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Visiting Malta
Endless Sun, Stunning Beaches, Unforgettable Memories
Visiting Malta is like stepping into a blend of the past and present, where every corner reflects its rich, diverse history. The archipelago, known for preserving the old-world charm of its cities and towns, is set against truly scenic backdrops. What's unique about Malta is its bilingual nature, offering a natural environment for learning and practicing English outside the confines of a classroom. Visiting Malta, students of all backgrounds can merge their educational pursuits with leisure, making the archipelago a preferred destination for language learners.
The experience of visiting Malta is enriched when you interact with other English learners, affable locals, and British expatriates. The prevalence of English is evident as newspapers, books, and broadcasts predominantly use it, making immersion into the language effortless. Beyond learning, there's much to adore about Malta, including the pleasant Mediterranean lifestyle, festivals and events in Malta marked by delightful cuisine, sunny weather, and warm, spirited people.
The Maltese islands, with their mix of southern hospitality and British influences, provide an escape into comfort and learning. Before entering the country, non-European nationals must fulfil Malta's visa and entry requirements. The pleasant climate, vibrant nightlife, quaint towns, inviting cafés, and picturesque beaches, all underlined by a deep cultural heritage, speak volumes about Malta. Ultimately, the fusion of immersive learning and enjoyable holidays is what attracts a global audience to study English while exploring about Malta's multifaceted charm.
Activity coordinators organise
We're thrilled to introduce our enthusiastic team of leisure coordinators and community managers, who are dedicated to spicing up your stay with an array of fascinating experiences, excursions, and activities! Each week, they curate a fresh and exciting program, showcasing the best adventures Malta has to offer. Our program is just a hop, skip, and a jump away whenever adventure calls your name. And for those days when you're craving some downtime, our serene pool awaits. Here, you can lounge in tranquility, soaking up the sun and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. We respect your space and promise a disturbance-free zone for your relaxation. It's all about what makes you happiest - whether it's seeking new adventures or unwinding in peaceful bliss!
Adventures for Young Travellers
Activities of the Junior Programme
Experience an exciting mix of language learning and adventure in Malta with Sprachcaffe! Our Junior Activities are packed with fun, from horse riding to go-karting, and shopping in the bustling streets of Sliema. Explore the historic charm of Valletta, the captivating Blue Lagoon, and Malta's breathtaking landscapes through our specially designed excursions. Whether staying for two or three weeks, enjoy a range of activities including lively beach parties, karaoke, and student nights in Paceville. Enhance your adventure with the Intensive Leisure Fun Pack for even more exploration options. Join Sprachcaffe for a memorable journey of learning and fun, all under the guidance of our experienced group leaders.
Engaging Experiences and Excursions
Activities for individual travellers
Dive into a world where language learning meets adventure! Sprachcaffe Malta offers a unique English learning experience, seamlessly integrating classroom knowledge with the vibrant life of Malta. Picture yourself practicing English against the backdrop of Malta's stunning beaches, historic streets, and lively social scenes. From the crystal-clear waters of St. Peter's Pool to the ancient walls of Mdina, each step is a new opportunity to use and improve your English. Our activities are designed to maximize your learning while immersing you in the island's rich culture. Whether you're exploring the markets of Marsaxlokk or dancing the night away in Paceville, you're not just learning a English; you're living it.
Discover Malta: The Hidden Jewel of the Mediterranean
Welcome to Malta, a small but mighty country in the heart of the Mediterranean! Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and rich history, Malta is a perfect destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. This incredible island will amaze you with its unique mix of cultures, beaches, languages, and architecture. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit!
Easy Communication
One of the great things about visiting Malta is that communicating won't be a problem. Most people can speak English very well because it's an official language of Malta. This makes things like asking for directions, ordering food, or just having a chat with the locals quite easy and enjoyable! For this reason, Malta is a very popular destination for English learners and hosts many English language schools like us. But, find out for yourself languages in Malta and what makes Malta the ideal destination for English learners.
One of the best parts of Malta is the people. Maltese people are very kind and friendly. They welcome tourists with open arms and big smiles. Don't be shy to talk with them! They can share interesting stories about Malta's history and maybe even some local secrets about the best places to visit.
The Capital of Malta: Valletta
Valletta, the vibrant capital of Malta, is a hub for young travelers. One must-visit is the lively St. John's Co-Cathedral, known for its stunning art and rich history. For relaxation, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer beautiful views and a chill atmosphere. Nightlife thrives in Valletta; the city brims with cool bars and clubs, especially around Strait Street, the go-to place for an unforgettable night. Don't miss the daily shows at the Valletta Waterfront, where music and colors mix for a fun, unique experience. the Capital of Malta combines history with modern fun, creating the perfect young tourist destination!
