The Mediterranean Island of Malta enjoys about 300 days of sunshine each year, so those planning a trip to the island in February are guaranteed to enjoy plenty of sunny days. The average temperatures in February in Malta are around 50°F, creating a wonderful spring-like weather.
Although it may not be a good time to visit if you want to sunbathe on the beach and swim in the sea, there is plenty to see and do in Malta this time of year. St Paul’s Cathedral, The National War Museum and National Museum of Archaeology and all points of interest can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace because there are no crowds to make you feel rushed.
How cold is Malta in February?
- Minimum temperature: 10°C (46°F)
- Max temperature:16°C (57°F)
- Average temperature: 10°C (50°F)
- Average precipitation: 20 mm. The rain usually falls in short downpours on about seven days of the month.
- Average daylight hours: 11 hours, with sunrise at around 7 am and sunset at around 6 pm
Is February a good time to visit Malta?
Malta can be a great place to visit in February as many of the days are mild and spring-like. Although it does rain on an average seven days in February, this is usually in short sharp downfalls and within a few hours, the sun is out again.
Pros
- Hotel prices in Malta are really good, usually at their lowest in February.
- There are some lovely sunny days when outdoor activities are fun and a real bonus is that there are no crowds.
- Although the island doesn’t feel as festive as in December, many find the quieter streets an added bonus.
Cons
- The weather can be hit and miss, so be flexible with your plans and choose some indoor activities too – but the rain only lasts a short time.
- Even on bright sunny days, you will find that it is too cool to wear shorts as Malta tends to be a breezy island both by the coast and inland.
- If you are planning a boat trip to Gozo and it is rainy weather, there is a chance that the boat will leave the harbor.
What to wear in February in Malta
Spring attire is usually appropriate to wear in Malta this month. Pack plenty of interchangeable layers. During the day the weather can be really mild and sunny so a light sweatshirt or tee-shirt will be ideal, but as the sun drops so does the temperature.
Pack cotton shirts plus warm cardigans for the evenings and a lightweight waterproof coat. As there is the chance you will get caught in rain, an umbrella and sturdy enclosed shoes are essential too.
Events in February
February 4th SKALD Live
Skald is a popular local band that was founded in 2017. The band plays contemporary folk. The group started as a one-off project to compose original music to the works of the Maltese poet Dun Karm Psaila.
The group was soon spotted by organisers of Festivals Malta and signed up for a three-year contract. The concert will take place at Storeroom, Ta’ Xbiex on the seafront.
February 12th MET Opera Live
Umberto Giordano’s dramatic opera Fedora returns for the first time in 25 years to the Spazju Kreattiv Cinema in Castille Place, Valletta. The opera has memorable melodies and show-stopping arias and is sure to be a sell-out.
February 15th Malta Introduction Party
If you are new to Malta, this event could be very interesting for you. This is the 9th annual event and is a huge party for those who are holidaying in Malta for the first time or planning to live there.
There are plenty of people on hand to answer all your questions. This event is strictly for over 18s so you will need to provide ID. The event takes place at night at Clique, St George Road, San Giljan.
February 9th to 17th Carnival time in Malta
The Carnival in Malta is known locally as ‘Il-Karnival ta’. The focus for the festivities is Valletta, but there are celebrations in the smaller towns as well. Everyone is in colorful costumes and the highlight of the week is the Grand Parade. The Carnival ends on Shrove Tuesday. Ask at your hotel reception for the full itinerary of events.
February 24th to 26th Mamma Mia! The Abba Musical
The 8th longest running musical in West End history is coming to Malta, Mamma Mia. This happy, good-feeling show includes all the Abba hits and the all-star cast from London. The musical is taking place at the Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC) in Valletta. There will be afternoon and evening performances.
Best indoor places to visit
Forget the rain, enjoy chocolate
What better way to spend some rainy hours than by joining a chocolate-making workshop? This is a ‘hands-on’ activity that gives you the opportunity to create your own sweet goodies. Your instructor will teach you a range of chocolate techniques, from making your own truffles to creating moulded chocolate figurines. The best part is that you can take away your creations as souvenirs.
Learn the history of Maltese tiles and make your own
Taking a tile-making workshop is a unique experience. This activity reveals the history of Maltese tile-making. An experienced arts teacher will teach you how to make a basic tile and then how to decorate it using traditional methods. The result will be that you have a truly unique coaster or another decorative piece to take home. This activity is one of several organised by a local non-profit organization.
Explore the St Paul’s Catacombs
Visiting the catacombs is a great activity if the weather is looking a little unpredictable. The catacombs were built in the 3rd century AD and were used as a burial site for Maltese residents for about 500 years. They were also used as a hidden place of worship by early Christians scared of persecution.
There is a complex network of passageways with stone cut tombs. Self-guided audio tours of St Paul’s Catacombs are available and they last 45 minutes. The ground is uneven in places so wear sturdy shoes. There is a small museum on site. The catacombs are in Hal-Bajjada, Ir-Rabat and are open daily between 09.00-17.00.
Get interactive at the Esplora Science Centre
This fascinating centre showcases the science behind all types of everyday objects. There are more than 200 exhibits and most are interactive. They cover a diverse range of topics including the human body, optical illusions, earthquakes and fireworks.
On weekends there are interesting films shown in the Planetarium as well as food workshops and lectures. The Esplora Science Centre is located at Villa Bighi Triq Marina Il-Kalkara, KKR 1320. The centre’s opening times are: Tuesday–Friday 09.00-15.00, Saturday–Sunday 10.00-18.00.
Best winter activities in Malta
Discover the rich culture of Malta
No beach weather? No problem. Visit six cultural and natural locations across the island. You can explore the medieval-era city of Mdina on foot, visit the Christian catacombs of Rabat and the cliffs of Dingli. You can enjoy a stroll through the San Anton botanical gardens and marvel at the dome of Mosta. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy shopping in a crafts centre situated in Ta’ Qali.
Learn the history of Malta’s wines
This half-day tour is so interesting, you will soon forget any clouds or rain drops. The tour visits ‘three cities’ that are famous for their wines – Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea. You will be able to spend time in each, discovering their winding streets, rich architecture and the stories of their excellent wines. There will be wine-tasting (accompanied by local snacks) in each location.
Explore Valletta on foot
Valletta is Malta’s capital and is a UNESCO-listed site, so what better way to explore it than on foot? The small walking group is limited to 25 participants so everyone gets the chance to learn from and enjoy the considerable knowledge of a local. The guide takes the group to all the well-known sites and brings each alive with details of their history and plenty of fun local stories.
Enjoy the day exploring the wonders of Malta
This full-day private tour is the perfect way to gain an excellent overview of the island of Malta. You will have the chance to see all the natural and cultural highlights of this beautiful island and learn so much about each from your experienced guide. Among the places visited are the famous Blue Grotto, Mosta Parish, Selmun Palace- and more.
Tips for visiting Malta in February
The character of Malta in February is very relaxed and laid back at this time of the year because there are no crowds. Most days are mild and sunny – so don’t forget to pack your sunglasses and sun cream. If you want to make the most of the island’s mild sunny weather, sitting outside a café enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee and a good book is priceless.
