Why Autumn is a Great Time to Visit Malta

When people think of Malta, summer is usually the first season that comes to mind. Yet autumn is often the island’s best kept secret. With warm seas, golden sunsets and a gentler pace, it is still a great season to enjoy Malta. 

Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds 

Gone are the heatwaves of July and August, replaced by balmy days that are perfect for exploring. Swimming remains a joy well into October, while city strolls through Mdina’s silent streets or Valletta’s Baroque squares feel far more comfortable without the intense summer heat. Beaches, too, take on a more tranquil air… still sun-kissed, but with plenty of space to unwind. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a piazza or wandering historic alleyways, autumn lets you experience Malta at a slower, more authentic rhythm. 

A More Personal Experience  

With fewer visitors, Malta feels more intimate. Restaurants and cafés across the island have more time to offer attentive, personalised service. You’ll notice menus shifting with the season, introducing autumn’s harvest – think figs, prickly pears, pomegranates and locally pressed olive oil. Dining in autumn feels less hurried and more connected. 

Culture that Carries On

Just because summer ends doesn’t mean Malta’s vibrancy fades. The cultural calendar in autumn is just as rich, sometimes even more so. October brings Birgufest, when candles light up the old city, while Notte Bianca transforms Valletta into a living stage with art, music and performance filling every street. Seasonal food, wine, and beer festivals also add flavour to the months ahead, giving visitors a chance to celebrate local traditions long after the beach season winds down. 

Space for Adventure 

If you crave the outdoors, autumn is Malta’s sweet spot. Hiking trails along the dramatic Dingli Cliffs, the red-sand bay of Għajn Tuffieħa, and the rolling countryside of Gozo are far more enjoyable without the sweltering heat. The sea stays warm and inviting, making it one of the best times of year for scuba diving or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. Boat trips to Comino’s Blue Lagoon or Gozo’s hidden coves feel calmer too, offering a more peaceful side to Malta’s natural beauty. 

Whether you are here for culture, adventure or a slower pace by the sea, autumn offers the best of Malta without the rush of summer. At Number 11 – Handwritten Collection, we welcome you to experience this season with us, combining the island’s beauty with a more relaxed and personal holiday. Book your stay now!