Mosta, Malta: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025
Located in the heart of Malta's Northern Region, Mosta is a charming town known for its relaxed atmosphere, lively local culture, and striking skyline dominated by its famous rotunda dome. The town blends traditional Maltese life with a welcoming, easygoing energy — narrow streets filled with cafés, small shops, and daily markets that give visitors a taste of authentic island living. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of Malta, with easy access to both the coast and the countryside.
Beyond its well-known landmarks, Mosta offers plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy the island's rhythm. Visitors can wander through quiet residential streets lined with honey-colored stone houses, stop by family-run bakeries for fresh pastizzi, or relax in the main square watching daily life unfold. Local events, especially during feast days, fill the air with fireworks, music, and celebration — a true reflection of Maltese community spirit.
Mosta is one of the best places to visit in Malta for travelers looking to experience both cultural beauty and local character. Whether you're admiring its famous dome from afar, enjoying a coffee in the sun, or exploring nearby attractions, the town captures the essence of Maltese charm — warm, welcoming, and full of everyday magic.
History of Mosta
Mosta in the Early Periods
The origins of Mosta date back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that small farming communities lived in the area long before the arrival of the Knights of St. John. The town’s early development centered around fertile lands and natural springs, which made it an ideal settlement for agriculture. During the medieval period, Mosta remained a quiet rural village surrounded by open fields, with its community life focused around small chapels and farming traditions that shaped the local identity.
Mosta in the 16th–18th Centuries
Between the 16th and 18th centuries, Mosta began to grow as part of Malta’s expanding network of inland towns. The influence of the Knights of St. John led to the construction of new religious and civic buildings, which gradually elevated the town’s prominence. It was during this time that the first church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary was built — the precursor to the grand rotunda that would later dominate the town. The community’s deep religious devotion became a defining feature of Mosta’s identity, reflected in its festivals, traditions, and architecture.
Mosta in the 19th Century
The 19th century marked a major turning point for Mosta, with the construction of the magnificent Rotunda Church, or Mosta Dome. Built between 1833 and the 1860s, it replaced the earlier parish church and became a national symbol of faith and craftsmanship. Designed in the neoclassical style, the dome’s sheer size and engineering ambition captured the confidence and creativity of the Maltese people during this era. Its completion transformed Mosta from a small rural town into one of Malta’s most admired cultural centers.
Mosta in the 20th Century to the Present Day
In the 20th century, Mosta gained lasting recognition for its resilience during World War II, when a bomb famously fell through the church’s dome without detonating — an event that came to be known as the Miracle of Mosta. After the war, the town continued to expand rapidly, developing into a thriving residential and commercial hub while retaining its traditional character. Today, Mosta stands as a vibrant Maltese town that blends modern life with deep-rooted heritage, its iconic dome serving as both a historical monument and a symbol of enduring faith.
Visiting Mosta for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Mosta on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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4 Best places to See in Mosta
This complete guide to Mosta not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Mosta and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Mosta Dome
Location: Rotunda Square, Mosta | Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-17:00h, Sat 9:30-16:30h, Sun 12:00-16:00h | Price: €2 (Sacristy) & €1 for War Shelters | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Mosta Dome
Malta Aviation Museum
Location: Malta Aviation Museum, Attard, Malta | Hours: Monday–Saturday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | Price: Adults €10 | Website | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Malta Aviation Museum
Mdina
Visiting Mdina
Rabat
Visiting Rabat
Best Day Trips from Mosta
A day trip from Mosta offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Mosta provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.
Valletta
Visiting Valletta
Birgu
Visiting Birgu
Victoria (Rabat), Gozo
Visiting Victoria (Rabat), Gozo
Where to Stay in Mosta
Accommodation in Mosta offers a mix of comfort, charm, and local character, with options ranging from boutique hotels in the town center to quiet countryside stays on the outskirts. Staying near the Mosta Dome area places visitors right in the heart of the action, close to cafés, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Here, Julina Boutique Living provides an elegant and intimate stay inside a beautifully restored townhouse, blending traditional Maltese architecture with modern touches. Another excellent choice nearby is Maltese Sun, known for its friendly service and comfortable rooms within walking distance of the town’s main attractions and shopping streets.
For those seeking a quieter retreat, the residential outskirts of Mosta offer a more peaceful experience while still being close to the town center. D’Ambrogio Guest House is a welcoming guesthouse set in a calm neighborhood, offering cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for travelers who want to enjoy local life at a slower pace. The surrounding streets are lined with charming houses and local bakeries, giving visitors a taste of everyday Maltese living.
