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Few scams

Southern Europe

Tourist scams in Malta

Malta is generally safe, but parking attendants may pressure visitors to pay voluntary tips as if they were required fees. Petty crime is a concern in Sliema and St. Julian's, and extra care is advised in Paceville at night.
  1. 1 Other tricksCommonParking donations presented as required feesAn attendant asks for a tip called a donation. They may insist that everyone pays and make it sound compulsory. Most public parking lots are free, and these tips are voluntary. Paid parking areas should have a sign.Public parking lots across Malta 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Public parking lotsAttendants may pressure drivers to make voluntary donations by presenting them as required payments.
  • SliemaIdentified as one of the main areas where visitors encounter petty crime. No specific theft method is described.
  • St. Julian'sIdentified as one of the main areas where visitors encounter petty crime. No specific theft method is described.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • At the airport, check the fixed taxi fares displayed in the arrivals hall.
  • Confirm the destination and total fare before setting off.
  • Malta's white taxis can pick passengers up from the street.
  • For a taxi tour, book ahead and agree on the price.

Money

  • Use euros for everyday purchases.
  • Change pounds or dollars at a bank or exchange bureau before going out.
  • Check the exchange rate and any fees before handing over money.
  • Check your change and keep receipts for disputed payments.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables out of easy reach.
  • Pay extra attention to your belongings in Sliema and St. Julian's.
  • Avoid leaving your phone or wallet unattended on a table.
  • Keep a separate copy of important travel documents.

Nights out

  • Take extra care in Paceville at night.
  • Keep your drink and belongings with you.
  • Plan how you will get back before drinking.
  • Move away from rowdy groups and avoid arguments.

Tours and guides

  • Agree on the full price before taking a horsecart ride in Valletta.
  • For historical sightseeing, consider a licensed tourist guide.
  • Check that your guide wears their licence during the tour.
  • Do not assume a taxi driver's historical commentary is accurate.

What travellers say about Malta

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Malta safe for a first-time visitor?

Malta is generally safe. Watch for pressure to pay parking donations, take care of belongings in Sliema and St. Julian's, and be cautious in Paceville at night.

Do I have to pay a parking attendant a donation?

No. Tips are voluntary. Most public parking lots are free. Where parking is paid, there should be a sign. An attendant saying everyone pays does not make a donation compulsory.

How can I check an airport taxi fare?

Official airport taxis have fixed destination fares displayed on a board in the arrivals hall. Check the board and confirm the total before leaving.

Should I agree on a horsecart price before riding?

Yes. In Valletta, negotiate and agree on the full price before taking a horsecart ride. The need to negotiate does not by itself mean the driver is dishonest.

Can I rely on a taxi driver as a historical guide?

Some taxi drivers are reported to give inaccurate historical information. For historical sights, consider a licensed tourist guide who wears their licence.

Where should I be most careful with my belongings?

Sliema and St. Julian's are identified as the main areas for petty crime affecting visitors. Keep valuables secure. No particular theft method is described.

What should I watch for during a night out?

Take extra care in Paceville at night. Keep your drink and belongings with you, avoid arguments with rowdy groups, and plan your journey back.

Can I pay with pounds or dollars?

Do not expect shops, bars or restaurants to accept them. Malta uses euros. Change money at a bank or exchange bureau and check the rate and fees first.

Are souvenir prices the same across Valletta?

No. Souvenirs can be cheaper a short walk down South Street than near the beginning of Republic Street. Compare prices before buying. A higher price alone does not prove a scam.

What should I do if my card or passport is stolen?

Freeze a stolen card and contact its issuer immediately. Report the theft to police and keep the report details. For a stolen passport, contact your embassy or consulate.

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