Malta is a destination you can enjoy even on a small budget. It is generally cheaper than Western Europe, and the basics — transport, food and attractions — often cost less than you might think. With a little planning, you can spend whole days on the islands without spending much and still have a rich experience.
Cheap Tallinja buses
The most effective way to save on transport is the Tallinja network. Tickets are very cheap and reach almost every corner of the island. Instead of taxis, which cost far more, use the bus wherever possible. If you are staying a few days, a Tallinja card or a day ticket saves even more and lets you travel as much as you like.
Pastizzi and street food
Pastizzi — filled with ricotta or peas — are Malta's greatest cheap-food secret. You will find them in pastizzeriji in every village and they cost just a few cents. Together with the ftira and qassatat, they make a filling, tasty meal for very little money. For a hot meal, look for lunch menus in local restaurants, which are usually cheaper than dinner.
Free attractions
Many of Malta's most beautiful places cost nothing:
- The Valletta gardens (Upper and Lower Barrakka) with views over the Grand Harbour.
- The Marsaxlokk Sunday fish market and its colourful boats.
- The impressive churches and historic village squares.
- The clifftop viewpoints and the summer village festas, full of lights, music and free fireworks.
- Wandering the historic streets of Valletta and Mdina, the silent city.
Where to sleep cheaply
Instead of expensive hotels, consider guesthouses and hostels, which are common and comfortable. They often offer a more homely atmosphere and much lower prices, especially if you book in advance. Areas like Bugibba and Gzira are generally cheaper than St Julian's or Sliema.
Low-cost attractions
Even where there is a charge, prices in Malta are reasonable. Many museums and historic sites offer combined tickets or discounts for families, students and seniors, so ask before you pay. Some churches and religious sites are free or accept a small donation. Plan your days to group attractions in the same area and save on transport and time.
Travel off-peak
The best time for your budget is spring and autumn. The weather is still lovely, the sea warm enough to swim, but accommodation and flight prices are far lower than in July and August. There are also fewer crowds at the attractions and on the beaches, and the whole experience is more relaxed.
Tap water and market food
Tap water is safe to drink, so fill a reusable bottle rather than buying water every day — this saves more than you would expect over a week. Buy fruit, bread and cheese from supermarkets or local markets to put together a cheap picnic in the gardens or on the beach.
Free beaches and swimming
Swimming in Malta is completely free. Many sandy and rocky beaches are open to everyone with no entry fee. The rocky beaches around Sliema and St Julian's are perfect for a quick swim without spending a cent, while sandy bays like Għajn Tuffieħa and Mellieħa offer a more traditional day out. Bring a towel, water and food from before, as prices on the beach are higher. Sunbed and umbrella hire adds up, so bring your own and turn a beach day into a nearly free outing.
Drinks and local markets
To save on drinks, buy local beer or wine from the supermarket rather than in tourist bars. Many venues offer a happy hour with reduced prices in the early evening. Morning markets, such as the Monti in Valletta or the Marsaxlokk market, are perfect for buying fruit, vegetables and local goods for very little. With these choices you eat well and get a taste of authentic Maltese life.
Gozo and the cheap ferry
If you want to explore further on the cheap, Gozo is generally cheaper than Malta, both for food and for accommodation. The Gozo Channel ferry between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr is inexpensive and lets you tour a whole island in a day. Use the local buses instead of taxis, and with all these tricks, your Maltese holiday stays comfortably on budget.