Money, cards and ATMs in Malta

The currency

• Malta uses the euro and has since 2008.
• Cards work everywhere and contactless is standard.

Prices

• Malta is no longer the cheap Mediterranean option it was a decade ago. Accommodation in particular has risen sharply.
• Eating away from the Sliema and St Julian's waterfront cuts the bill substantially.
• Buses and ferries remain very cheap, which makes the Explore card good value.

ATMs

• Always refuse the machine's offer to charge you in your own currency. Dynamic currency conversion at an ATM or a card terminal costs several per cent, every time, and the offer is worded to sound helpful. Choose the local currency and let your own bank convert.
• Use bank ATMs rather than the independent machines in tourist areas, which add their own fee on top.

Tipping

• Around 10 per cent in restaurants where service is not included.
• Check the bill - some tourist restaurants add service and leave the tip line blank as well.