Maltese Residents Increase Overseas Travel in First Half of 2026
In brief
- Maltese residents undertook an estimated 419,940 tourist trips overseas in the first half of 2026.
- This figure represents a 7.6% increase compared to the number of trips taken during the same period in 2025.
- Italy, the United Kingdom, and Spain remained the most popular destinations for Maltese holidaymakers in the second quarter of the year.
Maltese residents have shown a notable increase in their overseas travel during the first half of 2026. This trend indicates a growing interest in international tourism among the local population.
According to data reported by Newsbook, an estimated 419,940 tourist trips were taken by Maltese residents to various international destinations between January and June of this year.
This volume of travel marks a significant rise, showing an increase of 7.6% when compared to the number of outbound trips recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.
Focusing on the second quarter of 2026, from April to June, The Maltese Herald reported that residents made 214,123 outbound tourist trips. This specific period also saw an increase, with a rise of 2.5% compared to the second quarter of the previous year.
The National Statistics Office (NSO) data, cited by The Maltese Herald, also revealed the preferred destinations for these travellers. Italy, the United Kingdom, and Spain continued to be the three most popular countries for Maltese holidaymakers.
These figures collectively highlight a sustained and growing interest among Maltese residents in exploring international destinations, contributing to the outbound tourism sector.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. Both independent outlets reported on the increase in overseas travel by Maltese residents, citing National Statistics Office data.