Best time to visit Malta & Gozo – Why you should avoid July and August

When it comes to the best time to travel to Malta and Gozo, it naturally depends on what you like to do. Malta and Gozo are high on many people's lists for the perfect summer vacation. Guaranteed sunshine, azure blue seas, and a Mediterranean flair. All of that sounds tempting, doesn't it?

But if you want to experience a truly unforgettable and enjoyable trip, you should avoid the months of July and August.

Precisely when everyone is flocking to Malta and Gozo, these two islands show their downsides. I'll show you the best time to visit Malta and Gozo in the following post. So you can definitely pack your bags, Malta and Gozo are definitely worth a trip.

Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily, Italy. Gozo is the second-largest island of the Maltese archipelago, located to the northwest of Malta.

For many who have never been to Malta, the island nation is believed to be part of Italy, as Malta lies just 90 km south of Sicily. However, Malta is independent and more influenced by Arab and British culture than Italian. Therefore, besides Maltese, English is also the main language here. Everyone talk about it, almost everyone Understood. 😉

The island nation lies between Italy and Libya and was conquered by the Arabs in the Middle Ages, which is still reflected in many place names today. However, the French and ultimately the British also invaded and left their mark. For example, everyone drives on the left side of the road today.

By the way, Malta has been part of the EU since 2004, and the euro has been in use here since 2008.

There are three main islands that are inhabited. Malta itself, Gozo, and the small island of Comino, where, however, only two people live year-round. In addition, there are four uninhabited islands called Cominotto, Filfla, St. Paul's Island, and Fungus Rock in Gozo.

The name Malta is said to originate from the Phoenician term for refuge, „Malet“. Incidentally, the Romans called Malta „Melita“, which is a mobile provider here today. Gozo is called „Għawdex“ in Maltese and is pronounced approximately like „Owdesch“ with an open "O" sound.

By the way, Gozo is a hair's breadth further north than Malta. Therefore, the best travel time for Malta also differs slightly from that for Gozo. It is generally 2-3 degrees cooler in Malta in winter and 2-3 degrees hotter in summer. The difference is noticeable if you travel from Malta to Gozo on a hot day.

Here I found a great comparison of the capital city Valletta in Malta and Gozo's capital Victoria. As you can see, the temperatures and rainfall are minimally different. Gozo always wins, which is why I recommend Gozo as an ideal vacation destination, especially in the height of summer.

The best time to travel to Malta and Gozo

The climate in Malta and Gozo is humid and mild in winter, while dry and warm in summer. With around 300 sunny days per year and 3,000 hours of sunshine, I love the island and you can ’almost„ always do things regardless of the weather. Since 2022, I've been living mainly in Gozo and have the impression that the weather is always beautiful here. I can go for a walk by the sea every morning and only need a raincoat 4-5 days a year. Perfect!

Nevertheless, there are better and worse months for travelers and vacationers, depending on whether you prioritize the beach and swimming in the sea, or if you prefer to explore hiking trails and visit museums.

Below, I will show you in detail the advantages of each month so that you can determine the best travel time for Malta and Gozo.

January – Mild winter weather in Malta

Advantages of traveling to Malta in January

✅ Pleasant temperatures (14-18°C) – While many European countries freeze in winter, you can enjoy mild weather on Malta and Gozo. Perfect for exploring the islands stress-free.
✅ No tourist crowds – You can have sights like Mdina, Valletta, or the temple complexes almost to yourself. The alleys are quiet, and restaurants aren't overcrowded.
✅ Affordable prices – Hotels, rental cars, and flights are especially affordable in January, ideal for budget travelers.

Who should Travel to Malta in January?

Peace seekers, culture enthusiasts & digital nomads.

What are my impressions of January in Malta and Gozo?

I've had the chance to experience January in Malta and Gozo three times already. In 2023, January was windy and rainy. Just be aware that there's a risk of it raining for an entire week straight. However, it never rains all day. It might rain for an hour or two, and then perhaps briefly again later in the day. Often, it just rains through the night.

