Winter in Valletta feels pretty mild compared to most of Europe. It’s honestly a great escape when you want to dodge the chill elsewhere.
Daytime temperatures usually hover around 15°C (59°F). Nights rarely dip below 9°C (48°F). You’ll get cooler air and more rain, but it’s still comfortable enough for walking around and seeing the sights.
Rainfall hits its peak in December and January, so you’ll want to pack for some wet days. Valletta still gets several hours of daylight, though the sun doesn’t stick around as long as in summer.
The sea cools off to its lowest point, but those coastal views? Still worth it, even if you’re not swimming.
You’ll notice this mix of mild temperatures, occasional rain, and breezy days really shapes Valletta’s winter vibe. If you know what to expect, it’s easy to prep for both relaxed walks and indoor adventures.
Overview of Valletta’s Winter Climate
Valletta sits right in the heart of the Mediterranean, and that shapes its winters. You’ll find mild temperatures compared to northern Europe, but this is also when the rain shows up most and days get shorter.
The weather stays comfortable for outdoor stuff, but you’ll want to expect some wet days and chillier evenings.
Mediterranean Influences on Winter Weather
Valletta’s winter weather fits the classic Mediterranean climate. From December to February, daytime highs usually fall between 15°C and 17°C (59°F to 63°F), while nighttime lows hang around 9°C to 11°C (48°F to 52°F).
You almost never see frost or anything close to freezing.
Rain comes most often during this season. December is the wettest, with about 110–112 mm of rain spread over 12–13 days. January and February stay damp but aren’t quite as wet.
Showers usually arrive in quick bursts, not long storms.
Daylight drops back, averaging 5 to 10 hours of sun a day. December feels the shortest. Sea breezes can make evenings feel colder than you’d guess from the numbers.
The sea temperature falls to about 15°C to 16°C (59°F to 61°F). That’s chilly for swimming, but still warmer than plenty of other European coasts.
How Valletta Compares to Other European Cities
If you compare Valletta’s winter to cities like London or Paris, it’s a different world. Over there, average highs in January often sit around 7°C (45°F), and Berlin can get close to 0°C (32°F).
Valletta stays almost twice as warm.
Snow is pretty much unheard of in Malta. Instead, you’ll deal with rain and wind, which means you can get around without bundling up in heavy coats.
Daylight is another plus. Valletta sees about 9–10 hours of daylight during midwinter. Cities further north might only get 7–8 hours. That extra light really helps if you want to explore.
For anyone looking to escape harsh European winters, Valletta offers moderate temperatures, manageable rain, and a laid-back winter mood.
Average Winter Temperatures in Valletta
Valletta’s winters are mild, especially if you’re used to northern Europe. Daytime highs rarely fall below 15°C, and nights usually stay above 9°C.
You’ll see more rain, but it doesn’t get cold enough to keep you inside.
Monthly Temperature Breakdown
From December to February, Valletta’s temperatures barely budge. December averages about 16°C (61°F) during the day and 11°C (52°F) at night.
January is the coldest, with highs near 15°C (59°F) and lows around 9°C (48°F).
By February, things warm up a bit. Highs hit about 15–16°C (59–61°F), and lows reach 9–10°C (48–50°F). Spring isn’t far off.
There’s not much variation, so you don’t get big drops or harsh cold spells. Valletta just keeps things steady and mild.
| Month | Avg High °C | Avg Low °C |
|---|---|---|
| December | 16 | 11 |
| January | 15 | 9 |
| February | 16 | 9–10 |
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime in Valletta during winter feels cool but not cold. Highs stick between 15–16°C, so a light jacket usually does the trick.
You get around 5–6 hours of sun most days, so it’s often nice enough to be outside.
At night, things cool down but stay well above freezing. Lows hover around 9–11°C. That’s pretty mild for a European capital.
Evenings are good for indoor dinners or a walk along the water if you’ve got a sweater or coat.
Day and night temperatures only differ by about 5–6°C. You won’t need to pack heavy winter gear—just a few layers will do.
