Birgu, Malta: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

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Visiting Birgu in Spring (Best)

Spring is arguably the best time to visit Birgu, when the weather is mild, the days are long, and the city begins to bloom with energy after the quiet winter months. From March to May, temperatures range comfortably between 17°C and 25°C, perfect for exploring the narrow streets, historic forts, and waterfront cafés without the heat or crowds of summer. Spring also marks the start of local festivals and outdoor events around the Grand Harbour, making it an ideal season to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The clear skies and soft light create excellent conditions for photography, especially during golden hour when Birgu’s limestone glows a warm honey hue.

Visiting Birgu in Summer

Summer in Birgu is bright, lively, and full of activity. From June to August, the weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, making it perfect for enjoying harbor cruises, al fresco dining, or evening walks along the Vittoriosa Waterfront. This is also the peak of Malta’s festival season, and Birgu joins in with several lively feasts dedicated to local saints, where fireworks and music fill the night sky. The longer daylight hours make it easy to explore nearby attractions like Fort St. Angelo or take a ferry to Valletta. However, for those sensitive to heat, it’s best to plan sightseeing early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Visiting Birgu in Autumn

Autumn brings a golden glow to Birgu, as the heat of summer softens and the crowds thin out. From September to November, the weather remains pleasantly warm, ideal for wandering through the Three Cities or dining by the water under the stars. The highlight of the season is the BirguFest, held in October, when the city transforms into a sea of candlelight for the famous “Birgu by Candlelight” event. Streets, steps, and balconies are lit by thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere that celebrates the city’s heritage. Autumn is also a great time for photography, relaxed sightseeing, and immersing yourself in local culture at a slower pace.

Visiting Birgu in Winter

Winter in Birgu, from December to February, is quiet and atmospheric — the perfect time for travelers seeking tranquility. Though cooler, with average temperatures between 10°C and 17°C, it’s still mild compared to much of Europe. The city’s cozy cafés, historic buildings, and narrow alleys take on a peaceful charm, offering a more intimate experience of Maltese life. Occasional rain showers bring a fresh sparkle to the limestone architecture, and the festive lights of Christmas add warmth to the streets. While not a season for swimming or sunbathing, winter in Birgu offers serenity and authenticity, allowing visitors to enjoy the city at its most reflective.

Getting to Birgu by Air

Nearest airport: The closest airport to Birgu is Malta International Airport (Luqa Airport), located around 8 kilometers away. This is Malta’s only airport, and it serves as the main gateway for international visitors arriving from across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. From the airport, you can reach Birgu easily by taxi, private transfer, or bus. The journey typically takes 15 to 20 minutes by car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Birgu on Booking.com.

Airport transfers: Regular taxis and app-based ride services like Bolt or eCabs operate from the arrivals terminal, while private shuttles can be pre-booked for direct travel to Birgu's historic center. Public buses, including routes that stop at Valletta or the Three Cities, also serve the airport and provide an affordable option for travelers.

Getting to Birgu by Car

Driving to Birgu is straightforward and scenic. The city lies just across the Grand Harbour from Valletta and can be reached in about 15 minutes via the Marsa–Paola route. Roads are well signposted, and parking areas can be found on the outskirts of the old town and near the Vittoriosa Waterfront. It’s best to park outside the historic center, as Birgu’s narrow streets can be difficult to navigate and are often pedestrianized.

For those renting a car, Malta's small size makes Birgu an ideal base for day trips to other destinations, including Mdina, Marsaxlokk, and the Blue Grotto. Traffic can be busy during peak hours, but driving offers flexibility and access to more remote areas.

Travelling Around Birgu

Getting around Birgu is best done on foot — the city's compact size and narrow streets make walking the most enjoyable way to explore. Strolling through its lanes reveals beautiful courtyards, small museums, and breathtaking harbor views. For longer distances, taxis and local buses are readily available, and water taxis provide a charming way to cross the Grand Harbour to Valletta. The traditional dgħajsa boats, with their colorful wooden hulls, are a particularly scenic way to experience Malta's maritime heritage while travelling between the Three Cities.