Welcome to Marsaxlokk, the land of “fish-tastic” wonders and colorful delights! Nestled in the South Eastern Region of Malta, this picturesque haven boasts a lively harbor, breathtaking views, and fishing traditions that go back centuries.
This charming village is the place to come if you want to explore a more traditional and authentic side of Malta. Oh, and eat some of the freshest and most delicious seafood around.
You can easily explore Marsaxlokk within a few hours. However, there’s more to this tiny place than meets the eye, and many people overlook the opportunity to stay for a night or two.
By staying for a couple nights, you’ll have the chance to uncover gems that lie beyond the village itself. I stayed a for two nights and loved every minute of it.
Here are the best things to do in the adorable village of Marsaxlokk!
Pssst – Are you planning to explore more of Malta? Check out these articles!
Why You Should Take A Gozo Jeep Tour In Malta
22 Best Restaurants in St Julian’s, Malta: The Ultimate Foodie Guide
14 Exceptional Blue Lagoon Malta Boat Trips
19 Fantastic Gozo Tours You Will Want to Book
Table of Contents
Things to do in Marsaxlokk
Browse the Goodies at the Sunday Fish Market
The Sunday fish market in Marsaxlokk is a tradition that’s been reeling in the crowds for generations! Locals and tourists flock to Marsaxlokk to check out the array of freshly caught seafood on display; as the fishermen proudly present their finest catches.
The market begins early in the morning, usually around dawn, as the fishermen return from their overnight fishing trips. You can get there even earlier to see the boats coming in and the fishermen setting up shop.
Aside from the fresh catch, the market also offers an assortment of local produce, artisanal crafts, and traditional products. You’ll find stalls selling fruits and vegetables, handmade pottery, woven baskets, local spices, and freshly baked pastries.
For those who want to take a break from shopping, the market area is dotted with cafes and restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes and other Maltese specialties. Pick one with seating outside and order a plate of freshly grilled fish, paired with a glass of local wine. You can thank me later!
The market is not only a place to purchase seafood, but also a vibrant cultural experience that showcases the deep connection between the village and its fishing heritage. It offers a glimpse into the traditions, customs, and way of life that have shaped Marsaxlokk for centuries.
Eat The Freshest Seafood on the Island
Ta’Victor | Address: RGRW+H29, Marsaxlokk, Malta
This restaurant was recommended to me by so many people, so I made sure to eat here during my time in Marsaxlokk. I arrived right when it opened for lunch and later learned I was lucky to get a table without a reservation. It was packed shortly after I got there.
I was informed when I sat down that the menu was fixed, and I could choose between meat or fish. Since I was in the fishing capital of Malta, it would be a crime not to order fish.
So my waiter brought out the dishes starting with a Maltese platter which consisted of sausage, cheese, crackers, tomato bread and bigilla (maltese dip) and then brought out a soup which I thought was bland. Then he brought out some pasta filled with cheese, and then the fish!
It was delicious and incredibly fresh. I ate every last bit. For dessert, he brought out imquaret, a traditional date filled pastry.
It cost €40 euros for the entire meal, which wasn’t too bad.
Roots | Address: 67,, Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk, Malta MXK 1303, Malta
If you want to eat the best octopus of your life, you’ll need to stop at Roots. Like most restaurants in Marsaxlokk, Roots specializes in Seafood and frankly, it’s hard to get bad seafood in this village, but man, this octopus was so tender it melted in my mouth. I could eat this every day for the rest of my life and be content.
Make sure to make a reservation! It gets very busy.
T’Annamari Restaurant | Address: 28 Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk, Malta
When I ordered lobster pasta at this Sicilian restaurant, I did not expect my pasta to come in half a lobster shell!
With Italy being just a ferry ride away, there are no shortage of authentic Italian restaurants on the island. I wanted to eat all the seafood I could while visiting Marsaxlokk, so Italian food wasn’t really on my radar, but then I found this Sicilian restaurant.
The chef who owns it was born in Ragusa, Sicily and has two decades of cooking experiences, so I knew I was in for a treat and Sicily is renowned for its incredible seafood.