Historical Extremes and Variability
Valletta’s winter weather is stable, but sometimes you get a surprise. The coldest it’s gotten is just below 5°C (41°F), but freezing basically never happens.
Snow? Not in modern times.
On the flip side, sunny spells can push daytime highs to 20°C (68°F), especially in December or February. That’s rare, but it happens.
Rain varies more than temperature. Some winters are pretty wet, with over 100 mm in a month, while others are much drier. Still, the temperatures don’t swing much, so you know what you’re getting.
Rainfall and Humidity During Winter
Winter in Valletta means cooler air and more rain than the rest of the year. Between December and February, showers show up more often, and humidity stays high because of the sea.
Monthly Rainfall Patterns
Rain falls more often in winter than any other season. December is the wettest month, with totals around 110–112 mm over about 13 rainy days.
That’s the peak of the wet season.
January drops a little, averaging 85–90 mm of rain with about 12–13 days of showers. The rain can be heavy but usually doesn’t last long.
By February, rainfall falls off to around 60–70 mm. Rainy days drop to 9–10 as well. You can feel spring coming.
Most rain comes as quick bursts or scattered showers, not all-day storms. Even on rainy days, you’ll often get breaks of sunshine, so it’s not a total washout.
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| December | 110–112 | 13 |
| January | 85–90 | 12–13 |
| February | 60–70 | 9–10 |
Humidity Levels and Seasonal Changes
Humidity in Valletta during winter stays pretty high—usually between 70% and 80%. The sea keeps things damp, especially in the mornings when breezes blow in.
Unlike summer, winter humidity doesn’t feel sticky since the air is cooler. Highs stay near 15–16°C in January, creeping up a bit in February.
Evenings might feel colder than the numbers suggest, thanks to the damp air and wind. If you’re planning a walk by the harbor, bring a light jacket.
Humidity drops a little by late February, and skies clear up as spring approaches. It’s definitely easier to sightsee outside when the air dries out a bit.
Wind, Sunshine, and Cloud Cover in Winter
Winter in Valletta brings steady breezes, a decent amount of sun, and a mix of clear and cloudy skies. Weather can change from week to week, but it’s still a lot milder than most of Europe.
Average Wind Speeds and Directions
Winds pick up in winter compared to summer. You’ll often feel breezes in the 10 to 15 mph (16–24 km/h) range, and gusts can be stronger along the coast.
Most winds blow from the northwest and west, bringing cooler air. Sometimes, winds swing around from the northeast, making things damper and the sea rougher.
Valletta’s spot on a peninsula means you’ll notice breezes more near the harbor. Inland, it’s a bit calmer, but rarely totally still.
If you’re sailing or just walking by the water, keep the wind in mind. It won’t usually mess up your plans, but it can make the air feel chillier.
Typical Sunshine Hours
Even in winter, Valletta gets more sun than lots of other European cities. You’ll see 5 to 6 hours of sunshine a day on average.
December and January have the shortest days, with daylight lasting 9.5 to 10 hours. By February, you get closer to 11 hours—not bad.
Sunny days usually show up between weather systems, so you might get a stretch of bright days followed by some clouds.
The sun sits lower in the sky, so the light feels softer. If you find a sheltered spot, you can still enjoy sitting outside in the afternoon.
Cloud Cover Trends
Cloud cover in Valletta is pretty variable but doesn’t take over the season. Skies are partly cloudy to mostly clear about half the time.
December brings more clouds and unsettled weather. January and February bounce between clear and overcast, though you don’t see endless gray days.
Showers come with clouds but usually pass quickly. Afterward, the sky often clears up again.
If you like blue skies, late winter gives you better odds. That’s part of what makes Valletta’s winter so appealing—more light, less gloom.
Travel Considerations for Winter Visitors
If you’re planning a winter trip to Valletta, get ready for mild but sometimes wet weather, easy airport access, and simple ways to get around the city.
Packing smart and knowing what to expect with transport will make your trip smoother.