Rich History and Culture
Malta has a very long and rich history. Malta, though small in size, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wealth, proudly hosting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract global attention. The historic city of Valletta, known as "The Fortress City" is famed for its 16th-century buildings, reflecting the grandeur of the Knights Hospitaller of St. John. Another mesmerizing site, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, is an underground necropolis, showcasing a rare prehistoric burial tradition through a labyrinth of interconnecting rock-cut chambers.
Lastly, the Megalithic Temples of Malta, mysterious and ancient, stand as testaments to the island's rich prehistoric culture. These architectural masterpieces, older than the pyramids of Egypt, reflect the island's architectural ingenuity dating back thousands of years. Each visit to these sites offers a unique journey back in time, unraveling the layers of history and human achievement embedded in Malta's landscape.
Then there's the impressive Mdina, also known as the "Silent City," which was the old capital of Malta. Walking through its streets is magical, especially at night. The European Union has also nominated Valletta to be the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2018!
Must-Visit Places in Malta
Valletta: Step into the UNESCO-listed capital city, Valletta, where history and architecture converge. Explore its narrow streets lined with centuries-old buildings, visit the stunning St. John's Co-Cathedral, and take in breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.
Mdina: Discover the ancient charm of Mdina, often referred to as the "Silent City." Enclosed within imposing fortifications, this historic city is a serene oasis with its winding streets, historic palaces, and panoramic vistas.
The Blue Lagoon: Escape to the idyllic Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino. Dive into its crystal-clear waters, bask on the sun-soaked rocks, or take a boat trip to explore the enchanting caves and hidden coves that dot the coastline.
Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra: Journey back in time to visit the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, remarkable prehistoric structures that predate even Stonehenge. Marvel at the ancient stone architecture and the mysteries of Malta's distant past.
7 Must-Visit Places in Malta for young people
Paceville: Known as Malta's nightlife hub, Paceville in St. Julian's is a must for those seeking a lively atmosphere. It's packed with bars, clubs, and late-night venues where you can dance the night away and socialize with locals and fellow travelers.
St. Julian's Bay: This picturesque bay is not only a great place for a swim but also offers a beautiful promenade with numerous cafes and restaurants. It's an excellent spot to relax during the day and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Gżira Promenade: Located near Sliema, the Gżira promenade offers stunning views of Valletta's skyline. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can find trendy bars and eateries along the way.
Sliema: This bustling town is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore The Point Shopping Mall, dine at waterfront restaurants, or take a ferry to Valletta for a day trip.
Gozo: Hop on a ferry and visit Gozo, Malta's sister island. Here, you can explore beautiful beaches, hike in the countryside, and discover the vibrant local culture.
Marsaxlokk: If you're into fresh seafood and local markets, don't miss the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Visit on a Sunday to experience the bustling fish market and enjoy a seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Blue Grotto: Adventure seekers can take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto, a network of caves and grottos along Malta's southwestern coast. The crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations make it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Malta: Unveiling Cinematic Scenes
Malta, with its stunning landscapes and historical sites, has been an alluring destination for the filming of various renowned movies and series. One of the most famous productions is the epic fantasy series "Game of Thrones" which utilized the ancient city of Mdina and other locations for its regal, atmospheric settings in the show's first season. Besides this, the blockbuster film "Troy" transformed Malta's coastline into the ancient shores of Greece, while the historical drama "Gladiator" was notably shot in Fort Ricasoli, turning it into the Roman Empire's grand arena. The action-packed thriller "Assassin's Creed" also leveraged Malta's rugged terrain and architectural marvels to bring its dynamic scenes to life. These productions highlight Malta's cinematic appeal and how its natural and historical tapestries provide the perfect backdrop for monumental storytelling.
Delicious Food
Trying Maltese food is a must! The cuisine is a mix of different cultures, with a Mediterranean base. 'Pastizzi,' a popular snack filled with ricotta cheese or peas, is something you have to try. For a bigger meal, there's 'Fenkata,' a traditional rabbit stew. And if you like sweets, 'Imqaret,' date-filled pastries, will make your mouth water! Experience the delicious food of Malta.
Easy to Get Around
Moving around Malta is pretty simple. There are many buses going all around the island, and it's not very expensive. The country is small, so it doesn't take too long to go from one part to another. There are also ferries to go to the other islands like Gozo and Comino, which are beautiful places to visit! But, find out for yourself how to get around malta without a rental car.
Where is Malta?
Malta is a small country located in the Mediterranean Sea. It lies south of Italy and east of Tunisia, with the closest land being Sicily, an Italian island. Malta itself is an archipelago, which means it's made up of several islands. The island state is made up of the three inhabited islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino as well as the unihabited islands of Cominotto, Filfla, St. Paul's Island and Fungus Rock. Malta is the largest and most populated of the three islands, with a total area of just over 316 square kilometers. Malta is the longest one of these islands, with a lenght of 27 kilometers.
