Regional Information
MALTA
At a Glance
Currency: Euro (€)
Population: 410,290
Language: Maltese, English
Local Time: Irish and UK time +1 hour
Voltage: 230V - Three pin plugs are used, as in Ireland and the UK
Flight Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Airport: Malta International Airport
Climate: The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers, warm and sporadically wet autumns, and short, cool winters with adequate rainfall.
Overview
The Maltese archipelago lies at the centre of the Mediterranean, with Malta 93km south of Sicily and 288km north of Africa. The archipelago consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino, with an area of 316sq km and a coastline of 196.8km (not including 56.01 km for the island of Gozo). Malta is the largest island and the cultural, commercial and administrative centre. Gozo, the second largest island, is more rural, characterised by fishing, tourism, crafts and agriculture, while Comino is largely uninhabited. The long relationship between the islanders and the various nationalities that occupied Malta over the centuries has created a marriage of styles and traditions, giving the Islands a fascinating eclectic culture. With 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.
Highlights
St Julian’s - This attractive curved bay offers hotels, cafes, restaurants, shops and nightlife. Along its paved seaside promenade there are public gardens, cafes and lidos in which to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the sea views
Valletta - A World Heritage City, Valletta is Malta's capital, named after its founder, the respected Grand Master of the Order of St John, Jean Parisot de la Valette. The magnificent fortress city grew on the arid rock of Mount Sceberras peninsula, which rises steeply from two deep harbours, Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Valletta’s narrow side streets boast some of Europe's finest art works, churches and palaces as well as tiny, quaint shops and cafes, while its main streets are lined with larger international branded shops.
Mdina - The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. In 60 AD the Apostle St. Paul is said to have lived here after being shipwrecked on the islands. Lamp lit by night and referred to as “the silent city”, Mdina is fascinating to visit for its timeless atmosphere as well as its cultural and religious treasures. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and Baroque architecture.
Island of Gozo - 25 minutes from Malta by ferry, Gozo is picturesque, with green hills, tranquil villages and magnificent seascapes. The town of Victoria, also known as Rabat, is the geographic heart of Gozo and the centre of activity. Ggantija is one of the oldest freestanding temples in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spectacular Azure Window in Dwejra is a giant doorway, through which one can admire the blue expanse of sea beyond the cliff.
Getting Around
The public bus service is a good way to get around ; buses go practically everywhere and are cheap and efficient. The cost of a bus route ranges from €0.35 to €0.58 - the average ride is between twenty and thirty minutes. Taxis are also available.
Health/Security
Tap water is safe to drink throughout the Maltese Islands. Local and imported bottled mineral water is also available. Malta is generally considered to be safe, however tourists should take the precautions they would in any tourist destination and always follow their guides’ advice regarding personal safety. Always keep a close eye on your personal belongings in public places and major tourist sites.
Useful Contacts
Irish Embassy
Whitehall Mansions
Ta' Xbiex Seafront
Ta' Xbiex XBX 1026
00356 21 334 744
www.embassyofireland.org.mt
British High Commission
Whitehall Mansions
Ta' Xbiex Seafront
Ta' Xbiex XBX 1026
Malta GC
00356 23 230 000
www.ukinmalta.fco.gov.uk
Tourist Information office:
1 City Arcades
City Gate
Valletta
Tel: (356) 22915440 – 2
Local Emergency Services: 112
Calling Malta from Irl/UK: 00 + 356 + the number
Calling Ireland from Malta: 00 + 353 + area code (omit 1st ‘0’) + the number
Calling the UK from Malta: 00 + 44 + area code (omit 1st ‘0’) + the number
Useful Website
www.visitmalta.com