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Marie-Astrid Bridelance
If you’re planning (or still dreaming about) your next getaway to Malta, let me share the best things to do in May.
In May, visitors enjoy perfect weather for exploring the Maltese archipelago, mostly sunny but not too hot. This month is still considered part of the shoulder season and falls right before the start of the peak season. Places start to get busier, but it won’t be too crowded either.
Let’s dive in and explore the best tours to visit the archipelago, fun things to do in May, and the best places to visit, from historical sites and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to beaches. I’ll also share an overview of the weather and some tips to help you prepare, with ideas on what to do on your trip to Malta.
The ultimate pass combining Hop-On Hop-Off Buses, access to heritage sites and a harbour cruise!
€80
Culture & History Lovers, Couples, & Families
6 days from activation
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus stops can be found all over the island
This pass combines what you need to explore Malta’s rich culture and history. Unlimited use of Hop-On Hop-Off bus routes (North and South – island of Malta only), access to 20+ heritage sites in Malta and a free harbour cruise with live commentary are included. The pass is valid for a period of 6 days from its activation.
Chauffeured tour of Gozo, led by a multilingual Gozo expert chauffeur, on a fun and comfortable Tuk-Tuk.
€85
Couples, Families with Kids, & Small Groups
7 hours (excluding transport)
Marfa, Malta
Explore Gozo on board a fun Tuk-Tuk that can carry a maximum of 6 passengers. This all-inclusive tour is one of the best you can take to discover Malta’s sister island. The prices include a transfer from/to your hotel, the crossing to Gozo, a Tuk Tuk tour led by a multilingual driver and guide, a light traditional Gozitan lunch and a boat trip to Comino.
Embark on an adventure through rugged valleys and backroads on a powerful Quad Bike, following a lead driver.
€115 (driver) / €195 (driver+passenger)
Couples, Small Groups, & Solo Travellers
7 hours (excluding transport)
Marfa, Malta
Drive in convoy behind a skilled tour leader through Gozo’s sleepy villages, wild countryside and epic coast. Quad Bikes give you privileged access to secret places like Xewkija, Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs and Xwejni salt pans. Just like the Tuk Tuk tour, this is an all-inclusive tour with transport from/to your hotel, a boat trip to Comino, its Blue Lagoon and sea caverns, an experienced quad leader, picnic, fuel and equipment.
Full-day cruise combining Comino Island with its stunning Blue Lagoon and Gozo Island.
€25 (or €30 with the bus to Gozo's capital)
Couples, Families, & Small Groups
7 hours
Buġibba
Departing from Buġibba, a resort on the northern coast of Malta, this full-day cruise allows you to explore Malta’s stunning coast, swim at the iconic Blue Lagoon and get a taste of Gozo. The boat trip stops twice, at the lagoon (Comino) and Mġarr Harbour (Gozo), from where a bus will take you to Victoria (if selected when booking).
Join this morning’s guided walking tour of Valletta’s highlights.
€52
Culture & History Lovers, Couples, Families, & Small Groups
4h 45 mins
Valletta City Gate
Discover Valletta’s rich history and heritage with a knowledgeable guide. This guided tour on foot will take you to the highlights of the capital city: the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Co-Cathedral and its Caravaggio paintings, the Grandmaster’s Palace, and the multimedia show ‘Malta Experience’. This tour is the best way to learn about Valletta and includes entrance tickets to the ‘Malta Experience’ and the Co-Cathedral.
An extended Sunday morning tour to the stunning Blue Grotto and the popular Marsaxlokk market.
€32
Couples, Families, Small Groups & Foodies
5 hours
Blue Grotto (Transfer from and to your accommodation included)
Taking place every Sunday, this guided tour takes you to two iconic places located in the south of Malta. You’ll discover Blue Grotto, a group of stunning, naturally shaped rock formations bathed in translucent blue waters. Although recommended, the Blue Grotto boat trips are not included in the tour price and are subject to the weather conditions. Your guide will then take you to the Sunday market held in the colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk, perfect for trying local food and buying souvenirs.
