When you picture winter in Europe, you probably imagine snow and freezing temperatures. Valletta, Malta feels nothing like that. Winters here stay mild, with daytime temperatures usually around 15°C (59°F), and nights rarely falling below 10°C (50°F). The city becomes a cozy escape from those harsher northern chills.
You’ll notice more rain than in summer, but storms don’t last long and the sky usually clears up fast. Sunshine breaks through for several hours each day, so you still get plenty of time to wander historic streets, take in the coastal views, or relax at outdoor cafés—without the summer crowds.
The pace in Valletta slows down during winter. Cooler air, fewer tourists, and a laid-back vibe make it easy to enjoy museums, churches, and waterfront walks. If you’re wondering what to pack, how much rain to expect, or which activities to try, you’ll find the next sections helpful.
Overview of Valletta’s Winter Climate
Valletta’s winters stay mild compared to most of Europe. You’ll get cooler temperatures, more rain, and shorter days, but the weather feels comfortable for sightseeing. Wet days and chilly sea temperatures do show up, though.
Mediterranean Location and Influence
Valletta sits right in the central Mediterranean, and that really shapes its winter weather. The sea keeps temperatures higher than you’d find in inland cities at the same latitude.
Average daytime highs hover around 15–16°C (59–61°F), while nights dip to about 9–11°C (48–52°F). Frost and snow almost never happen here.
Rain falls mostly in winter. December and January usually bring 10–13 rainy days, adding up to 80–112 mm per month. Even then, you’ll still enjoy 5–6 hours of sunshine daily—way more than you’d get in northern Europe.
Sea temperatures cool down to about 15–16°C (59–61°F) in February, so swimming feels pretty chilly. Still, the mild air and clear days make walking tours, outdoor cafés, and exploring the city’s historic streets very pleasant.
Comparison to Other European Cities
If you compare Valletta’s winter to places like Berlin, Paris, or Vienna, the difference stands out. In those cities, winter highs often stick around 0–5°C (32–41°F), with lots of frost and not much daylight.
In Valletta, you skip freezing temperatures altogether. Even in January, the coldest month, daytime averages reach 15°C (59°F). Nights cool off but never get close to freezing.
Sunlight is another big difference. Valletta gets 9–10 hours of daylight in December and January, while northern cities might struggle to see 8 hours. That extra light makes the city feel brighter and more open, even in winter.
Rain does show up more often in Valletta than in some northern capitals, but it usually comes as brief showers, not all-day storms. You’ll see the sun peek through between the wet spells.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Winter in Valletta runs from December through February. December usually brings the most rain, peaking around 112 mm. January stays wet but dries out a bit, and February starts to feel like spring, with longer days and less rain.
Temperatures barely change through the season. Highs range from 15–16°C, and lows hover near 9–10°C. A light jacket and raincoat work well; you won’t need heavy winter gear.
Winds pick up, especially from the north and northwest. These breezes can make it feel chillier, but they also keep the air fresh.
By late February, you’ll see about 11 hours of sunshine a day, hinting at the warmer months ahead. This slow shift means winter stays comfortable, just a bit wetter, and you get to experience Valletta without the summer crowds.
Average Winter Temperatures in Valletta
Valletta’s winters feel mild compared to much of Europe. You’ll get cool but comfortable days, chillier nights, and only the occasional dip into colder weather.
Typical Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During winter, daytime highs in Valletta usually reach 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F). That’s warm enough to walk around the city without bundling up.
At night, temperatures fall to around 9°C to 11°C (48°F to 52°F). It’s not freezing, but evenings feel cooler, especially with the sea breeze. A light jacket or sweater does the trick.
Frost almost never happens here. The sea keeps nights from getting too cold, so you won’t wake up to harsh cold snaps.
Monthly Temperature Breakdown
December brings highs near 16°C (61°F) and lows around 11°C (52°F). Rain picks up, but temperatures stay steady.
January is the coldest month, with highs at 15°C (59°F) and lows near 9°C (48°F). It’s cooler, but still much milder than northern Europe.
February warms up a little, with daytime highs around 16°C (61°F) and lows about 9°C to 10°C (49°F–50°F). Days get longer, so you have more time to explore.
You’ll notice the weather stays pretty consistent from week to week.
