Last year, in 2025, we spent Christmas in Malta. And I’m really not exaggerating when I say: it was such a special experience. I would genuinely recommend it to anyone who wants to do something a little different over the holidays.
It just felt refreshing in every possible way.
Weather – Yes, Actual T-Shirt Weather in December
First of all, the weather. Because I feel like that’s what everyone wants to know.
We had amazing weather. I’m talking actual T-shirt weather. You could easily go outside with just a light jacket or a thin sweater, and around midday it even got properly warm when the sun was out. We were sitting in the sun thinking, “Wait… it’s Christmas?”
Especially if you’re staying in Europe during winter, Malta is such a good option. It gives you that little escape from grey skies without having to fly somewhere super far. I can really only recommend it.
Long Walks by the Sea – Our Favorite Ritual
One of my absolute favorite things was just walking along the promenade by the water. We walked from St. Julian’s to Sliema and then all the way to Valletta.
It’s a long walk – you definitely need about one and a half to two hours – but it’s so worth it. You’re walking by the sea the entire time. The views are beautiful, the light is soft and it just feels calm.
We loved it because we could just talk, take our time, and enjoy everything around us. No stress, no rush. Just walking, talking, and looking at the water. Honestly, that alone made the trip for me.
Christmas in Malta – So Different from Germany
What really stood out to us was how different Christmas felt compared to what we’re used to.
If you’re from Germany, you know the vibe. On the 24th and 25th, everything is super quiet. People stay inside with their families, the streets are empty, and it’s all very calm and private.
In Malta, it was completely different.
People were outside. They were outgoing. Families were sitting outdoors together. The streets felt alive. It didn’t feel like everything shut down – it felt social and vibrant.
We did see Christmas trees, of course, but overall it wasn’t as heavily decorated as we expected. Still, it was such a beautiful experience to see how another culture celebrates Christmas. More open. More together, but outside. It just felt very warm in a different way.
The Christmas Market in Valletta
We also visited the Christmas market in Valletta, which I would definitely recommend if you’re there during the holidays.
There was a Ferris wheel, lots of different stalls, and even some specialties that we knew from German Christmas markets. So you still get a bit of that cozy Christmas feeling.
What I also loved: the market was open on Christmas itself and even stayed open until New Year’s. So it’s not just a one-day thing – you really have time to enjoy it.
Boat Tour & Blue Lagoon – Our Highlight
One of our absolute highlights was doing a boat tour. I would 100% recommend that if you’re in Malta. It gives you the chance to see the famous Blue Lagoon, and it’s just such a cool experience overall.
The Blue Lagoon was surprisingly crowded – which honestly shocked us a little, considering it was December. I can only imagine how busy it must be during peak season.
But the water? Insanely clear. Like, unreal. You can see straight down to the bottom.
A lot of people were actually swimming – yes, even in December. The water was definitely cold, but in a refreshing way. You could absolutely go in if you’re a bit brave.
What I also loved: on the boat, you could go downstairs and watch the fish through the windows, especially when the boat stopped. Because the water is so clear, you could see so many fish gathering around. It was one of those small moments that just sticks with you.
Food – Our Honest Experience
Okay, let’s talk about food.
We did notice that the cuisine felt very British-influenced. That means less salt, generally fewer spices than what we’re used to. And if I’m being completely honest, we personally didn’t love the food overall.
We tried different places – traditional Maltese restaurants, Indian food, different spots across the island – and while the prices were slightly higher, they were still reasonable. Totally fine for a holiday destination.
But for us, something was missing. Mainly the spices. We just like our food a bit more intense in flavor.
That being said, this is obviously super personal. Some people might love it exactly the way it is. That was just our experience.
Our Little Morning Ritual – OakBerry Bowls
Now this was something I truly miss.
Almost every morning, we got ourselves an OakBerry bowl. It’s obviously not traditionally Maltese, but there are so many small shops on the island selling them. And they’re so refreshing and healthy.
It became our little daily ritual. Wake up, walk outside, get an Acai bowl, sit somewhere in the sun.
Honestly? Such a highlight. I miss it a lot.
Seafood Surprise in Sliema
There was also this small fish snack place down in Sliema near the water. More like a casual seafood spot where you can sit down.
They had different kinds of calamari, seafood, and fish options. I tried the calamari and they were actually amazing. Really well seasoned – finally some proper flavor. So if you’re there and you’re craving seafood, I would definitely recommend trying something like that.
This is the spot:
Final Thoughts – Would I Do It Again?
Spending Christmas in Malta was something we’ll never forget.
The sunshine. The sea. The long walks. The different way of celebrating. It just felt refreshing and special in its own way.
If you’re thinking about doing something different for Christmas and you want a mix of winter vibes but still sunshine and sea, Malta might honestly be the perfect choice.
For us, it was definitely one of those trips that just stays with you.
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Xoxo Louisa
― Enjoy Looking Your Best!
