Planning your trip to Malta and want to know what the weather will be like? That's the most frequent question we receive at Malta Adventures. And it's understandable: the climate will influence your activities, what to pack, and even the price of your stay.
The good news? Malta is one of the sunniest countries in Europe , with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and an average annual temperature of 19°C. It also has the mildest winters on the continent — in Valletta, it's 16°C in the middle of January when Paris is at 5°C.
This guide gives you all the data month by month : air temperatures, sea temperature, sunshine, rainfall, and most importantly, what to do depending on the season. You'll know exactly when to come and what to pack.
Malta's climate in summary
Malta enjoys a subtropical Mediterranean climate . In practice, this means hot, dry summers (June to September) and mild, wet winters (December to February). Spring and autumn are pleasant transitional seasons, often considered the best time to visit the island.
Here are some key figures to give you an idea:
- Average annual temperature: 23°C during the day, 16°C at night
- Sunshine: 3,000+ hours per year (approximately 300 sunny days)
- Rainfall: 450-600 mm per year (concentrated between November and February)
- Sea temperature: 15°C in winter to 27°C in August
- Swimming season: June to November (water temperature above 20°C)
For comparison, Malta receives twice as much sunshine as London or Paris , even in December. It also has the highest average sea temperature in Europe (20°C on average annually).
Temperatures in Malta month by month
Here is the complete table of average temperatures in Malta , with data for air (day and night), sea, sunshine and precipitation:
| Month | max. temp. | Minimum temperature | Sea | Sun/day | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 9°C | 16°C | 5 a.m. | 93 mm | 11 |
| FEBRUARY | 16°C | 9°C | 15°C | 6 a.m. | 62 mm | 8 |
| March | 17°C | 10°C | 16°C | 7am | 37 mm | 5 |
| April | 20°C | 12°C | 17°C | 8am | 23 mm | 3 |
| May | 24°C | 15°C | 19°C | 10am | 7 mm | 1 |
| June | 29°C | 19°C | 22°C | 11am | 6 mm | 1 |
| July | 31°C | 22°C | 25°C | 12pm | 0 mm | 0 |
| August | 31°C | 22°C | 27°C | 11am | 7 mm | 1 |
| September | 28°C | 21°C | 26°C | 9am | 41 mm | 4 |
| October | 25°C | 17°C | 24°C | 7am | 85 mm | 8 |
| November | 21°C | 14°C | 22°C | 6 a.m. | 109 mm | 10 |
| December | 17°C | 11°C | 18°C | 5 a.m. | 112 mm | 13 |
Sea temperature in Malta
This is one of the most frequently asked questions: when can you swim in Malta? The answer is simple: the swimming season is one of the longest in Europe.
Water is considered comfortable for swimming from 20°C . In Malta, this threshold is reached from June to November , or six months of the year. The water reaches its peak temperature in mid-August, averaging 27°C — as warm as a swimming pool.
In May, the water temperature hovers around 19°C: it's cool but perfectly manageable for those less sensitive to the cold. In December, the sea is still 18°C, which is warmer than the ambient air temperature at the end of the day — a surprising phenomenon that locals are well aware of.
If you're coming for water sports , the best time is from May to October. The water is ideal for jet skiing , paddleboarding, diving, and boat rentals .
👉 Looking for an adrenaline rush on the water? Discover our water sports activities in Malta .
Spring in Malta (March - May)
Spring is the favorite season for connoisseurs . Temperatures gradually rise from 17°C in March to 24°C in May, the sun is generous (7 to 10 hours per day) and the island is still green and flowery after the winter rains.
March
March is a transitional month. The days are getting longer, temperatures are hovering around 17°C , and the showers are becoming less frequent (about 5 rainy days). It's still too chilly for swimming, but it's perfect for exploring the island : Valletta, Mdina, the megalithic temples, and the Dingli Cliffs. The best part? Prices are low and there are hardly any tourists.
It's also the start of party season : the first White Parties, the clubs of Paceville ramping up their activity. Check out our Malta party guide for March 2026 so you don't miss a thing.
April
April is an excellent month to visit Malta . Temperatures reach 20°C, rain is practically nonexistent (an average of 3 days), and the island is covered in wildflowers. Holy Week (Easter) is a spectacular event to experience in Malta: processions in the streets of Birgu and Mdina, historical reenactments, and a unique atmosphere.
It's also the start of boat party season . The first outings at sea begin at the end of April with ideal conditions. Discover our boat party in Malta .
May
May is often considered the best month to visit Malta . The average temperature is 24°C, the sun shines for 10 hours a day, there's hardly any rain (only 7 mm for the entire month), and the water temperature is starting to become pleasant (19°C). The island is still relatively quiet, prices haven't yet skyrocketed, and conditions are ideal for all kinds of activities: quad biking, excursions to Gozo and Comino , hiking, diving, and cultural visits.
