Malta in September: A Guide To an Extended Summer Escape

Malta in September is the sweet spot for an extended summer escape, perfect for swimming in the Blue Lagoon, exploring the ancient Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, and catching sunset views from Dingli Cliffs.

As the peak summer season winds down, Malta enters its shoulder season, with cheaper flights to Malta and lower accommodation rates across the islands. It’s the ideal time to book expertly designed Malta travel packages offering great value and well-curated itineraries.

While tourism slows slightly, the islands still feel lively, as locals make the most of the warm weather with weekend outings before returning to school and work. The sea stays warm for swimming and boat tours, and the mild, sunny days are perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring at your own pace. 

For maximum flexibility, book a reliable car rental in Malta and enjoy the freedom to uncover hidden spots beyond the main routes.

Keep reading for the best places to visit, things to do, events, and travel tips for the ultimate extended summer getaway in Malta in September!

Valletta in September

Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a must-visit in September. The weather is ideal for walking its historic streets, and the city stays lively with open-air concerts, waterfront dining, and national celebrations like Victory Day. 

As the cultural heart of the island, Valletta is also where many visitors begin their trip, thanks to direct flights to Valletta via Malta International Airport, just a short transfer away. Plus, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in Valletta, from boutique hotels to historic townhouses with harbor views.

Here are some of the top attractions to explore in Valletta in September:

• Upper Barrakka Gardens – Offers sweeping views over the Grand Harbour and features the daily noon cannon salute from the Saluting Battery
• Triton Fountain – A striking modern landmark and popular meeting point just outside the City Gate
• Valletta Waterfront – A scenic stretch along the Grand Harbour lined with restaurants, bars, and cruise terminals
• Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Known for its massive dome and postcard-worthy skyline presence
• Teatru Manoel – One of the oldest working theatres in Europe that you can visit on a Teatru Manoel grand tour
• St. John’s Co-Cathedral – A Baroque masterpiece with a modest exterior and an ornate interior featuring Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.

Consider joining the original Valletta walking tour in Malta in September, especially if you plan to visit several of the city’s top attractions. For a more playful experience, try a Valletta Segway tour with The Malta Experience show.

Valletta is also a top destination for food and drink experiences, with everything from street eats and craft beer to wine tastings and Michelin-listed restaurants. For a deeper taste of local culture, join a Valletta street food and culture walking tour.

Pro tip: Book your Valletta tours and tickets in advance to secure your spot at popular sites.

Mdina in September

Mdina, often called the “Silent City,” is a beautifully preserved walled city and one of Malta’s most iconic historic sites. Its narrow stone alleys, lantern-lit streets, and centuries-old buildings create a timeless, peaceful atmosphere in September. 

Check out these top attractions in Mdina in September:

• Mdina Gate – The grand Baroque gateway and filming location from Game of Thrones, setting the tone for what’s inside.
• Mdina Dungeons – An underground attraction showing Malta’s darker past through wax figures and recreated torture scenes.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral & Cathedral Museum – Mdina’s landmark 17th-century landmark with a grand Baroque design and adjoining museum. Avoid long queues with the Mdina Cathedral and Museum entry ticket.
• Palazzo Falson – A nobleman’s residence turned museum, with antiques, art, and a rooftop terrace offering quiet views
• Bastion Square (Pjazza Tas-Sur) – A panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Maltese countryside

If you want to see several of these attractions in one go, check out some of Mdina’s best travel packages or book a highlights of Malta and Mdina full-day tour with lunch. For a different perspective, you can also join a guided night tour covering Mdina, Valletta, and Rabat.

And if you're curious about what's just beyond the city walls, a Mdina and Rabat walking tour is a great option. In Rabat, you’ll visit St. Paul’s Catacombs, St. Paul’s Grotto, and the Domus Romana, offering a deeper look into Malta’s early Christian and Roman history.

Mellieha in September

Mellieha is Malta’s go-to beach town in September, with long sunny days, warm sea temperatures, and fewer crowds after peak summer. Its shallow, family-friendly beaches and easy access to Gozo and Comino make it a top spot for relaxing swims, boat tours, and late-summer coastal adventures.

