5 things to do in Malta at Christmas

A short break for Christmas on a Mediterranean Island is nothing short of magic. Christmas-time in Malta brings all the beauty and traditions of the festive season, while the weather is still mellow and sunny enough to enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re planning your itinerary for your winter break in Malta, we’re here to make things easier with the top 5 things that you absolutely can’t miss. Even better, the Hotel Valentina team will be happy to help you plan them!

This is a bit like Santa’s wonderland, but in the Mediterranean. Families will love it, but don’t be fooled into thinking that this is just for children. There’s plenty to keep the adults happy and it’s especially romantic if you’re seeking to impress that special someone.

Fairyland takes place right at the entrance to the Baroque capital city, with the Triton’s Fountain providing a spectacularly lit-up backdrop.

Starting from December 8, which is a public holiday in Malta, the area around Valletta is transformed into a series of funpark rides, food and drink stalls and artisan Christmas markets that really turn the season into something wonderful. Stroll around, mulled wine in hand, as you pick up some gifts for yourself or the family, and don’t forget to grab a ride on the ferris wheel – you’ll get views of the city all the way to Sliema and St Julian’s.

What’s a Christmas holiday without a good laugh at the Panto? There are several high level panto productions taking place across the Maltese Islands, including one in Victoria, Gozo.

If you want the ultimate experience, the national theatre is a gem and this year will be hosting FM Productions, which will be giving their own hilarious twist to the fairytale of Little Red Riding Hood. This is also an opportunity to admire the baroque theatre, which is one of the oldest working theatres in Europe.

Teatru Salesjan, which recently re-opened after a full refurbishment that shows off its historical elements in full glory, will be giving the Dickensian tale of Scrooge, from The Christmas Carol, the Panto treatment. This panto is produced by the MADC, which is the oldest theatre group in Malta.

Finally Gozo is hosting FM Productions to its Rapunzel-based panto, so if you’re up for a short hop on the ferry you’re guaranteed a lovely evening on the sister islands. Get in touch with the Hotel Valentina concierge to secure the best tickets for any of these events.

The UNESCO World-Heritage site takes on a festive hue with the official unveiling of the Christmas Tree and the switching on of all the lights. Walk down the main Republic Street, past Renzo Piano’s Parliament Building all the way down, and don’t forget to take a detour into the side streets as this will also be lit up.

Upon reaching St George’s Square make sure that you snap your Instagram moment. No filters needed, thanks to the beautiful warm hues cast by the lit-up Christmas tree! All the shops and restaurants are also decorated, and the iconic Strait Street takes on a different vibe for Christmas, changing its colours.

December weekends are dotted with artisan and Christmas markets taking place in various locations. The most renowned one takes place at the top of Merchants’ Street, in Valletta, and features the islands’ top artisanal creatives. Here, you can enjoy your fill of Christmas shopping, with handmade jewellery, paintings and even the traditional bizzilla (lace) that is synonymous with Malta. The live lace-making demonstrations, which still follow the original method, are definitely worth a video!

Other locations like Sliema, Naxxar and Rabat also hold their own smaller versions of the Christmas market, typically taking place in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The Rabat market is particularly known for the sweet delicacies, with a number of local bakers and pastry-makers gathering to sell their freshly made wares. It’s definitely the best place to pick up some seasonal sweets.

This one also takes place in Valletta, with St George’s Square and Republic Street hosting thousands of people eager on ringing in the new year with free entertainment and a festive atmosphere. Malta’s top DJs and performers gather together for this special evening, and be warned – it gets busy!

Valletta’s restaurants and bars get even busier than usual for this night, so let us know well-ahead of time if you’d like us to suggest places or make reservations. You can also be more spontaneous and enjoy food and drink from one of the many street vendors lining the streets of the city. After all, you don’t know where the night will take you!

Do layer-up warmly for this one as nighttime in Valletta can be fresh. But get ready for some serious dancing as the crowd tends to be up for a good time, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

There’s no such thing as a slow season when planning a holiday in Malta, so don’t leave it too late. Hotel Valentina is perfectly placed, offering the best home based to enjoy all the above activities from a central location, while also affording you quiet luxury away for when you want to chill. The hotel is well-suited for families, couples and groups of friends, offering all amenities for a memorable Christmas. Get in touch with our reservations team for our best offer.

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