MAGNIFICENT MALTA: What to expect this June

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Malta International Arts Festival (June 13–22, 2025)

Visitors to Malta next month can expect a vibrant blend of warm Mediterranean weather, rich cultural events, and unique historical experiences, with several new and exciting developments enhancing the archipelago’s appeal. 

June 2025 offers a perfect mix of warm weather, fewer crowds than peak summer, and a packed calendar of cultural and modern festivals. New developments like the deep-water archaeological park and unique events like Breaking Borders Malta add fresh reasons to visit, complementing the archipelago’s timeless beaches, history, and cuisine. Whether you’re diving into ancient sites, dancing at festivals, or savoring seafood by the harbor, Malta in June promises a memorable Mediterranean escape.

June marks the start of Malta’s summer, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F) and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The sea is warm, around 25°C, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving with excellent underwater visibility.

The archipelago buzzes with energy as summer kicks off. Expect lively beaches, bustling village squares, and a festive atmosphere with numerous events. June is less crowded than July or August.

  • Malta International Arts Festival (June 13–22, 2025): This festival showcases a mix of music, theater, and dance, often held in unique heritage sites like the 16th-century cisterns built by the Knights or on a two-masted vessel in the Grand Harbour. It blends contemporary aesthetics with Malta’s historic settings. See website.
  • Earth Garden (June 5–8, 2025): Held in Ta’ Qali National Park, this eco-conscious festival features alternative music, wellness areas, artisan markets, and camping, attracting a diverse crowd seeking a relaxed yet vibrant experience. See website
  • L-Imnarja Harvest Festival (June 29, 2025): A traditional Maltese festival in Buskett Gardens, featuring agricultural fairs, horse and donkey races, folk music, and fireworks. It’s a public holiday, offering an authentic taste of Maltese culture with local produce displays and traditional singing (għana).
  • Lost & Found and ABODE on the Rock: These music events in St. Paul’s Bay and Gozo feature techno, house, and dance music with castle raves and boat parties.
  • Village Festas: June sees the start of Malta’s festa season, with village feasts celebrating patron saints. Expect colorful processions, band marches, street decorations, and fireworks, particularly in towns like Żebbuġ or Mosta.
  • Beaches and Water Activities: Malta’s 30+ beaches, including Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and the Blue Lagoon on Comino, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The Blue Grotto and Gozo’s Blue Hole are top spots for diving and snorkeling, with vibrant marine life like amberjack and grouper.
  • Historical Sites: Explore Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Baroque architecture, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and Upper Barrakka Gardens offering stunning views. Prehistoric temples like Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, dating back over 5,000 years, and the Hypogeum provide a deep dive into Malta’s ancient history.
  • Coastal Walks and Picnics: Scenic trails along Dingli Cliffs or Gozo’s Marsalforn salt pans are ideal at sunrise or sunset. Pack a picnic with local treats like pastizzi or Maltese wine for a relaxing beachside experience.
  • Nightlife: St. Julian’s and Buġibba offer vibrant nightlife with chic clubs, open-air bars, and seafront restaurants. The main square in Buġibba is a hub for after-dark entertainment.

Culinary Experiences:

  • Local Cuisine: Enjoy Maltese dishes like rabbit stew, lampuki fish pie, pastizzi, and Maltese wine. Coastal towns like Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala are renowned for fresh seafood, especially at the Sunday fish market.
  • Dining Ambiance: From seafront restaurants in Qawra to stylish venues in St. Julian’s, dining options blend Mediterranean flavors with modern twists.

Practical Tips:

  • Weather Prep: Pack sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen) and reusable water bottles due to the heat.
  • Transport: Affordable buses (€1.50–2 for a two-hour ticket) connect major sites, while car rentals start at €20/day but can double in summer. Book early to avoid price hikes.
  • Crowds: June is busy but less so than peak summer, making it ideal for enjoying beaches and events with fewer crowds.
  • Breaking Borders Malta: This new music festival, debuting in 2025, celebrates South Asian heritage and is touted as Europe’s largest of its kind. 
  • Deep-Water Archaeological Park at Xlendi Bay: Opened in spring 2023, this is the world’s first deep-water archaeological park, offering technical divers and researchers a chance to explore Malta’s underwater history. 
  • New Hotel Openings: The luxury hotel scene continues to grow with boutique properties like Iniala Harbour House and the ME Malta by Meliá (opened in 2023), designed by Zaha Hadid. 

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives:

Malta is emphasising sustainability, with new efforts like managed access to Comino’s Blue Lagoon (no fees apply). 

  • For more details on planning your trip, check VisitMalta.
  • Aer Lingus and Ryanair both fly direct from Dublin to Malta. Ryanair also flies from Belfast and Shannon while Jet2 flies from Belfast.  
Earth Garden (June 5–8, 2025)
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