As a local, I always tell people to visit Malta in October. The island is less crowded during this month, and the heat is more tolerable.

While we don’t get spectacular autumn foliage in Malta, the scenery is still beautiful at this time of year. The beaches are cleaner and quieter, and the first rainfall of the season gives the Maltese countryside a bright green hue.

In this guide, I share my top tips for visiting Malta in October, including where to stay, things to do, what to pack, and more. Let’s dive right in!

October weather in Malta

Malta is still quite hot in October, with temperatures hovering above 25 degrees throughout most of the month. However, the evenings are cooler and less humid.

If you’re visiting Malta in October, expect a mix of sunny days and thunderstorms. Contrary to popular belief, it does rain in Malta – especially at the end of summer and beginning of autumn.

However, you might very well get bright hot days throughout your stay. Therefore, it’s best to prepare yourself for all possible weather scenarios.

Where to stay in Malta in October

If you’re travelling as a couple, or planning a romantic getaway, you might want to stay in a boutique hotel or guesthouse.

For example, Bettina Palace in Birgu offers stunning views of the Three Cities. This hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century palace, with a rooftop pool and jacuzzi.

If you’d rather stay in a seaside town or touristic area, St. Paul’s Bay is a good option. There are lots of hotels here, though if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, you might want to avoid the big all-inclusive resorts.

Gillieru Hotel is located in a more peaceful part of St. Paul’s Bay, right next to a little harbour and chapel.

It offers amazing sea views, and the main square is just a short walk away. There are also many restaurants in the area.

Best things to do in Malta in October

Now, let’s look at some top activities in Malta in October.

On a nice day

Bask in the sun – and swim!

I love going for a swim in October. The beaches are more peaceful and the heat isn’t so intense.

If the weather’s nice, I recommend spending a day at Golden Bay or the neighbouring Riviera Beach.

There are a couple of kiosks and restaurants in the area, so you could even enjoy a nice drink or meal on the beach.

If you’re travelling to Malta with children, Ghadira Bay in Mellieha could be a better option. The water here is more shallow.

Hike along the coast

Malta boasts a spectacular coastline, and October is one of the best months to hike it.

For example, you can walk along the northeastern coast, starting from Mistra and ending in Selmun.

You’ll get some close-up views of St. Paul’s Island on the way, and you could even go for a dip in Mgiebah Bay – one of the most remote beaches on the island.

Alternatively, you could hike along Dingli Cliffs, which mark the highest point in Malta.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the wee island of Filfla, and end the walk with a hearty meal at one of the local restaurants.

Spend a day in Gozo

While visiting Gozo is a must, the trip might feel arduous in the hot summer months.

With temperatures being cooler in October, you can walk around the ancient citadel of Cittadella and the busting town of Victoria without excessive sweating.

While you’re in Gozo, make sure to visit Ggantija Temples. These megalithic structures are over 5,500 years old.

Yes, they’re older than the Pyramids. In fact, they’re the world’s second oldest manmade religious structures after Göbekli Tepe in Turkey.

On a rainy day

Hit the museums

The rain in Malta can be biblical. It almost never drizzles, and it almost always pours.

If you’re into history, you’ll find plenty to do in Malta on a rainy day. In fact, you can spend all day visiting museums and other attractions.

Here are my top recommendations.

• Valletta
  • The Museum of Archaeology
  • Manoel Theatre
  • St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Museum
  • The Grandmaster’s Palace

• Mdina & Rabat
  • The Roman Villa
  • St. Paul’s Catacombs
  • The National Museum of Natural History
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral

• Birgu
  • The Inquisitor’s Palace
  • Fort St. Angelo
  • The Malta Maritime Museum

Explore the local cafe scene

If you don’t fancy travelling in the rain, you can just grab a good book and spend a few hours in a coffee shop.

Malta has a thriving cafe scene. If you’re staying in Valletta, you’re spoilt for choice.

For instance, there’s the glamourous Caffe Cordina, which has been around since 1837, and Cafe Jubilee with its vintage decor and cozy ambiance.