Plus, there are plenty of Mellieha travel packages you can book anytime.

Here are the best beach and water activities in Mellieha this September:

• Mellieha Bay (Ghadira Bay) – Malta’s largest sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in calm, shallow waters
• Half-day cruise to Comino and Gozo – Departing from Mellieha, this tour visits the Blue and Crystal Lagoons, sea caves, and scenic coves
• Comino jet ski safari tour – A thrilling ride to explore the northern coast and hidden corners around Comino
• Popeye Village (Anchor Bay) – A film set-turned-fun park by the sea, with stunning views and optional swimming areas nearby

Tip: Want to explore more of the northern coast? Rent a station wagon in Malta for comfort and flexibility, or join a North Malta quad bike tour for a more adventurous way to reach hidden beaches and viewpoints.

St. Paul’s Bay in September 

St. Paul’s Bay is a lively coastal town in northern Malta that mixes beach relaxation with a fun, social atmosphere. It’s popular among couples, solo travelers, and laid-back groups looking for a mix of seaside views, casual nightlife, and accessible day tours. 

Outdoor bars and restaurants remain open, and you’ll often find live music nights and a relaxed vibe, especially around Bugibba and Qawra. Exploring the town is also made easy and convenient, thanks to reliable St Paul’s Bay car rentals and well-curated travel packages available in St Paul’s Bay.

Don’t miss these must-see attractions in St. Paul’s Bay in September:

• Qawra Point Beach – A rocky stretch of coast ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal-clear water and peaceful surroundings
• Malta National Aquarium – A family-friendly spot with themed tanks, local marine life, and underwater walk-throughs located right on the Qawra seafront, close to Malta Classic Car Museum
• St. Paul’s Islands – Two small, uninhabited islets just off the bay, believed to be the site of the Apostle Paul’s shipwreck
• Xemxija – A quiet village with pretty bays and access to the Xemxija Heritage Trail, where you’ll find archaeological ruins and panoramic walking paths
• St. Paul’s Bay Tower (Wignacourt Tower) – A restored 17th-century watchtower now open to visitors, showcasing maritime artifacts and views of the bay

Tip: Book your Malta National Aquarium entry ticket and skip-the-line pass for the Malta Classic Car Museum in advance for a hassle-free visit.

If you want to explore its nearby islets, join a cruise tour to St Paul's Islands that also includes stops at Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Just like in Mellieha, you can also book a Comino and Gozo boat tour from St. Paul’s Bay or a Blue Lagoon sunset cruise from Bugibba for a scenic evening on the water.

Marsaxlokk in September

Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village known for its colorful luzzijiet (painted fishing boats), laid-back pace, and harborfront seafood spots. 

In September, the village slows down just enough to feel peaceful, yet it still hums with local life. You can find fishermen unloading their catch, restaurants serving fresh dishes by the water, and boats gently rocking in the bay.

Here are the top attractions to visit in Marsaxlokk in September:

• Marsaxlokk Sunday Fish Market – A bustling harbor market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade goods, especially lively on Sunday mornings.

• St. Peter’s Pool – A natural swimming spot just outside town, popular for cliff diving, sunbathing, and cooling off in clear, turquoise waters

• Il-Hofra z-Zghira – A quiet, lesser-known bay nearby, ideal for a peaceful swim or photo stop along the Delimara cliffs

• Fort St. Lucian – A 17th-century fortress overlooking the bay, now home to marine research

• Delimara Lighthouse – Perched on the scenic Delimara Peninsula, this historic lighthouse is surrounded by dramatic coastal views and walking paths

• Xrobb l-Ghagin Nature Park – A coastal nature reserve with trails, sea views, and local wildlife

For the best experience, browse the best Marsaxlokk travel packages or join a customizable Malta full-day tour from Valletta that takes you to Malta’s top destinations, including Marsaxlokk. And if you want to soak up its local charm, try the Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk Sunday market guided tour.