Temperature Extremes and Variability
Extreme cold just doesn’t happen in Valletta. Temperatures almost never fall below 5°C (41°F), even on the coldest nights. Snow is basically unheard of, and frost is super rare.
Sometimes, winter days warm up to 18°C to 20°C (64°F to 68°F), especially if the sun’s out. These brief warm spells pop up more in February.
Since Valletta sits by the sea, temperatures stay stable. You won’t deal with sudden drops or spikes like you might inland. The main changes come from wind and humidity, which can make evenings feel a bit cooler than the numbers suggest.
Rainfall and Humidity During Winter
Valletta gets its wettest weather in winter, with frequent showers and higher humidity than the dry summer months. Temperatures stay mild, but the damp air and cloudy skies can make it feel cooler than the thermometer says.
Average Rainfall by Month
Rain falls most often from November to January. December is usually the wettest month, with 110–112 mm of rain over about 13 days. November is similar, and January sees a bit less at 85–90 mm.
Showers tend to be brief, not long and steady. You’ll often get a mix of rain and sun in the same day.
| Month | Average Rainfall | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| November | ~110 mm | ~13 days |
| December | ~112 mm | ~13 days |
| January | ~89 mm | ~13 days |
So, you should expect rain on roughly a third of winter days.
Humidity Levels and Comfort
Humidity in Valletta during winter usually sits between 65% and 80%, depending on the day. The sea keeps moisture levels high, even when it’s not raining.
You might notice the air feels damp, especially indoors if there’s not much ventilation. Still, the mild temperatures mean the humidity doesn’t get too uncomfortable. Unlike summer, where heat and humidity combine, winter’s cooler air makes it more bearable.
If you spend time outside, you’ll feel the humidity most in the mornings and evenings, when the air cools and moisture collects.
Rainfall Patterns and Duration
Winter rain in Valletta usually comes as short, sharp showers instead of long downpours. Showers can be heavy but pass quickly, leaving blue skies behind. That’s pretty typical for a Mediterranean climate, where weather systems move on fast.
You’ll probably deal with frequent interruptions instead of all-day rain. A light waterproof jacket or umbrella is usually enough.
Most showers last less than an hour, though stormy days can bring several rounds of rain. That means you’ll often find dry spells for sightseeing, even in the wettest months.
Wind, Sunshine, and Cloud Cover
Winter in Valletta brings mild but noticeable winds, shorter days, and a mix of clear and cloudy skies. These things affect how it feels outside and which activities work best.
Prevailing Winter Winds
You’ll notice winds more often in winter than in summer. Valletta’s spot in the central Mediterranean exposes it to air flows from both Europe and North Africa.
The northwesterly Mistral and the northeasterly Gregale show up most often. These winds bring cooler air and sometimes unsettled weather. The Gregale is famous for strong gusts that rough up the seas.
Average wind speeds in winter range from 15 to 25 km/h. Gusts can get stronger during storms. You’ll feel breezy days, especially along the coast or in open spaces.
Sometimes, high pressure brings calm spells. On those days, the air feels still and the sea stays calm.
Average Sunshine Hours
Winter days are shorter in Valletta, but you still get more daylight than in northern Europe. December averages about 9.7 hours of daylight, and by February you’ll see over 11 hours.
Actual sunshine is less than daylight hours because of cloud cover. You can expect about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine per day in winter. Even on cloudy days, you’ll usually find some clear breaks.
February usually brings the sunniest winter days, with more clear skies and longer daylight. December and January have fewer bright hours.
If you want the best chance at sunshine, try heading out mid-morning to early afternoon. That’s a good window for sightseeing, walking tours, or grabbing a seat outside at a café.
Cloudiness and Clear Days
Cloud cover in Valletta’s winter changes a lot. Some days are mostly clear, while others bring passing clouds and quick showers.
On average, you’ll see 13 to 15 clear or mostly sunny days per month during winter. The rest are partly cloudy or overcast. December tends to be cloudier, while February gives you more bright days.
Rain usually comes with overcast skies, but showers don’t last long. After a rain, the sky often clears quickly.
If you like photography or long walks, you’ll appreciate how the mix of clouds and sun creates nice lighting and comfortable weather for most of the season.