In 2024, January was perfect. It might have rained briefly on one day. Otherwise, the weather was fantastic. January 2025 was also great, but with a few rainy days. Nevertheless, great hikes can be undertaken and all the sights are also open.

Would I personally travel to Malta in January?

No, for me January is not the best time to travel to Malta. At least I wouldn't travel to Malta or Gozo in January if I only had one or two weeks of vacation. If I had more than two weeks, I would probably take the risk, because it's great when it's not so hot on the island and especially when there are hardly any tourists.

February – When Gozo is Green

Benefits for your trip to Malta in February

✅ Green landscapes and floral splendor – Gozo shows its most beautiful, blooming side in February. The winter rains ensure lush nature, ideal for hiking.
✅ Mild climate (15-19°C) While the rest of Europe is still battling winter, you can be out and about in Malta and Gozo at spring-like temperatures.
✅ Carnival in Malta & Gozo Colorful parades, masks, and lively celebrations make February a unique month for culture enthusiasts.

Who should be in February Travel to Malta?

Nature lovers, hikers & cultural travelers.

What are my impressions of February in Malta and Gozo?

When is the most beautiful time in Malta for me? Well, February is almost there. Gozo, in particular, is already beautifully green and you can go on great hikes. I love stomping through the green meadows that are all totally brown and dry in the summer.

Since the Maltese and Gozitans alike enjoy celebrating, the islands are beautifully decorated thanks to Valentine's Day. For swimming, it's still too cold for me in February at least, neither in the pool nor in the sea.

Would I personally in February Travel to Malta?

No, I still wouldn't travel to Malta or Gozo in February. It's not the best time for me to travel to Malta, but Malta is still empty in February. There are hardly any tourists, which is of course perfect for exploring the island. For me, the same applies in February as in January. If I had more than two weeks available, and it wouldn't work out at all the rest of the year, I would still consider Malta.

March – Colorful Landscapes on Gozo

Benefits of your trip to Malta in March

✅ Wildflowers & bright green fields Gozo transforms into a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The colors are more intense than at any other time of year.
✅ Pleasant temperatures (16-20°C) – Perfect for hikes along the coast or through the countryside, without sweating in the heat.
✅ Fewer tourists – You can enjoy the most beautiful places like Wied il-Għasri or the Sanap Cliffs in peace.

Who should Travel to Malta in March?

Active vacationers, photographers & those seeking peace.

What are my impressions of March in Malta and Gozo?

March is wonderful. There are already the first t-shirt weather days in Malta, and the islands are wonderfully colorful. Beautiful flowers are blooming everywhere, and the first festivals are taking place outdoors. If Easter is early, it already takes place in March, and then the islands are colorfully decorated. The weather is usually perfect, without rain and with very little wind.

Would I personally in March Travel to Malta?

Yes, especially for hiking. Prices are still lower than in summer, both for accommodation and in supermarkets. I would use that for an active hiking holiday. The museums are all open too, and the sun is usually shining. Personally, it's still a bit too cool for me for the beach, but there are already some tourists who have booked beach holidays, so some people are already active in the water.

April – Spring in Malta – the best time to travel to Malta

Advantages for your trip to Malta in April

✅ Perfect spring weather (18-22°C) – Not too hot, not too cold – optimal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
✅ Ideal conditions for excursions – Whether by bike, on foot, or by boat – the temperatures are ideal for any kind of exploration tour.
✅ Easter Festivals & Traditions The religious processions and celebrations on Malta and Gozo are particularly impressive.

Who should travel to Malta in April?

First-time visitors, families & culture enthusiasts.

What are my impressions of April in Malta and Gozo?