If you prefer a touch of luxury, consider staying just outside Mosta, where boutique properties blend style and tranquility. The Village Boutique & Spa lies only a short drive away and offers refined rooms, a serene spa, and an outdoor pool — perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Similarly, Loggia Mariposa offers a romantic and historic setting within a converted Maltese townhouse, with beautiful architecture and a warm, homely atmosphere.
Wherever you stay, Mosta’s central location makes it easy to explore the rest of Malta. The town’s blend of convenience, culture, and comfort means visitors can enjoy both the vibrancy of local life and easy access to nearby destinations like Mdina, Rabat, and Valletta — all within a short drive or bus ride.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Mosta. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Mosta Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Mosta
Visiting Mosta in Spring (Best)
Spring is the best time to visit Mosta, when the weather is comfortably warm, flowers are in bloom, and the town feels alive with color and activity. From March to May, temperatures hover between 17°C and 25°C, ideal for walking through the town’s streets or exploring nearby attractions. This is also the season when local festivals begin to return, with village squares filled with music, processions, and food stalls. The mild climate makes it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the relaxed rhythm of daily life without the summer crowds.
Visiting Mosta in Summer
Summer in Mosta is vibrant, lively, and full of celebration. Between June and August, the weather is hot and sunny, often reaching around 30°C, making it ideal for long days out and evenings spent dining outdoors. The highlight of the season is the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in August, one of Malta’s most important religious festivals. The town comes alive with fireworks, band marches, and a joyous atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the island. While the heat can be intense, the festive spirit makes summer an unforgettable time to experience Mosta at its most energetic.
Visiting Mosta in Autumn
Autumn brings a quieter and more reflective side of Mosta, with warm days and cooler evenings creating the perfect balance for relaxed travel. From September to November, the crowds thin out, and the pace of life slows. It’s an excellent season for exploring the town’s architecture and enjoying the local cafés and markets without the rush of summer. Occasional cultural events and smaller feasts still take place, offering a chance to experience local traditions in a more intimate setting.
Visiting Mosta in Winter
Winter in Mosta is mild compared to much of Europe, with temperatures averaging around 13°C to 16°C. It’s a calm and pleasant time to experience the town’s authentic Maltese charm, as locals go about their daily routines and the festive lights brighten the streets during December. While not the busiest season for tourism, winter offers a peaceful atmosphere — perfect for those seeking quiet exploration, cozy cafés, and an unhurried glimpse of everyday life in one of Malta’s most characterful towns.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 15°C 62°F
- February 15°C 62°F
- March 15°C 63°F
- April 16°C 65°F
- May 20°C 71°F
- June 25°C 81°F
- July 29°C 88°F
- August 29°C 88°F
- September 27°C 84°F
- October 23°C 78°F
- November 20°C 71°F
- December 17°C 67°F
How to get to Mosta
Getting to Mosta by Air
Nearest airports: The closest airport to Mosta is Malta International Airport (MLA), the island's only airport. It is located around 12 kilometers away, making the town easy to reach by car or taxi in about 20 minutes.
Air connections: The airport serves major European hubs including London, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam, with both national carriers and low-cost airlines operating regular flights. Seasonal routes also connect Malta to other Mediterranean destinations, offering convenient access for visitors year-round.
Transfers to the city: From the airport, travelers can take a taxi, hire a car, or use the direct X3 bus route, which connects the airport to Mosta and surrounding towns. Ride-hailing services and private shuttles are also readily available for a quick and comfortable journey. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to on Booking.com.
Getting to Mosta by Car
Driving to Mosta: Reaching Mosta by car is straightforward. The town is located along Malta's main central route network, with well-marked roads connecting it to Valletta, Mdina, and other major towns. The drive from Malta International Airport takes about 20 minutes.
Parking and access: Parking in Mosta can be limited near the central square, especially during feast days or weekends, but there are several side streets and small public parking areas nearby. It's best to park slightly outside the town center and explore the area on foot.
Car rentals: Rental cars are available from Malta International Airport and other major towns across the island. Driving allows visitors to explore at their own pace, with short distances between Mosta, nearby attractions, and coastal areas making it ideal for day trips.
Travelling Around Mosta
Getting around Mosta is simple, as the town is compact and easy to explore on foot. The main square, cafés, and shops are all within walking distance, offering a relaxed way to experience local life. Public buses operated by Malta Public Transport connect Mosta with Valletta, Mdina, Sliema, and other popular destinations across the island. Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and bicycles are also convenient options for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby historical sites.
