Malta Tourism Surge as 90 Countries Eligible Under Visa-Free Travel Program – Check Now if Your Country Is Eligible

Published on July 11, 2024

Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean, offers a blend of rich history and modern attractions. Famous for its stunning coastline, Malta boasts crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, perfect for diving and sailing. The islands are steeped in history, with megalithic temples, medieval dungeons, and baroque churches. Valletta, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a compact elegance of 16th-century architecture. Tourism in Malta surges as the warm summer climate and its famous beaches have made it a top Mediterranean cruise destination.

Malta’s vibrant festivals, such as the Malta Jazz Festival, add to its allure. The local cuisine, influenced by Italian and Middle Eastern flavours, delights visitors. Malta’s welcoming climate and diverse offerings make it a captivating destination for travelers. UK, USA, and UAE travelers benefit from visa-free access, boosting its attractiveness.

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy, the Maltese archipelago consists of three primary islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. These islands feature rugged limestone cliffs and bays with crystal-clear waters.

In the first quarter of 2024, Malta’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 4.6 percent. This increase stemmed primarily from a 1.1 percentage point contribution from final domestic demand and a 3.5 percentage point contribution from foreign trade. Despite projections indicating an overall rise in the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP by 3.6 percentage points from 2023 to 2028, forecasts suggest a decline during 2026 to 2028, with a projected share of 13.99 percent by 2028.

Malta cultivates both internationally recognized and indigenous grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Carignan, Chenin Blanc, Moscato, Gellewza, and Ghirghentina.

Valletta is poised for a unique cultural juxtaposition as it prepares to host the historic Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the contemporary Isle of MTV concert on July 16. Additionally, the Malta Jazz Festival will take place from July 8 to 13, featuring performances by Grammy-winning trumpeter Chief Adjuah, the Walter Smith III Quartet, Something Else!, and Trio Grande.

Tourist arrivals in February 2024 soared by 27.5 percent compared to February 2023, with 168,967 tourists visiting Malta. This marks a significant increase from the 132,513 visitors recorded in the previous year. These tourists spent approximately €114.3 million during their stay. Total tourism expenditure in January and February of 2024 reached €224.2 million, a 20.5 percent increase over the same period in the previous year. While the UK once accounted for more than 80 percent of Malta’s tourism, it now comprises less than 20 percent of the total tourist arrivals.

List 90 countries can travel to Malta visa-free: European Union (EU), the United States, Canada, Australia, and several countries in South America and Asia.

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, All EU/EEA countries, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova , Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela.

Discover Malta’s Most Enchanting Locations

Exploring Malta’s Coastal Marvels

1. Azure Caverns of Malta
   Nestled along Malta’s southern shores, the Azure Caverns enchant visitors with their stunning, crystal-clear waters that mirror the sky above. This natural spectacle offers an unforgettable experience of exploring the serenity and beauty of the underwater world.
2. The Tri-City Heritage
   On the southern edge of the Grand Harbour lies the historic ensemble of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These three ancient cities, encased in massive fortifications, offer a deep dive into the rich history and culture of Malta, standing as testaments to the island’s storied past.

Venture into the Heart of Malta

3. Phoenician Mdina
   Perched in northern Malta, the walled city of Mdina dates back to the 8th century BC when it was established by the Phoenicians. Today, it captivates visitors with its labyrinthine alleys, timeless architecture, and panoramic views of the Maltese landscape.
4. Valletta: A Baroque Masterpiece
   Valletta, the heartbeat of Malta, was erected by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. This city is a treasure trove of baroque art, impressive fortifications, and a rich collection of museums, making it a must-visit for any history or architecture enthusiast.
5. Gozo’s Idyllic Charm
   Just a short ferry ride from the main island, Gozo offers a tranquil escape with its picturesque beaches, rugged landscapes, and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind and relish in nature’s beauty.

Top Sights in Malta

• Mdina Old City
• Popeye Village Malta
• Valletta Ferry Services
• Mellieha Beach
• Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Stay in Luxury: Malta’s Finest Hotels

1. The Vincent, Valletta
   Tucked within Valletta’s ancient city walls, The Vincent offers a romantic and secluded getaway, celebrating its historical roots and delivering modern luxury in an intimate setting.
2. Palais Le Brun, Valletta
   From its rooftop infinity pool, Palais Le Brun presents breathtaking views over Valletta’s amber-hued skyline and the expansive Grand Harbour. This reimagined 17th-century palace combines historical grandeur with contemporary elegance.
3. The Embassy Valletta Hotel
   Standing proudly in the historic heart of Valletta, The Embassy Valletta Hotel occupies a site steeped in history, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern hospitality right next to the famous Strait Street.
4. Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, Gozo
   Experience a slice of Morocco in Gozo at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz. Enjoy its lavish pools, spa amenities, and exotic design, all while being surrounded by lush gardens and the tranquil Gozitan countryside.
5. Hyatt Regency Malta, St Julian’s
   In the vibrant hub of St Julian’s, Hyatt Regency Malta provides luxurious accommodations just moments from the pristine St George’s Bay, placing guests at the center of Malta’s historical and cultural journey.

KM Malta Airlines Ltd. launches as Malta’s new flag carrier, scheduling its inaugural flight for March 31, 2024. As the national airline, KM Malta Airlines guarantees stable, year-round connections to Europe and further afield. The airline operates flights to 17 key passenger and cargo hubs in 15 prominent European cities, linking seamlessly with larger airlines through codeshare and interline agreements. KM Malta Airlines boasts a modern fleet of eight Airbus A320NEOs, arranged in a two-class setup with a versatile Business Class cabin, offering a total of 168 seats, including up to 36 Business Class spaces.

In collaboration with ITA Airways, KM Malta Airlines has initiated a comprehensive codeshare agreement to integrate their flight networks. The airline’s Summer 2024 schedule will continue until October 26, covering destinations like Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Catania, Dusseldorf, both London Gatwick and Heathrow, Lyon, Madrid, Milan, Munich, both Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly, Prague, Rome, Vienna, and Zurich.

Located approximately 8 kilometers from the city center, Malta International Airport serves as the primary hub for the entire Maltese archipelago. Situated at the same site as the former Royal Air Force station in Luqa, Malta International Airport plc manages this vital airport. Several airlines now link this gateway to various locations across Europe.

Anticipating robust traffic, Malta International Airport projects a total of 8.45 million passengers by the end of 2024, an increase of roughly 650,000 over the previous year. In April 2024 alone, the airport welcomed 774,562 passengers, a 9.3% increase from April 2023, with aircraft movements up by 9.6%. Despite a 10.5% increase in available seats from last year, average seat occupancy slightly decreased to 83.8%.