Malta in November is mild, quieter and usually cheaper than summer, but it is also the wettest month of the year. Expect daytime highs of about 21°C, sea water around 21°C, a few showers and far fewer crowds. It is a good month for sightseeing, walking, museums and the first Christmas lights, and not a good month for a pure beach holiday. This guide covers the weather, what to pack, what is on and whether November is right for you.
Malta weather in November
The long-term climate figures for Malta’s main weather station at Luqa (1991-2020) give a good picture of a typical November:
- Daytime temperature: about 21°C on average.
- Night temperature: about 15°C on average.
- Rain: about 91 mm for the month, usually on 8 to 9 days.
- Sunshine: about 195 hours for the month, which is roughly 6 to 7 hours a day.
- Sea temperature: about 21°C, depending on the source.
These are averages, so any single week can be warmer, cooler or wetter. Rain in Malta often arrives as a short heavy shower and then clears, so a wet morning does not always mean a lost day. Wind can also be strong in late autumn. Before you plan a boat trip or a day by the water, check the latest forecast and sea conditions on our Malta This Week page.
What to pack for Malta in November
Think layers. It can feel warm in the sun and chilly in the shade, and evenings feel cooler than the numbers suggest, especially near the sea.
- T-shirts and a light jumper or hoodie
- A light waterproof jacket (strong wind can wreck a small umbrella)
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, because old limestone streets get slippery when wet
- A swimsuit and towel, only if you like cold-water dips
- Sunglasses and sun cream, since the sun can still be strong
Can you swim in Malta in November?
Yes, if you are happy with fresh water. At about 21°C the sea is similar to a cool day at a northern European beach in August, and many visitors find it fine for a quick swim on a sunny, calm day. The problem is the air, which is cooler, and the wind, which can make getting out of the water feel cold. Sandy beaches such as Golden Bay and Għadira Bay are the best bets on a calm day. You can compare more options on our beaches page, and our guide to swimming in October has local tips that still apply early in November.
Events and things to do in November 2026
Malta Book Festival, 4 to 8 November
The Malta Book Festival is listed for 4 to 8 November 2026. In past years it was held at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre in Ta’ Qali, but check the organisers’ website for this year’s venue and programme before you go.
Christmas in the Capital, from 25 November
Valletta’s Christmas programme runs from 25 November to 31 December 2026, according to the Valletta Cultural Agency. It includes street decorations, a nativity crib, the Christmas tree, live performances and family activities. Walking through the capital in the evening, once the lights are on, is one of the nicest free things to do in Malta in late November. National New Year’s Eve celebrations in Valletta are listed for 31 December at St George’s Square.
A Christmas village to visit
Small villages also join in the festive mood. Ħal Kirkop has just been named a European Christmas Village for 2026, and you can read the story in our post on Ħal Kirkop, European Christmas Village 2026. Check local announcements closer to December for what is planned.
Find what is on while you are here
Smaller concerts, exhibitions, sports events and village activities are announced close to the date. Our events page is updated regularly, and things to do in Malta in October shows how we cover each month.
Best things to do on a typical November day
Visit museums and heritage sites
Cooler weather is perfect for exploring Malta’s temples, forts and museums, which are much more pleasant when you are not walking in summer heat. Start with our guide to Malta’s ancient temples and browse the heritage sites section. If you plan to see several places, read our Heritage Malta Multisite Pass guide to decide whether a pass makes sense. Opening hours and prices can change, so check the Heritage Malta website before you travel.
Walk, don’t rush
Valletta, Mdina, Birgu and the coastal paths are all easier in mild weather. Go early or late for softer light, and keep an eye on the sky if you plan a cliff walk, because wet rock is slippery.
Eat your way through a cooler day
November is a good time for hearty local food. Read our Maltese food guide for dishes to try, and keep a rainy day free for a long lunch.
Have a rain plan
Because it is the wettest month, keep one or two indoor ideas ready: a museum, a cafe in Valletta, a market or a cooking class. Showers often pass quickly, so check the forecast in the morning and plan your outdoor time around it.
Practical tips for a November trip
Daylight is shorter than in summer, so start sightseeing earlier and keep the evening for food or a stroll. Book your main activities with a flexible plan, because windy or wet days may change boat trips or outdoor tours. Keep your phone charged for maps and weather checks, and carry a small bag that can hold a jacket when the sun comes out. If you are travelling in a group, agree one indoor backup plan for each day so a shower never spoils the mood.
Is November a good time to visit Malta?
It depends on what you want. November suits you well if you like sightseeing, walking, history, photography, quiet streets and lower prices. It suits you less if your main goal is lying on a beach in strong sun, or if you hate the idea of a rainy day. Compared with summer, there are fewer crowds at major sites and it is easier to book restaurants. Flights and hotels are often cheaper too, although prices vary, so compare before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Is it warm enough to sunbathe in Malta in November?
On a sunny, calm day you can sit in the sun for a while in a sheltered spot, but do not expect summer heat. Daytime highs average about 21°C, and it feels much cooler in the wind or shade.
Does it rain a lot in Malta in November?
November is the wettest month, with about 91 mm of rain on average, usually on 8 to 9 days. Showers are often short and heavy rather than all-day drizzle.
Are tourist attractions open in November?
Most major sites, museums and restaurants stay open, though some seasonal businesses and boat trips run on reduced schedules or stop when the sea is rough. Always check opening times on the official website before you go.
What should I wear in Malta in November?
Wear layers: a t-shirt, a warm top and a light waterproof jacket, plus comfortable shoes with grip. Add swimwear only if you want a cold dip.
Summary
Malta in November is mild, a little wet and pleasantly calm. Bring layers and a rain jacket, plan indoor options for showers, enjoy the history and food, and look forward to the Christmas lights in Valletta from 25 November. Prices and times change, so check the official sites before you go.
Planning further ahead? Read our Malta public holidays guide for planning long weekends, or the complete Malta travel guide for first-time visitors.