What to Pack for Valletta in Winter
Valletta’s winter stays mild, with days around 14–15°C and evenings dipping closer to 10°C. Rain is more common in December and January, so you’ll want to be ready for both sun and showers.
Bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, and pack an umbrella or small raincoat for sudden downpours. You’ll want comfy walking shoes because Valletta’s streets are hilly and made of stone.
Pack layers so you can adjust as the day goes on. A couple of long-sleeve shirts, a warm pullover, and a scarf should cover you. Sunglasses are still handy since the sun shines pretty often, even in winter.
If you’re planning to eat out or visit museums, toss in something a bit dressier—many places keep things smart-casual.
Getting to Valletta: Malta International Airport
Malta International Airport (MLA) is the only airport in the country, about 8 kilometers from Valletta. The drive takes about 20–25 minutes, which is nice when the days are shorter.
The airport connects Malta with major European cities through direct flights. Even in winter, airlines keep regular schedules, though you might see fewer flights than in summer.
When you land, you’ll find car rentals, taxis, and ride-hailing options. Taxis have fixed rates to Valletta. If you’d rather take the bus, you can, but it takes longer because of all the stops.
Local Transportation and Accessibility
Once you arrive in Valletta, you’ll find it easy to explore most of the city on foot. The historic center feels compact, but you should expect steep streets and stone stairways. Bring comfortable shoes—trust me, your feet will thank you.
If you want to travel farther across Malta, you’ll probably end up using the public bus system. It’s affordable, works pretty well, and connects Valletta to other towns and beaches. Buses leave from the main terminal right outside the city gates.
You’ll spot taxis and ride-hailing apps around, but they cost more than the bus. Some people rent a car for extra freedom, though parking in Valletta is tough, and traffic gets heavy during busy hours.
Looking for something more scenic? Try the ferries that connect Valletta with nearby cities like Sliema and the Three Cities. These short rides give you both convenience and some great views of the harbor.
Winter Activities and Attractions in Valletta
Valletta’s mild winter weather means you can enjoy outdoor and indoor experiences without bundling up too much. Wander through historic streets, visit cultural landmarks, and sample local food in a laid-back atmosphere.
Outdoor Sightseeing and Walking Tours
Valletta’s winter temperatures usually sit between 10 and 15°C, so walking around feels pretty comfortable. Take a stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.
With fewer crowds in winter, you can slow down and really take in the city’s landmarks. Historic sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace stay open all year. Walking tours often show off Valletta’s Baroque architecture and those narrow, limestone-lined streets.
If you’re up for a longer walk, the Valletta waterfront is a lovely route. You’ll spot traditional Maltese balconies and old fortifications along the way. Sometimes you’ll get a light rain shower, but it usually passes quickly. Just toss a small umbrella or light jacket in your bag and you’ll be fine.
Cultural Events and Indoor Experiences
Winter’s a great time to check out Valletta’s museums and cultural spots. At the National Museum of Archaeology, you can discover Malta’s prehistoric temples. The MUŻA art museum offers a mix of local and European art in a cool historic building.
You might catch a performance at the Manoel Theatre, which happens to be one of the oldest working theaters in Europe. Winter programs often bring classical concerts, opera, and plays to the stage.
Valletta’s churches, like St. Paul’s Shipwreck Church, give you shelter from the weather and a peek into Malta’s religious history. Indoor attractions are perfect when you want to dodge a quick rain shower or just warm up for a bit.
Dining and Local Cuisine in Winter
Valletta’s restaurants and cafes keep their doors open all year, so you’ll always find a cozy spot to unwind. In winter, you’ll notice menus featuring rabbit stew (fenkata), flaky pastizzi stuffed with cheese or peas, and warming bowls of minestra.
You can still get fresh seafood even when it’s chilly, so don’t miss dishes with lampuki or calamari. Eateries on Republic Street and down by the Valletta waterfront usually offer indoor tables, and some have covered outdoor spots too.
Locals love pairing Maltese wines with their meals, and honestly, it’s a combo worth trying. Sure, it’s winter, but you’ll probably catch a few sunny days—outdoor café culture doesn’t really take a break here.