Flag of MaltaMalta

Money & currency

Money in Malta

Updated 2026-08-16

Money & Currency
€

Euro (EUR)

Currency code: EUR

Practical Money Tips

Malta uses the euro (EUR)

Malta adopted the euro in 2008, replacing the Maltese lira. For visitors from Austria, Germany, and other eurozone countries, this means no currency exchange is needed — your home bank card and cash work directly. Non-eurozone visitors can exchange currency at banks, bureaux de change at Malta International Airport, and in Valletta and Sliema. Airport exchange rates are competitive but slightly less favourable than bank rates in town.

Cards widely accepted across the islands

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, shops, and supermarkets across Malta and Gozo. Contactless payments are standard. Maestro and V-Pay cards (common Austrian Bankomatkarten) work at ATMs and many point-of-sale terminals. American Express has more limited acceptance. Small village shops, market vendors, water-taxi operators, and some bus-ticket kiosks may still prefer cash.

ATMs plentiful in urban areas

ATMs are widely available in Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian's, Bugibba, and other tourist areas on Malta, as well as in Victoria (Rabat) on Gozo. Bank of Valletta (BOV), HSBC Malta, APS Bank, and BNF Bank operate the main ATM networks. Most accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and Cirrus. On Comino there are no ATMs or card facilities — bring cash for the boat crossing and any purchases.

Keep some cash for small purchases and Comino

While Malta is increasingly cashless, small amounts of euro cash are useful for bus tickets (if not using the prepaid Tallinja card), water taxis, market stalls, tips, and the Comino day trip. Coins in 1 and 2 euro denominations are handy for parking meters and vending machines. Maltese-minted euro coins feature the Maltese cross — a popular souvenir.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

Do I need to exchange currency for Malta?

If you are coming from a eurozone country (Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, etc.), no exchange is needed — Malta uses the euro. From the UK, US, or other non-euro countries, exchange at the airport, banks, or ATMs on arrival.

Does my Austrian Bankomatkarte work in Malta?

Yes. Maestro and V-Pay cards work at ATMs and most point-of-sale terminals across Malta. Your bank may charge a small fee for non-domestic ATM withdrawals within the eurozone — check with your bank before travel.

Is tipping expected in Malta?

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service charge is not included on the bill. Rounding up taxi fares is common. Small tips for hotel housekeeping and tour guides are welcomed.

Are there any hidden costs for tourists?

Malta charges an eco-contribution tax per person per night, capped per stay — check the current rate and cap, since it's a government-set figure subject to change; it's charged by licensed accommodation and usually already included in hotel bills. Gozo ferry return tickets for foot passengers and Blue Lagoon boat trips are separate costs worth checking current pricing for before budgeting.

Can I pay by card on the Gozo ferry?

Yes. The Gozo Channel ferry accepts card payments at the terminal. Payment is collected on the return journey from Gozo to Malta (one-way pricing, collected at Mgarr harbour). The Comino boat services from Ċirkewwa or Marfa are typically cash-only.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Malta overview.

Treat this Visaja page as your starting point: verify the current rules directly with the official source before you submit an application.