Malta gets its water from a variety of sources. The main source is desalination, which is the process of converting sea water into fresh water. Desalination plants are located on the island and produce around 450,000 cubic meters of fresh water every day. Other sources of water include groundwater and rainwater collected in tanks.
The topography of Malta is mostly low-lying, with the highest point being Ta' Dmejrek at 253 meters. The islands are mostly limestone, with many rocky coves and cliffs along the coast. One of the most iconic is the Azure Window, a natural limestone arch located on Gozo, it collapsed on 8th March 2017.
The country's position makes it a meeting point of several European and Arabic cultures. The official languages are Maltese and English, reflecting its history as a British colony until 1964. Malta joined the European Union in 2004, following a 2003 referendum where the majority voted in favor of EU accession.
Gorgeous Beaches
The stunning beaches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino attract countless visitors. Golden Bay, one of the most sought-after, entices with its shimmering sands and lively beachside activities. Mellieħa Bay, renowned for its extensive shoreline, offers ample space for relaxation and water sports. For a more secluded experience, the hidden cove of Għajn Tuffieħa provides a tranquil escape amidst stunning natural surroundings. Gozo's Ramla Bay stands out with its unique reddish sands and serene ambience. Comino's Blue Lagoon, however, is the real showstopper. Its turquoise waters create a paradise-like setting, making it a top choice for both swimmers and sunbathers. For those seeking less crowded spots, Gozo's San Blas Beach offers an intimate retreat. These beaches provide picturesque settings for a perfect day under the sun.
Lovely Weather in Malta
The Maltese islands sunny most of the year. The weather is usually warm, and the skies are clear. The lovely weather in Malta means you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, sunbathing, or boat trips any time you visit. Just remember to bring your sunblock!
As Malta is located in the central Mediterranean, the island has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Here are the average air and water temperatures in Malta and sunshine hours for the different seasons:
Spring (March, April,May):
- Air temperature: 15°C to 23°C
- Water temperature: 14°C to 18°C
- Sunshine hours: 6-8 hours per day; about 3-6 rainy days
Summer (June, July, August, September):
- Air temperature: 25°C to 33°C (sometimes higher)
- Water temperature: 20°C to 26°C
- Sunshine hours: 10-12 hours per day; only 1-2 rainy days
Autumn (October, November, December):
- Air temperature: 21°C to 27°C in September, cooling to about 15°C in November.
- Water temperature: 23°C to 26°C in September, cooling to about 20°C in November.
- Sunshine hours: 7-9 hours per day; 4-7 rainy days on average
Winter (January, February):
- Air temperature: 10°C to 16°C
- Water temperature: 15°C to 17°C
- Sunshine hours: 5-6 hours per day; 7-10 rainy days on average
These values are of course averages and can vary from year to year. Malta generally has many sunny days a year, which makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over Europe.
Diving in Malta
Surrounded by clear blue water, the Maltese Islands offer many exciting spots for divers. Visiting Malta, divers are in for a treat with its top-notch diving spots. The Blue Hole in Gozo offers a unique underwater arch leading to the vast sea. The Um El Faroud wreck near Wied iz-Zurrieq is a remarkable dive site, showcasing a sunken ship's remnants. Cirkewwa has arches and tunnels, providing an exciting underwater landscape. Meanwhile, Ghar Lapsi and HMS Maori are also favorites among divers, each bringing distinct experiences to those passionate about exploring Malta's popular spot for scuba diving.
Festivals and Events in Malta
There's always something happening in Malta! Festivals, parties, and events are very common. One of the biggest festivals is the Malta Carnival, with fun costumes, music, and dancing in the streets. Another event is the Malta Jazz Festival, perfect for music lovers. These celebrations show the joyful spirit of the Maltese people. But you can find out more about festivals and events in Malta by yourself.
Major events in Malta
The Malta International Fireworks Festival: Witness a dazzling spectacle of lights and colors at this yearly extravaganza. Both local and international pyrotechnic experts showcase their artistry, creating breathtaking fireworks displays that light up the Maltese skies.
The Malta International Arts Festival: Explore the diverse realms of artistic expression at this prestigious event. From captivating performances to thought-provoking exhibitions, this festival offers a platform for top-tier artists across various art forms to showcase their talents.
Notte Bianca: Experience the magic of Valletta's vibrant cultural scene during this annual nightlong celebration. The city comes alive with an array of arts and cultural activities, from live music performances to captivating art installations, making it a night to remember.
Valletta International Baroque Festival: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of baroque music at this annual festival, where talented musicians from around the globe come together to celebrate this rich musical tradition.
7 bigest events in Malta for young people
Isle of MTV Malta: This annual music festival features internationally renowned artists and is one of the biggest events for young people in Malta. It typically takes place in Floriana, attracting music enthusiasts from all over the world.
