Getting around in Malé is relatively easy due to its small size. It is possible to walk around the entire city in about an hour, and most of the major attractions are clustered near each other on the north shore, about a 15-minute walk from the jetty. There is no public transportation in Malé, however taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.

Dhivehi is the national language in Maldives. English is widely spoken in addition to German, French, Italian and Japanese, spoken by the resort staff.

The Maldivian Rufiya (MVR) is divided into 100 laari. The resorts in Maldives are generally expensive and travellers should ensure they bring sufficient funds. There are no cash machines and travellers' cheques are rarely used, but there are currency exchange facilities available at resorts and banks. Major credit cards are accepted at most resorts and hotels. US Dollars can be exchanged at the airport, banks or hotels. Guests staying at resorts can settle their accounts in hard foreign currency (US Dollars are best), credit cards or travellers cheques. Banks are usually closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

The best shopping in the Maldives is undoubtedly Malé, a city crowded with shops and markets. Most of the souvenir shops that cater to tourists are found in the business district, conveniently located close to the jetty where travellers arrive from the airport ferries.

Another popular shopping district in Malé is the Singapore Bazaar at the top end of Chaandhanee Magu, so called because many of the products are imported from Singapore. Most of the outdoor markets in Malé are filled with fruits and vegetables rather than souvenirs, but they are an enjoyable way to spend a few hours browsing the colourful stalls. Though most countries' customs agents will confiscate coconuts and papayas, it is possible to buy some wonderful local spices, which are a popular souvenir from the Maldives.

Malé is a city filled with culture and history, all clustered together on a tiny island. Its Islamic heritage is at the forefront with beautiful buildings like the Grand Friday Mosque and Islamic Centre, and those looking to soak up some Maldivian culture will want to plan for a visit to the National Art Gallery, Maldivian National Museum and Independence Square.

Malé's markets are a popular attraction in their own right, ranging from the colourful stalls of the vegetable and firewood markets to the bustle of the famous fish market.

There are few natural attractions in Malé, however a small artificial beach on the east coast of the island offers surprisingly good surfing. The Whale Submarine is a popular Malé attraction for those too timid to scuba dive, with a 40-minute underwater ride showcasing the marine life of the Indian Ocean.