Valletta Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Generally Safe

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is generally considered one of the safest destinations in the Mediterranean and Europe. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, the city maintains high standards of public safety with a visible police presence, well-lit streets, and a low violent crime rate. The compact nature of the fortified city makes it easy to navigate and relatively secure for travelers at most times of day. However, like any popular tourist destination, Valletta experiences petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly in crowded areas and during peak tourist season. The city's historic architecture includes steep streets, narrow alleys, and numerous staircases which can pose physical hazards, especially for those with mobility issues. The summer heat can also be intense, requiring appropriate precautions. Visitors should exercise normal safety precautions and remain aware of their surroundings, particularly in tourist hotspots. The local population is generally welcoming to tourists, English is widely spoken as an official language alongside Maltese, and Malta's EU membership means healthcare standards are high and accessible to European visitors.

Valletta is a very safe destination where standard travel precautions are sufficient for most visitors.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police

112 or 191

112 is the pan-European emergency number that works throughout Malta; 191 is the direct police line

Ambulance

112 or 196

Emergency medical services are efficient; specify your exact location in Valletta as street names can be confusing

Fire

112 or 199

Fire services respond quickly in the compact city center

Tourist Police

+356 2291 4444

Valletta Police Station located on St. Ursula Street; officers typically speak English and can assist with tourist-related incidents

Mater Dei Hospital

+356 2545 0000

Malta's main public hospital, located just outside Valletta in Msida; 24/7 emergency department

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Valletta.

Healthcare System

Malta has a high-quality public healthcare system that is free at point of use for EU/EEA citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare is also widely available and of excellent standard. As an EU member state, Malta adheres to European healthcare standards.

Hospitals

Mater Dei Hospital in nearby Msida is the main facility serving Valletta. For minor issues, there are several health centers and private clinics in and around Valletta. St. James Hospital also provides services. Private clinics offer faster service with English-speaking doctors.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (identified by green cross signs) are common throughout Valletta and Malta. Many medications available by prescription elsewhere can be purchased over the counter. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can provide advice for minor ailments. Operating hours are typically 9am-7pm weekdays, with some offering extended hours and Sunday service on rotation.

Insurance

EU/EEA citizens should bring their EHIC card for free or reduced-cost healthcare. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to cover repatriation, private treatment, and non-emergency care. Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance as they will be charged for medical services.

Healthcare Tips

Keep your EHIC card or insurance details with you at all times
Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications as specific brands may not be available
Stay hydrated during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F)
Sunscreen and sun protection are essential; the Mediterranean sun is intense, especially when reflected off Valletta's limestone buildings
Private clinics are affordable and offer faster service than public facilities for non-emergencies

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft and Pickpocketing

Low to Medium Risk

Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur primarily during peak tourist season (June-September) in crowded areas. Incidents are relatively infrequent compared to other European capitals but do occur.

Keep valuables in front pockets or concealed bags, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, use hotel safes for passports and excess cash, remain vigilant in crowded tourist areas and on public transport

Heat-Related Illness

Medium (Summer) Risk

Summer temperatures (June-September) frequently exceed 30°C (86°F) with high humidity. Heat exhaustion and sunstroke are real risks, especially when climbing Valletta's steep streets and stairs.

Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and hats, take breaks in shaded areas, avoid strenuous activity during midday hours (12pm-4pm), wear light, breathable clothing

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Medium Risk

Valletta's historic limestone streets can be extremely slippery when wet, and the city features numerous steep staircases and uneven surfaces. This poses risks especially for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues.

Wear appropriate footwear with good grip (avoid high heels and smooth-soled shoes), use handrails on stairs, exercise caution after rain, consider using the public lift systems to avoid steep streets

Swimming and Water Safety

Low to Medium Risk

While Valletta itself has limited swimming areas, nearby beaches and swimming spots can have strong currents, rocky entries, and jellyfish during certain periods.

Only swim in designated areas, check for warning flags, wear water shoes on rocky beaches, be aware of jellyfish season (typically July-August), never swim alone or while intoxicated

Traffic and Road Safety

Low Risk

Valletta's center is largely pedestrianized, but some streets allow vehicles. Drivers can be aggressive by some standards, and roads are narrow. Malta drives on the left side of the road.

Look right when crossing streets, use designated crossings, be aware that vehicles have priority in most situations, exercise extra caution if renting a vehicle

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Restaurant Bill Padding

Some tourist-oriented restaurants may add items you didn't order to your bill, charge for bread or cover charges without mentioning them, or inflate prices. This is relatively uncommon but does occur.

Check menus for prices before ordering, ask about cover charges and service charges upfront, review your bill carefully before paying, keep the menu to verify prices

Unofficial Tour Guides

Individuals may approach tourists offering unofficial guided tours at seemingly good prices but provide poor quality information or pressure for tips and additional payments.

