Money in Malta

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.