Running in the Malta Marathon or Half Marathon is an exciting experience that should be challenging enough for seasoned runners while also appealing to new runners. This Malta Marathon Guide will explain details about the route, elevation, registration, and drop some hints about running in Malta.

Malta’s longest running marathon is organised by the Malta Marathon Organisation Committee, which also holds other races throughout the year. The marathon started in 1986, with just 119 participants – half local, half foreign, all were male. At the same time, a 10 mile race for women was held, with just 12 women taking part. The next year, the women’s race was replaced by a half marathon, and both events have become a yearly staple in the local running calendar. 

Although the route has changed from the original, and continues to change year on year, it has now established a starting point just outside Mdina and an endpoint in Sliema close to the ferries. 

One really nice feature is that the photos taken during the run are given free, unlike other events where participants have to pay for them. 

Overall the terrain is not too challenging although there is a decent incline at Bombi. Possibly the most challenging aspect is the start, which is a very nice downhill, but this has led many runners to start out too fast (myself included!). Keep reading to find out more tips from a seasoned runner in my comprehensive Malta Marathon guide.

What’s running in Malta like?

Overall, it’s a very pleasant experience. Malta is not a flat country, which makes running more interesting and more challenging, and in my experience has made me a better runner. The weather is usually rather mild from November through to May, with the worst conditions you can expect being high winds (up to gale force 5) and sudden downpours, but rain is not much of an issue if you keep an eye on the weather forecast. The greater challenge is the summer heat, which can reach around 40 degrees Celcius in the summer. To avoid the unbearable hot sun, dehydration, and sun stroke, runners in Malta follow these tips:

• Start your runs early or late – avoid the worst of the heat in the afternoon
• Plan your route and know where you can stop for hydration
• Try to keep to shady areas
• Take hydration with you on long runs and make sure to keep drinking

There are no public water fountains, but there are plenty of small grocery stores where you can get hydration. 

Malta Marathon Guide – Key Information

Event Date & Location

• Date: The Malta Marathon and Malta Half Marathon usually take place on the last Sunday in February
• Application Period: Opens at the beginning of June 1, closes around mid-February

Race Options

Some additional distances have been added to the event, to make it more accessible.

Registration Fees

Registration fees are usually around €55 for the full marathon and €45 for the half marathon until 25th December, when the rate increases by about €5, and then it increases again by another €5 in mid-January. 

The race organisers have made transport available, allowing runners to park close to the finish, and get a van up to the start in Mdina. The fee for transport is €5. Alternatively, I would recommend booking a cab through Bolt or eCabs to get to the start at least 30 minutes before the race begins, and consider public transport for after the race.

• Full Marathon transport departs at 5:45am
• Half Marathon/Walkathon transport departs at 7:00am

What’s Included in the Race Pack

• Malta Marathon T-shirt
• Official race magazine
• Commemorative medal for finishers
• Timing chip (embedded in race number)
• Baggage transport from start to finish – bring a bag with your number clearly marked. The transport vans are usually pretty safe, but it’s wise not to leave valuables in there.

Route Information

• Both routes start just outside Mdina and finish in Sliema
• 200-meter elevation drop from start to finish
• Water, sponge, Powerade, and fruit stations available along routes
• The Malta Marathon & Half Marathon pass by several key locations: starting from the old capital Mdina, passing the Roman aqueducts, by the Bombi gate, down to the Ta Xbiex Marina, and finishing by the sea at Sliema ferries.

Awards Ceremony

• Takes place in the evening, on race day
• Various categories for Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Race
• Team competitions available (teams of 3 runners)

Additional Services

• Baggage transport from start to finish
• Changing and toilet facilities near start and finish
• Online results and printable certificates (provided via email)
• Race photos (links sent via email after the event)

Not sure where to stay when participating in the Malta Marathon? Choose our studio accommodation and I’ll take you for a run along part of the route – that should calm any pre-race butterflies!