MALTA | MaltaFirst

Driving in Malta

In Malta and Gozo, driving is on the left. There are speed limits of 80 km/h on the road and 50 km/h in built-up areas, unless otherwise indicated on relevant road signs.

To rent a car in Malta it is necessary to be alleast 21 years old by law. Fuel Consumtionin: unless you go to Gozo by car, it takes atleast 4 days to consume a full tank of gas in Malta.

If you intend to rent a car or drive in Malta, it is advisable to take out comprehensive insurance. National or international driving licences are accepted.

Climate

Malta’s climate is typical of the Mediterranean and is strongly influenced by the sea. The Maltese Island have a pleasantly sunny climate with a daily average of around 12 hours sunshine in summer going down to 5 to 6 hours in mid-winter.

Summers are hot, dry and very sunny. Day-time temperatures in summer are often mitigated by cooling sea breezes.

Spring and autumns are cooler, except when the occasional Scirocco wind from Africa brings unseasonally high temperatures and humidity.

Winters are mild, with the occasional short cold spells brought about by the north and north-easterly winds from central Europe.

Swimming & Sunbathing

The Maltese coastal waters are generally clean and safe for swimming as there are no tides. Some bays are exposed to north and north-eastern winds which do produce some strong undercurrents at times. If you are new to the Maltese Island, swim where the locals do. Its is advisable to take precautions to ensure that you avoid over exposure to the sun. Even in winter it is recommended to wear sunscreen with a suitable factor for your skin type. This is important if you are out walking, or taking part in water sports. A sun hat is a must. Children and especially babies need extra protection from the sun. If you are sunbathing, it is advisable to avoid the strongest sunlight between the hours of 11pm and 3pm in peak summer months.

Attractions

Malta is packed with attractions and places of interest.

The capital city of Valletta host to regular plays and concerts, as well as scores of exhibitions and street events. The Museum of Archaeology in Valletta houses an exceptionally rich collection of prehistoric artefacts. The War Museum at Fort St. Elmo is home to a Sunday military parade in period costumes re-enactment and the capital also possessess the impressive Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-cathedral.

The rural side of the Island is fascinating, with charming villages & captivating folklore. And on Sunday morning, go to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, the open-air market outside Valletta or the It-Tokk market in Victoria, Gozo.

Getting bored is out of the question!