The Euro, Malta

 

With enviable weather, Malta has been luring troves of tourists to its shores for fun days in the sun.

From 1972 up until 31st December, 2007, Malta had its own currency – the Maltese lira. In 2008, the Euro became the currency in Malta. With each Euro zone country having different designs for its coins, the Maltese Euro coins come with three distinctive ones of their own.

The €0.01, €0.02 and the €0.05 coins display an image of an altar from the Mnajdra megalithic temples. The €0.10, €0.20 and the €0.50 cents coins have the coat of arms of Malta, while the €1.00 and the €2.00 coins showcase the George Cross. 

Banks are mostly open until early afternoons from Monday to Friday and until midday on Saturdays. Some branches also work longer hours but summer and winter opening hours can differ. International bankcards such as Visa, American Express, Diner’s Club and Mastercard are accepted as are foreign currencies which can easily be exchanged at exchange bureaus.

Banks as well as Automated Teller Machines (ATM) and exchange bureaus can be found all over the islands while the majority of shops and restaurants do accept payment in some international currencies. However, almost all retail and restaurant outlets accept international credit cards.

Debit cards are also accepted at ATM’s in Malta provided your bank has authorised your card for international use. Travelers’ cheques can also be exchanged at authorised institutions. 

 

 

1