Malta comes to life in May

Why Malta?

With around 9-10 hours of sunshine each day during May, and a 70% chance of a perfect sunny day, this is an ideal month to visit Malta. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and the waters warm and inviting for swimming.? The cooler evenings make it ideal for leisurely strolling, and for enjoying the many festivals that take place this month.

Why Malta in May?

May is the perfect time to explore Malta’s capital city, which is best seen on foot.? Valletta is a fortified city located on a hilly peninsula between two of the finest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, Marsamxett Harbour to the west and the Grand Harbour to the east. The city is recognised by UNESCO World Heritage Convention as a World Heritage Site, and a city of ‘Outstanding Universal Value’, and had the honour of being the European Capital of Culture 2018. Valletta has 320 monuments, all within an area of 0.55 square kilometres (0.21 sq mi), making it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.

Things to Do in Valletta in May

Valletta Green Festival 3 – 12 May 2024

The Valletta Green Festival is an annual photographers’ delight. St. George’s Square, in front of the President’s Palace, is adorned with more than 80,000 seasonal flowering plants, creating a carpet of breath-taking colour laid out in an intricate design. This spectacular festival is held every spring, and inspires residents to adorn their own houses and gardens with flowers, colouring Malta beautifully!

Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience – until 14 June 2024

Held at the Oratory inside the historic St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta Resounds strings together Caravaggio masterpieces with theatrical storytelling & timeless classical music. Critically acclaimed Maltese musicians under the musical direction of Jacob Portelli are at the helm of the site-specific performance. The 40-minute concert starts at 18:30 with exclusive access to the Cathedral at 18:00 and can be accessed from main door in St John Street.? Bookings strongly recommended.

Why not make a day of it, in Valletta?

From the City Gate, take a stroll down Republic Street to Fort St. Elmo. Marvel at photogenic old stone buildings housing restaurants, shops, homes, offices, and the city's main attractions.

Include a visit to Valletta's Toy Museum, displaying toys, dolls, and playthings from all ages, appealing to both young and old alike.

It is impossible to miss Valletta Waterfront, which is a hive of activity for cruise liners, residents and visitors alike.?

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Village Feasts Throughout Malta this Month

Malta Village Feasts are a delightful way to showcase the richness of the island, featuring a variety of religious customs and lively celebrations. ??All villages celebrate their patron saints with a village feast, processions, vibrant colours, band marches, and splendid fireworks. The key ones for May are as follows – but do check dates and locations when you arrive, to avoid missing any of the action!

1st - St. Joseph the Worker, Birkirkara - Public Holiday

3rd - The Holy Cross, Birkirkara

9th - St. George Preca, Swatar

19th - St. Anthony, Birkirkara

22nd - Saint Rita, Valletta

26th - The Annunciation, Tarxien

26th - Holy Trinity, Marsa

26th - St. Paul's Shipwreck, Munxar, Gozo

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These are just a few of the ideas to fill your days when you visit Malta during the month of May.? For more ideas, programmes tailored to your personal preference or tours and activities that are not generally available via Google, be sure to talk to our knowledgeable team at Rigo Malta DMC before you arrive on the island!