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If you’re thinking about visiting Malta in October, you’re in for a wonderful experience. Living in Malta since 2011, I can say that October is my favourite month on the island.
I’ve got two reasons for loving Malta in October. One, the weather is warm but not crazy hot, and the sea is amazing for swimming. Meanwhile, the rest of Europe is getting cold, but Malta still feels like summer.
Second, the islands are way less crowded than it is in the summer. Plus, the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
My sister, who lives in the UK, always visits me during her kids’ school holidays in October. We usually rent a villa with a pool in Gozo, Malta’s sister island, and spend our days sunbathing and swimming. In all the years she’s been visiting, we’ve rarely encountered weather that was too cold for these activities.
In this post, I will share some October travel tips – like what the weather’s usually like, must-do activities, and what to pack into your suitcase.
Weather in Malta in October
Average Temperature, Sunshine Hours and Rain
October in Malta offers warm and comfortable temperatures. During the day, it averages around 24°C (75°F), while at night, it cools down to about 18°C (64°F).
You’ll get around 7 hours of sunshine daily, which is plenty of time to explore the island or chill on the beach.
Some days can get pretty windy, we’re an island after all. That means gusts and rough seas are pretty normal.
October’s a bit wetter than September, with around 7 rainy days on average. Malta’s autumn rain is fast and strong – you can get soaked in no time. But these downpours don’t last long.
Sea Temperature
One of the best things about Malta in October is that the sea temperature is still warm enough for swimming and other water activities.
The temperature averages around 23°C, that’s 73°F. It’s pleasant, perfect for swimming or snorkelling. You can even try kayaking or paddle boarding if that’s your thing.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Malta in October
When packing for your trip to Malta in October, it’s best to bring a mix of summer and lightweight autumn clothing.
During the day, you can wear shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, and sandals. But, it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as it can get a bit chilly, especially if you’re near the coast.
Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and beach essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can still be quite strong in October.
For outdoor activities and city exploration, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
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Planning a trip to Malta, Gozo, or Comino? Get this free interactive map filled with insider tips, Google Maps links, and more.
Things to Do in Malta in October
Beach Hopping
October’s a great time for beach hopping in Malta because the water is still warm and the crowds are way smaller. Some of my top picks are Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha, Paradise Bay and Ramla in Gozo.
Festivals and Events
October in Malta is packed with exciting events and festivals.
On the first Saturday in October, Valletta hosts Notte Bianca. That night, you can explore palaces and museums for free, and they stay open late.
The streets are packed with art exhibits, performances, and live music from local and international bands. Cafes and restaurants stay open late too.
Another event to look out for is the Birgu Festival, which is usually held in mid-October. During this festival, the historic city of Birgu is lit up with thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere. You can enjoy food stalls, live music, and various cultural performances.
If you’re into sports, the Rolex Middle Sea Race is the event to watch at the end of October. This sailing race kicks off in Valletta and takes sailors on a wild 606-nautical-mile ride around Sicily before they head back to Malta.
Exploring Historical Sites
Malta has got a rich history, and October is a fantastic time to check out the island’s historic spots. With cooler temperatures, you can walk around and take it all in without breaking a sweat.
Make sure to visit Valletta, the capital city, with its stunning baroque buildings and museums. Also, don’t forget to explore Mdina, also known as the “Silent City” – it feels like going back in time.
And make time to visit the Three Cities across the Grand Harbour, they offer a glimpse of authentic Malta.
If you’re into history, you should visit the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground ancient burial site – make sure to book ahead. Also, the ancient temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are definitely worth a look.
Take a look at my post on the top historical sites in Malta too – you won’t want to miss anything!
If you want to understand Malta’s history well, take a walking tour in Valletta. Look at my guide for the best Valletta walking tours.
Outdoor Activities
October is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in Malta – the weather is just right. Why not take a boat trip to Comino and explore Blue Lagoon and other bays?
Are you planning to visit Blue Lagoon in Comino? Check out my guide to the best Blue Lagoon boat tours.
I also suggest visiting Gozo, Malta’s beautiful sister island. It’s full of nature. You should explore the breathtaking Dwejra Bay, Mgarr ix-Xini, Xlendi, Wied il-Ghasri, and other amazing natural attractions.
In Malta, don’t miss the Dingli Cliffs, which offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and are a great spot to watch the sunset. You can also visit the Blue Grotto and take a boat tour to explore the sea caves.
If you enjoy hiking, I recommend exploring my favourite trails in Malta and Gozo.
Malta in October: FAQ
Is October a good month to visit Malta?
In October, the average daytime temperature in Malta is around 24°C (75°F), with nights cooling down to about 18°C (64°F). It’s still warm enough to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities, but not uncomfortably hot.
What’s happening in Malta in October?
October has got Notte Bianca on the first Saturday, when Valletta turns into a party scene with art, music, and performances. Then, in mid-October, Birgu Festival takes over the historic city, lit up by thousands of candles. If you’re into sports, the Rolex Middle Sea Race is a thrilling sailing competition happening end of October.
Is Malta nightlife good in October?
Yes, Malta’s nightlife is still lively in October, especially in the towns of St. Julian’s and Paceville. Many bars, clubs, and restaurants remain open.
Is everything still open in Malta in October?
Yes, most tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops are still open in October. In fact, some places may be less crowded than during the peak summer months, making it a great time to visit.
Can I swim in Malta in October?
Yes, you can definitely swim in Malta in October. The sea temperature averages around 23°C (73°F), which is still comfortable for swimming and other water activities.
What to wear to Malta in October?
In October, it’s best to pack a mix of summer and light autumn clothing. During the day, you can wear shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals. But, bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as it can get a bit chilly. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and beach essentials if you plan on enjoying the sea and sun.
So, October’s the way to go if you’re planning a trip to Malta. The weather’s great, it’s not crowded, and there’s tons to do. I’ve been here in October plenty of times – it’s an amazing time to visit!
