Malta, a small archipelago in the Mediterranean, punches above its weight in tourism.
In 2024, Malta welcomed about 3.56 million inbound tourists, marking a 19.5 % increase over 2023.
Total tourist expenditure reached around €3.3 billion, with an average spend per visitor of about €924.
With continuing growth into 2025, Malta further strengthens its position as a year-round European destination.
Key stats: Malta Tourism
- 3.56 million tourists visited Malta in 2024 — the highest on record so far, driven by strong recovery.
- Travelers spent €3.3 billion in 2024, showing that Malta is pulling in not just more guests but more revenue.
- Each visitor spent on average €924, signalling higher-value travel rather than just increased volume.
- In just February 2025, the island saw 210,305 arrivals (+24%), showing momentum continues into the new year.
- Through Jan–Feb 2025: over 404,000 tourists, nights nearly 2.4 million and spent ~€289 million — expressing early-year strength.
- In April 2025: 351,165 tourists (+14.6%), more than 2 million nights (+19.7%) and €296 million expenditure (+23.6%) — growth across all major indicators.
- Q2 2025: Hotel guest nights > 3.5 million, up vs prior year, and average spend climbed to €157.68/night.
- Average stay in early 2025: ~5.9 nights, and per-night spend ~€118.7 — indicating willingness to stay longer and spend more.
- With the current pace, Malta is on track for ~4.5 million tourists in 2025, potentially setting a new benchmark.
How Many Tourists Visit Malta Each Year?
In 2024, Malta recorded about 3.56 million inbound tourists.
- This figure represents a strong rebound and growth compared to earlier years.
- For example, earlier years: ~3.0 million in 2023.
- In the first five months of 2025, inbound tourists numbered ~1.42 million (+14.3% vs same period 2024).
How Many Tourists Visit Malta Each Month / Day?
Monthly and daily averages vary strongly by season, but for example in February 2025 Malta received ~210,305 inbound tourists, a +24.2% increase year-on-year.
This suggests the island sees tens of thousands of arrivals daily during peak season.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Malta?
Tourists spent around €3.3 billion in Malta during 2024.
- Average expenditure per visitor in 2024: ~€924.
- In the first six months of 2025, expenditure reached ~€1.564 billion (+21.1% vs same period 2024).
Which Countries Visit Malta the Most?
Malta continues to draw a large share of visitors from the UK, Italy, Poland and France, among other European markets.
While detailed top-10 country lists are less consistently published, the dominance of short-haul European markets remains clear.
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Malta?
Some of Malta’s top draws include historical sites, cultural experiences, beaches and neighbouring islands.
| Attraction | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valletta & UNESCO heritage sites | Capital city with rich history |
| Gozo & Comino islands | Significant share: e.g., 57.1% of visitors to Gozo/Comino in 2024. |
| Blue Lagoon (Comino) | Iconic lagoon, especially summer day-trips |
| Diving & wreck sites | Mediterranean diving reputation |
| Local beaches & resorts | Sun-and-sea tourism base |
| Maltese cultural festivals & events | Year-round draw beyond summer |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Malta?
Malta now positions itself as a year-round destination, but traditional peak months remain summer and shoulder seasons.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Peak visitor arrivals, warm weather, high occupancy
- Shoulder seasons (Apr-May & Sep-Oct): More moderate crowds, good weather
- Winter (Nov-Mar): Mild weather but fewer beach tourists; growth potential (2025 saw strong Jan/Feb numbers)
What Are the Biggest Events / Trends Attracting Tourists to Malta?
Malta is leveraging longer-stay, higher-spend tourism and diversification beyond summer beach holidays.
- In 2024, growth was notably strong in off-peak months.
- Strategy emphasises attracting new markets and increasing value per visitor.
- Infrastructure and connectivity improvements (air routes, cruise arrivals) support growth.
How Much Does Malta Rely on Tourism?
Tourism represents a significant part of Malta’s economy.
- Tourism contributes around 6% or more of Malta’s GDP.
- The island’s small size means tourism-driven pressure on infrastructure, accommodation & resources.
How Busy Are Hotels / Accommodation in Malta?
- Inbound nights in 2024: ~22.9 million nights.
- Average length of stay in recent months: ~5.9–6.3 nights.
- Summer months see elevated occupancy; campaigns are targeting extending the season.
Which Areas / Islands in Malta Are Most Popular With Tourists?
- Main Island (Malta): Valletta, Sliema/St Julian’s, southern beaches
- Gozo: Quieter island, nature & heritage; growing share of visitors
- Comino: Day-trip destination (Blue Lagoon)
- Northern beaches & clusters: suited for families & resort stays
FAQ – Malta Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Malta yearly?
About 3.56 million inbound tourists in 2024.
When did Malta reach this number?
2024 marked the highest-ever level of inbound arrivals so far (up ~19.5% vs 2023).
How much do they spend?
~€3.3 billion in 2024; average spend per tourist ~€924.
Which country sends the most tourists?
Short-haul European markets dominate (UK, Italy, Poland, France) though exact ranking varies.
When is best to visit Malta?
Shoulder seasons (Apr-May & Sep-Oct) offer good balance of weather and value; summer (Jun–Aug) is busiest.
What are the biggest attractions?
Valletta & UNESCO sites, Gozo/Comino, Blue Lagoon, beach resorts, diving.
Sources
- NSO Malta — “Inbound Tourism: December 2024” – inbound tourists & nights data
- Malta Business Weekly — “Malta achieves a record-breaking year in Tourism in 2024”
- GoWithGuide Blog — “Malta Tourism Statistics 2025 : The Ultimate Guide”
- Times of Malta — “Malta sets new record for tourist arrivals first two months of 2025”
- Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) — “Facts & Figures – Malta Tourism Authority”
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