Three Cities in September

The Three Cities—Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla)—offer a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Maltese life. These fortified harbor towns are rich in medieval and baroque architecture, and in September, their narrow lanes, open-air cafes, and waterfronts feel calm but not empty. 

It’s the perfect time to explore, on foot or embark on a self-drive electric car tour in Malta, their living history without the heavy foot traffic of Valletta. You'll find shaded promenades, grand churches, war museums, and some of the island’s most striking harbor views.

Make sure not to miss these must-see attractions in the Three Cities in September:

• Fort St. Angelo (Vittoriosa) – A towering fortress at the tip of Birgu offering panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and centuries of military history

• Malta at War Museum (Vittoriosa) – A WWII-era museum with underground air raid shelters and immersive exhibits on Malta’s wartime past

• Inquisitor’s Palace (Vittoriosa) – A rare surviving palace of the Inquisition, now a museum with recreated rooms and religious history displays

• St. Lawrence’s Church (Vittoriosa) – One of Malta’s oldest churches, known for its impressive baroque interior and long-standing role in local religious life

• Gardjola Gardens (Senglea) – A peaceful garden at the tip of Senglea, home to the famous watchtower carved with eyes and ears, overlooking Valletta

• Notre Dame Gate (Cospicua) – A baroque gateway that once served as the grand entrance to the city, showcasing the scale of Malta’s historic defences

Join a Three Fortified Cities half-day tour from Mellieha for guided insight into the history and landmarks of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. For a different view, take a traditional Two Harbours day cruise in Malta to see the fortifications from the water.

You can also check out some of the best Birgu vacation packages, Senglea vacation packages, and Cospicua vacation packages if you're looking for a well-curated, hassle-free trip through the Three Cities.

St. Julian’s in September

St. Julian’s is Malta’s energetic coastal hub, blending seaside charm with upscale leisure and nightlife. In September, the town enjoys a slightly more relaxed pace as the peak summer crowds wane, yet it remains lively with alfresco dining, St. Julian’s-exclusive beach outings, and fun evenings. 

These are some of the must-visit attractions in St Julian’s in September:

• Spinola Bay – A picturesque harbor dotted with traditional luzzijiet (Maltese fishing boats), surrounded by a mix of historic buildings and modern eateries, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner. You can also find a Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon powerboat tour that departs here.

• Balluta Bay – A picturesque bay known for its neo-Gothic church, art nouveau architecture, and relaxed seafront cafes

• St. George’s Bay – A popular sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with nearby facilities and eateries catering to beachgoers.

• Paceville – Malta’s premier nightlife district, bustling with clubs, bars, and entertainment venues that come alive after dark.

• Portomaso Marina – A luxurious marina featuring upscale dining, shopping, and the iconic Portomaso Business Tower, offering a glimpse into Malta’s modern lifestyle.

If you want to experience the nightlife of Malta in September, join a Paceville pub crawl for a fun, guided night out. For more flexibility and comfort, consider a Paceville car rental to explore the area on your own schedule.

Sliema in September

Sliema is one of Malta’s most modern and well-connected coastal towns, known for its sea views, upscale shopping, and easy access to Valletta. In September, expect a relaxed atmosphere along the promenade and plenty of open tables at cafes and seafront restaurants. 

It’s also a top spot for boat tours, with regular ferries and cruises departing from the Sliema Ferries terminal. These include a Comino’s Crystal and Blue Lagoon cruise tour from Sliema, and a cruise tour around Malta's harbors and creeks from Sliema.

For something more thrilling, you can also explore the coastline on a Sliema gulet cruise tour or a Sliema powerboat tour.

Of course, you shouldn’t miss Sliema’s key landmarks in September, such as the:

• Sliema Promenade (Tower Road) – A scenic coastal walkway perfect for relaxed strolls, with views of Valletta, plenty of cafes, and landmarks like St. Julian’s Tower and the Parish Church of Jesus of Nazareth.
• Tigne Point – A modern waterfront area with restaurants and stunning views, also home to The Point Shopping Mall, Malta’s largest retail center.
• Fond Ghadir Beach – A flat, rocky beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming, with ladders into the clear blue sea. Look out for Sliema beach yoga classes!
• Exiles Beach – A quieter rocky stretch, great for swimming and unwinding by the water.

