Tourist Scams in Malta

A stranger flicks white paste, food, or liquid onto your shoulder. A "friendly" passerby immediately offers to help clean it while a partner pickpockets your bag or pockets.

How to avoid: If something appears on your clothing, step away from everyone immediately and check your belongings before engaging with any "helper."

The Valletta Waterfront, Republic Street, and the ferry terminals are the most reported pickpocketing locations, with thieves targeting distracted tourists in queues and crowds.

How to avoid: Keep bags zipped and worn across the body. Never put phones or wallets in back pockets. Be alert in ferry queues where jostling is common.

Some taxis at Malta International Airport and the Valletta ferry terminal quote flat fares well above the official rate. Licensed taxis in Malta have fixed airport tariffs that drivers are required to follow.

How to avoid: Use eCabs or Bolt for transparent pricing. Official white taxis have fixed regulated fares — ask for the tariff card if you suspect overcharging.

Horse-drawn karozzin carriages are a traditional Maltese tourist attraction, but drivers near Fort St. Elmo and Triton Fountain frequently quote an initial price then demand significantly more at the end of the ride, citing extra charges for a second passenger, luggage, a longer route, or a mandatory tip. The carriage may also deviate from the agreed route to extend the journey time. Some drivers have no official fare card and rely on the tourist being unable to dispute the final bill in a foreign country.

How to avoid: Agree on the exact fare in writing or on your phone notes before stepping into the carriage, confirming the price covers all passengers and the specific route. Ask to see the official fare card — licensed karozzin drivers are required to carry one. Pay only the pre-agreed amount at the end and walk away calmly if extras are demanded.

Some restaurants in Valletta's tourist-heavy streets present a separate menu with inflated prices to visitors while locals receive standard pricing. Bills may also include undisclosed cover charges for bread, olive oil, or table service that were never requested. The difference can be €10–€20 above fair market value for a basic meal.

How to avoid: Ask to see the menu posted outside before entering, and confirm prices verbally before ordering. Check your bill line by line before paying and politely dispute any unordered items.

Unofficial "representatives" at popular sites like St. John's Cathedral and the Upper Baraka Gardens approach tourists claiming to offer "heritage guides" or "discount fast-track tickets" to museums. They charge inflated prices (€15–25 per person) for worthless printed slips. Official tickets are cheaper and available on-site. This targeting happens during peak tourist season at major heritage sites.

How to avoid: Only purchase official tickets directly from museum counters or official websites. Be wary of anyone approaching you outside attractions offering tickets or tour services. Ask to see official credentials, and note that all legitimate Maltese heritage sites display official pricing clearly.

Individuals near the Valletta Waterfront and Republic Street approach tourists with charity collection tins or clipboards for causes that have no legitimate registration.

How to avoid: Real charities in Malta are registered with the Malta Community Chest Fund. Ignore street solicitations and donate directly to known organizations online instead.

Individuals near popular attractions and ferry terminals sell discounted tickets to Grand Harbour tours or events that are fake or printed with wrong dates.

How to avoid: Buy tickets only from official booths, the Malta Tourism Authority-approved operators, or directly from venues. Never purchase from individuals on the street.