Weather in Malta in January

The Cold Is With Us And Short Days

The weather in Malta in January is cold, but it is also sunny. Still it is pleasant to come during this time of the year. Tourists are much less during the winter months. You will have better quality time to see many attractions and with fewer queues.

It is usually the coldest month of the year, rain, but there could be sunny days too. Wind is another aspect and could be grigal too, meaning bad weather. On the other hand you see tourists in t-shirts and shorts or light clothing. At the same time it can be a very beautiful sunny day.

Malta’s climate in January will definitely be preferable to the UK’s, making it an ideal winter sun holiday location.

Malta In January – A Quick Glance

• What is the weather like?
• Should I come during January?
• What should I wear and pack for visiting Malta during January?
• What can I do during January?
• Tours I can do while here in January.
• Practical thoughts before coming here in January.

Shopping during Christmas time in Valletta, Malta

Statistics For January

• Highest recorded 23.6°C (74.5°F) - 9th January 2021
• Lowest recorded 1.4°C (34.5°F) - 29th January 1981
• Daily Average: Highest 16°C (61°F) | Lowest 10°C (51°F)
• Daily Hours of Sunshine 5.5
• UV Index 1 to 2
• Rainfall 95mm (4")

Malta Weather Compared to European Countries

is january the best time to visit malta?

January is a wonderful month to visit Malta. It is a low touristic season but the weather is very cold. This month is perfect for indoor activities such as visiting museums, the aquarium, temples and other historical attractions around the island. It depends what you wish to do and the purpose of your visit.

Is it the best time to visit Malta?

January is the coldest month of the year with February remaining with the same temperatures. Though the weather is quite mild compared to many Mediterranean countries.

✅ Reasons to Visit in January:

• 🌤️ Mild Winter Temperatures: Average (10-16°C/51-61°F) still warmer than most of Europe.
• 🎭 Valletta International Baroque Festival: It is held annually, experience all that is baroque.
• 🧘 Peaceful Atmosphere: Fewer tourists provide a tranquil environment to explore Malta.
• 💰 Lower Travel Costs: Since it is off-peak season, travel and lodging are generally cheaper..

❌ Reasons January Might Not Be Ideal:

• 🌧️ Increased Rainfall: With an average rainfall of 95mm spread over 12 days this month.
• 🌬️ Cooler Sea Temperatures: Sea temperature at 16°C (61°F), too cold to swim.
• 🌫️ Shorter Days: Outdoor activities may be limited by the 10 hours of daylight available.

What Should I Wear & Pack?

• The general advice is to dress layer, layer and upon layer. This means jumpers, cardigans, sweaters and knitted tops which will make you warm. This all depends on what type of person you are but proper clothing for the winter period is recommended.
• A raincoat, water/wind proof jacket or umbrella is recommended as it will rain during this month. Sometimes umbrellas can be pointless as the wind can be very strong and might end up with a broken umbrella.
• Trousers are preferred than shorts, even for women depending how much you feel cold. Long skirts to the ankle are ideal but trousers you feel warm and comfortable. 
• Closed shoes or running shoes are better to keep your feet dry and warm. If you intend to explore and walk around Malta, it is better. It is not the time for sandles, as you will probably not go for sunbathing on the sandy beach apart if you wish to stroll around. If you intend walking in the country side, always use closed shoes, or sneakers.
• Sandles and flip-flops are useful for when staying at your accommodation, and there is an indoor pool. We do not recommend swimming in the open sea due to being cold and rough and will be dangerous especially if you do not know the area.

Things To Do in Malta in Winter during January

• With everywhere looking green, country walks are one of the most enjoyed activities. Lovely open spaces and walk around. Enjoy the versatility of the Maltese countryside.
• Picnics in the countryside are ideal away from any busy streets. Plenty of places especially in the areas of Rabat, Dingli Cliffs, Buskett gardens and Pembroke.

Chadwick Lakes in the limits of Mtarfa and Rabat, Malta

• Take a day trip on the Hop-op-Hop-off, either the north or south route. You get to see Malta's top touristic destinations and also visit historical museums on the way.
• Enjoy the sunset at Dingli Cliffs, Golden Bay beach or the surrounding areas along the coast.
• Enjoy the In Guardia parade at Fort St. Elmo.
• During the month of January you find several activities to attend.
• If you decide to go for a swim, the sea is too cold but there are brave ones who take the plunge. If you wish to go for a swim, you can always check with your hotel if they have an indoor pool or go for a day at another hotel.

Festive Echoes & Cultural Charm For January

• New Year's Day - Family and friends dinners are served at restaurants and hotels across the islands to celebrate the holiday.
• Christmas Time up to the Epiphany – The celebrations continue until 6th January with traditional crib exhibitions, festive decorations, and family gatherings.
• Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem 2025/26 – Until the 6th January, this live Nativity village in Gozo concludes with the Three Magi's symbolic journey from Malta to Jerusalem.
• Valletta Baroque Festival - Malta hosts this prestigious baroque music festival that features performances in historic venues in Valletta and other distinguished locations.
• Village Feasts - Only two feasts are observed in January, both celebrated quietly with indoor church services, without external decorations, band marches, or fireworks.

Tours To Take In Malta In January

Quick January Weather Malta Thoughts

January is considered the coldest month of the year. Thick clothing to keep warm is essential. During your vacations you will most likely encounter one sunny day.

You must go for a walk in the countryside or along the promenade. The weather is cold, but you will enjoy the sun.

The weather during December or February is similar to that of January. The weather changes from day to day, but in terms of clothing and what to bring with you is similar.

Sunset over Valletta, Malta

Can we expect snow? No, it does not snow in Malta, but if you encounter lots of hail, Malta will look like a winter wonderland for a couple of hours. If you compare Malta to the rest of Europe, the weather here is quite mild.

Serious bad weather is not common in Malta but it is expected. Windy days are quite popular and hence the temperature will reduce quite a bit. During the evening, the humidity is high.

The sea temperature is around 16°C. It is not ideal for swimming as it is cold. There are some brave ones but very few. The sea might be rough, so we recommend swimming at the many indoor pools hosted by the hotels.

If this type of weather is not what you are looking for and you wish to come to Malta when the climate is warmer but not too hot, we recommend coming in April or May.

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By Albert and Benjamin Magro