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Malta sees over 300 days of sunshine yearly. But when rain clouds gather over these Mediterranean islands, many visitors feel their plans washing away. After all, Malta is known for beaches, historical sites and natural wonders – not indoor activities.
I’ve called Malta home since 2011. Here’s what I’ve learned: while rain visits us weekly from October through February, it rarely stays longer than a few hours before the sun reclaims the sky.
Rainbows are common because clouds move quickly and the sun shines after rain.
If you’re on holiday and it rains, don’t worry – there are still plenty of things to enjoy on a rainy day. This guide provides some tips on what to do during Malta’s occasional rainy spells.
Museums Worth Your Time
Located in the heart of Valletta on Republic Street, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a prominent landmark. The cathedral is famous for housing Caravaggio’s largest painting, “The Beheading of Saint John.” The tombs of more than 400 knights are buried beneath the beautiful marble floor.
The Grandmaster’s Palace in Palace Square features one of Europe’s largest collections of historic arms and armor. Its lavish chambers display Gobelins tapestries and frescoes that depict the Great Siege. The Palace Armoury boasts an impressive collection. Neptune’s Courtyard has a lovely Baroque fountain and historic coats of arms.
In Rabat, St. Paul’s Catacombs form a historic labyrinth. These Roman burial sites stretch for hundreds of meters. They are located on St. Agatha Street and marked by a modern visitor center.
The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This prehistoric burial site descends three levels underground. It allows only 80 visitors daily. Sometimes, you can get lucky and book for the next day; check the website.
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The Malta Classic Car Museum is a must-visit on Tourist Street in Qawra, featuring a collection of vintage cars, period costumes, and even a recreated 1950s garage. One of the main attractions is the Ford Model T.
Sitting atop Valletta’s peninsula is Fort St. Elmo, which houses the National War Museum. Inside, you’ll find personal artifacts that tell the story of Malta’s role in WWII, including the George Cross awarded to the islands, located at the end of Republic Street.
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.
In the heart of Malta’s old capital, you’ll find Mdina Cathedral and its museum. The museum is home to rare prints by Dürer and a collection of silver artifacts. On a rainy day, the cathedral’s dome is a striking sight.
Casa Rocca Piccola is a unique window into Malta’s noble past. This 16th-century palace on Republic Street in Valletta is still a private residence, but it is open to visitors who want to see its period furniture, WWII shelter, and family heirlooms.
Modern Entertainment
The National Aquarium in Qawra houses 41 tanks along White Street. The main tank features a walk-through tunnel where reef sharks and rays glide overhead. Their cafeteria offers harbor views.
Esplora Interactive Science Centre transforms a historic building in Kalkara. Beyond 200 exhibits, catch a planetarium show or experiment in the maker space. Kids love it, but it’s also fun for adults. Located on Marina Street, it offers plenty of parking.
Eden Superbowl in St. Julian’s provides 20 modern bowling lanes. Find it in the Bay Street Complex, complete with an arcade and sports bar.
The Embassy Cinema in Valletta and Eden Cinemas in St. Julian’s show the latest releases. Embassy offers an art-house experience, while Eden features IMAX screens.
Shopping and Relaxation
The Point in Sliema is Malta’s largest shopping mall, featuring over 70 stores and a connection to the Tigné Point peninsula. From its sea-view restaurants, you can watch storms roll in.
The Marriott Hotel in Balluta Bay and the Hilton in St. Julian’s offer day passes to use their spa facilities. You can book ahead for treatments or simply relax at their indoor pools and saunas.
Weather-Proof Travel Tips
The Sliema-Valletta ferry operates every 30 minutes, providing stunning harbor views. Even on rainy days, the short trip offers great photo opportunities of Valletta’s bastions.
City Sightseeing buses operate tours of both Malta and Gozo. Their covered upper deck provides shelter while you explore. Buses run every 30 minutes from major tourist areas.
Storm Watching Spots
The Sliema promenade, Delimara Point, and Blue Grotto are known for their dramatic wave displays during storms. Be sure to keep a safe distance, as Maltese storms can generate powerful waves.
Rainy Day Tips
When it rains in Malta, streets can quickly turn into rivers. Be careful where you step, especially on Valletta’s steep streets, which often experience strong water flow.
It’s a good idea to carry a sturdy umbrella, as Maltese rain can be sudden and heavy.
The temperature usually stays around 15-18°C when it rains in winter, so light, water-resistant layers are a good choice.
Rainy days can be a bit of a downer, but they also give us a chance to discover the islands’ amazing indoor activities. Embrace this time to explore and enjoy what the islands have to offer. And don’t worry, the sun will shine again soon!
For more Malta travel tips, check out my guides on local transportation, best areas to stay in Malta, and winter activities. Or, read my post on the cosiest cafes in Malta for a rainy day retreat.
