Book cheap flights to Malta

Flying into this Mediterranean archipelago places visitors at a strategic crossroads of history where limestone cliffs meet deep turquoise waters. The central island serves as a sprawling open-air museum, characterised by its prehistoric structures and a legacy shaped by centuries of maritime influence.

The landscape is defined by the fortified grandeur of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its concentrated Baroque architecture and the ornate interior of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Beyond the capital, the silent medieval streets of Mdina offer a stark contrast to the megalithic mystery of the Ħaġar Qim temples and the bustling traditional harbour of Marsaxlokk.

This destination balances a rugged coastal beauty with a dense archaeological heritage, making it a premier location for cultural discovery. Whether exploring the subterranean labyrinth of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum or the coastal formations of the Blue Grotto, the island provides an immersive journey through several millennia of human civilisation.

Summer and the peak season in Malta

From June to August, the archipelago experiences its most lively and energetic phase as temperatures frequently climb above 30°C. The Mediterranean sun transforms the limestone landscape into a golden backdrop for coastal life, where the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon and St Peter’s Pool become the primary focus for visitors and locals alike. Upon arrival at Malta International Airport, the immediate heat and the scent of wild thyme and sea salt signal the start of a high-energy Mediterranean summer.

The social calendar during these months is dominated by traditional village festas, which fill the streets with brass bands, elaborate decorations, and nightly firework displays. Life moves at a slower pace during the midday heat, only to erupt into activity as the sun sets and the waterfront promenades of Sliema and St Julian’s come alive. This season is defined by an outdoor lifestyle, where open-air concerts and long evenings at coastal lidos reflect the festive, sun-drenched identity of the islands.

Winter and the quiet season

The shoulder weeks of April, May, September and October stay warm and noticeably quieter, while the low season between November and March brings a dramatic shift in character as the landscape turns a lush, rich green following the autumn rains. Temperatures remain mild, typically hovering around 15°C, making it an ideal time for exploring the silent streets of Mdina or hiking along the Dingli Cliffs without the summer crowds. Landing during these months offers a different perspective, revealing a tranquil island suited for cultural immersion and historical discovery rather than beach activities.

During this quieter period, the rhythm of life retreats to the cosy interiors of wine bars and the historic theatres of Valletta. Cultural events like the Valletta Baroque Festival in January highlight the architectural grandeur of the capital, while the absence of heat allows for comfortable trekking across the Victoria Lines. The atmosphere is one of peaceful reflection, offering a chance to witness the authentic, everyday routines of the locals in a setting that feels remarkably intimate and timeless.

Serving as the primary gateway for the entire archipelago, the arrival experience by air provides an immediate introduction to the Mediterranean landscape before travellers head towards the historic capital or coastal resorts. Whether arriving on a long-haul connection or a short-hop flight to Malta, the island’s single commercial terminal manages all international traffic efficiently.

Malta International Airport (MLA)

Malta International Airport (MLA), often referred to locally as Luqa Airport, is situated approximately 8 km south of the capital, Valletta. As the only air hub serving the Maltese Islands, it hosts the national carrier KM Malta Airlines and serves as a significant base for Ryanair, offering extensive connections across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The facility consists of a single, well-equipped terminal building that handles both full-service and low-cost flights to Malta throughout the year.

Upon exiting the arrivals hall, travellers can easily access the Tallinja bus system, which operates several express routes, including the X1, X2, X3, and X4 lines. These services provide direct links to major hubs such as Valletta, the ferry terminal at Cirkewwa for transfers to Gozo, and the northern tourist district of Bugibba, with journey times to the capital typically taking around 20–30 minutes. For those heading to the lively areas of Sliema or St Julian’s, dedicated shuttle services and metered taxis run around the clock from the forecourt ranks. The compact nature of the island ensures that even the furthest reaches, such as the silent city of Mdina or the southern fishing villages, are reachable within a 30–45 minute drive depending on local traffic conditions.

Malta offers a wealth of attractions, blending ancient history with stunning natural beauty. Explore these must-see sights and experiences:

• Valletta stands as a baroque masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow hilly streets lead to grand piazzas and ornate cathedrals that reflect the city’s origins as a fortress built by the Knights of St John.
• Mdina, known as the Silent City, offers a serene escape within its medieval walls, where the absence of cars allows the echoes of history to resonate through winding sandstone alleys and hidden courtyards.
• The Three Cities of Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla) provide an authentic glimpse into maritime heritage, featuring fortified harbours and narrow inlets where traditional brightly coloured fishing boats bob against ancient stone docks.
• Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra represent some of the oldest freestanding religious structures on Earth, predating the pyramids and offering a profound connection to the prehistoric people who aligned these massive stones with the rising sun.
• The Blue Grotto showcases the raw beauty of the coastline, where a series of sea caverns creates a brilliant display of phosphorescent flora and deep azure reflections that shift with the light of the day.
• Marsaxlokk is a vibrant fishing village where the daily catch is brought ashore amidst a sea of Luzzu boats, each adorned with the protective Eye of Osiris to guard sailors on the open water.
• Upper Barrakka Gardens provides the most prominent vantage point in the archipelago, offering a panoramic sweep of the Grand Harbour and the massive fortifications that have protected these shores for centuries.
• St John’s Co-Cathedral hides an explosion of gold leaf and intricate marble tombstones behind a modest facade, housing world-renowned masterpieces by Caravaggio within its vaulted chambers.

Dreaming of the honey-coloured limestone and blue coves of Malta? The right flight is easy enough to pin down with the Opodo search tools, which line up airlines and timetables for you to secure a journey that fits your specific needs. By joining Opodo Prime, you can unlock additional benefits on every booking, ensuring your path to this Mediterranean destination is as smooth and rewarding as the flight itself.