Things to do in Malta in December

December in Malta is a delightful time. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the island is usually blessed with sunny days and inviting weather, making it the perfect escape from the winter blues, where plenty of outdoor adventures await.

The island also enjoys a quieter atmosphere as the winter season welcomes fewer tourists, offering a chance to experience the best Malta attractions away from the summer crowds. Beyond its usual charms, the island sparkles with festive cheer during December, hosting a jam-packed calendar of Christmas events and traditions across Malta and Gozo.

If you’ve never experienced Malta in winter, you’re in for a special treat. Join us as we uncover the magic and explore the best things to do in Malta in December.

One of Malta’s biggest delights, no matter the time of year, is its dazzling sea. Although the water might be too chilly for a swim in December, the quiet beaches and coastline are perfect for leisurely strolls. You can also take in the serene views and treat yourself to a relaxing lunch by the sea.

Trattoria Riccardo, our traditional Italian trattoria with a modern twist offers a family-friendly spot with a spacious children’s play area on the Qawra waterfront. The menu serves up delicious pizzas, pastas, salads, and more delights. And for a more elevated feast, secure a table at Minoa. Located on the 11th floor at AX ODYCY resort, this Mediterranean fusion restaurant promises exquisite dishes paired with bright and colourful interiors and unmatched views over the Qawra coastline.

Step into a winter wonderland at Fairyland, a popular festive attraction in Valletta, that runs all month long. Transforming Pjazza Tritoni just outside the capital’s gates, this Christmas spectacle caters to all ages. Experience the timeless joy of fair rides, including a Ferris wheel and carousel, or glide gracefully on the ice-skating rink. Enjoy seasonal treats and piping-hot delights from food kiosks while live performances light up the vibrant stage. And don’t miss the enchanting artisan market, complete with Santa’s Grotto, where you can find unique gifts and take photos with Santa outside his workshop. Fairyland promises to make your Valletta Christmas truly magical. There are many other delightful Christmas markets and fairs happening all around Malta. Check out our favourites here.

With all the buzz and bustle of the festive season, a little calm goes a long way. Head to Rabat for a refreshing change of pace and experience the more tranquil side of December. AX Verdala Wellness Hotel invites you to unwind in total comfort, surrounded by countryside views and calm energy. Treat yourself (or someone you love) to a massage at V SPA, indulge in a meal at The Griffin, or book a quiet overnight stay in a Junior Suite complete with hot tub and hammock. Whether it’s a wellness-inspired getaway, a peaceful team lunch, or just a break from the madness, the Verdala Wellness Hotel is where you revive your soul.

There’s always something magical about heading to a cosy pub on a winter’s eve in Malta in December. If you’re looking for a classic pub experience, head to Penny Black Pub, located at AX The Victoria hotel in Sliema. This traditional British-style pub is always warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to share a seasonal tipple with family and friends on a chilly night. Or, for a pub with a twist of fun, head to Cheeky Monkey gastropub, conveniently located in Valletta and Qawra. This lively spot serves up hearty food and quality ales, wines, spirits, and cocktails for a celebration that everyone will love.

Nothing says Christmas quite like the buzz of a festive market. In Malta, December brings a delightful mix of seasonal markets across towns and villages, each offering a unique spin on holiday cheer. In recent years, Natalis Notabile in Rabat has become a firm favourite, transforming the historic centre into a twinkling, family-friendly market with food stalls, artisan crafts, and festive performances. Hilltop Gardens Christmas Market in Naxxar is another must-visit, known for its charming setting, local products, and laid-back vibe. But you don’t need to go far to find festive fun, many local councils organise their own mini markets and Christmas events, making every corner of the island feel merry and bright.

Add a touch of magic to your Christmas nights at the Magical Illuminated Trail. This event transforms the gardens of the historic Verdala Palace, Buskett Road, Siġġiewi with enchanting light installations of fantastical creatures, animals, and imaginative settings. This year, the trail will also feature Malta’s first-ever life-size Illuminated Crib. It’s a delightful experience that is sure to add a spark of enchantment to your Malta holiday in December.

Christmas only comes around once a year, so why not savour it with a touch of elegance at Under Grain? Located on Merchants Street in Valletta, this MICHELIN-starred gem promises a dining experience like no other. The talented kitchen brigade crafts exquisite Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are exquisite. The restaurant’s designer ambience and top-notch service elevate the experience, making this vaulted cellar in the capital the perfect spot to infuse your holiday celebrations with gourmet flair.

In Malta, Christmas traditions hold deep roots, and the ‘Presepju,’ or Nativity Crib, is a cherished custom dating back centuries. Locals pour their hearts into crafting these cribs with figurines depicting the birth of Jesus. Head to parish village centres around the island and keep an eye out for the signs inviting you in to experience this Maltese wonder.

Nowadays, live nativity events have also gained popularity. Local parishes breathe life into the traditional story with actors in Biblical-inspired costumes, real animals, and life-sized cribs. Notably, Bethlehem F’Ghajnsielem in Gozo has become an annual spectacle drawing thousands to experience this expansive nativity scene, with 150 actors, transporting visitors to Judea 2000 years ago, making it a standout experience in Malta in December.

Christmas panto is a big deal in Malta, bringing with it its own unique style and a playful sense of humour. It’s a promise of slapstick, colourful fun, blending Maltese and English for a delightful experience. Even if you don’t catch every detail of the plot, the zany costumes, lively pop song renditions, and entertaining callbacks ensure a good time. While many pantomimes are organised around Malta each year, the panto at Manoel Theatre remains a standout. Held in one of the oldest theatres in Europe, it offers a grand setting for festive fun with a local twist.

Food is at the heart of every Maltese Christmas celebration, blending homegrown traditions with Italian and British influences. One of the most beloved seasonal treats is Qagħaq tal-Għasel (honey rings), filled with treacle, citrus, and warm spices. These are a must-try if you spot them at a Christmas market or bakery. Mince pies and panettones are also festive staples. And for a truly local experience, don’t miss Imbuljuta tal-Qastan, which is a warm, comforting chestnut and cocoa drink traditionally served after Midnight Mass.

If you’re celebrating your New Year in Malta, treat yourself to a countdown celebration with a delicious twist at the award-winning TemptAsian. Situated on the ninth floor above AX The Palace in Sliema, this stylish restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Sliema skyline, making it a captivating setting for an unforgettable New Year celebration. Each course in this carefully crafted set menu brings a taste of the exotic, setting the stage for a memorable countdown and a fantastic start to the new year in Malta.

Revel in magic for New Year’s Eve at Medusa, the sky bar situated on Level 10 at AX ODYCY Hotel in Qawra. As the clock ticks towards midnight, surrender to the allure of Medusa’s exclusive atmosphere, where enchanting lighting sets the stage for a night of revelry. The DJ’s setlist and high-end cocktails ensure a night filled with excitement and lasting memories.