Winter in Sliema, Malta feels mild compared to most of Europe. Daytime temperatures usually range from about 10°C to 16°C, and nights stay cool but rarely get close to freezing.
The air feels fresh, and even though it’s cooler, there’s a brightness that keeps the coast inviting.
You’ll notice winter brings more rain than summer, with showers popping up now and then. The sea cools off, but it’s still much milder than northern waters.
Many days still offer clear skies, which makes for calm walks along the waterfront.
This mix of cooler air, occasional rain, and steady daylight shapes daily life in Sliema each winter. If you want to plan outdoor activities, enjoy the quieter seaside, or just get a sense of the season, knowing the averages helps you make the most of your time here.
Overview of Winter Weather in Sliema
Sliema experiences cooler but still mild conditions in winter compared to much of Europe. You’ll get moderate temperatures, some rain, and steady winds from the Mediterranean.
The weather stays comfortable for walking, sightseeing, and eating outdoors, though swimming’s not really ideal.
Typical Winter Climate Conditions
Sliema’s Mediterranean climate means winters are cool, breezy, and wetter than summer. Rain falls mostly from December to February, with December usually bringing the most—averaging around 110 mm.
Cloud cover increases, but sunshine still breaks through on plenty of days.
Daylight lasts between 9 and 11 hours, depending on the month, so days feel shorter than in summer.
Humidity stays moderate, and fog is pretty rare.
Winds pick up in winter, especially along the seafront promenade. The sea can get rough, but you’ll still find the town easy to explore on foot.
Outdoor cafes often stay open, with sheltered spots to sit.
Seasonal Temperature Ranges
Winter temperatures in Sliema are mild when you compare them to northern Europe. Daytime highs usually hit 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F), and nighttime lows often fall to 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F).
January tends to be the coldest month, averaging around 13°C (55°F). February stays about the same, while December feels a little warmer.
You won’t see frost or snow here, thanks to the coastal location and Malta’s climate.
The sea cools down, averaging 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F), which is too cold for most swimmers.
Still, the air stays comfortable enough for walks and day trips. You won’t need heavy winter gear, but a light jacket and some layers are a good idea.
Comparison to Other Maltese Towns
Sliema’s winter weather matches nearby towns like Valletta and St. Julian’s, since they all share the same coastal exposure.
Average temperatures only differ by a degree or two, and rainfall patterns stay pretty consistent across the island.
Sliema feels a bit milder than inland villages because the sea helps keep temperatures steady.
Coastal winds, though, can make it feel cooler than sheltered inland spots.
If you stay in Sliema, you’ll benefit from the urban setting—buildings block some of the wind.
Other coastal towns, like Marsaxlokk or Bugibba, experience similar winter weather, but smaller harbors might feel windier.
All this makes Sliema one of the more comfortable bases for winter stays in Malta.
Average Temperatures During Winter
Winter in Sliema, Malta brings mild conditions compared to much of Europe. You’ll get cool, but not freezing, weather, with temperatures that let you spend time outdoors most days.
Changes across December, January, and February are gradual, but the season still follows some clear patterns.
Daytime Highs and Nighttime Lows
Daytime highs in winter usually sit between 14°C (57°F) and 17°C (63°F).
You can walk along the seafront or explore the town without heavy winter clothing. Sunshine is limited compared to summer, but the temperatures stay steady and rarely feel harsh.
Nighttime lows are cooler, typically dropping to 10°C–12°C (50°F–54°F).
You won’t see frost, but evenings can feel chilly with sea breezes. A light jacket or sweater is usually enough.
Heating needs are pretty modest compared to northern Europe.
Homes without central heating can still feel damp and cool at night, so it’s worth keeping that in mind.
Monthly Temperature Variations
December starts the season with average highs near 17°C (63°F) and lows around 12°C (54°F). The sea holds some warmth, which helps keep the air milder.
January is the coldest month, with highs closer to 15°C (59°F) and lows near 10°C (50°F). Even then, the days are mild enough for sightseeing and eating outside if the sun’s out.
February doesn’t change much, with highs around 15°C–16°C (59°F–61°F). Nights stay cool, but the extra daylight hints that spring’s on the way.
Temperature Extremes and Records
Sliema doesn’t really get severe winter extremes. Temperatures rarely drop below 8°C (46°F), and freezing conditions just don’t happen.
Snowfall hasn’t been recorded in modern times, and frost is almost unheard of.
Sometimes, warm spells push daytime highs to 18°C–20°C (64°F–68°F), especially when winds come from North Africa. Those days feel almost spring-like and are always welcome.
Historical records show that temperatures hardly ever pass 21°C (70°F) or drop below 7°C (45°F) in winter.
This narrow range really shows off Malta’s stable Mediterranean climate.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Winter in Sliema brings cooler air, more rain, and higher humidity than the dry summer months. Rainfall isn’t extreme, but it does shape the season’s weather and how you plan your days.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
Rain peaks in Sliema during winter, especially in December, which usually gets the most. On average, you can expect 70–110 mm of rain in December.
January and February bring less, usually 50–80 mm.
Compared to summer, when rain is almost nonexistent, winter totals feel much more significant.
Rain usually comes in short bursts, not long storms. You might get heavy showers and then clear skies all in the same day.
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| December | 70–110 |
| January | 50–80 |
| February | 45–70 |
Most of the yearly rain falls during just a few months, which is pretty typical for a Mediterranean climate.
Number of Rainy Days
Rain in Sliema during winter spreads out across several days, not just a few long events.
December averages 12–13 rainy days, making it the wettest month by frequency.
January usually brings 10–12 days with rain, while February sees about 9–10 days.
Most rainy days don’t last all day. You’ll often get showers that come and go, so you can still plan to be outside.