Cruise around the two natural harbours surrounding Valletta – Marsamxetto Harbour and the Grand Harbour. This is the best way to discover the fortifications surrounding the capital and the Three Cities from a different perspective.
TIP: This advantageous combo pass includes a harbour cruise.
The first inhabitants of Malta, the Knights of St. John, the British and other rulers left their mark on the country’s rich heritage. Explore Malta’s rich history in Mdina, the fortified city from the Middle Ages with its Baroque St. Paul’s Cathedral, at the St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat and at the megalithic temples. Speaking about temples, the most impressive ones are Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples (Malta) and Ġgantija Temples (Gozo).
Valletta is a must-see on any trip to Malta. Visit the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the stately Grandmaster’s Palace and the Upper Barrakka Gardens boasting panoramic views over the Grand Harbour. In May, St. George’s Square is filled with plants for a few days during the Valletta Green Festival. What’s more, you can also enjoy lunch and a walk along the harbour at the Valletta Waterfront.
The fair weather in May will probably make you want to go to the beach. The best beaches are Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Mellieħa Bay. You’ll be lucky to enjoy them before the crowds occupy every inch of the sand or rock in the summer months. However, note that the water can still be a little chilly and that lifeguards are usually not around in May.
May offers perfect conditions to enjoy the great outdoors before it becomes too hot. Go for a hike and pack a picnic to enjoy with breathtaking views. Places like Victoria Lines, Selmun Trail and Sanap Cliffs in Gozo are stunning places to do so.
Since Gozo is only a short ferry ride away from Malta, it would be a real shame to miss it. The same goes with Comino, a small but beautiful island known for its Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon.
Where to stay in Malta depends on your preferences and the type of holiday you’re after. From bustling towns and historical cities to quaint villages and seaside resorts, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for cheap accommodation, it can be more difficult than during the off-season, as more tourists are coming in May. However, you can still find some good deals, especially by exploring hostels, Bed and Breakfasts, and self-catering options. On the other hand, boutique hotels and even 5-star accommodations offer a more luxurious stay.
These seaside resorts are perfect for a family holiday, with many options, all the amenities and some activities. You might also be able to find budget-friendly options there.
With many historical sites, monuments and museums, Valletta is a haven for history buffs. I recommend you stay there if sightseeing is your #1 priority. The capital city is also a good choice for those looking for a high-end experience or even a luxury hotel.
If, on the contrary, your main aim is to have a relaxing holiday, spend time at the beach and connect with nature, the village of Mellieħa will cater to all your needs.
Rabat is a typical Maltese village next to Mdina. Although it’s not a seaside destination, it offers an authentic experience and is surrounded by the countryside. Next door is Mdina, the Silent City. Mdina has a very limited number of options, but it can offer a luxury stay in a historical palace.
Sliema is a popular option among tourists. This seaside town has a lively atmosphere, many hotels and other types of accommodation and entertainment options. The neighbouring town of St. Julian’s is Malta’s nightlife hub, perfect for night owls wishing to party at the various events organised by bars and clubs.
Malta’s sister island is often overlooked by tourists as a place of stay. However, it’s a great place to relax and unwind, far from the noise and activity of the main towns. The island of Gozo is greener and has a slower pace of life compared to the main island.
| Average Temperature | 20°C (68°F) |
| High Temperature | 24°C (75°F) |
| Low Temperature | 15°C (59°F) |
| Day Temperature | 20°C (68°F) |
| Night Temperature | 18°C (65°F) |
| Sea Temperature | 19°C (66°F) |
| Precipitation | 9 mm (0.35″) |
| Hours of Daylight per Day | 14 hours |
In May, you will find the perfect weather to visit Malta. It’s mostly sunny, as the rain becomes scarcer and scarcer, and warm. The conditions are perfect for sightseeing, exploring Malta’s rich history and engaging in some outdoor activities before the summer heat. The sun can definitely be felt, but pack a jacket or a cardigan for the evenings and some cooler days.
If you visit the archipelago in the second half of May, you’ll notice a shift as mild spring weather transitions into hot summer days.
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