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Tiếng Việt General Overview
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Malta, a pearl in the heart of the Mediterranean with 7,000 years of history and stunning Baroque architecture, currently has no direct flights from Vietnam. Visitors need to transit at least once to reach Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area since 2004, Malta facilitates travel from other European countries but requires a Schengen visa for Vietnamese citizens.
Popular Transit Points
Rome Fiumicino (Italy)
KM Malta Airlines (the new national airline replacing Air Malta from 2024) and ITA Airways operate direct flights from Rome to Malta with a flight time of only 1.5 hours, the shortest of all routes. High frequency with 4-5 flights per day provides schedule flexibility. There are direct flights from Vietnam by Vietnam Airlines to Rome, creating an ideal connection with a transit time of 2-3 hours.
Frankfurt (Germany)
Lufthansa offers flights from Frankfurt to Malta with a flight time of approximately 2.5 hours and reliable service. Frankfurt Airport is the largest hub in Europe with excellent connections from Asia via Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways. Modern facilities and professional transit procedures, especially suitable for night flights.
Istanbul (Turkey)
Turkish Airlines has a strong network from Asia to Istanbul with a flight to Malta in 2.5 hours. The new Istanbul Airport is modern with many premium amenities and often has competitive prices. This is a good choice for travelers who prioritize cost savings while ensuring service quality.
Paris Charles de Gaulle (France)
Air France and KM Malta Airlines operate the Paris-Malta route with a flight time of 2.5 hours. There are direct flights from Vietnam by Vietnam Airlines to Paris, creating a convenient connection. CDG Airport has many services but is quite complex, so allow 3-4 hours for transit.
Munich (Germany)
Lufthansa has flights from Munich to Malta in 2 hours with high-quality service. Munich is a more comfortable airport than Frankfurt with simpler procedures and many comfortable resting areas.
Amsterdam (Netherlands) and Vienna (Austria)
KLM from Amsterdam and Austrian Airlines from Vienna offer flights to Malta with flight times of 2.5-3 hours. Both airports have excellent transit services and good connections from Asia.
London (Complex Warning)
Although there are many cheap flights from London to Malta via Ryanair, EasyJet, transiting in the UK after Brexit has become complicated. Vietnamese citizens usually need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) even if they do not leave the airport, unless they have a valid Schengen visa for the final destination.
Transit Visa Requirements
Schengen Area (Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Austria)
Malta is a Schengen member, so once you enter the Schengen area at the first point (e.g., Frankfurt, Paris, Rome), you can travel freely to Malta without additional entry procedures.Important:Even if you are only transiting through a Schengen airport, Vietnamese citizens still need a Schengen visa as you often have to go through border control to reach the connecting gate.
Turkey (Istanbul)
Transit visa is waived if staying in the international transit area for less than 24 hours and holding a connecting flight ticket. If you wish to leave the airport, you can apply for a Turkish e-visa online for 60 USD.
United Kingdom (London) – Avoid If Possible
After Brexit, transiting through the UK has become complicated. Vietnamese citizens usually need a DATV (40 GBP fee) even for transit, except for some exemptions such as holding a valid Schengen visa.Recommendation:Prioritize Schengen transit points to avoid hassle.
Malta Entry Requirements
Schengen Visa Required
Malta requires a Schengen visa for Vietnamese citizens with a processing time of 15-20 working days. The visa fee is 80 EUR for adults, 40 EUR for children aged 6-12, and free for children under 6. The visa allows a stay of 90 days within 180 days and free movement within 27 Schengen countries.
Schengen Visa Required Documents
Passport valid for at least 3 months after the intended departure date from Schengen with 2 blank pages, visa application form with a 3.5x4.5cm photo, round-trip flight tickets, confirmed hotel booking, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, proof of financial means of at least 48 EUR/day, and documents proving employment/studies in Vietnam.
ETIAS – New System From 2025
From mid-2025, the EU will implement the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) for visa-exempt travelers. However, this does not apply to Vietnam as we still need a Schengen visa. ETIAS is only for countries currently exempt from Schengen visa requirements.
Transit Time and Luggage Considerations
Recommended Transit Times
Within Schengen (Rome, Frankfurt, Paris):2-3 hours if at the same terminal and luggage is checked through.First Schengen entry:3-4 hours to complete border control and customs procedures and move to the connecting gate.Other airlines or terminals:4-5 hours to handle re-check-in procedures and move.Winter/Peak Season:Add 1 hour buffer for flight delays.
Smart Luggage Handling
It is preferable to book a single through ticket with the same airline or alliance (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, OneWorld) for luggage to be transferred directly to Malta. For low-cost carriers without baggage transfer agreements, you must enter the country, collect your luggage, and check in again.Special Note:EU Liquid Regulations – each bottle maximum 100ml in a 1-liter zip-lock bag.
Optimal Travel Times
Golden Season – Spring and Autumn (April-May, September-October)
The ideal time with pleasant temperatures of 20-25°C, beautiful sunshine, and little rain. Spring brings blooming flowers across the island, while the autumn sea is still warm for swimming. Tourist numbers are lower than in summer, prices are reasonable, and services are not overly crowded. Especially suitable for exploring historical sites and photography.
Summer – Peak Season (June-August)
Hot weather from 28-35°C, ideal for sea activities and local festivals. Numerous flights and services operate at their highest frequency. However, this is the most crowded and expensive season, requiring early booking 3-6 months in advance and preparation for queues at attractions.
Winter – Quiet Season (November-March)
Cool temperatures of 12-18°C with occasional rain. Fewer flights and some sea tourism services may be closed. Suitable for cultural exploration, museums, and architecture at the lowest cost of the year.
