10 Things to do in Malta This Autumn

The days get shorter, temperature starts to drop and schools start again… the short autumn season in Malta begins, bringing with it a fresh breeze and the odd days of welcome rain. This is the ideal time to visit Malta for those who love the transition of the weather to autumn, with not too much heat and no crowd around. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started on what to do in Malta at this time of year:

1. Get Walking!

Late autumn is very enjoyable for walks in the countryside. So head out with a bottle of water and get back to nature. Away from the resorts and urban areas of central Malta, there is a surprising amount of countryside, some left almost untouched by modernity. After the first rain showers in September you can watch the flowers coming back to life. Look out for the Sea Squill, Malta’s first flower after the hot summer months. In Malta, areas that make excellent day hikes, are Mellieħa, Dingli, Għar Lapsi, Fawwara, Wardija, all the North and the various bays, and the southern coast with its fishing villages and Delimara Point.

2. Check out what events are scheduled!

There’s a full diary of events in Malta planned for autumn. For example the popular Notte Bianca, Birgufest or the Hamrun Chocolate Festival is normally organised during these days. The Malta International Air Show is popular among both locals and visitors in September. Each year, the air show presents aircrafts owned by military personal and civilians. One of the most spectacular events on the yachting calendar is the Rolex Middle Sea Race at the end of October. If you like music you can join the programme of the Three Palaces Festival in November.

3. Try Kite Surfing!

For a fun and high adrenaline holiday activity, try kite surfing in Malta. With its beautiful beaches Malta is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and kite surfing is becoming an increasingly popular activity for holidaymakers and locals alike. Adrenaline junkies should head to the beaches in the north of the island and book a course with one of the local companies.

4. Discover Gozo!

Gozo is quiet and tranquil in autumn. If you are looking for a relaxing or romantic holiday, book a weekend break in Gozo and hop on the short ferry ride over to Malta’s sister island. Enjoy the breath-taking views, explore Malta’s amazing prehistoric caves or visit the Maltese Folklore museum. Make sure you check out the Festival Mediterranea starting on the 28th of October.

5. Go Golfing!

Golf is one of the few sports that can be enjoyed by both sexes, all ages and all abilities playing together, both socially and competitively, individually and in teams. The Royal Malta Golf Club offers the ideal setting for relaxing or spending time with friends. Beautifully maintained and strategically positioned, this unique golf course is located in the central part of the Island.

6. Explore The Museums!

Malta has over thirty museums around the islands covering different topics and eras. View the ancient artefacts at the National Museum of Archaeology, in the capital city of Valletta, marvel at the roman statue remains in Mdina’s Roman Forum, or check out the vintage car collections at the Classic Car Museum in Qawra.

7. Shop Till You Drop!

Shopping in Malta can be a great experience. There are shops or markets for everyone, from international brands to those selling souvenirs or local food products. Almost every town and village has its market. You will find assorted items like household goods, clothing, music, toys, etc. Go and visit Il-Monti market, just outside Valletta’s city gate, on Sundays. Still in Valletta, there is a daily market in Merchant Street where you can shop for more mainstream products. Near Cospicua there is a nice weekly market on Tuesdays. Marsaxlokk fish market is a must, with its exotic fish. If you wish to shop for fashion brands Tigne Point shopping centre offers more than 55 stores over three floors and under one roof in Sliema. During the Autumn months all the new stock will be displayed ready for the Christmas season.

8. Drink Cocktails in Valletta

After a hard day’s shopping or sightseeing in the capital city, a cocktail or two would be more than deserved. Over the last few years, trendy bars and nightlife hotspots have opened their doors, filling the capital with familiar music and laughter. Many of the recently opened establishments centre around the infamous Strait Street. If cocktails aren’t your thing, there are also many wine and whisky bars tucked away in quaint side streets.

8. Enjoy Cultural Nights

Do you love the theatre? The Manoel Theatre in Valletta is said to be Europe’s third oldest working theatre. Home to spectacular performances by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, this Valletta gem offers ballet evenings, piano recitals and plays in both English and Maltese. The theatre runs guided tours of the auditorium, back stage and the theatre museum.

8. Sample Fine Dining

Maltese cuisine is the result of a long relationship between the Islanders and the many civilisations who occupied the Maltese Islands over the centuries. Although the restaurant scene is a mix of speciality restaurants, there are many eateries that offer or specialise in local fare, serving their own versions of specialities. If you’re looking for that special night out, head to the busy hub that is St Julians or enjoy the chilled romantic setting of Mdina beneath the stars. Finally head to the island’s capital Valletta, and try a few of the newer specialised establishments offering exquisite and mouthwatering menus.