Travel Tips for Visiting Valletta in Winter
Winter in Valletta means mild temperatures, more frequent rain, and shorter days. You’ll want to prepare for cooler evenings, plan how you’ll get around, and know what to expect when you land at Malta International Airport.
What to Pack for the Weather
Daytime highs in Valletta during winter usually stay between 15°C and 17°C (59°F–63°F), while nights can drop close to 9°C (48°F). Rain is common from November through January, with many days seeing light or moderate showers.
Bring a waterproof jacket and an umbrella. A light sweater or fleece works for layering, especially in the evenings when it feels cooler near the sea. Comfortable shoes with good grip help, since the city’s stone streets get slippery when wet.
You won’t need heavy winter gear, but a scarf and light hat come in handy on windy days. If you’re planning to explore outside the city—maybe coastal walks or countryside trips—bring sturdier shoes and a warmer outer layer.
Getting Around Valletta
Valletta feels compact, so you’ll find most main attractions just a short walk away. The streets get pretty hilly, so I’d definitely recommend shoes that can handle uneven ground.
Walking’s really the best way to soak in the historic center. Still, you’ve got a few other options if you want to branch out.
Public buses connect Valletta with the rest of Malta, including Mdina, Sliema, and the airport. Buses usually run on time, but wet weather and traffic sometimes throw off the schedule.
If you plan to hop around a lot, grab a weekly bus pass—it’ll save you some hassle.
For quick trips across the harbor, jump on one of the small ferries linking Valletta with Sliema and the Three Cities. Ferries are cheap and often faster than buses.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are always around, but expect to pay more for the convenience.
Malta International Airport Arrivals
Malta International Airport sits about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Valletta. That makes transfers pretty straightforward.
Flights in winter are usually less packed than during summer. Still, storms or strong winds occasionally cause delays.
You can reach Valletta by airport shuttle, taxi, or public bus. The bus is the cheapest option and usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
Taxis and ride-hailing cars get you there faster, often in under 20 minutes.
Inside the airport, you’ll spot ATMs, currency exchange counters, and car rental desks. If you want to drive yourself, keep in mind that parking in Valletta is tight. Most visitors end up using public transport or just walking once they arrive.
Winter Activities and Attractions in Valletta
Valletta’s mild winter weather makes it easy to enjoy both outdoor walks and indoor cultural visits. You can explore historic sites without freezing, and there’s always a cozy spot to eat or relax when the rain lets up.
Outdoor Sightseeing Opportunities
You can wander Valletta’s narrow streets without bundling up in heavy winter gear. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 14–15°C, so sightseeing stays comfortable.
A light jacket is usually enough, even in January.
The Upper Barrakka Gardens give you sweeping views of the Grand Harbour. On clear days, you’ll get some of the best photos in the city.
If you’re into walking, the waterfront promenade lets you check out harborside cafes and historic fortifications. Rain showers don’t last long, so you can often get back outside soon after they pass.
Guided walking tours are still popular in winter. Smaller crowds make it easier to explore landmarks like the City Gate, Republic Street, and the Fort St. Elmo area.
Indoor Attractions and Cultural Sites
When rain rolls in, Valletta’s museums and churches are a great bet. The St. John’s Co-Cathedral draws a lot of visitors for its stunning baroque interior.
The National Museum of Archaeology walks you through Malta’s prehistoric history. Exhibits are laid out in a way that makes exploring them pretty straightforward.
You can also check out the Grandmaster’s Palace, home to state rooms and an armory. These spots stay open year-round and give you a comfortable place to spend cooler or wetter days.
If you love music or theater, the Manoel Theatre is one of Europe’s oldest working theaters. Winter shows often include classical concerts and plays, so you’ve got another reason to stay indoors and enjoy Valletta’s culture.
Dining and Local Experiences
Cafes and restaurants in Valletta stay open during the winter. You can try Maltese specialties like rabbit stew or pastizzi in a cozy spot, even when it gets chilly outside.
Seafood places along the waterfront serve up fresh catches, and most have indoor tables with a pretty decent view of the harbor.
If you’re after something more laid-back, just pop into a tiny bakery or a coffee shop hidden on a side street. These spots are perfect for a quick break while you wander around.
Markets keep buzzing through winter too. Local stalls sell seasonal fruit, cheeses, and wines, so you can taste the region’s flavors without battling summer crowds.