Easter, if it falls in April, is a wonderful time in Gozo, but also in Malta. There are many Easter processions and traditional festivals. In Malta, the Agricultural and Rural Exhibition takes place in April. There you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, and of course, everything else from the farm. For me, April is always the first month in Malta where it feels like summer.

Would I personally travel to Malta in April?

Definitely. April is beautiful. There's no typical April weather in Malta. Of course, there can be a rainy day during that time, but I can count the days where it rained completely on two hands within two years. From April onwards, we're actually outside most of the time and specifically look for activities we can do outdoors. In April, we also go to the beach for the first time and dip our feet in the water.

May – Sunny Spring in Gozo

Benefits of your trip to Malta in May

✅ Summer temperatures (20-25°C) – Warm enough for the beach, but without the scorching heat of midsummer.
✅ Quiet beaches – Since the peak season doesn't start until June, you can have places like Ramla Bay or San Blas Beach almost all to yourself.
✅ Crystal-clear water Perfect for snorkeling and diving before the tourist crowds arrive.

Who should travel to Malta in May?

Beach vacationers, nature lovers & those seeking peace and quiet.

What are my impressions of May in Malta and Gozo?

Summer will be here soon. May is already ideal for you if you don't like high temperatures. The weather is always great, but with a maximum of 25-26 degrees, you can still go for a relaxed hike and spend the whole day outdoors. I like to go over to Comino in May. There are hardly any shady spots on the island, so May is the best time to travel to Comino. Comino is also beautifully colorful and green then.

In May, the flip-flop season also begins. I love them because for the next few months, you don't need any other footwear for everyday life in Malta. Unless you're climbing cliffs or walking a few kilometers on hiking trails.

Would I personally travel to Malta in May?

Definitely, I would travel to Malta and Gozo in May. I love doing sports in moderate temperatures. Since the main season doesn't start until July, there are not many tourists on the island yet. You have to Cumin You won't have to queue for your pineapple cocktail yet and can enjoy everything else in peace. No hustle, no stress, just great weather and serenity.

June - Pleasant temperatures in Malta

Benefits of your trip to Malta in June

✅ Summery, but still bearable temperatures (25-30°C) – Perfect for activities like boat trips or city tours.
✅ Long days & beautiful sunsets – Ideal for mild summer evenings in Sliema, Valletta, or on the coast of Gozo.
✅ No high-season prices yet Flights, hotels, and rental cars are often cheaper than in the summer months.

Who should travel to Malta in June?

Vacationers, sightseeing, and water sports enthusiasts.

What are my impressions of June in Malta and Gozo?

From June to September, the Festas take place. These are village festivals that last for several days. Basically, it's an island party lasting a good three months with constant fireworks. Yes, the Maltese love their fireworks. It gets nice and warm in June, and the first tourists start trickling in towards the end of June.

In June, school is only until 12 PM, which means you'll also see kids around town and in the villages during the day now. The beaches are also starting to fill up, at least on weekends, with locals.

The island changes color from green to brown in June. That has its own charm, though I prefer green in the end.

Would I personally travel to Malta in June?

June is perhaps the best time to travel to Malta. For Gozo, I find another month to be better. But in June, you still have favorable prices as mentioned above, and there are fewer tourists than in the peak season. However, that is about to start now. I would definitely travel to Malta in June, while school is still in session, practically outside of the holidays. It's quieter everywhere and still summer.

The water temperature in June is still refreshing, but it's already nice and warm outside.

July – midsummer heat in Malta

Benefits of your trip to Malta in July

✅ Guaranteed hot weather (30-35°C) Malta is an absolute sun paradise in July. No rain, no wind – just blue skies and bright sunshine. Perfect for beach lovers, but challenging for sightseeing.
✅ Summer Festivals & Open-Air Events – Music and culture fans will get their money's worth, e.g. at Isle of MTV Festival, various village festivals (Parties) or the Malta Jazz Festival.
✅ Warm sea & perfect swimming conditions With water temperatures of 79-82°F You can spend the whole day by the sea. The Blue Lagoon, Golden Bay, or Ramla Bay in Gozo are particularly popular right now.

