Best Places to Visit in Malta for Christmas Cheer

Malta transforms into a magical winter wonderland in December, offering expats and digital nomads a chance to soak up the festive spirit in charming towns and vibrant neighborhoods. From twinkling lights to bustling Christmas markets, the island’s holiday celebrations blend traditional Maltese charm with cozy European flair. Whether you’re craving mulled wine, handmade crafts, or lively parades, these destinations are the perfect places to embrace the season.

Valletta

Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a must-visit during the holidays, with its grand baroque architecture draped in festive lights and decorations. The city’s main square, Pjazza San ?or?, hosts the annual Valletta Christmas Village, a lively market where vendors sell handmade gifts, local delicacies, and warm drinks. The market is a hub of activity, with live music, carol singers, and even a small ice-skating rink for a touch of winter fun. The streets are adorned with dazzling light displays, and the atmosphere is especially enchanting in the evenings when the city glows under the soft glow of Christmas lights.

We Recommend: Don’t miss the chance to try *qag?aq tal-g?asel*, a traditional Maltese honey ring that’s a holiday favorite. Pair it with a cup of mulled wine or *imbuljuta tal-qastan*, a spiced chestnut drink, for the ultimate festive treat.

Mdina

Known as the "Silent City," Mdina takes on a fairy-tale quality during December, with its medieval streets illuminated by lanterns and twinkling lights. The city’s Christmas market, held in the historic St. Paul’s Square, is a cozy affair featuring local artisans selling handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and festive decorations. The market is small but charming, with a focus on traditional Maltese crafts and treats. Mdina’s atmosphere is especially magical at night, when the golden glow of the streetlights casts a warm, inviting light over the ancient stone buildings.

We Recommend: Be sure to try *kware?imal*, a traditional Maltese almond and spice biscuit that’s a holiday staple. The market often has stalls selling freshly baked versions, perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot chocolate.

Rabat

Just outside Mdina, the town of Rabat comes alive with festive cheer, particularly around its parish church, St. Paul’s. The town hosts a charming Christmas market where locals and visitors can browse handmade gifts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats. Rabat’s market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, from hand-knitted scarves to locally made preserves. The town also hosts a nativity scene exhibition, showcasing intricate *presepju* (nativity scenes) that are a beloved Maltese tradition.

We Recommend: Sample *ftira tal-g?asel*, a sweet, spiced bread that’s a holiday specialty. It’s often sold at the market and pairs perfectly with a warm drink on a chilly December evening.

Sliema

Sliema’s waterfront is a hub of holiday activity, with its promenade lined with festive lights and decorations. The town hosts a Christmas market along The Strand, where vendors sell everything from handmade crafts to gourmet treats. The market is a great spot to pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a festive snack while taking in views of the sparkling harbor. Sliema also hosts a variety of holiday events, including carol concerts and festive boat parades, adding to the seasonal cheer.

We Recommend: Try the *pastizzi* (savory ricotta or pea-filled pastries) from a local vendor—while not a holiday-specific treat, they’re a Maltese staple that’s perfect for snacking while exploring the market.

Birgu (Vittoriosa)

Birgu, one of Malta’s historic Three Cities, is a picturesque destination for holiday festivities. The town’s waterfront is adorned with festive lights, and its narrow streets are filled with the scent of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine. Birgu’s Christmas market, held near the Maritime Museum, features local artisans selling handmade gifts, decorations, and traditional Maltese sweets. The market is small but atmospheric, with a focus on quality over quantity. The town also hosts a nativity scene exhibition, showcasing beautifully crafted *presepju* displays.

We Recommend: Warm up with a cup of *kinnie*, a Maltese soft drink made from bitter oranges and herbs, or try *imbuljuta tal-qastan* (spiced chestnut drink) for a cozy holiday sip.

Qormi

Qormi, known as Malta’s "bread basket," is a fantastic place to experience traditional Maltese holiday traditions. The town hosts a lively Christmas market where locals sell handmade crafts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats. One of the highlights is the *Festa tal-Imnarja*, a traditional Maltese feast that takes place in early December, featuring live music, folk dancing, and plenty of food. The market is a great place to sample local delicacies, from *qag?aq tal-g?asel* to *kware?imal*, while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

We Recommend: Don’t leave without trying *hob? biz-zejt*, a simple but delicious Maltese bread drizzled with olive oil, rubbed with tomato, and topped with olives, capers, and tuna—a perfect savory snack to balance out the sweet treats.

Gozo’s Victoria (Rabat)

Gozo’s capital, Victoria (often called Rabat by locals), is a charming destination for holiday cheer. The town’s main square, Pjazza Indipendenza, hosts a festive Christmas market where vendors sell handmade gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats. The market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, from Gozo lace to locally produced honey. Victoria also hosts a variety of holiday events, including carol concerts and nativity scene exhibitions, adding to the festive spirit. The town’s historic citadel, illuminated at night, provides a stunning backdrop for holiday photos.

We Recommend: Try *ftira G?awdxija*, a traditional Gozo bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and local cheese—it’s a hearty and delicious snack to enjoy while exploring the market.

St. Julian’s (Paceville Neighborhood)

St. Julian’s, particularly the lively Paceville neighborhood, is a great spot for expats and digital nomads looking for a mix of holiday cheer and nightlife. The area hosts a Christmas market along the waterfront, where vendors sell handmade gifts, festive decorations, and warm drinks. The market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy a festive snack while taking in views of the sparkling bay. St. Julian’s also hosts a variety of holiday events, including live music performances and festive parties, making it a great destination for those who want to celebrate the season with a bit of nightlife.

We Recommend: Grab a cup of mulled wine and a *pastizz* (savory pastry) from a local vendor—it’s the perfect way to fuel up before exploring the market or hitting the town for a night out.

?ebbu?

?ebbu?, a quiet village in the heart of Malta, is a hidden gem for holiday festivities. The town hosts a small but charming Christmas market where locals sell handmade crafts, festive decorations, and traditional Maltese sweets. The market is a great place to experience the warmth of Maltese village life during the holidays, with carol singers and live music adding to the festive atmosphere. ?ebbu? is also known for its beautiful nativity scenes, which are displayed in local churches and homes throughout the season.

We Recommend: Try *prinjolata*, a traditional Maltese dessert made with sponge cake, custard, and meringue—it’s a holiday favorite that’s often sold at the market.