Moving to Malta, retiring, working remotely or simply finding your friendship circle has shrunk? You’re not alone. One of the easiest ways to meet like-minded people is through a shared interest. The good news is that Malta’s compact size makes it remarkably easy to join clubs, groups and communities where friendships often develop naturally.
Whether you’re looking for fitness, creativity, adventure or a chance to give something back, here are some of the best hobbies to take up in Malta, together with a realistic look at the physical requirements and likely costs involved.
Walking Groups and Hiking
Malta’s coastline, countryside trails and cliff-top paths provide a spectacular backdrop for social walking groups, many of which welcome newcomers year-round.
Physical requirements:
Suitable for most fitness levels, although uneven terrain can be challenging for those with serious balance issues, knee problems or mobility limitations. Many groups offer easier and more strenuous routes.
Equipment:
Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, sun protection and a small backpack.
Typical cost:
€50–€120 for basic equipment. Most walking groups are free or ask for a small membership fee.
Swing Dancing
One of Malta’s friendliest social scenes, swing dancing combines music, movement and regular social events. Unlike many partner dances, newcomers are actively encouraged and partners rotate frequently.
Physical requirements:
Moderate fitness required. Not ideal for those with significant knee, hip or lower back issues, although many people dance comfortably well into their seventies.
Equipment:
Comfortable shoes and clothing. Specialist dance shoes can be purchased later.
Typical cost:
€15 per class.
Sea Swimming
For many locals and expats, the sea becomes both a fitness routine and a social network. Morning swimming groups are particularly active throughout the year.
Physical requirements:
Basic swimming ability is essential. Not suitable for those uncomfortable in open water or with certain heart conditions unless medically cleared.
Equipment:
Swimwear, towel and, in winter, possibly a wetsuit.
Typical cost:
€20–€300 depending on equipment choices.
Photography Clubs
Photography offers a perfect blend of creativity and exploration, with members regularly meeting for walks, workshops and exhibitions.
Physical requirements:
Minimal physical demands beyond standing and walking.
Equipment:
A smartphone can be enough initially, although many enthusiasts eventually invest in cameras.
Typical cost:
Free to several hundred euros depending on equipment ambitions.
Community Choirs
No professional training required. Malta has numerous choirs welcoming adults of all ages and abilities.
Physical requirements:
Suitable for almost everyone.
Equipment:
None.
Typical cost:
Usually free to €100 annually.
Craft Groups and Workshops
From pottery and sewing to weaving and painting, creative hobbies offer a relaxed environment for conversation and connection.
Physical requirements:
Generally low impact and suitable for most ages and abilities.
Equipment:
Usually provided during beginner workshops.
Typical cost:
€20–€100 to start, depending on the craft.
Running Clubs
Running clubs remain one of the easiest ways to meet people with a shared commitment to health and wellbeing.
Physical requirements:
Moderate fitness required. Not recommended for those with significant joint problems without professional advice.
Equipment:
Running shoes and sportswear.
Typical cost:
€60–€150 for basic equipment.
Scuba Diving
Malta’s world-class dive sites attract an international community of enthusiasts.
Physical requirements:
Reasonable fitness and medical suitability are required. Certain respiratory and cardiovascular conditions may prevent participation.
Equipment:
Initial training centres usually provide gear.
Typical cost:
€300–€600 for introductory certification.
Not all hobbies involve sport or creativity. Many people find their strongest friendships through community service.
Malta has hundreds of voluntary organisations supporting everything from animal welfare and heritage preservation to environmental projects and youth development. Volunteering offers something many hobbies don’t: the opportunity to meet people while making a tangible difference.
Among the options available, Rotary offers a particularly appealing balance of social connection, professional networking and community impact. Local clubs and online clubs bring together people from different backgrounds to work on projects ranging from environmental initiatives and education programmes to humanitarian causes. For those who enjoy meeting motivated people while contributing to meaningful projects, it can be a rewarding alternative to traditional hobby groups.
The Real Secret to Making Friends
The hobby itself is often less important than consistency. The people who build the strongest friendships aren’t necessarily the best dancers, fastest runners or most talented photographers. They’re simply the ones who show up regularly. Malta offers countless opportunities to expand your social circle. The hardest part is usually attending that first session. After that, the conversations tend to take care of themselves.
