English
English
Contents
Top things to do during New Year in Malta
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Valletta
Valletta’s main square becomes the heart of the island’s public celebrations, with live performances, large screens, and a midnight fireworks display over Grand Harbour. It’s ideal if you want a lively atmosphere without committing to a club night.
Party in St. Julian’s & Paceville
If nightlife is your priority, head to St. Julian’s. Clubs and lounges in Paceville host ticketed New Year’s Eve events with DJs, open bars, and countdown moments, attracting both locals and international travelers.
Watch fireworks by the sea
For a more scenic celebration, Sliema, Birgu, and the Three Cities offer waterfront vantage points where fireworks reflect off the harbor. These areas are less crowded than Valletta and ideal for couples or photographers.
Recommended experiences
Full Day Blue Lagoon Cruise
Explore Malta’s historic landmarks
New Year’s Day is one of the best times to explore Malta’s cultural highlights. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, wander Mdina’s Silent City, or explore ancient temples without the peak-season rush.
Recommended experiences
Guided Tour of Southern Malta and Prehistoric Temples from Marsaxlokk
Full-Day Guided Tour of Gozo with Round-Trip Transfers & Lunch
Your perfect New Year itinerary
Day 1: 31 December – New Year’s Eve
Morning: Begin in Mdina, Malta’s medieval hilltop city. Its quiet lanes and panoramic views provide a calm start before the day’s festivities, offering a stark contrast to the energy of the evening ahead.
Afternoon: Travel to Valletta for sightseeing. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral or stroll through Upper Barrakka Gardens for sweeping harbor views. Enjoy a long lunch at a waterfront café as the city prepares for the night.
Evening: Choose your New Year’s Eve style, join Valletta’s public concert and countdown for a communal celebration, or head to St. Julian’s for a party experience. Fireworks and music mark the arrival of the New Year island-wide.
Recommended experiences: Full-Day Guided Tour of Gozo with Round-Trip Transfers & Lunch
Day 2: 1 January – New Year’s Day
Morning: Take it slow with a seaside walk along Sliema Promenade or a relaxed brunch overlooking the Mediterranean, many cafés reopen by late morning.
Afternoon: Explore the Three Cities or join a harbor cruise to see Malta’s fortifications from the water, a peaceful way to reflect on the night before.
Evening: End the day with a quiet dinner in Valletta or a coastal town, enjoying Malta’s calm, post-celebration atmosphere.
Recommended experiences
From Sliema: Cruise to Gozo and Comino on a Turkish Gulet with Lunch & Drinks
From Sliema: Valletta & ‘The 3 Cities’ Sightseeing Cruise
Know before you go
- Weather: Mild winter days (15–18°C) with cooler evenings around 10–12°C. Pack light layers, a warm jacket for nighttime events, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Dress code: Casual clothing works by day; smart-casual to dressy outfits are common for New Year’s Eve dinners, parties, and clubs, especially in Valletta and St Julian’s.
- Crowds: Valletta and Paceville are busiest on December 31. January 1 is much calmer, making it ideal for unhurried sightseeing and coastal walks.
- Budget: Accommodation, party tickets, and gala dinners cost more during New Year. Booking early helps secure better options and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Transport: Public transport runs later on New Year’s Eve, but taxis are in high demand after midnight. Plan returns in advance or stay near celebration hubs.
Frequently asked questions about spending New Year in Malta
Is Malta worth visiting for New Year’s celebrations?
Yes, Malta is worth visiting for New Year thanks to mild winter weather, lively public celebrations, fewer crowds than summer, cultural events, and a festive yet relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Where should you go for New Year’s Eve in Malta?
Valletta hosts the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations with live concerts and fireworks, while St Julian’s offers vibrant nightlife and Gozo suits travelers seeking quieter, scenic festivities.
What is the weather like in Malta during New Year?
Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures averaging 15–18°C and evenings around 10–12°C during New Year, making Malta comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor events, and late-night celebrations without extreme cold.
Should I book New Year’s Eve events in advance?
Yes. Popular parties, harbor cruises, gala dinners, and centrally located hotels often sell out weeks ahead, especially for December 31, so early booking ensures better availability and prices.