Information about Malta

Famous for its sunny weather and summer-living, Malta is located in the heart of the Mediterranean, just below Italy.

QUICK INFO

• Full country name: Republic of Malta
  
• Area: 320 sq km (124 sq mi)
  
• Population: 408 009 (2010)
  
• Capital city: Valletta
  
• Languages: Maltese and English (bilingual); Italian
  
• Religion: Roman Catholic (98%)
  
• Government: Parliamentary democracy
  
• Major industries: Tourism, electronics, ship repair, construction, Aviation
  
• Major trading partners: Italy, Germany, UK, France, USA, Japan,
  
• Member of EU
  
• Health risks: None
  
• Time: GMT/UTC plus 1 hour
  
• Electricity: 240V, 50Hz
  
• Weights & measures: Metric
  
• Currency: Euro
  

Banks are the best place to change money; they almost always offer a significantly better rate than hotels or restaurants. Waiters and taxi drivers expect a 10% tip. All major credit cards are widely accepted. Bargaining for handicrafts at stalls or markets is essential, but most shops have fixed prices. There's an 18% value-added tax on all consumer items.