Why Malta Is a Great Destination for Budget Travelers and Families?
If you’re looking for a safe, fun, and affordable place to travel with kids, then Malta is definitely a great choice. When I visited this beautiful island with my family, I was pleasantly surprised by how much it had to offer. From fascinating historical landmarks to stunning beaches, and from delicious traditional food to a wide range of family-friendly activities — basically everything was accessible and reasonably priced. Whether you’re exploring ancient cities or relaxing by the sea, Malta strikes a perfect balance between culture, comfort, and cost.
In this post, I’ll take you through our full experience in Malta — from where we stayed and what we ate, to the top attractions for families, how we got around, and how much we spent each day. Whether you’re traveling solo or with kids, Malta offers something for everyone and is a destination worth exploring any time of the year.
Getting Around, Eating Well, and Exploring Malta on a Budget
One of the best things about Malta is how affordable it is — especially when it comes to transportation, food, and attractions. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, you’ll find that Travel to Malta offers great value compared to many other European destinations.
🚗 Transportation in Malta
While Malta has a reliable and inexpensive public transportation system, we opted to use Uber most of the time. As a family of four, it was more convenient and still very budget-friendly. Uber rides across the island typically cost between €6 and €12, depending on the distance and time of day.
If you’re planning to use public transport, Malta offers a Tallinja Card, a prepaid travel card for buses that gives you unlimited travel for a certain period. The Explore Card costs around €21 for 7 days and is valid for adults (kids pay less). In other words, Tallinja Card is ideal for travelers who want to move around frequently and save on daily fares.
🍽️ Food in Malta: From Street Eats to Local Delicacies
Malta has a wide range of food options to fit every budget. You can grab a filling street meal — like a kebab or wrap for around €5 — or sit down at mid-range restaurants for about €15–€25 per person. For a more upscale experience, seafood and caviar dishes at fine dining spots range from €30 to €60+ per person.
Don’t miss traditional Maltese dishes! One of the most famous is stewed rabbit (fenek), which you can find for around €12–€18 at local restaurants.
My Honest Review of Fenek: Malta’s Famous Rabbit Stew
Every time I travel, I make it a point to try at least one traditional dish — and Malta was no exception. I had the famous rabbit stew, fenek, which is one of the country’s most iconic meals. To be honest, my first impression was that it tasted like chicken… with a hint of rust. 😅
Now, you might be wondering how I know what rust tastes like — don’t worry, I’ve never chewed on rusty metal! But there was definitely a strong, earthy flavor at first. The funny thing is, the more I ate it, the more my taste buds adapted, and it actually started to taste pretty good.
Another must-try is pastizzi, a flaky pastry usually filled with ricotta or peas — and it costs just €0.50 to €1 each, making it perfect for a cheap and tasty snack.
Walk, taste, and fall in love with Valletta – Your cultural street food adventure starts here!
🏛️ Attractions: Free and Paid Experiences for All
Malta is full of attractions for all types of travelers — and many are free or very low-cost.
Here’s a general idea:
- Paid attractions:
- Ġgantija Temples (Gozo) – €10 – You can also enjoy a day Trip in Gozo by clicking here!
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral (Valletta) – €15 – See walking tour in Valletta!
- Hal Saflieni Hypogeum – €35 – See official website!
- Boat tours to Blue Lagoon – from €15 per person – See options here!
- Free or very low-cost attractions:
- Exploring Mdina, the Silent City – See Mdina and Rabat Insider’s Tour
- Relaxing at Blue Lagoon (Comino) – free access, only pay for transport
- Walking tours in Valletta or along the Sliema promenade – See Self-Guided Audio Tour
- Visiting public beaches and scenic coastal trails
In general, entrance fees in Malta are lower than in many other European countries, making it an ideal destination for families or conscious traveller that are planning to travel to Malta on a budget.
🎁 Want a complete list of Malta’s top attractions — both free and paid?
Download our FREE Malta Travel Guide and discover the best experiences for every budget!
🗺️ Includes must-see sights, hidden gems, local tips, and more.
👉 [Download your free guide here]
🛏️ Budget vs Luxury Accommodations in Malta
During our trip, we stayed in budget-friendly accommodations, which were clean, central, and comfortable for families. You can find guesthouses or 3-star hotels from €30–€80 per night for a double room. If you’re traveling as a group or with kids, apartments or Airbnbs can also offer excellent value, especially when booked in advance.
For travelers looking for a luxury experience, Malta also offers high-end resorts and boutique hotels. Generally, rates for premium stays typically start at €150 per night and can go up to €400+ for all-inclusive packages by the sea.
My Experience at a Budget Hotel in St. Julian’s
During my time in Malta, I stayed in a variety of places — from a rustic stone house in Gozo to a spacious apartment in Valletta. But one experience that really stood out was a budget hotel in St. Julian’s that completely surprised me.
When I arrived at the reception, I was honestly confused — it looked more like a lively restaurant than a hotel. There were lots of people eating, drinking, music playing, and waiters running around. I had to ask someone if I was in the wrong place! To my surprise, they smiled and said, “No, you’re in the right place — we’re just having a party today, and all guests are welcome!”
After checking in, I dropped off my bags and joined the fun. I ate, drank, and enjoyed the atmosphere — I still remember the giant olives, almost the size of an egg! The hotel also had a rooftop pool with a stunning view and a full breakfast buffet with a wide variety of options in the morning. And the best part? I paid only €35 per night for all of this – See Budget Hotel Options!
This experience is a great example of how budget accommodation in Malta can still offer comfort, charm, and unforgettable memories — proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy your stay on the island.
Whichever your budget, it’s best to book early — especially if you’re visiting during school holidays or summer.
