South Eastern Malta covers fifteen towns around the Grand Harbour and the southeast coast, from the capital Valletta and the fortified Three Cities to the prehistoric Hypogeum and Tarxien temples and the fishing port of Marsaxlokk.
South Eastern Malta is a very safe destination with low violent crime. The main concerns for visitors are petty theft in crowded areas, sun and heat, and sea conditions at rocky bathing spots. Standard precautions make for a trouble-free visit.
Current safety advisory
Low
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
South Eastern Malta is very safe; the main risks are petty theft in crowded places such as Valletta's Republic Street, bus terminals, markets and beaches, plus sun, heat and sea conditions
Dial 112 for police, ambulance and fire; the number is free from any phone and works throughout the island
Swim only at beaches with lifeguards or within designated swimming zones, obey flags (red means dangerous conditions) and avoid rocky shelves in rough weather; the US State Department warns of riptides at Malta's beaches
Summer heat is strong from June to September; carry water, wear a hat and sunscreen and avoid long sightseeing walks across Valletta's exposed bastions at midday
Drive on the left; Maltese roads are narrow and busy, and pedestrians should use crossings carefully in Floriana, Marsa and Paola
Keep bags zipped and phones out of back pockets on crowded buses, at Marsaxlokk Sunday market and on Valletta's streets
Do not leave valuables visible in parked cars at Marsaxlokk, Marsaskala and Delimara coastal car parks
Use ATMs inside bank branches where possible and shield the keypad
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed taxi touts
Drivers approaching visitors at the airport or Valletta bus terminus without a meter or fixed price may charge inflated fares
How to avoid: Use licensed white taxis with a visible fare, agree the price before leaving, or use a ride-hailing app
Overpriced boat tours
Harbour boat and dghajsa operators may quote differing prices for Grand Harbour cruises
How to avoid: Compare prices at the official ticket kiosks and confirm the route and duration before paying
Pickpocketing at markets and on buses
Thieves operate in crowds at the Marsaxlokk Sunday market, on crowded buses and at Valletta's City Gate
How to avoid: Carry bags in front, keep wallets in zipped pockets and avoid displaying phones on bus platforms
Unsolicited offers from strangers
Safety guides advise caution with unsolicited offers or advice from strangers near tourist hubs
How to avoid: Politely decline, and use official ticket offices or hotel recommendations for tours
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No specific vaccinations are required; routine vaccinations should be up to date.
- Water
- Tap water is safe to drink, although many residents prefer bottled water for taste.
- Food
- Food safety standards are high, and restaurants are inspected under EU rules.
- Facilities
- Mater Dei Hospital in Msida is the main public hospital with a 24-hour Accident and Emergency department.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 112
- Medical
- 112
- Fire
- 112
- Coast Guard
- 112
- General Emergency
- 112 (free from all phones)
- Main Hospital
- Mater Dei Hospital, Triq Dun Karm, Msida MSD 2090; Accident and Emergency tel +356 2545 0000
- Embassy Us
- US Embassy Malta, Ta' Qali National Park, Attard ATD 4000: +356 2561 4000
- Embassy Uk
- British High Commission, Whitehall Mansions, Ta' Xbiex Seafront, Ta' Xbiex XBX 1026: +356 2323 0000