Who should travel to Malta in July?

Sun lover, night owl & festival goer.

What are my impressions of July in Malta and Gozo?

We usually travel in July. It's just warm on the island, both in Malta and Gozo. It's always a few degrees cooler in Gozo, but even then, it can reach 36 degrees Celsius in July. Since almost everything happens outdoors in Gozo and Malta, you have to like these temperatures.

Those who like warm temperatures will find a huge number of folk festivals and events in July, and Malta and Gozo prepare for this time of year all year round. Everything is decorated with great love. The streets are decorated with flags and pennants for miles in some places, and statues of the village's patron saint stand everywhere. By the way, in our village, that's Santa Maria. Just a side note.

Would I travel to Malta personally in July?

I wouldn't personally travel to Malta in July. There are few things to do indoors. If you're looking for a simple beach vacation and want to hang out at an all-inclusive hotel, then July is certainly okay. However, we also enjoy longer drives with air conditioning in July and exploring Malta. That's actually still quite pleasant and interesting. Even after several years, we haven't seen everything in Malta.

August - The Hottest Month in Malta

Advantages for your trip to Malta in August

✅ Temperatures of 35°C+ & tropical nights August is the hottest month of the year. It can get stuffy, especially in Valletta and cities with little green space. It's more bearable on Gozo and on the coast.
✅ High season with vibrant life – Restaurants, bars, clubs, and beaches are full of energy. In places like St. Julian's and Bugibba, the nightlife is at its peak.
✅ Top Conditions for Boat Tours & Diving The water is now clearest, with visibility of 30m+. Ideal for divers, snorkelers, and boat trips to Blue Lagoon, Comino & Hidden Caves.

Who should travel to Malta in August?

Heat-tolerant sun worshippers & water sports fans.

What are my impressions of August in Malta and Gozo?

Summer is finally here in Malta and Gozo. August is HOT! It gets up to 45 degrees Celsius. You can't do anything outside then, except jump into the sea every 10 minutes. Luckily, the Mediterranean Sea is always quite refreshing. Even in summer. The beaches are packed now, though, especially in Malta. If you don't do the typical German thing and put your towel down on the beach at 7 AM, there's hardly any space left.

The salt harvest also begins in August. That's exciting. I follow it every year in Gozo because I walk along the salt pans in the mornings. Kilograms of salt are now carried from the „field“ in large sacks and processed. It was once a lucrative business. Today, it's more of a souvenir for tourists, although, of course, we only use local salt at home. And salt from Lidl. 😀

Would I personally travel to Malta in August?

I wouldn't actually do that. We also almost always travel for the whole of August. It's not even too hot per se. We traveled from Malta to Dubai in 2024, where it was just as hot. It was even 2-3 degrees hotter on average in Dubai. But you can simply do more indoors in other places.

Since all the Maltese islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino, are completely exposed and offer no shade, you will inevitably spend time in the sun. There are almost no indoor alternatives, except for a few shopping malls.

Many things take place outside in the evenings during the summer, but that's difficult for families because of the kids. Our kids are simply dead tired after 10 PM. Unless there's school the next day. All parents probably know that. However, school doesn't start until August in Malta. There are 12 weeks of summer vacation!

September – The most beautiful month in Malta

Advantages for your trip to Malta in September

✅ Summery temperatures, but pleasant (26-30°C) The extreme heat is easing up, but it's still warm enough for beach vacations and outdoor activities.
✅ Fewer tourists, more relaxation The summer holidays are over, the big crowds are gone, and you have more space again on beaches and at attractions.
✅ Perfect water for swimming & diving – The sea remains with 77-81°F pleasantly warm and crystal clear – the best time to travel to Malta for snorkelers and divers.

Who should travel to Malta in September?

Connoisseurs, active holidaymakers & culture travelers.