Book tours through reputable companies or the official tourist office, verify guide credentials, agree on prices in advance, be wary of unsolicited approaches

Overpriced Taxis

Some taxi drivers may not use meters, quote inflated flat rates to tourists, or take longer routes. While regulated, this can still occur with unlicensed operators.

Use official white taxis, agree on price before starting journey, use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or eCabs, ask your hotel for approximate fare estimates, keep small bills to avoid change-making issues

Fake Designer Goods

Street vendors may sell counterfeit designer goods. While less common in Valletta than other Mediterranean cities, it does occur occasionally.

Purchase from established shops, be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, remember that buying counterfeit goods may be illegal

Currency Exchange Scams

Some exchange bureaus offer poor rates or charge high commissions not clearly advertised. This is less of an issue since Malta uses the Euro.

Use ATMs for best rates, check exchange rates and commissions before proceeding, use bank-affiliated exchange services, avoid exchanging large amounts at hotels or tourist areas

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) separate from originals
Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
Learn a few basic Maltese phrases, though English is widely spoken
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
Be aware that Valletta essentially empties after business hours on weekdays; it's safe but can feel deserted

Money and Valuables

Use hotel safes for passports and excess cash
Carry only what you need for the day
Keep cards and cash in different locations
Be discreet when using ATMs; use machines inside banks when possible
Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
Malta uses the Euro; credit cards are widely accepted

Navigation and Getting Around

Download offline maps as some narrow streets have poor mobile signal
Wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes; avoid heels on limestone streets
Use the public lifts (Barrakka Lift, etc.) to avoid steep climbs in heat
Public buses are safe and affordable; validate tickets on board
Valletta is highly walkable but very hilly; plan routes accordingly
Streets are well-lit at night in the main areas

Food and Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Malta, though it may taste of chlorine
Food safety standards are high; food poisoning is rare
Be cautious of seafood in very hot weather
Check restaurant reviews online before dining
Most restaurants cater to various dietary requirements; staff speak English

Cultural Awareness

Malta is predominantly Catholic; dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees)
Remove hats when entering churches
Photography is generally allowed but be respectful in religious sites
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is standard for good service
Maltese people are generally friendly and helpful to tourists
English is an official language; most signs and menus are in English

Accommodation Safety

Book accommodation through reputable platforms
Check that buildings have proper fire exits; many are in historic buildings
Verify that air conditioning works before booking for summer visits
Be aware that many buildings lack elevators; confirm if mobility is a concern
Keep windows closed and locked when leaving your room
Note the location of your accommodation carefully; Valletta's streets can be confusing

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Malta is very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The crime rate is low, and harassment is relatively uncommon. Maltese society is conservative in some respects but welcoming to tourists. Women can move around freely, though normal precautions should be observed.

Solo female travelers report feeling very safe in Valletta; harassment is rare
Catcalling is uncommon but can occur; it's generally not threatening
Dress as you would in any European city; modest dress is only required in churches
Walking alone at night in main areas is generally safe; stick to well-lit streets
Taxis and public transport are safe at all hours
Local women are approachable if you need assistance
Solo dining is completely normal and comfortable
Be aware that some traditional Maltese men may try to be overly helpful; it's usually genuine but trust your instincts
Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if desired
Emergency services are responsive and police take reports seriously

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Malta has some of the most progressive LGBTQ+ rights in Europe and the world. Same-sex marriage is legal (since 2017), discrimination is illegal, and the country has strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Malta consistently ranks as one of the best countries in Europe for LGBTQ+ rights.

Malta Pride is held annually in September in Valletta and is well-attended
LGBTQ+ travelers report feeling safe and welcome throughout Malta
Gay-friendly bars and venues exist primarily in Paceville (St. Julian's), near Valletta
Hotels and tourism businesses are generally LGBTQ+ friendly
Public displays of affection are protected by law but use judgment in very traditional areas
The LGBTQ+ scene is small but welcoming; Malta is more progressive than many expect
Legal protections are strong if any discrimination occurs
Transgender rights are also protected; gender marker changes are possible
Most locals in Valletta are accustomed to diverse visitors
Online resources and apps can help connect with local LGBTQ+ community

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Valletta. While Malta has excellent healthcare, EU/EEA visitors should supplement their EHIC with insurance for repatriation and non-emergency care. Non-EU visitors must have comprehensive coverage as medical care can be expensive. The historic nature of Valletta's buildings and streets also increases risk of accidents.

Medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation/repatriation Trip cancellation and interruption coverage Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items Personal liability coverage Coverage for adventure activities if planning diving, water sports, or boat trips 24/7 emergency assistance hotline Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions if applicable Dental emergency coverage Coverage for delays and missed connections (particularly relevant for island destination)

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