Frequently Asked Questions & Facts About Malta

If you want to experience the sparkling beauty of the little Mediterranean island, get ready to get away into a daydream. But! Not without good preparation.

To know more about Malta, here are some frequently asked questions about the little Mediterranean island that will be answered in this article:

• Where is Malta located?
• What is the population of Malta?
• What is the capital city of Malta?
• What language is spoken in Malta?
• Do People drive left in Malta?
• Is Malta still a British colony? 
• What are the typical shopping hours in Malta? 
• Is there a stable Internet reception in Malta? 
• Can I flush toilet paper in Malta?
• Can you drink from the tap? Is it safe to drink tap water in Malta?
• What electrical plugs are used in Malta?
• Does Malta have smoking laws?
• What are the open hours of bars and nightclubs? 
• What is the international dial code for Malta?
• Do I need to tip when I am in Malta? 
• Does Malta offer public health services? 
• Do I need to get travel insurance when visiting Malta? 

Where is Malta located?

You can find Malta in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, located between the south of Italy, particularly Sicily and Northern Africa. So if you have always dreamed of a Mediterranean holiday, Malta sure is a great choice. 

• 93 km (58 miles) South of Sicily (Italy)
• 284km (176 miles) East of Tunisia
• 333 km (207 mi) North of Libya

Countries close to Malta

• Italy
• Tunisia
• Libya
• Greece
• Albania

What is the population of Malta? 

According to statistics (Worldometer United Nations data) on January 1, 2021, there are about 442,134 people who live in Malta. With a population density of over 1380 people per km2 (3574 people per mi²), Malta is the fourth most densely populated sovereign country in the world.  

What is the capital city of Malta? 

Valletta is the capital city of Malta. The city of Valletta boasts of beautiful architectural ruins that date back to the 1500s. Most of the city boasts of Baroque architecture, with glaring influences from the Mannerist and Neo-classical.

With its centuries-old bastions, cavaliers, columns, gardens, the capital was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Dubbed as Europe’s “supperbisima,” which translates to “proudest,” Valletta is something you do not want to miss when vacationing in Malta. 

What is the language spoken in Malta? 

The official language is Maltese. However, English is also predominantly used in business and education. Italian is also widely spoken. No need to buy a dictionary in the airport for translating words to Maltese. 

Do people drive left or right in Malta?

People in Malta drive on the left side of the road. The historical background of Malta having to drive on the left side of the street dates back to colonial times. Back then, most of the countries that practice left-hand traffic are under British rule.

If you are not used to driving on the left side of the road, there may be a couple of things you should know before you you start driving in Malta. Read this article “Driving left in Malta: a complete guide“.

Is Malta still a British colony? 

No, Malta is no longer a colony of the British crown. It was granted independence from the United Kingdom in 1964. However, the island is still part of the Commonwealth, a political association of nation-states formerly under British rule. 

What are the typical shopping hours in Malta? 

The usual business hours of stores and boutiques are around 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Shops located in tourist spots and areas are usually open from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Business establishments are often closed during Sundays and public holidays. 

Is there a stable Internet reception in Malta? 

Most of the areas in Malta have Internet. Shops, restaurants, hotels, public squares, and even buses have Wi-fi, so it isn’t a big problem connecting to the Internet. You can also use roaming data from your phone. Charges, however, may vary. Make sure to consult your provider beforehand. 

There is also stable electricity available to most of Malta. Power outages and interruptions are rare. But in case of such, these are quickly fixed. 

Can I flush toilet paper in Malta?

There are countries in some parts of Europe that prohibit flushing toilet paper in toilets but in Malta, in some places it’s just not recommended. It could damage the canals and water tubes in the city and would need more plumbing work.

Can you drink from the tap? Is it safe to drink tap water in Malta?

According to government officials in Malta, the country’s tap water is safe to drink. However, people who have visited the place say the tap water in Malta does not taste good.

The reason behind the awful taste could be the process of desalination.

The water process that Malta uses for its tap water removes all contaminants and harmful chemicals in the water, but it leaves behind the heaviest minerals.

In conclusion, the tap water in Malta is safe to drink, but it could be tough for the visitors’ stomachs. Drinking mineral or bottled waters are more recommendable for tourists.

What electrical plugs are used in Malta?

When you travel to Malta, you will need to bring adapters for your gadgets and appliances. Malta use type G power plugs and sockets. The plugs used are 3 pin 240 voltage (as used in Great Britain).

A lot of convenience stores do offer the necessary adapters.

Does Malta have smoking laws?

If you are a smoker and you are planning to visit Malta, it is important to be mindful of the country’s smoking laws.

According to the Tobacco Control Act and Legal Notice 414 of 2004, smoking in Malta is prohibited and banned in any private or public premises which are open to the public.

However, the law has an exception for designated smoking areas in buildings, parks, or other public and private places. Smokers are only allowed to smoke in an allocated smoking area.

What are the open hours of bars and nightclubs? 

Nothing beats a summer night in Malta with a cocktail drink by the shore. Bars are usually open until midnight. You can check out nightclubs as their usually open even after midnight. 

As long as you are 17 years and above, drinking alcohol is a great way to cap your day in Malta. 

What is the international dial code for Malta?

The international dial code for Malta is +356. If you happen to have a friend or family relative in Malta, you can use its dial code to call them even when you are in abroad.

Do I need to tip when I am in Malta? 

Although there isn’t any status quo or laws regarding tipping, it is common to do in restaurants, taxis, and other industries that provided services. A 10% tip is considered the standard rate, although you can add a little more if you think the people offered impeccable service. 

Does Malta offer public health services? 

Of course, no one wants to experience emergencies and accidents when on holiday. However, no matter how much we avoid these, accidents are beyond our control. 

In the event of medical and health emergencies, Malta has free public health centres and clinics available to its citizens. British citizens and those who hail from EU countries can also access free state health services. 

When travelling, make sure you always have your documents and E111 card with you. 

Do I need to get travel insurance when visiting Malta? 

While an accident is something that no one wants, it is also beyond anyone’s control.

When going on a trip, you should be well-prepared in case of unforeseen events. Make sure you apply for a comprehensive medical and travel insurance plan.

However, if you are a British citizen or EU resident, you have a free European Health Insurance Card, making it easier for you to settle your documents. 

Any other question you want an answer to? Let me know below!