👉 Discover all our activities in Malta for spring.
Summer in Malta (June - August)
Maltese summer means guaranteed sunshine, warm seas, and non-stop partying . But it's also peak tourist season, with the highest prices and the most crowded sites.
June
June is the ideal month for those who want to enjoy summer without the crowds of July and August . The temperatures are pleasant (29°C during the day), the sea reaches 22°C (perfect for swimming) and the evenings start to get lively: pool parties, boat parties, outdoor events.
It's also the month of Isle of MTV , the free festival organized by MTV Europe in Floriana, just outside Valletta. An event that attracts around 50,000 people with top international artists.
July
July is the heart of summer . Temperatures soar above 31°C, the sun shines for 12 hours a day, and there's absolutely no rain (0 mm). The sea temperature is 25°C. It's the perfect time for jet skiing , boating , and swimming enthusiasts.
On the party front, everything is in full swing : Le Classico at the Sky Club, Bad Bunnies at the Toy Room, Starlight at TwentyTwo, pool parties at Hugo's and Gianpula, and boat parties several times a week. Check out our full events calendar .
Beware of the sirocco: this hot wind from the Sahara can cause temperatures to climb above 35°C for several days. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and avoid sun exposure between noon and 4 p.m.
August
August is the hottest month of the year. Maximum temperatures reach around 31°C, the sea temperature 27°C, and there are 0 to 1 rainy days. It's also the busiest month for tourists: crowded beaches, peak prices, and reservations essential for popular activities.
The nights are warm (22°C minimum) and the nightlife is at its peak. Paceville's clubs are packed every night and outdoor events are multiplying.
👉 Book your evenings and events in advance — they fill up quickly in August.
Autumn in Malta (September - November)
Autumn is Malta's best-kept secret . Tourists leave, prices drop, but the sea is still warm and the sun shines.
September
September is practically a summer month in Malta. Temperatures are still high (28°C during the day), the sea is 26°C—making it one of the most pleasant months for swimming—and the summer crowds have begun to disperse. The first thunderstorms may occur, but they are short and fleeting.
Boat parties and water sports activities continue to be popular. It's an excellent month for jet skiing and excursions to Gozo and Comino, with fewer crowds than in the summer.
October
October is a transitional month . Temperatures remain pleasant (25°C during the day), and above all, the sea is still 24°C —warmer than the French Mediterranean in the middle of summer. The second half of the month can be more unpredictable with more frequent showers (an average of 8 rainy days).
This is the perfect time to explore the island without the stifling heat : cultural visits, coastal hikes, traditional villages. And prices are significantly lower than in peak season.
As for events, don't miss Notte Bianca in Valletta (museums open at night, concerts, free shows) and Birgufest in Birgu. Discover our complete guide to nightlife in Malta .
November
November surprises many visitors. While it's already cold in the rest of Europe, Malta still boasts 21°C during the day and the sea is 22°C . It's the wettest month of the year (109 mm, 10 days of rain), but the showers are generally short and intense—no continuous drizzle like in northern Europe.
It's a good month for travelers looking for low prices and peace and quiet . Accommodation is basic, and the island regains its local atmosphere.
Winter in Malta (December - February)
Maltese winters are short and mild . They are the warmest in Europe: when Paris is raining at 5°C and London is foggy, Valletta is enjoying 16-17°C in full sunshine.
December
December is the wettest month of the year (112 mm of rain, 13 days), but between showers, the sun still shines for 5 hours a day. Temperatures (17°C during the day) are much more pleasant than in the rest of Europe. Malta is adorned with Christmas decorations , and the festive atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with markets, illuminations, and living nativity scenes in the villages.
The sea is 18°C — not ideal for swimming, but the most daring take the New Year's plunge.
January
January is the coldest month , but that's relative: daytime temperatures average 16°C and nighttime lows 9°C. Maltese cold is primarily a damp cold, intensified by the wind, which can make it more unpleasant than a dry continental cold. The sun still shines for about five hours a day.
This is the cheapest time to visit Malta. Perfect for culture and architecture : Valletta, the megalithic temples, the Three Cities. And the clubs in Paceville stay open all year round, with premium events in winter like the Hot Pool Party in a heated pool.
FEBRUARY
February is similar to January in terms of temperature (16°C), but the days are getting longer and the rainfall is decreasing (62 mm, 8 days of rain). It's also the month of the Maltese Carnival , a tradition dating back to 1535: five days of costumed parades, floats, and masked balls in Valletta and Nadur (Gozo).
Check out our guide to nightlife in Malta in February 2026 to enjoy the Carnival and events of the month.
