Christmas in Malta 2025: Best Markets, Food & Things to Do
Planning to enjoy a delightful Christmas in Malta 2025? Then, get ready to experience a blend of the centuries-old traditions with the delightful festivities. From the illuminated streets of the Valleta to the Midnight Mass, Valletta has something for every festive traveller.
Go through this guide to know about the best experiences that Malta has to offer during the Christmas. Additionally, make sure to get the Malta Schengen Visa from the UK for a smooth trip with your loved ones!
Quick Summary – Christmas in Malta 2025 celebrations combine the festive markets, local traditions, alongwith the mouth-watering cuisine. Visit the sparkling Valletta streets, check out the midnight mass and explore the nativity scenes in the quiet villages. Plan early for the accommodations, tickets and your Schengen visa for the worry-free Malta Christmas getaway!
Christmas in Malta 2025 – A Quick Overview for Travellers
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | 25th December 2025; but, festivities run all December starting from the 8 December (Feast of the Immaculate Conception) through to New Year’s Day 2026 |
| Best Malta Christmas Markets | Valletta’s Pjazza Tritoni & Sliema’s seafront kiosks and pop-up chalets |
| Top attractions during Christmas in Malta | Don’t miss Valletta’s baroque churches and the Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem live nativity on Gozo. |
| Nearest airport | Malta International Airport in Luqa (MLA) |
| Getting around in Malta during Christmas | Use the island’s frequent buses for cheap travel between Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and Mellieħa, top up a contactless travel card on arrival, and consider a short taxi or rideshare late at night. |
What are the Best Christmas Markets in Malta 2025?
1). Valletta – Experience “Christmas in Capital”
The UNESCO-listed capital city of the Malta, Valletta, dazzles everyone during Christmas. In fact, this is due to its twinkling streets, cosy squares and the captivating décor.
Dates: 25 November to early January
Key Attractions:
- The Baby Jesus Procession, a heart-warming tradition that fills the streets with the hymns and community spirit.
- Outdoor concerts at the St. George’s Square, featuring the choirs and musicians. So, when are you booking the Malta Visa Appointment UK? Christmas is just around the corner!
Why visit? This market is perfect for soaking in the Maltese traditions!
2). Fairyland Santa’s City
Located around the Pjazza Tritoni by the Triton Fountain, the Fairyland is Valletta’s family-friendly funfair-style Christmas Village.
Dates: 5 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Key Attractions:
- Candy Cane Slide for the young visitors. Also, kids will love the Frosty Bike circuit.
- Ferris wheel, ice rink and the food stalls serving delicious Maltese treats.
Why Visit? This attraction is a top pick for the families and anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the Christmas festive spirit. All you need to do is book the Malta visa appointment UK to get started!
3). Woodland Christmas Market
Held in the Ta’ Qali National Park, this market offers a cosy and rustic festive experience. This place suits the travellers who prefer more nature and the fewer crowds.
Dates: 6-14 December 2025
Key Attractions:
- Check out the local crafts like the handmade gifts, eco-minded artisan products and the ornaments.
- Enjoy exploring artisan products that range from the gourmet foods to one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Why visit? It is a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Valletta!
What are the Best Things to do during Christmas in Malta 2025?
1). Attend the Christmas Midnight Mass in Malta
The Maltese churches overflow on the Christmas Eve as families gather for the midnight mass. Try to arrive before 11 pm to secure good seats. Expect live nativity skits, “Priedka tat-Tifel” child (aged 7-10) delivers the Christmas sermon and after mass hot drinks or light meals!
2). Visit Verdala Palace Gardens Winter Wonderland
From 5 Dec 2025 to 3 January 2026, the Verdala Palace Gardens turn into a story-book winter attraction. Grab the chance to see the glittering light installations, a new Christmas village. Also, you will come across the crafts, entertainment and the seasonal treats during your Christmas in Malta 2025 holiday.
3). Explore Traditional Nativity Scenes (Presepju)
Dating back to the 1607, it is one of the oldest Christmas Traditions of Malta. In fact, simply walk through any Maltese village. While doing so, you will spot the elaborate nativity scenes in homes and the balconies. So, these will usually feature the clay figurines “pasturi” representing shepherds, angels and the Holy Family.
Which Traditional Maltese Christmas Foods & Drinks Should I Try?
1). Maltese Christmas Foods You Should Not Miss!
- Timpana – It is a baked pasta dish layered with the macaroni, minced meat, eggs and the rich tomato sauce.
- Stuffat tal-Fenek – The beloved rabbit stew of Malta, slow-cooked in the wine and herbs. You should try it on your Christmas in Malta 2025 getaway!
2). Maltese Christmas Drinks to Sip!
- Imbuljuta tal-Qastan – A hot chestnut and cocoa beverage which is traditionally served on the chilly December evenings.
- Kinnie – It is a unique, bittersweet soft drink of the Malta.
Practical Tips for Travellers Celebrating Christmas in Malta 2025
- Book your accommodations and the restaurant tables in the Malta early to grab the good spots .
- Pack the layered clothes along with the warm jacket. This is because, the temperatures may be cooler at around 12-18°C.
- Bring a reusable water bottle. Also, wear the comfortable shoes to easily walk on the cobbled streets.
- Purchase event tickets to attractions like the Verdala Palace Winter Wonderland in advance!
- Explore beyond Valletta by travelling to the towns like Mosta and Rabat. These places feature the beautifully lit streets with a quieter and more local festive feel!
Conclusion
Christmas in Malta 2025 is waiting to welcome you with its fusion of the timeless traditions and the lively celebrations.
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Then, you need a trusted partner like MALTA VISAS. We have a team of visa specialists who will book a fast-track appointment for you after you fill a simple online application. This enables you to quicken your visa process and get it in just days!
So, why wait? Start planning your Christmas getaway to the Malta now. Simply get the visa and then you and your loved ones can immerse yourself in the festive joy that Malta has to offer!
Key Takeaways:
- The Valletta’s lights, Verdala Palace Winter Wonderland and the live experiences transform the Malta during Christmas into a December storybook.
- Reserve the flights, visa appointment and ferry tickets early to avoid the queues and guarantee seats at the midnight Mass in the Valletta’s baroque St John’s cathedral!
FAQs
1). Are shops open on Christmas in Malta 2025?
On the Christmas Day (25 Dec), most of the shops close as it is a public holiday. However, restaurants may remain open, offering the special Christmas Day lunch menus along with the festive entertainment.
2). Can families enjoy Christmas in Malta 2025?
Yes, Malta offers the exceptional family-friendly Christmas experiences. These range from the rides and ice-skating at the Fairyland to the nativity processions and the Santa visits. Also, most of the attractions are compact and walkable.
3). Are there Christmas concerts and performances in Malta?
Yes, Malta hosts the numerous Christmas concerts, pantomimes along with the theatrical performances throughout the December!