Annie Mac's Lost & Found Festival: Held in April, this electronic music festival is a favorite among young partygoers. It features a diverse lineup of DJs and takes place at various venues in and around St. Paul's Bay.
Earth Garden Festival: Celebrated in May or June, this eco-friendly festival combines live music, art, and cultural activities. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and focus on sustainability, making it popular among environmentally conscious young people.
Malta Music Week: Leading up to the Isle of MTV and other music festivals, Malta Music Week hosts a series of pre-parties, club events, and DJ sets, creating a week-long party atmosphere across the island.
Malta Comic Con: Comic book enthusiasts and fans of pop culture gather at this annual convention. It features cosplay, comic book artists, gaming, and other geek culture attractions, making it a fun event for young adults.
Għanafest: This traditional Maltese music and arts festival, usually held in June, showcases local folk music, dance, and crafts. It's an opportunity for young people to experience and appreciate Maltese culture.
Malta Fashion Week: For those interested in fashion and design, Malta Fashion Week, typically held in May, offers runway shows, exhibitions, and opportunities to engage with fashion professionals. It's a chance for young fashion enthusiasts to explore their passion.
Malta Visa and entry requirements
Traveling and working in Malta can be an exciting experience, but it's important to understand the visa requirements to ensure a smooth stay, especially as these requirements vary for EU and non-EU citizens.
For EU Citizens: If you're from the European Union, the process is straightforward. For short visits, you don't need a visa to enter Malta. You can stay up to three months with just your passport or identity card. However, if you plan to work or stay longer, you must register with the local authorities and obtain a residence card. This procedure is relatively simple, as the right to work and move within the EU is a fundamental aspect of the Union. Be sure to have proper employment documentation, as this will ease the process.
For Non-EU Citizens: For those from outside the European Union, the process is more complex. Visiting Malta for short periods may require a Schengen visa, depending on your home country. This visa allows travel across the Schengen area, Malta included, for up to 90 days.
Here you will find detailed information on the application and extension procedures for visas to Malta and the documents required.
10 facts about Malta
This is the main reason why English is the second official language of the country and is widely spoken by the population. Malta is considered to be one of the best places to study English because it combines interactive teaching, a large native-speaking population, great weather, sea, sun and fun, competitive prices and good accessibility.
The sun shines more than 3,000 hours each year, one of the highest rates in Europe. Malta enjoys warm, sunny weather most of the year which attracts a lot of tourists. The temperature never goes below zero and is 26°C on average in summer and 15°C in winter during the day.
According to a United Nations report Malta is listed in second place in terms of safety after Qatar. The index is based on 4 factors: exposure to natural hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes and floods, level of infrastructure, governance and adaptive capacities to future climate change. Malta also has a very low crime rate for both violent and petty crime. The fatal road accidents rate is also extremely low. Tourists are usually advised to be careful with their belongings and when crossing streets as driving is on the left like in the UK.
Maltese history, culture and architecture owe a lot to the famous Knights of St. John (also known as the Order of Hospitallers and Maltese Knights). The Order came to Malta in 1530 and over the centuries invested vast amounts of effort and resources into the island's military power, education and health care. They also built the fortifications of Valletta - at the time it was the most advanced fortress in the world.
Malta consistently ranks in the top positions for the cleanest bathing waters in the EU and has been given a star by the European Commission. Every single one of its 87 bathing sites reach EU standards and most of them have been given top marks and rated "excellent". Maltese waters are incredibly beautiful, featuring memorable shades of deep blue and turquoise.
Maybe not officially but Maltese summer - the time when you enjoy swimming and sunbathing - starts in early May and ends in late October. Seawater reaches comfortable temperatures in June and gets gradually warmer up to October. Visiting Malta in summer is a must for anyone who wishes to escape the dreaded cold of the Northern countries.
Students of all nations, ages and levels are welcome in Malta. The top nationalities are Italy, French and Germany and the largest proportion of language students fell within the 18 to 25 age group. Studying English in Malta is becoming more and more popular every year and the number of students is steadily growing.
And the fifth smallest in Europe at only 316 km2. It is also one of the most densely populated countries with more than 452,000 residents. Malta is a Parliamentary Republic. It is an archipelago consisting of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino.
Older than Stonehenge. There are eleven prehistoric monuments of which seven are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These temples were the result of several phases of construction from around 3000 to 2200 BC.
During 2018, Valletta organised a number of events that served as inspiration to other cities based on different cultural elements.
Countless Experiences
IIn summary, a holiday in Malta has a lot to offer. From the warm, sunny days to the rich culture and history, every moment spent on this island is sure to be unforgettable. The beautiful sights, friendly people, and tasty food are all part of what makes Malta so special. So, get ready for an incredible adventure, and don't forget to enjoy every second of your Maltese journey!
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