When to go to Malta depending on your objective
The best time depends on what you want to do. Here's our recommendation based on your profile:
| You want... | Best time | For what |
|---|---|---|
| 🏖️ Beach and swimming | June - September | Sea temperature 22-27°C, no rain, 11-12 hours of sunshine |
| 🎉 Nightlife and parties | June - August | All active clubs, pool parties and boat parties |
| 🏛️ Culture and visits | March - May / Oct | Ideal temperatures for walking, not crowded |
| 🚤 Water sports | May - October | Warm sea, calm conditions, all activities open |
| 💰 Small budget | November - March | Lowest prices, discounted flights and hotels |
| 📸 Best overall compromise | May - June / September | Beautiful weather, sea safe for sailing, reasonable prices, not crowded |
👉 Are you coming to party? Discover our complete guide to nightlife in Malta with all the clubs, parties and events of 2026.
👉 Are you coming for adventure? Here are our best activities in Malta : jet skiing , quad biking, Gozo & Comino excursions and boat hire .
What to pack in your suitcase
The contents of your suitcase will depend on the season. Here are the essentials:
Summer (June - August)
- Lightweight clothing: shorts, t-shirts, summer dresses
- Swimsuit (essential!)
- SPF 50 sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Flip-flops for the day, clean sneakers for the evening
- A chic outfit for rooftop parties (TwentyTwo, Hugo's)
- No need for a sweater — the nights are warm (22°C+)
Spring and autumn (March - May / September - November)
- Light clothing + a jacket or sweatshirt for the evening
- Windbreaker or lightweight rain jacket (especially in March and November)
- Swimsuit (especially from May to October)
- Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
Winter (December - February)
- Warm sweaters and layering
- Windproof coat or jacket
- Umbrella or K-way
- Closed and comfortable shoes
- Warning: Maltese accommodations are often poorly insulated — bring layers even for indoors
The Sirocco phenomenon
The sirocco is a hot, dry wind that blows from the African Sahara. It affects Malta mainly in spring and autumn , and sometimes in summer. When the sirocco blows, temperatures can rise 5 to 10°C above normal, and the air becomes heavy, sometimes laden with Saharan dust.
This phenomenon is generally short-lived (1 to 3 days). Almost all temperature records in Malta have been recorded during sirocco episodes: up to 43.8°C in August 1999 and 41.5°C in June 2021.
Tip: If the sirocco is forecast, avoid intense outdoor activities between 12pm and 4pm, stay well hydrated and favour activities by the sea or visits to indoor sites such as temples and museums.
Malta Adventures: Enjoy every season
Whatever the season, Malta Adventures has something for you:
- ☀️ Summer: Boat parties , jet skiing , parties and pool parties
- 🌸 Spring: Gozo & Comino excursion , quad biking , boat rental
- 🍂 Autumn: Reduced-priced activities , fewer crowds, and the sea is still warm
- ❄️ Winter: Hot Pool Party in a heated pool, Paceville clubs all year round
👉 The Malta Adventures VIP Pass gives you access to the best experiences in a single package.
FAQ: Weather and climate in Malta
What is the best time to go to Malta?
The best time to visit overall is from May to June and in September. You'll enjoy excellent weather (24-29°C), pleasant sea conditions, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds than in the height of summer. For beach time and nightlife, June to August is ideal.
What is the sea temperature in Malta?
The sea temperature varies from 15°C in February to 27°C in August. The water is comfortable for swimming from June to November (above 20°C). The peak is reached in mid-August with an average temperature of 27°C.
Is it warm in Malta in winter?
Malta has the mildest winters in Europe. In January and February, the average daytime temperature is 16°C and the average nighttime temperature is 9°C. This is comparable to early autumn in France. It never snows in Malta.
Is it possible to swim in Malta in October?
Yes. In October, the sea is still 24°C, which is warmer than the French Mediterranean in the middle of summer. It's an excellent month for swimming, especially during the first two weeks.
Does it rain a lot in Malta?
No. Malta receives an average of 450-600 mm of rain per year, concentrated between November and February. In summer (June-August), it hardly ever rains. Maltese rain comes in the form of short, intense showers, not continuous drizzle.
What is the temperature in Malta in April?
In April, the average temperature is 20°C during the day and 12°C at night. The sun shines for about 8 hours a day and it only rains on average 3 days. It's an ideal time to visit the island.
What is the temperature in Malta in December?
In December, the average daytime temperature is 17°C and the nighttime temperature is 11°C. It's the wettest month (112 mm), but the sun still shines for 5 hours a day. It's much milder than the rest of Europe.
Is it too hot in Malta in August?
In August, temperatures average 31°C and can exceed 35°C during sirocco winds. It's hot, but tempered by sea breezes along the coast. Avoid the hottest hours (12 pm - 4 pm) and opt for water sports and evening activities.
How many hours of sunshine does Malta get?
Malta enjoys over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. In summer, the sun shines for 12 hours a day. Even in December, there are 5 hours of sunshine daily, twice as much as cities like London or Paris.
When is the sea warmest in Malta?
The sea is warmest between late July and mid-September, peaking at 27°C in mid-August. Even in October, it remains at 24°C — perfect for swimming.