What are my impressions of September in Malta and Gozo?

And there it is, the most beautiful month for Malta and therefore the best time to travel to Malta. School doesn't start until the end of September, but there are already fewer tourists on the island. The temperatures are very pleasant, and the sea is nicely warmed up from the summer.

Isolated festivals, village celebrations dedicated to the patron saint of each village, are still taking place. It's slowly entering the off-season, and the main hiking season in Malta and Gozo is starting. By the way, salt harvesting is still actively underway, both in Malta and Gozo.

However, the salt season is over at the end of September. Until then, I would definitely go for a Excursion to the Salt Pansto schedule.

Would I personally travel to Malta in September?

September is the best time to travel to Malta. I'll be outdoors for 30 days in September, as much as possible. All three main islands are completely brown and dry from the summer, but in a way, that's also beautiful. When hiking in September, you'll see snakes and many lizards here. You can also regularly spot the Maltese chameleon.

I would recommend September for all short and longer trips to Malta. It's a great time of year where you can take advantage of all the islands have to offer.

October – Perfect Travel Time for Gozo

Advantages of traveling to Malta in October

✅ Golden autumn mood with mild weather (22-27°C) – Perfect for hikes along the cliffs or through the rural areas of Gozo.
✅ Warm enough for beach days & water sports – The sea remains over 24°C, so that swimming and snorkeling are still possible in a relaxed way.
✅ Autumn Festivals & Wine Events – Enjoy the authentic side of Malta and Gozo with local festivals, wine tours, and food events.

Who should travel to Malta in October?

Wanderers, connoisseurs & those seeking relaxation.

What are my impressions of October in Malta and Gozo?

October is the most beautiful month for Gozo for me. If you want to choose the best time to travel to Gozo, then come in October. The island is still brown from the summer, but the temperatures are now pleasant and perfect for hiking and sports. Active holidays are happening now, and you'll meet more people on the mostly well-maintained hiking trails.

Even the sea is still warm, and as long as the sun is out, it's super cozy on the beach. Harvest festivals take place in October, and Halloween is also celebrated in a big way.

Would I personally travel to Malta in October?

October is my favorite month in Malta and Gozo. For me, it's the best time to travel to Gozo. The climate in October is very pleasant. The restaurants on the beaches are still all open, and there are significantly fewer people around than in the summer.

I run or hike every morning in October. We also often take trips to Comino. Since the island has hardly any shade, as I mentioned, it's only really pleasant from October onwards if you're walking around the island for several hours. The temperatures are also pleasant enough to thoroughly enjoy the Blue Lagoon or the even more beautiful beach in Santa Marija Bay in Comino.

November – An Underrated Month in Malta

Advantages of your trip to Malta in November

✅ Mild climate (18-23°C) with sunny days – Perfect for exploring Valletta, Mdina, or the temple sites without breaking a sweat.
✅ Off-season: Fewer tourists, lower prices Hotel and rental car prices are dropping significantly, and the beaches are almost deserted.
✅ The sea is still warm enough to swim in. - Water temperatures around 22°C Swimming in November is still very possible.

Who should travel to Malta in November?

Culture enthusiasts, digital nomads & budget travelers.

What are my impressions of November in Malta and Gozo?

November is also a great month for a vacation in Malta or Gozo. There are hardly any people on the island again, making it ideal for exploring with a rental car. It can be rainy for a few days in November, but there are some interesting museums to visit on both Gozo and Malta.

The island is slowly turning green again now that the first rainy days are over. The transition from brown to green is wonderful and I love it. Nature looks truly alive and the change is exciting to watch.

Would I personally travel to Malta in November?

In November, I would definitely travel to Malta and Gozo. Especially since I like active vacations. The temperatures are very mild in November. As soon as the sun is out, it's pleasant, and most hikes are still easily doable in a t-shirt. You can even go into the sea when it's sunny. The water temperature in November is top-notch. However, it's already too cold for me to swim in a pool in November.

