Malta Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Malta.

Malta is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• Riptides have caused drowning deaths among tourists. U.S. citizens should use caution when at local beaches and follow lifeguards’ instructions.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Malta to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Malta

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Malta, attacks cannot be ruled out.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places, including those visited by foreigners.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Crime against tourists is rare, but there have been incidents of:

• robbery
• handbag snatching
• pickpocketing
• theft from parked cars

To reduce your risk:

• be cautious when exchanging money and using ATMs
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash if possible
• do not keep all your valuables in one place
• keep a copy of your passport somewhere safe

Pickpocketing has happened on bus routes between Valletta and St Julian’s. Thieves target crowded buses during the summer season. Always keep sight of valuables.

Drink and food spiking

Criminals have drugged people in some bars and gentlemen’s clubs in the Paceville district. They’ve forced them to spend large amounts of money or assaulted them. You should:

• be careful who you buy drinks from
• keep drinks in sight to make sure they are not spiked
• check your bill to make sure you are not being overcharged

Assault

There have been assaults, including rape and sexual assault. Avoid splitting up from your friends and do not go off with people you do not know. If you drink, take sensible precautions including buying your own drinks and always keeping sight of them.

Scams

Scams targeting British nationals are increasing. These come in many forms (romance and friendship, business ventures, work and employment opportunities) and can pose financial risk to victims.

Be cautious about any requests for money, a job offer, a business venture or a face-to-face meeting from someone you met over the internet.

For more information, see guidance from ActionFraud.

Risk level

Malta - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Malta.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as purse snatching and pickpocketing, occurs. Thieves could target tourists, particularly in crowded public areas such as:

• markets, particularly those of Valletta and Marsaxlokk
• public transportation hubs and facilities, particularly the main bus routes between Valletta Paceville, San Ġiljan and Sliema (lines 13, 14, 15, 16)
• hotel lobbies
• beaches
• bars and nightclub areas of Paceville, San Ġiljan and Sliema
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist sites and attractions

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• at the beach, bring only the essentials and keep valuables out of sight
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• don’t leave any luggage or valuables in the vehicle, even in the trunk
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers

Violent crime

Although violent crime is rare, physical attacks, including sexual assault and rape, do occur.

Be particularly vigilant in nightlife areas such as Paceville, where excessive alcohol consumption and large crowds can sometimes lead to disagreements and confrontations.

马耳他风险等级为蓝色（低风险）