👨👩👧👦 Best Activities in Malta for Families
Traveling with kids? Malta is full of family-friendly activities. Here are a few favorites:
- Playmobil FunPark – fun for younger kids, tickets start around €10
- Popeye Village – quirky and scenic, especially for photos; entrance from €15–€20 – See Tickets!
- Boat rides to Comino (Blue Lagoon) – crystal clear water perfect for swimming – See Tickets!
- National Aquarium – educational and entertaining, tickets around €13 – See Tickets!
- Public playgrounds and beaches – free, clean, and safe
Malta is small and easy to navigate, making it perfect for short day trips with children.
💶 How Much Does a Trip to Malta Cost Per Day?
Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend per person per day:
- Budget traveler: €50–€80 (hostel/cheap guesthouse, public transport, meals at local eateries)
- Mid-range traveler: €80–€150 (comfortable hotel or Airbnb, Uber rides, some paid attractions)
- Luxury traveler: €200+ (resort stays, fine dining, private tours)
Families can often reduce per-person costs by sharing accommodation and transportation.
Malta Multi Pass: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Way to Explore Malta!
Get unlimited access to hop-on-hop-off buses, entry to over 20 museums and heritage sites, and amazing experiences like Captain Morgan’s Grand Harbour Cruise and the stunning Blue Lagoon in Comino. With flexible 3- or 6-day options, the Malta Multi Pass lets you see the best of Malta while saving money and hassle.
👉 Ready to make the most of your Malta trip? Get your Malta Multi Pass here!
🧳 Top Malta Travel Tips 🇲🇹
Make the most of your trip to Malta with these practical and family-friendly suggestions:
🌤 Travel to Malta in the Shoulder Seasons or Winter
Visit from April to June, September to October, or even during winter (November to February) when it’s not too hot, to enjoy cheaper prices, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful atmosphere.
🧴 Pack Sunscreen
Malta is sunny most of the year — even in the off-season!
💧 Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
Tap water is safe to drink, and it helps you save money while staying hydrated on the go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Historic towns like Valletta and Mdina have cobblestone streets and hills. Walking is part of the adventure!
🚗 Use Public Transport or Ride-Sharing Apps
Public buses are budget-friendly, but for families, Uber and Bolt are also affordable and more convenient. Expect to spend around €10–15 per day on transport.
💬 Learn a Few Maltese Phrases
Locals speak English, but greeting them with “Merħba” (Welcome) or “Grazzi” (Thank you) goes a long way.
💶 Keep Some Cash with You
While most places accept cards, small markets and local street food vendors might only take cash.
⛴ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for Gozo/Comino ferries and popular sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral or the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum.
🥟 Taste Local Snacks
Don’t miss pastizzi (cheese or pea-filled pastries), ftira (Maltese pizza bread), and traditional Maltese bread served with local olives and cheese.inal Tips and Travel Resources
Looking to explore Malta your way?
📌 Check out our custom itinerary services and free travel guides:
- ✈️ Where to Stay in Malta. Find the best places!
- 📖 More Travel Stories on the Blog
- 🗺️ Request a Custom Itinerary
- 🗺️Free Malta Travel Guide
- 🗺️Explore Malta in Google Earth!
❓FAQs About Traveling to Malta
Is Malta safe for tourists?
Yes, Malta is one of the safest destinations in Europe for families and solo travelers alike.
How much does a trip to Malta cost per day?
Budget travelers can spend as little as €50/day, while mid-range travelers spend around €100/day.
What’s the best time to visit Malta?
Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Is Malta good for families with kids?
Absolutely! There are beaches, parks, fun attractions like Popeye Village, and safe, walkable towns.
Do I need a car to get around Malta?
Not necessarily. Public transport is good and Uber is cheap, especially for families.
Can I visit Gozo and Comino on a day trip?
Yes, both islands are easily accessible via ferry or boat tour from Malta.
✅ What You Need for a Smooth Trip to Malta: Essential Travel Checklist
Planning a trip to Malta? Here’s a practical checklist to ensure a stress-free experience from start to finish:
✈️ Travel Documents
- ✅ Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
- ✅ Visa – Not required for stays up to 90 days for many nationalities
- ✅ Proof of return or onward travel – Might be requested upon arrival
🛡️ Travel Essentials
- ✅ Get travel insurance – Covers medical issues, delays, lost luggage & more. Don’t travel without it!
- ✅ Book flights in advance – Best prices for early planners
- ✅ Reserve your airport transfer – Stress-free ride directly to your hotel
- ✅ Hotel bookings confirmed – Have digital or printed copies ready
💳 Money & Payments
- ✅ Credit/Debit card – Accepted almost everywhere
- ✅ Cash in euros (€) – Useful for small purchases, markets, buses
- ✅ Optional: Prepaid travel card – Great for budgeting and avoiding foreign transaction fees
📲 Connectivity & Apps
- ✅ Buy a local SIM card or eSIM – Stay connected affordably
- ✅ Google Maps + Google Translate – Essential for exploring & communicating
- ✅ Download Tallinja app – For real-time public transport info
🧳 What to Pack
- ✅ Reusable water bottle – Malta is sunny, stay hydrated
- ✅ Sunscreen & sunglasses – Even in winter, Malta gets a lot of sun
- ✅ Comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a lot, especially in historic areas
- ✅ Adapter plug – Malta uses Type G (UK-style, 3-pin plugs)
🚍 Local Transportation
- ✅ Tallinja Explore Card – Unlimited bus rides across Malta & Gozo
- ✅ Uber & Bolt apps – Cheaper and easier than taxis for families
- ✅ Optional: Rent a car – Especially handy for exploring Gozo
📌 Tip: Save or print this checklist so you won’t forget anything important!
🎁 Bonus: Want a ready-to-go plan? 👉 Download your FREE Malta Travel Guide here
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