the main tourist areas). Shop at local markets and try the catch of the day in fishing villages—on weekdays, not weekends!
Malta remains one of Europe’s best-value destinations if you know how to navigate it wisely. My first visit in 2018 left me enchanted by not just the beauty and history of these islands, but also by how accessible they are to budget travelers. Each return visit has only deepened my appreciation for this affordable Mediterranean gem.
The limestone cliffs glowing gold at sunset, the crystal-clear waters of Comino, the silent medieval streets of Mdina—these experiences don’t have a price tag. With this guide in hand, you’re now equipped to experience the magic of Malta without the financial stress that often accompanies European travel.
Bon vjaġġ! (Have a good trip!)
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel in Malta
How much money should I budget per day in Malta?
Based on my multiple trips, a comfortable budget would be €45-70 per day (excluding flights). This includes €25-40 for accommodation, €15-20 for food, and €5-10 for activities and transportation. Budget travelers could reduce this to €35-45 per day by staying in hostels, self-catering most meals, and focusing on free activities.
Is Malta cheaper than other Mediterranean destinations?
Yes, Malta is generally 15-30% cheaper than popular destinations like the French Riviera, coastal Italy, or the Greek islands. However, it’s slightly more expensive than mainland Portugal or parts of Spain. Where Malta truly wins is the compact nature of the islands, which reduces transportation costs significantly.
Do I need to rent a car in Malta?
No, a car is not necessary and can actually be more trouble than it’s worth due to limited parking, narrow streets, and congestion. Malta’s bus system is comprehensive, affordable, and reaches all major attractions. I’ve visited five times and only rented a car once for two days specifically to explore remote areas.
When is the absolute cheapest time to visit Malta?
January and February offer the lowest prices, with accommodation rates often 50-60% lower than summer prices. However, some restaurants and attractions may have limited hours. November and March are good compromises, offering better weather while still being very affordable.
Is the Malta Pass worth buying?
It depends entirely on your sightseeing plans. In my experience, the Heritage Malta Pass (€50) is worth it only if you plan to visit at least 5-6 paid attractions. For most budget travelers, selecting 2-3 must-see paid sites and complementing them with free activities provides better value.
How do I get from Malta Airport (MLA) to my accommodation cheaply?
The X1, X2, and X3 airport express buses cost €2 (winter) or €3 (summer) and connect the airport with most popular areas including Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Buġibba. They run approximately every 20-30 minutes between 5am and 11pm. A taxi would cost €20-35 depending on your destination.
Is tap water safe to drink in Malta?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink but has a distinctive taste due to desalination. I recommend a filtered water bottle. Alternatively, large 5L bottles cost about €1.50 at supermarkets, much cheaper than buying individual small bottles.
What’s the cheapest way to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Take the Gozo Ferry (€4.65 return) to Cirkewwa, then use one of the scheduled boat services from Marfa to Comino (€10 return) rather than the tourist boats from Sliema or St. Julian’s that charge €25-35. Go before 10am or after 3pm to avoid the worst crowds.
How much should I tip in Malta?
Tipping is not as expected as in the US. For restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated for good service but not mandatory. Many locals simply round up the bill. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is common. Tour guides generally expect about €5-10 per person for a full-day tour.
Can I visit Sicily cheaply from Malta?
Yes! Virtu Ferries runs daily services from Valletta to Pozzallo, Sicily. If booked in advance, you can find one-way tickets for as low as €55-80 depending on the season. The journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. This makes for a perfect add-on to a Malta trip.
References and Further Reading
- Visit Malta – Official tourism website with events, attractions, and practical information
- Malta Public Transport – Official site for bus routes, schedules, and pass information
- Virtu Ferries – Ferry services between Malta, Gozo, and Sicily
- Heritage Malta – Information on historical sites and museums
- The Other Malta – Blog focused on off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Malta Uncovered – Comprehensive site with practical travel tips
- Malta Info Guide – Detailed information about Malta’s towns and attractions
- Malta Tourism Authority – Information on any current tourism incentives or schemes
- Eco Tourism Malta – Sustainable tourism initiatives and activities
- Malta Weather – Detailed forecasts to help plan your visit
- Malta for Pockets – Blog specialized in budget travel to Malta
- Air Malta – The national airline, sometimes offering competitive fares