Christmas preparations begin at the end of November. It is therefore perhaps also the best time to travel to Malta.

December – Christmas in Malta and Gozo

Benefits of your trip to Malta in December

✅ Mediterranean winter weather (15-20°C) & lots of sun Perfect for a Christmas city break without frost and snow.
✅ Unique Christmas Atmosphere & Traditions – Light festivals, Christmas markets, and impressive nativity scenes make Malta a special destination during Advent.
✅ Affordable flights & quiet atmosphere In December, the tourist crowds are gone, flights are often cheap, and you can explore Malta & Gozo in a relaxed way.

Who should travel to Malta in December?

Christmas fans, peace seekers & cultural travelers, Santa Claus 🤞

What are my impressions of December in Malta and Gozo?

December is a must for all Christmas fans. Malta and Gozo are completely decorated, and streets are lit up for miles. Gozo, at least, is almost entirely lit up during the Christmas season. While it's colder outside now, the temperatures are still relatively mild. Christmas markets are happening everywhere, and on Christmas Day, there are the Christmas Parades. These are created with so much love and are held one or two days before Christmas Eve.

The Christmas season in Malta is special, and not just for children. In all the churches, some of them enormous, nativity scenes are displayed, each more beautiful than the last. In Ghajnsielem, there's a living nativity scene called "Bethlehem" with costumed actors. Over several days in September, an entire village is built and brought to life. It's truly worth seeing. You feel like you're in Bethlehem around Christmas time, with a real farmers' market and artisans, just as they were back then. For example, there's a blacksmith and a weaving workshop.

The highlight for us in Malta every year is the Illuminated Trail. Hundreds of large and small illuminated figures are on display there, creating a very special atmosphere.

Would I personally travel to Malta in December? Is December the best time to travel to Malta?

December is also the best time to travel to Malta and the best time to travel to Gozo for me. Since everything is so beautifully decorated, we really get into the Christmas spirit. I've never experienced anything like it anywhere else in the world before. Of course, it can rain now and then in December, and then it can get really cold and crisp. The humidity can be over 90%, which makes 15 degrees feel really cold.

If you want to experience a particularly beautiful Christmas, away from all the family hustle and bustle and bothersome relatives, then a trip to Malta around Christmas time is ideal.

By the way, New Year's Eve isn't celebrated very extensively in Malta. Since there are big fireworks displays throughout the year, the Maltese tone it down a bit on New Year's.

Excursion Tips Malta – Best Time to Visit Malta

Conclusion – The best time to visit Malta

The best time to travel to Malta and also to Gozo naturally depends very much on what you want from your stay in Malta. The climate tables and many travel reports about Malta often don't tell you that the temperatures in July and August in Malta can be quite unpleasant. Gozo is a bit more pleasant, but it's also only listed at 30 degrees in the climate tables. When is the most beautiful time in Malta?

For me, the best time to travel to Malta is clearly the months of April, May, and June, as well as the months of September, October, November, and December. After a few years living here, I've too often seen tourist groups standing by the salt pans in the rain, shivering and soaked. But also occasionally in the summer, without sun protection in 45-degree heat and already bright red in the face. 🥵 Sometimes you have a choice and can move your Malta vacation to the fall.

This is, of course, all my opinion and my observations. Every stay in Malta and Gozo will be uniquely beautiful. There is so much to do here, and you can also easily plan or re-plan a lot spontaneously on-site according to the weather.

Following this, I will show you some favorite photos from all seasons. I hope you find the best time to travel for you to Malta and Gozo and have a wonderfully great vacation.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime, or perhaps comment directly on the post here. That way, everyone benefits.

Have you been to Malta? And to Gozo? What did you particularly like and in which month were you there? What do you consider the best time to travel to Malta? Write it in the comments!

Malta and Gozo Photo Gallery