Meanwhile, Lot 61 and Coffee Circus make an amazing cappuccino, and they source coffee beans from around the world.

If you’re staying in St. Paul’s Bay or Bugibba, Michele’s near the bus terminus has a lovely selection of cakes. They also make a nice breakfast here.

You could also check out Le 2 Sicilie, a Sicilian place with nice coffee and traditional pastries.

And my latest favourite place – The Book Nook Cafe. It’s a small, family-run cafe with artisan coffee and second-hand books.

Take a chocolate-making class

Looking for something fun to do in Malta on a rainy day? Learn how to make chocolate!

The Chocolate Factory in Bugibba organize chocolate-making workshops, including child-friendly sessions. They also hold wine and cocktail pairing classes.

And if you’re visiting Malta in October, you might even be able to attend one of their Halloween-themed chocolate classes.

With kids

Learn about marine life at the Malta National Aquarium

The Malta National Aquarium in Bugibba offers an immersive experience into the marine world.

It hosts over 50 display tanks and 250 species, which jellyfish, reptiles, frogs, crustaceans, sharks, and insects.

There are also educational sessions for children, and you can explore the aquarium at your own leisure or with a tour.

Travel back in time at Ghar Dalam

Located in Birzebbuga, the cave complex of Għar Dalam is the oldest prehistoric site in Malta.

It contains the remains of animals that were stranded in Malta at the end of the Last Glacial Maximum, when the island became separated from what is now the Italian peninsula.

Many of these creatures, including the giant swan and dwarf elephant, are extinct.

Archaeologists have also found the earliest evidence of human settlement on Malta (around 7,400 years ago) in this cave.

Delve into the world of science at Esplora

Esplora is an interactive science centre in Kalkara. It has over 200 exhibits, as well as hands-on workshops and entertaining shows.

It also hosts a 4k colourspace Planetarium theatre.

At night

Celebrate culture at Notte Bianca

In October, Valletta plays host to Notte Bianca. This is one of Malta’s largest events, attended by thousands of people.

For one night per year, Valletta’s main attractions are open to visitors for free.

Churches, piazzas, and palaces come alive with music, and bars and restaurants remain open till the early hours of the morning.

You can also attend art exhibitions and theatrical performances, and visit places that are not usually open to the public.

You may need to purchase your tickets in advance for some of these events.

Explore Birgu by candlelight

Another popular October event is Birgu Fest. For two nights, the streets of this old harbour city are lit solely by candles.

Museums and attractions are also open to the public, usually for free or at a reduced price.

Plus, you’ll find stalls selling traditional foods, as well as an artisan market with local handmade products.

Go on a ghost tour

Malta has a rich and colourful past, and places like Valletta and Birgu have a history that’s replete with legends and ghost stories.

If you’re in Malta for Halloween, try to join a ghost walk with a local.

You’ll learn about some of the most horrendous crimes in Maltese history, as well as tales involving vampires and restless spirits.

What to wear in Malta in October

Make sure you have everything you need for your October trip to Malta. Here are some essentials.

Light rain coat

This rain jacket by Outdoor Ventures is ideal for autumn. It’s waterproof and breathable, and it comes in different colours, including purple, black, and blue.

It’s also warm but not bulky, so it won’t take up a lot of space in your suitcase.

Good walking shoes

I love these hiking boots from Mountain Warehouse. I find them so comfortable, and the soles offer plenty of padding.

They’re also very waterproof!

Sun protection

As mentioned earlier, October in Malta is still quite warm and you’ll likely need to wear sunblock.

This sun protection set includes face cream SPF 50 (for sensitive skin), tan intensifying spray SPF30, and after sun moisturising lotion.

Compact beach towel

Dock & Bay beach towels are known for being compact and lightweight.

They’re also sand-free and made with recycled material, so they’re great for the environment as well as your suitcase!

Waterproof day bag

A good, waterproof bag is a packing essential for any trip. This leather backpack by Missnine is ideal for those sightseeing days.

It’s also anti-theft, and can be converted into a shoulder bag.

Frequently asked questions about Malta in October

Still debating whether to visit Malta in October? Let’s address some common questions and concerns.