“Rainy days” means any day with measurable rain, even if it only rains for a short time. That can make the number sound higher than it feels when you’re actually there.
Humidity Levels in Winter
Humidity in Sliema stays pretty high during winter. In January, relative humidity often reaches 75–79%, which is about as high as it gets all year.
February is only a little lower, averaging 73–76%.
The mix of cooler air and higher humidity can make things feel damp, especially at night. Indoors, you might notice condensation on windows or just a heavier feel in the air.
Unlike summer, when humidity and heat combine, winter humidity in Malta feels less oppressive. Still, you’ll notice the moisture, especially when walking along the coast or around town.
Sea Temperatures and Coastal Conditions
During winter in Sliema, Malta, the sea cools off, and coastal conditions change with stronger winds and more rain than in summer.
These shifts affect how the water feels, swimming safety, and what it’s like along the shoreline.
Average Winter Sea Temperatures
From December through February, the sea temperature in Sliema usually sits between 15°C (59°F) and 17°C (63°F).
That’s a big drop from summer, when the water often goes above 25°C (77°F).
The cooler sea keeps most people out of the water unless they wear wetsuits.
Even with the chill, the sea stays clear, and visibility is good.
Divers and snorkelers who don’t mind the cold still get out there, though they don’t stay in as long.
Swimming and Water Activities
Swimming in winter is possible, but not common. The water’s just too cold for most people without a wetsuit.
Locals usually stay out of the sea, but some visitors still brave it with the right gear.
Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing are doable, but you’ll want to prepare for cooler air and wetter weather.
Rain and clouds can make being on the water less appealing.
If you’d rather stay dry, coastal walks and seaside views are more popular in winter.
The Sliema promenade stays busy, offering safe ways to enjoy the sea without getting wet.
Wind Patterns and Effects
Winter brings stronger winds to Sliema than you’ll get in summer.
Average speeds reach 20–28 km/h (12–17 mph), and gusts can go higher during storms.
These winds make for choppier seas, especially along exposed stretches of coast.
Swimming gets riskier with stronger currents and waves, even close to shore.
For sailing and windsurfing, the conditions can be fun if you know what you’re doing and dress for the cold.
Beginners might find the sea too rough.
On land, the wind makes it feel colder, so it’s smart to dress in layers if you’re walking near the coast.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
During winter in Sliema, Malta, you’ll notice shorter days and less sunshine compared to summer.
There’s still enough daylight for sightseeing and outdoor activities, but it’s definitely more limited than in the warm months.
Average Daily Sunshine
In winter, Sliema averages 6 to 8 hours of sunshine per day.
December usually has the least, with around 6 hours.
January and February pick up a bit, closer to 7–8 hours.
That’s less than in summer, when sunshine can go over 12 hours, but it’s still more than you’d get in many northern European cities.
This makes Sliema a brighter choice for winter travel.
Cloud cover is more common in December and January, so sunny days aren’t as consistent.
Still, you’ll find clear skies on plenty of afternoons, especially in February as spring approaches.
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours/Day |
|---|---|
| December | ~6 hours |
| January | ~7 hours |
| February | ~7–8 hours |
Day Length Changes Through Winter
Day length in Sliema shifts bit by bit during the winter. In December, you get about 9.8 hours of daylight on the shortest days. By late February, that stretches out to nearly 11.2 hours.
So, you actually gain over an hour of usable daylight from the start to the end of winter. The sun comes up around 7:00 AM in December, but by February, it’s closer to 6:40 AM. Sunset moves too, from about 5:00 PM in December to around 6:00 PM by February.
If you want to plan outdoor activities, these changes really matter. Shorter days in December limit what you can do in the evenings. By February, longer daylight gives you more options for sightseeing, strolling along the Sliema promenade, or heading out for day trips around Malta.
How Winter Weather Impacts Life in Sliema
Mild winter temperatures, shorter days, and frequent rain showers shape how you spend time in Sliema. Cooler weather means you probably won’t hit the beach much, but it does open up chances for cultural events, seaside walks, or just soaking in the town’s slower pace.
Outdoor Activities and Tourism
In Sliema, winter highs usually sit between 60–65°F (15–18°C). Evenings get cooler, dropping close to 50°F (10°C). Swimming isn’t really on the table, but the waterfront promenade stays inviting, and it’s much less crowded than in summer.
You’ll spot more people walking, jogging, or cycling along the coast instead of sunbathing. December and January bring more rain, so tossing a light waterproof jacket in your bag is a smart move. Even with the extra showers, the sea views stay clear on a lot of days, which is great if you like photography.
Tourism doesn’t stop, but it definitely slows down. Hotels and restaurants stay open, but you see fewer crowds than during peak season. That makes it easier to book a room at a lower price and enjoy a quieter experience. If you’re more into sightseeing than beach days, winter might actually be the best time for you.
Local Events and Seasonal Attractions
When winter rolls into Sliema, people shift their attention from beaches to cultural and community happenings. Christmas markets pop up, and the streets get a festive makeover with decorations. Churches host special events throughout December.
If you’re up for a change of scenery, hop over to Valletta. It’s just a quick ferry or bus ride away, and you’ll find seasonal concerts and exhibitions there.
More folks start gathering inside local cafes and restaurants. You might want to try some Maltese comfort food, like rabbit stew or pastizzi. On those chilly, rainy evenings, these dishes really hit the spot.
Shopping takes center stage, too. Sliema’s commercial center gets lively with winter sales, and the indoor malls offer a warm escape from the wind.
You won’t find as many outdoor festivals, but Sliema’s location makes it easy to reach Malta’s historic sites. Without the summer crowds or heat, winter feels like a smart time for cultural exploration.