I absolutely LOVED the lobster pasta, especially the fact that it was served in a shell. It added an extra burst of flavor that made the dish even more delicious.
Hunters Tower | Address: 5 Wilga St, Marsaxlokk MXK 1321, Malta
Hunters Tower is located at the end of the harbor, close to the waterfront, and kind of looks like a castle from the outside.
I went with grilled fish and Alijotta soup (traditional Maltese fish soup) and both were very good. The fish was grilled with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon. Usually I can tell right away when the seafood is fresh, and this was no exception.
Every day, they have a fresh fish special, so you just have to ask the waiter what’s fresh, and he will tell you what they have.
Unico Restaurant | Address: 2 Xatt is-Sajjieda, Malta Marsaxlokk, MXK 1301, Malta
I ate here by accident. Most restaurant in Marsaxlokk close at 9 and almost nothing is open on Mondays, so my only choice on a Monday night at 9 was Unico Restaurant. The pizza isn’t bad, and the ambiance is very lively. I suppose because it’s the only place in the village open on Monday night.
Gaze at the Colorful Luzzu Boats
Ah, the vibrant and iconic Maltese luzzu boats! These colorful vessels are as much a part of Malta’s culture as sun-soaked beaches and delicious pastizzi.
The luzzu boats are traditional fishing boats that have been used by Maltese fishermen for centuries. Their distinctive design is what sets them apart. With their sleek, curved lines and bold colors, they are a sight to behold.
But these boats are more than just pretty faces. They are sturdy and reliable, built to withstand the challenges of the sea. Their deep hulls allow them to navigate rough waters, making them a symbol of resilience and adventure.
Also, look out for the “eye of Osiris” painted on the bows of many luzzu boats. This traditional symbol is believed to bring protection and good luck to the fishermen on their journeys, warding off evil spirits and ensuring a bountiful catch.
Take a Scenic Boat Trip Around the Bay
Get ready for an adventure in Marsaxlokk, because one of the absolute must-do activities is hopping on a traditional luzzu boat and sailing around the harbor. There are plenty of tour companies lining the waterfront that offer tours every single day! For a mere $5-$10, you can enjoy 1 – 1 1/2 hours of nautical bliss.
You’ll have an awesome captain on board, taking you to the most picturesque and jaw-dropping spots, around Marsaxlokk.
These trips take you to see St. Peter’s pool and during the summer, you even have the chance to take a refreshing swim. You will see hofriet, a circular cove believed to be shaped by ancient whirlpools during the ice age, and you’ll pass by a bunch of smaller bays and coves.
You may also get a view of Fort Delimara which was built by the British in 1888. You’ll see a ton of cool landmarks, natural wonders, and the views from the water are worth the trip alone!
Coffee at Southwest Cafe
I am someone that NEEDS coffee every morning to function like a human being, and Marsaxlokk did not have a proper coffee shop, but I found just what I needed at Southwest Cafe. They have an extensive coffee menu and if you are hungry they also served breakfast. The English Breakfast in particular looked good.
I sat here for two hours having coffee after coffee while I waited to check into my hotel.
Take a Refreshing Dip in St Peters Pool
St Peters Pool is one of the most popular things to do in Marsaxlokk. This aquatic marvel boasts waters so clear, you’ll feel like you’re swimming in a pool and with Malta’s summer temperatures rising to the high 80’s or 90’s, there is no better way to spend the day.
Not only is St Peter’s Pool great for swimming and sunbathing, but if you are seeking some adrenaline, it’s a great spot to cliff jump! I’ll admit, I didn’t have the guts to take the plunge myself (I’m more of a “dip my toes in gingerly” kind of person), but loads of people were, including children!
Most people flock to St. Peter’s Pool from all corners of the island, so it’s a luxury to be able to stay in Marsaxlokk and walk up there or Uber. I wouldn’t recommend driving unless you come early in the morning. There is limited parking and during high season, loads of cars can be seen lined up at one time waiting for a spot, and I am sure you don’t want to spend your holiday in a car queue.