Financial Preparation
Currency and Payment
Malta has used the Euro (EUR) since 2008. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available everywhere with withdrawal fees of around 2-5 EUR. Cash is needed for buses, local markets, and tips.
Detailed Estimated Costs
Frankfurt-Malta with Lufthansa, a reliable service.
Bus ticket: 21 EUR, casual meals: 12-18 EUR, fine dining: 40-80 EUR, Blue Lagoon boat tour: 25-35 EUR, scooter rental: 20-30 EUR/day, car rental: 30-60 EUR/day.
Tips for Booking Tickets and Choosing Routes
Optimized Flight Route Strategy
Shortest route:Rome-Malta (1.5 hours) with KM Malta Airlines or ITA Airways.Most stable route:Frankfurt-Malta with Lufthansa, reliable service.Cheapest route:Istanbul-Malta with Turkish Airlines, often has good promotions.Avoid:London if you don't have DATV or Schengen visa yet.
Strategic Ticket Booking Time
Summer (peak season): book 3-4 months in advance for good prices. Spring/Autumn: booking 1-2 months in advance is sufficient. Winter: you can book close to the date to take advantage of last-minute prices. Keep an eye on Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, KM Malta Airlines promotions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Special Notes
Check seasonal flight schedules as Malta has many seasonal flights. Prioritize tickets with flexible đổi/hoàn conditions. With low-cost carriers, add baggage fees, seat selection, and meals can make the total cost higher than traditional carriers.
Practical Preparation
Internet Connection and Communication
Purchase a SIM card from Vodafone Malta, GO Mobile, or Epic at the airport for 15-30 EUR for a 7-30 day travel package. Excellent 4G/5G coverage across Malta. Free WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, public libraries, and many tourist attractions.
Electricity and Devices
Malta uses type G sockets (3 square pins) like the UK and Ireland, with a voltage of 230V/50Hz.Mandatorybring a UK plug adapter or buy one at the airport for 8-15 EUR. Bring a power bank as you'll be taking many photos and using GPS.
Transportation in Malta
An efficient public bus system with single tickets at 2 EUR in summer/1.50 EUR in winter, and a 7-day pass for 21 EUR. Bolt, eCabs, and Cool Travel are popular taxi apps. Rent a scooter (requires A1 license) or a car (drive on the left like in the UK) for independent exploration.Warning:Narrow, steep, and crowded roads, drivers need to be careful.
Cultural and Safety Notes
Religion And Culture
Malta is a Catholic country with 90% of the population adhering to the faith. Respect the churches by dressing modestly (covering shoulders, no short shorts). Many shops close on Sundays and religious holidays. Maltese people are friendly, hospitable, and most speak fluent English.
Personal Safety
Malta is one of the safest countries in the world with an extremely low crime rate. It is still necessary to be careful with belongings in crowded areas like Valletta, Sliema, and popular tourist spots. Women can travel alone safely, even at night in central areas.
Sea Safety And Weather
The Mediterranean sun is very strong; use SPF 50+ sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Check beach flags and wave forecasts before swimming. Strong winds are frequent, so bring a light windbreaker even in summer.
Must-See Attractions
Valletta – UNESCO Capital
A UNESCO World Heritage city with stunning 16th-century Baroque architecture.Must-visits:St. John’s Co-Cathedral with works by Caravaggio, Grand Master’s Palace, Upper Barrakka Gardens with beautiful views of the Grand Harbour, Casa Rocca Piccola (a noble residence).
Mdina – The Silent City
The ancient capital of Malta with perfectly preserved Arab-Norman architecture. Especially beautiful during the golden hour with golden light shining through the ancient stone streets. Visit Mdina Cathedral and Palazzo Falson.
Blue Lagoon and Comino
Crystal clear turquoise waters amidst the tiny island of Comino.Tip:Go early (8-9 AM) or late (after 4 PM) to avoid crowds. You can take a boat tour or an independent ferry.
Gozo Island – The Sister Island
More peaceful and pristine than Malta with Ġgantija Temples (older than Stonehenge), Cittadella fortress, Ramla Bay with its unique red sand. Travel by ferry from Ċirkewwa (25 minutes, 4.65 EUR).
Hypogeum and Hagar Qim
Hypogeum is a 5000-year-old underground necropolis (requires advance booking), Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are the world's oldest temples with sophisticated astronomical designs.
Final Checks
1 Week Before Departure
Confirm that your Schengen visa is valid and appropriate for your length of stay. Check your flight schedule, terminal, and layover times. Print or save offline all documents: flight tickets, insurance, hotel bookings, visa. Check the weather in Malta to pack appropriate clothing.
Essential Applications
Pre-download: Tallinja (Malta bus), Bolt\/eCabs (taxi), Malta Public Transport (bus schedules), Google Maps offline Malta, Citymapper, TripAdvisor, and Google Translate. Save emergency information: Police 112, Tourist Police +356 2169 2447, Vietnamese Embassy in Italy +39-06-3972-5588.
Health Preparation
Malta has a modern and high-quality healthcare system. The mandatory Schengen insurance with 30,000 EUR coverage is sufficient for most cases. Bring personal medications, SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness.
Final Advice
Malta is small (316 km²) but rich in culture and history. Allocate at least 4-5 days to fully explore Malta and Gozo. Learn a few basic Maltese words like “Grazzi” (thank you), “Bongu” (hello) to connect with locals.
With thorough Schengen visa preparation, suitable transit point selection, and the above notes, your trip to Malta will be an unforgettable experience in the “Heart of the Mediterranean” with its wonderful UNESCO heritage and turquoise waters.