Tip: If you want to save time and money, check out the best travel packages in Sliema. You can also rent a car in Sliema for added comfort and convenience.

Try Water Activities in Malta’s Crystal-Clear Waters in September

Malta in September is an ideal time to enjoy the coastline, with warm sea temperatures, excellent visibility, and fewer crowds. It’s the perfect month to try a wide range of water activities, whether you're after something peaceful or full of adrenaline.

Here are the best water activities in Malta in September:

• Malta snorkeling tours – Explore shallow reefs and caves in spots like Cirkewwa, Anchor Bay, Comino, and Ghajn Tuffieha on a Malta snorkeling tour. You can also book a private boat tour with snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon.
• Malta scuba diving tours – Join a Malta first-experience scuba diving lesson or Gozo PADI-certified two morning dives to see shipwrecks and vibrant marine life. Beginners can also try a half-day scuba diving discovery from Sliema.
• Malta cliff jumping tours – Head to St. Peter’s Pool or Il-Hofra z-Zghira for dramatic leaps into the Mediterranean.
• Malta kayaking tours – Paddle along golden cliffs and secluded coves, especially scenic around Ghajn Tuffieha and Mellieha, where you can rent a kayak to Coral Lagoon from Mellieha. For more thrills, join a guided kayak adventure to Gozo and Comino.
• Malta stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tours – A peaceful way to explore the coastline with top spots around Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha. You can rent a SUP in Marsaskala or join a guided Malta SUP tour in Marsaxlokk.
• Malta jet skiing tours – Speed across the open sea near St. Julian’s or Mellieha for a quick adrenaline rush. You can easily find a jet ski rental in Mellieha. For a guided option, book a private jet ski experience in Malta.
• Malta parasailing tours – Soar above the water and take in panoramic coastal views on a Malta parasailing experience, with launches from St. Julian’s and St. Paul’s Bay. For fun souvenirs, try a Malta parasailing flight with photos and videos.
• Malta flyboarding tours – Try this high-energy Malta flyboard teaser flight for a thrilling, gravity-defying experience. These are often available in northern Malta and near resort beaches in St. Julian’s.

Swim in the Blue Lagoon and Explore Comino Island in September

Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon in Malta in September, one of the island’s most iconic spots. The sea stays warm and crystal-clear, but the crowds ease up, making it easier to enjoy a peaceful swim or snorkel in its vivid turquoise waters. 

Many boat tours include a stop here, like the Malta Blue Lagoon catamaran tour, with extra space to relax on deck or explore the shallows at your own pace.

If you're planning to explore beyond the Blue Lagoon, here are the top attractions on Comino in September:

• Crystal Lagoon – A sheltered cove near the Blue Lagoon, known for its deeper waters and dramatic cliffs, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking
• Santa Marija Tower – A 17th-century watchtower perched on a cliff with panoramic views; it’s a short but scenic hike from the lagoon area
• Santa Marija Bay – A quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon, with shallow waters, a small beach, and a peaceful vibe
• Comino Chapel – A tiny rural chapel dedicated to the Return of the Holy Family from Egypt, adding a historical touch to your walk
• Coastal trails and caves – Several rugged paths and viewpoints circle the island, passing sea caves, cliffs, and lookout points perfect for short hikes

For a seamless island adventure, join a Comino and Gozo cruise tour from Malta in September or hop on a Blue Lagoon evening catamaran cruise for a romantic and scenic experience.

If you’re looking for more excitement, try a Comino and Gozo combo tour from Malta on a twin-masted schooner. Or book a private Comino speedboat tour for a fast-paced, personalized escape.

Take a Day Trip To Gozo and Discover Its Coastal Wonders in September

Gozo offers a quieter, greener escape from mainland Malta. With regular cruises from Malta, it’s easy to plan a day trip or join a guided tour that covers both Gozo and Comino in one scenic route.

