Where is Malta Located?
Where is Malta located on the map? Malta is an independent nation located in Southern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Malta on maps.
Malta Location in World Map
Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of the Italian island of Sicily. Malta is a miniature state. So it’s a very small country. However, the population density is very high.
Anyone who speaks of Malta must always differentiate between the state of Malta and the island of Malta. Because the state of Malta consists of several islands. The largest of these is also called Malta, but next to it there are the islands of Gozo and Comino. In addition, several smaller islands belong to the national territory. However, these are uninhabited.
Here you can see the location of Malta.
Location Information of Malta
Latitude and Longitude
Malta is a small island nation located in the central Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy and north of Libya. Its coordinates are approximately 35.9375° N latitude and 14.3754° E longitude. Positioned strategically at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Malta has historically been a significant maritime and trading hub.
Capital City and Major Cities
Capital City: Valletta
The capital city of Malta is Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and Baroque architecture. Valletta, which covers just 0.8 square kilometers, is the smallest capital city in the European Union. The city was founded by the Knights of St. John in 1566 and has since become the political, cultural, and administrative center of Malta. Valletta is home to the Maltese Parliament, the President’s Palace, and various historical landmarks, including the Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
Major Cities
- Birkirkara: The largest city in Malta, Birkirkara is located in the central part of the island. It is a bustling urban area and has a population of around 23,000 people. Known for its vibrant residential neighborhoods, Birkirkara is also an important commercial hub.
- Mosta: Situated in the northern part of Malta, Mosta is famous for the Mosta Dome, which is one of the largest unreinforced domes in Europe. Mosta is a residential town with a significant historical legacy.
- Sliema: Located on the northeastern coast of Malta, Sliema is a popular tourist destination known for its shopping, restaurants, and coastal views. It is a hub for both locals and tourists seeking modern amenities and scenic vistas of Valletta.
- Mġarr: This small town, located in the northwest of the island, is known for its picturesque harbor, particularly the Mġarr Harbour. Mġarr is a gateway to the Gozo island and plays an important role in ferry connections between the islands.
- Victoria (Rabat): Victoria is the capital of the island of Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Known for its medieval Citadel, Victoria offers stunning views of Gozo and remains a center for local life on the island.
Time Zone
Malta operates in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is UTC +1 during standard time. In the summer months, Malta follows Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC +2. This aligns the country’s time zone with much of mainland Europe, including countries like Italy, France, and Spain.
Climate
Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The archipelago’s weather is influenced by its position in the Mediterranean, leading to a relatively temperate climate compared to other regions at similar latitudes.
- Summer: From June to September, Malta experiences long, hot summers with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. The weather is typically dry, and the country can go weeks without significant rainfall. The summer months are also characterized by strong, cooling sea breezes, making it more comfortable to stay outdoors.
- Winter: From December to February, winters are mild with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). While Malta can experience some rainfall during this period, snowfall is extremely rare. The Mediterranean Sea helps to moderate temperatures, preventing extreme cold.
- Spring and Autumn: These transitional seasons offer mild temperatures and are among the best times to visit Malta. Temperatures in spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Economic Status
Malta has a developed, high-income economy with a focus on services, particularly in sectors such as finance, tourism, information technology, and manufacturing. The country has undergone significant economic transformation in the past few decades, transitioning from an agricultural-based economy to one focused on advanced services and industrial activities.
1. Tourism
Tourism is a major driver of Malta’s economy. The island attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its rich history, culture, architecture, and Mediterranean beaches. Major tourist activities include exploring ancient ruins, visiting historical sites such as Mdina, the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, and the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino island.
2. Manufacturing
Malta has a strong manufacturing sector, particularly in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and shipbuilding. The country is also a major producer of textiles and garments. Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean makes it an ideal location for international trade and manufacturing, with companies taking advantage of favorable tax policies and trade agreements with the European Union.
3. Finance and Technology
In recent years, Malta has emerged as a global financial services hub, particularly in banking, insurance, and investment services. The country’s low corporate tax rates and robust regulatory framework make it attractive for international businesses. Malta also has a growing information technology (IT) sector, with companies involved in software development, digital marketing, and blockchain technologies.
4. Agriculture and Fisheries
Although the agricultural sector is relatively small compared to services and manufacturing, Malta still produces a variety of products, including vegetables, fruits, and wine. The fishing industry is also important, particularly in the Mediterranean for fish such as tuna and swordfish.
Malta’s economy has demonstrated resilience, especially after joining the European Union in 2004 and adopting the Euro in 2008. The country’s GDP growth rate has been consistently strong, and unemployment rates remain relatively low.
Tourist Attractions
Malta’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and Mediterranean climate make it a popular tourist destination. Here are some of the top attractions:
1. The Historic City of Valletta
As the capital of Malta, Valletta is the heart of the nation’s history and culture. It is home to numerous historic landmarks, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, The Grandmaster’s Palace, and the Upper Barracca Gardens, which offer panoramic views of the harbor.
2. Mdina
Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a fortified medieval city located on a hill in the center of Malta. The city’s winding narrow streets, historical buildings, and stunning views make it one of Malta’s most popular tourist destinations.
3. Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum
This UNESCO World Heritage site is an underground prehistoric temple complex dating back to around 4000 BCE. The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni is a remarkable archaeological site that provides insight into Malta’s prehistoric civilizations.
4. The Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)
The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it one of the most picturesque places in Malta. It is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and boat tours.
5. The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua)
These historical cities, located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, are filled with charming streets, fortifications, and churches. They offer a quieter, more authentic experience of Maltese culture.
6. Gozo
Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, is known for its rugged beauty, historical sites, and tranquil environment. Popular spots include the Azure Window (although it collapsed in 2017), the Citadel of Victoria, and Ramla Bay.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens can enter Malta for tourist visits of up to 90 days without requiring a visa. However, they must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure from the Schengen Area. U.S. passport holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone, which includes Malta, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
For stays longer than 90 days or for other purposes (such as work, study, or residency), U.S. citizens will need to apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit through the Maltese embassy or consulate.
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
Distance to New York City
The distance from New York City to Valletta is approximately 4,300 miles (6,920 kilometers). Direct flights are not common, but there are regular connecting flights, typically with one layover in major European cities like London, Frankfurt, or Rome.
Distance to Los Angeles
The distance from Los Angeles to Valletta is about 6,000 miles (9,660 kilometers). Similar to flights from New York, passengers will usually need to make at least one stopover in Europe or the Middle East to reach Malta.
Malta Facts
| Size | 316 km² |
| Residents | 433,000 |
| Languages | Maltese and English |
| Capital | Valletta |
| Longest river | – |
| Highest mountain | Ta’Dmejrek (253 m) |
| Currency | Euro |
