BLACK FRIDAY: Save up to $1,322 on our trips! Limited spots. Book Now.

The Best Markets in Malta to Visit

Galway Market, Lombard Street, Galway, Ireland
Galway Market, Lombard Street, Galway, Ireland | Photo by Bree Anne on Unsplash

Tourists and locals alike are no strangers to the island’s markets, and glorious weather most of the year means open-air markets are particularly popular. Scattered across the island, they take up vast allocated spaces around local villages and there’s always a bargain to be found. A delight for all the senses, experience vibrant colours, wondrous smells and soak up true Maltese culture with our list of the best markets to explore.

The Stalls of Valletta

Take a trip to the capital of Valletta on a Sunday to experience the largest market on the island. Il-Monti (The Stalls) is also the most popular market in Malta and the choice is endless. With stalls of clothing, shoes, souvenirs and traditional Maltese treats, you can pick up an antique or two as well. Smaller markets can be found during the week on Valletta’s Merchant’s Street, but for the true bargains, Sunday is the day to visit.

Marsaxlokk Fish Market

A seaside village that is the perfect location for Malta’s biggest fish market. Extremely popular, it’s best to arrive early for the best selection of fish caught earlier that morning. Although specialising in fish, visitors will also be able to find some other food products here. An ideal opportunity to perhaps try a new seafood, as stall holders are always willing to advise. The market is surrounded by restaurants and cafés serving freshly caught fish of all descriptions, straight from the Mediterranean to your plate. A market selling clothing, treats, souvenirs and household items can be found here during the week.

Rabat Market

Located in the village centre and a stone’s-throw from St Paul’s church is the delight that is Rabat Market. Being a village particularly popular for its fresh bread, pastizzis and biscuits, you’ll not only find a wide choice of these at the market and neighbouring shops, but also clothing and homeware items. A perfect place to spend the day relaxing and taking in the traditional surroundings. If time allows for it, the beautiful, historic village of Mdina (The Silent City) is within walking distance.

Ta’ Qali Farmers Market

Produce couldn’t be fresher at this market, and buying directly from the producers themselves not only ensures ultimate taste but unbeatable prices too. First opened in 2010, this market has been a success from day one. With at least 30 different stalls weekly, featuring fruit and vegetables, customers will also find Maltese honey, meat, fresh bread and flowers. An ideal opportunity to talk to stall holders directly, browse at your leisure and enjoy a coffee and bite to eat in the food stall and seating area.

Victoria Market Gozo

Malta’s small sister island of Gozo also has its own outdoor markets. A short ferry ride from Malta will see you reaching Gozo in approximately 20 minutes. Often visited by tourists for the day, Gozo has plenty to see and, what’s more, the best market on the island is held daily. Head for the capital of Victoria to see Independence Square, hosting many stalls offering everything from food items to straw hats!

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

About the author

English writer living in Malta. After holidaying on this beautiful rock for nearly 10 years, and working in schools for nearly 15, we decided to sell our house in the UK and move to Mellieha. Two years down the line, I now call this island home, the perfect location for my daughter to grow up and my husband and I to relax.

If you click on a link in this story, we may earn affiliate revenue. All recommendations have been independently sourced by Culture Trip.
close-ad