Here are some of the top coastal highlights and attractions in Gozo in September:

• Dwejra Bay – A dramatic stretch of coastline with sea cliffs, rock formations, and dive sites, once home to the famous Azure Window. For a quieter alternative, visit the nearby Wied il-Mielah, a natural limestone arch tucked away off the beaten path.
• Xlendi Bay – A charming seaside village with a small beach, waterside cafes, and a cliffside walking trail, ideal for a laid-back afternoon.
• Mgarr ix-Xini – A secluded inlet popular for swimming and relaxing, also a film location featured in By the Sea.
• Ramla Bay and viewpoints – Gozo’s largest beach, known for its red-gold sand and scenic setting. Just above it, visit Calypso’s Cave and Tal-Mixta Cave on caving tours in Malta for panoramic views tied to legend and folklore.
• Ghasri Valley – A narrow, peaceful inlet surrounded by cliffs, great for kayaking or a quiet swim in dramatic surroundings.
• Ggantija Temples – A UNESCO-listed Neolithic temple complex in Xaghra, considered one of the world’s oldest free-standing structures. It’s best explored on a Gozo day trip with a Ggantija Temples visit.

To see Gozo’s hidden corners and rugged beauty, consider joining a guided experience that matches your pace. A full-day Gozo jeep tour or a Gozo tuk-tuk chauffeured tour offers a laid-back way to explore with a local guide. 

For something more active, choose a full-day Gozo quad tour, a full-day Gozo buggy tour, or a Gozo e-bike tour, which combines guided insight with scenic off-road paths. You can also take in the sights independently with a flexible Gozo sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Note: If you're visiting in late September, check out the Qala International Folk Festival, a lively celebration of music and dance in one of Gozo’s most charming villages.

Visit the Mysterious Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in September

The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is one of the most fascinating ancient sites in Malta. Located in Paola, just outside Valletta, this underground burial complex dates back over 5,000 years and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Carved entirely from rock, its three subterranean levels feature chambers, passageways, and sacred spaces once used for burial and ritual.

Important: Visits to the Hypogeum are limited to small groups per day to protect its delicate environment. So, it’s essential to book your Hypogeum entry ticket well in advance, even in September. 

The site stays cool year-round, making it a great stop on Malta historical tours, especially during warmer September afternoons. You can also visit the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum on a Malta hop-on hop-off bus tour, which includes a stop in Paola as part of its cultural route. 

For a more flexible itinerary, explore Paola travel packages like the relaxed 7-day Malta self-drive road trip from Valletta to Mellieha or the 10-day Malta beach holiday in Marsascala. Both give you time to experience this mysterious site at your own pace.

Bonus: While in Paola, consider visiting the Tarxien Temples, just a short walk from the Hypogeum, as part of a monumental Maltese experience. This lesser-known but important site features intricately carved stonework and one of Malta’s largest temple complexes.

Explore the Prehistoric Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples in September

The Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples are among the most impressive prehistoric landmarks in Malta. Located on a clifftop near the village of Qrendi, these UNESCO-listed sites date back more than 5,000 years and offer a window into the island’s Neolithic past. 

With massive stone blocks, altars, and solar alignments built into the architecture, they’re considered some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Both temples are located within a short walk of each other and are accessed through the same visitor center, making them easy to visit together on a prehistoric temples tour in Malta. In September, the site is quieter and cooler, allowing for a more relaxed visit. The surrounding coastal trail also offers panoramic views over the sea and nearby Filfla Island.

Bonus: If you have time for a short detour, head to the nearby Blue Grotto, famous for its shimmering sea caves. You can visit it on a tour of prehistoric temples, limestone heritage, and the Blue Grotto in Malta. Also nearby is Il-Maqluba, a massive, dramatic sinkhole steeped in local legend.

Hike Malta’s Scenic Trails and Enjoy Panoramic Views in September

Malta in September is one of the best months to explore the island on foot. The late-summer warmth lingers, but the intense heat of July and August begins to fade, making it far more ideal for cliffside trails, nature parks, and hiking tours in Malta. 

