Money, Budget, and Shopping in Malta

Money

Currency

Currency: Euro (100 cents).

Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 €.

Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents + 1 and 2 €.

Exchange:

The euro replaced the Maltese lira in the archipelago on January 1, 2008.

Exchange

For those outside the eurozone, banks and exchange bureaus accept the main currencies. Banks are generally open until early afternoon on weekdays and until noon on Saturdays. ATMs are also widely available.

Payment Methods

You can pay in cash or by card (no fees for euro accounts), just like in France.

Budget

Budget-wise, Malta falls somewhere between Western and Eastern Europe, with accommodation as the main expense. You can expect to spend around 45 to 60 € per day per person (for two), though if you plan to visit many sites and museums, it’s best to budget a little more due to entry fees. For those opting for upscale hotels, all-inclusive packages from home can be a good financial deal.

What Can Be Expensive

Stays in July and August.

Entry fees for sites and museums.

What Can Be Affordable

Flights to get there.

The public bus network.

Price Range

Budget double room: 30 to 40 € for a first-choice small hotel or family-run guesthouse.

Mid-range double room: from 50 to 60 € in a hotel or B&B.

Restaurant meal: around 12 to 15 € for a "classic" meal.

Budget car rental: from 25 to 35 €/day minimum for a standard model.

Public bus: 1.50 € for unlimited travel in a day.

Urban taxi: