Things to do in Malta in December

December shows a different side of Malta. The summer crowds have faded, the coastline feels quieter and towns and villages begin to glow with Christmas lights.

You can spend the morning walking beside the sea, wander through historic streets in the afternoon and finish the day at a Christmas market or over dinner somewhere warm and inviting. The cooler weather also makes sightseeing far more comfortable than during the height of summer.

If you are wondering what to do in Malta in December, there is plenty to fill a winter break without rushing from one attraction to the next.

Malta in December is quieter and cooler than the summer months, but life certainly does not come to a standstill.

The coastline remains one of the island’s biggest draws. Swimming may not be on everyone’s agenda at this time of year, but places such as Qawra, Sliema and St Julian’s are pleasant for long seafront walks, especially when the sun is out.

December is also when Christmas starts to change the atmosphere of Malta’s towns and villages. Streets are decorated, nativity cribs appear in churches and homes, and seasonal markets and events begin popping up around the islands.

The Malta weather in December can be changeable, so it is worth planning a mixture of outdoor sightseeing and indoor activities rather than relying on sunshine every day.

Enjoy Malta’s quieter coastline

You do not need beach weather to enjoy the Mediterranean.

A walk along the Qawra seafront is a simple way to spend a winter morning, with plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee or lunch along the way.

At AX ODYCY, Trattoria Riccardo offers Italian favourites in a relaxed waterfront setting, while Minoa pairs Mediterranean-inspired dining with views across the Qawra coastline.

It is an easy way to enjoy Malta’s coastal character without the pace of a busy summer day.

Valletta feels particularly atmospheric in the run-up to Christmas.

Fairyland around Pjazza Tritoni has become one of the capital’s familiar festive attractions. Previous editions have brought together fairground rides, food stalls, games, live entertainment and Santa experiences just outside the city gates.

Beyond the organised events, it is worth simply walking through Valletta in the evening. Christmas lights, decorated shopfronts and the city’s historic architecture create plenty of atmosphere before dinner or a drink.

Guests staying at Rosselli or AX The Saint John Boutique Hotel are right in the heart of the capital, making it easy to explore Valletta’s Christmas attractions and evening events on foot.

As festive programmes vary each year, speak with the AX Hotels concierge team during your stay for details of what is taking place.

December does not have to be all busy city streets and packed itineraries. Rabat offers a slower change of pace, with its historic centre, surrounding countryside and neighbouring Mdina all close by.

It is also home to Natalis Notabilis, one of Malta’s best known Christmas events, which brings stalls, food, crafts and festive entertainment into the historic streets. Smaller Christmas fairs and community celebrations also take place around the islands throughout December.

Verdala Wellness Hotel fits naturally into a winter stay here. Set in the peaceful surroundings of Tal Virtù, it gives you the chance to balance the festive atmosphere with time at V SPA, a meal at The Griffin or a quieter afternoon away from the busier coastal areas.

Festive programmes and dates can change from year to year, so ask the AX Hotels concierge team for the latest Christmas activities in Malta and detailed event information during your stay.

Winter evenings are when some of Malta’s seasonal attractions really come into their own.

The Magical Illuminated Trail has previously transformed its historic setting with large-scale lights, colourful installations and imaginative displays. The themes can change from one edition to the next, which is part of the appeal.

Check the latest programme closer to your visit or ask the concierge team for current information.

Some of the most memorable places to visit in Malta in December are not necessarily organised attractions.

Nativity cribs, or presepji, are an important part of Christmas on the islands. They appear in churches, public spaces and private displays, with handmade figures depicting the Nativity scene.

Live nativity villages have also become part of the season. Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem in Gozo is particularly well known, recreating scenes inspired by Bethlehem with actors, animals and traditional settings.

These traditions give visitors a glimpse of Christmas as it is celebrated locally rather than simply adding another attraction to the itinerary.

Pantomime has become a firm part of Malta’s festive calendar.

Expect colourful costumes, songs, plenty of jokes and a mixture of Maltese and English humour. Productions take place at different venues, but the annual panto at Teatru Manoel in Valletta is particularly well known.

The production changes each year, so check the current programme before your visit.

Food is one of the pleasures of visiting Malta in December.

Look out for qagħaq tal-għasel, traditional rings filled with a treacle mixture and flavoured with citrus and spices. Mince pies and panettone are also easy to find during the season, reflecting the British and Italian influences that have become part of Christmas on the islands.

Then there is imbuljuta tal-qastan, a warming chestnut and cocoa drink traditionally associated with the Christmas period and particularly with the hours after Midnight Mass.

December is a good excuse to linger over dinner, especially after an evening exploring the capital’s Christmas lights and decorated streets.

Under Grain, located within Rosselli on Merchants Street, offers MICHELIN starred dining in an intimate vaulted setting, making it a natural choice for a special festive evening in Valletta. Grain Street, also within Rosselli, offers a more relaxed setting for sharing plates and enjoying the city at a slower pace.

For something livelier, Cheeky Monkey Gastropub adds a more casual option to the evening, with hearty food and a sociable atmosphere.

Guests staying at Rosselli or AX The Saint John Boutique Hotel are especially well placed to enjoy these dining experiences and continue exploring Valletta on foot afterwards.

If your December break runs through to the end of the year, Malta’s celebrations continue into New Year’s Eve.

Valletta traditionally becomes one of the liveliest places for the countdown, while hotels and restaurants around the islands host their own dinners and celebrations.

AX ODYCY in Qawra is another option for guests who would rather welcome the New Year by the coast. Festive programmes vary each year, so ask the concierge team about celebrations taking place during your stay.

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.

The best way to experience Malta in December is to leave some flexibility in your plans.

Choose a few things you definitely want to see, but leave room for a sunny afternoon by the coast, an unexpected Christmas market or an evening wandering through Valletta or Mdina.

Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket, and pack comfortable shoes for exploring historic streets. December weather can shift between sunshine, cooler evenings, wind and occasional rain.

If you are staying with AX Hotels, the concierge team can also help with up-to-date festive programmes, opening times, events and recommendations during your visit.