With fewer crowds on the paths and long hours of daylight, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Malta’s diverse scenery. Explore limestone cliffs, hidden coves, peaceful woodlands, and panoramic ridgelines.

Here are some of the best places to enjoy panoramic views and nature walks in Malta in September:

• Dingli Cliffs – Malta’s highest point, with spectacular views over the Mediterranean, especially at sunset. It’s best explored as part of Dingli travel packages or by joining a guided Dingli Cliffs and San Anton Botanical Gardens tour. For more thrills, try a Dingli Cliffs and Buskett Gardens Segway tour. 
• Ras id-Dawwara – A rugged coastal lookout near Dingli Cliffs, ideal for quiet walks and dramatic photo stops.
• Victoria Lines Trail – Known as Malta’s “Great Wall,” this countryside ridge trail combines natural beauty with historic fortifications. Book a multi-day An Impression of Malta travel package that includes this hidden gem.
• Xrobb l-Ghagin Nature Park – A peaceful nature reserve near Marsaxlokk with sea-facing trails and unique geological features.
• Delimara Point – A scenic peninsula with coastal paths that pass St. Peter’s Pool and Il-Hofra z-Zgħira, ideal for a light coastal walk.
• Fomm ir-Rih – A remote bay on the west coast with rugged terrain and one of Malta’s wildest coastal paths.
• Ghajn Tuffieha to Golden Bay – A short, cliffside walk connecting two of Malta’s most beautiful beaches.
• Ghasri Valley (Gozo) – A peaceful gorge framed by cliffs and natural rock formations.
• Ta’ Cenc Cliffs (Gozo) – Wide limestone cliffs with views toward Comino, perfect for quiet, panoramic walks.

Tip: Consider renting a convertible car in Malta in September to enjoy the views and cool breeze while driving between trails.

Victory Day (Feast of Our Lady of Victories)

Victory Day, or the Feast of Our Lady of Victories, is one of Malta’s most important national holidays. Held annually on September 8, it commemorates multiple historic victories, including the end of the Great Siege of 1565, the surrender of Italian forces in World War II, and the birth of the Virgin Mary.

As one of the major holidays in Malta in September, the day is marked by military parades, church services, and village festas across the islands. In Valletta, celebrations are especially grand, featuring official ceremonies at Fort St. Elmo and colorful Malta fireworks in the evening.

One of the day’s highlights is the National Regatta, a long-standing tradition held in the Grand Harbour, where teams from towns across Malta compete in rowing races using traditional boats. You'll also find Victory Day feasts and local processions in villages like Naxxar and Senglea, blending religious devotion with food, music, and community pride.

Tip: To experience one of the Victory Day feasts up close, browse the best travel packages in Naxxar and consider booking a Naxxar car rental for added flexibility during the celebrations.

Malta’s Independence Day

Independence Day in Malta is celebrated on September 21, marking the country’s independence from British rule in 1964. It’s one of the key public holidays in Malta in September, and while more formal than festive, the day holds great national pride and historic importance.

The main events take place in Floriana near Valletta, where official ceremonies are held at the Independence Monument. Expect military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and cultural performances. In the evening, there are often band concerts, open-air events, and smaller fireworks displays around the islands.

While more reserved than other events in Malta in September, Independence Day offers a meaningful look at the country’s modern identity. Browse the best travel packages in Floriana or visit Valletta to experience the cultural highlights and commemorative events.

Malta International Airshow

The Malta International Airshow is one of the most anticipated events in Malta in September, drawing aviation enthusiasts and families alike. Held over a weekend in mid to late September, this annual event features aerial displays, flyovers, and static aircraft exhibitions at the Malta International Airport and St. Paul’s Bay.

You can expect appearances by international aerobatic teams, military aircraft, and historic planes, all set against Malta’s scenic coastline. The skies above the island come alive with high-speed maneuvers, formation flying, and colorful smoke trails, making it one of the most visually exciting festivals in Malta in September.

To get the best views, head to the airshow’s official viewing areas, or enjoy the aerial displays from nearby locations like Bugibba or the Qawra promenade. And if you’re staying in the north, check out the best travel packages in Bugibba for easy access to the action.

Note: The Malta International Airshow is now held every two years, with the next edition set for September 27 to 28, 2025.

Malta International Folk Festival

The Malta International Folk Festival is a colorful celebration of traditional music, dance, and costume from across Europe and beyond. Held in Valletta over a weekend in September, it’s one of the most culturally rich festivals in the country, blending Maltese folk heritage with international performances.

Staged in open-air squares and historic venues, the festival features live music, folk dancing, and parades through the capital's streets. Local and visiting groups perform in full costume, creating a lively, photogenic atmosphere that is especially appealing if you’re exploring Valletta’s Old Town over the weekend.

Can’t make it to the festival? You can still experience the island’s rich traditions by booking a folklore dinner show at a traditional restaurant in Malta. With live folk music, dancing, and classic Maltese dishes, it’s a great way to enjoy local culture in a festive setting, any night of the week!

Mighty Hoopla Festival

The Mighty Hoopla Festival Malta in September brings high-energy pop, dance, and drag performances to the island for a multi-day celebration of music and self-expression. Known for its bold, inclusive atmosphere, it’s one of the newer but increasingly popular Malta events in September, attracting festival-goers from all over Europe.

Held at venues in and around St. Paul’s Bay, the event features international DJs, nostalgic throwback acts, themed boat parties, and beachside shows. Expect glitter, costumes, and a carefree vibe that celebrates individuality and joy.

Tip: Rent a medium car in Malta in September for easy transport between festival venues and afterparties, especially if you're staying outside St. Paul’s Bay.

Is September a good time to visit Malta?

Yes, September is a great time to visit Malta. The weather is still warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the summer crowds begin to ease. You’ll also find better rates on vacation rental apartments in Malta in September, especially for longer stays. Plus, it’s a lively month for cultural events and local festivals.

How is the weather in Malta in September?

Malta in September stays mostly warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures around 80 F (27 C) early in the month, cooling slightly toward the end. Occasional light showers may occur, especially later in September, but they’re usually brief. It’s still ideal weather for the beach, sightseeing, or road trips.

For a more comfortable journey between towns and attractions, consider renting a premium car in Malta in September, especially if you're planning coastal drives or visiting rural areas.

What time is sunset in Malta in September?

Sunset in Malta in September happens around 19:15, getting earlier as the month progresses. It’s a great time to take advantage of night tours in Malta in September, with options like sunset cruises, nightlife experiences, or after-dark historical tours in Mdina and Valletta.

Can you swim in Malta in September?

Yes, you can definitely swim in Malta in September. Sea temperatures stay warm, around 79 F (26 C), making it one of the best times for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Beaches and coves are less crowded, and water tours in Malta in September, like boat trips, kayaking, and snorkeling excursions, are still in full swing throughout the month.

Is Malta busy in September?

Malta in September is moderately busy, especially in the first half of the month when the weather still feels like summer. Crowds begin to ease after mid-September, making it easier to explore top sites without long waits.

It’s a great time to find deals on bed and breakfasts in Malta, especially in smaller towns and beach areas. You’ll also find more availability in popular European tour and trip packages in Malta in September, offering well-paced itineraries without peak-season stress.

Is Malta expensive in September?

No, Malta in September is generally less expensive compared to peak summer. As the high season winds down, accommodation prices, especially at Malta guesthouses and hostels in Malta in September, begin to drop, with even better deals available after the first two weeks.

You’ll also find good value on local experiences, car rentals, and connectivity options like an eSIM in Malta in September to stay connected without roaming fees. September is a smart time to visit if you want summer weather with better prices and broader options.

Is Malta's nightlife good in September?

Yes, the nightlife in Malta in September is still lively. While some summer-only venues begin to slow down later in the month, most clubs, bars, and beach parties, especially in St. Julian’s and Paceville, are still going strong.

You can also join nightlife tours in Malta in September to discover the best party spots with a local guide. For a fun and social night out on the water, book the Lazy Pirate Boat Party with drinks and food in Malta in September, which includes music, swimming stops, and an open bar.