If you’re feeling up to it, you can even take a 30-minute walk from Marsaxlokk to St. Peter’s Pool. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, a hat, and a gallon of water to survive the scorching Maltese sun. But if the heat has you melting like a popsicle, don’t hesitate to call an Uber or Bolt, which shouldn’t cost more than $6 or$7.
Have Some Drinks at a Local Bar
If you are coming to Marsaxlokk and expecting a crazy nightlife, you will be very disappointed. I found one bar on the village and that is Remissa M’Xlokk Coffee & Sport Bar. It’s a local spot located down a quiet street, so not many tourists find it.
With the waterfront being so crowded, I found it to be a nice retreat.
Hike up to a Fort Delimara
Prepare yourself for a journey through time at Fort Delimara in Marsaxlokk. If you’ve ever fantasized about being a military tactician or have a strange obsession with cannons, this place is for you!
Nestled at Delimara point, this fort was part of a defensive line protecting the Marsaxlokk harbor.
Constructed between 1876 and 1878, Fort Delimara is an incredible place to visit. Inside, you’ll discover hidden passages and a large Parade Ground.
But the real showstoppers are the guns. Fort Delimara was armed with massive 38-ton RML guns, making a statement to the world that size does matter. Four of these beasts still stand tall.
Since Malta’s independence in 1964, this historic treasure has been under the watchful eye of the local government. So, if you have a hankering for history and an interest in the military, make sure to visit Fort Delimara.
Unfortunately, you can’t just show up and go inside. You need to make an appointment for a tour. I recommend planning this part a few weeks in advance, so you can make sure to get a time slot. It’s 100% worth going inside.
Sun Bathe at the Beach
Bay Għar Aħmar is the only sandy beach in Marsaxlokk village and a short walk from all the shops on the waterfront.
Explore a Cool Cave
Website | Address: Ghar Dalam Cave, Triq Ghar Dalam, Birżebbuġa, Malta
Step into the fascinating world of Malta’s ancient past at Għar Dalam, a prehistoric cave. Prepare to be amazed as you encounter rows of ancient animal bones, excavated from the depths of Għar Dalam cave.
These bones once belonged to animals that roamed Malta thousands of years ago, only to meet their demise during the Last Glacial Maximum. From dwarf elephants to hippos, giant swans to deer, and even bears, this cave preserves the memory of these extinct creatures.
This cave is also where the earliest evidence of human settlement on Malta was discovered, a whopping 7,400 years ago, so there is a lot to be explored!
To get to Għar Dalam I walked from Marsaxlokk which only took about 30 minutes. They have a parking lot for those that have a car and of course Uber & Bolt are widely available.
Shop for Souvenirs at the Daily Market
The daily market happens every day from 8am – 2pm and is a great place to buy souvenirs. It’s a pretty small market and very underwhelming compared to the Sunday Market, but definitely check it out. You can still buy some cool little gifts.
Try Some Traditional Sweet Treats at Sea Coast Confectionary
Sea Coast Confectionary | Address: RGRW+P38, Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk, Malta
I was in a very dangerous spot…
My hotel was across the street from Sea Coast Confectionary, which means I went to this bakery every single day. The best pastry I got was Bezzun tal-krema, a brioche bun stuffed with cream and jam. It was one of the best desserts I had in Malta!
Visit a Farm
Website: Tulliera
How does playing with baby goats on a farm sound?
When I travel somewhere new, one of the activities I look out for is a farm visit. I did this for the first time in Fuerteventura, Spain, when I learned to make local cheese and partake in feeding and milking the goats.
Needless to say, I was very excited when I discovered Marsaxlokk had a farm a short Uber ride from where I was staying. The farm is called Tuillera, and they are all about dishing out farm-to-fork goodness, and championing sustainable agro-tourism.
People who visit mainly go to buy fresh veggies, fruits, eggs, cheese, and other organic goodies as well as jarred olives, various types of chutney, and honey which are perfect if you want to take something delicious home with you!
They have the cutest baby goats and lots of chickens roaming around. It’s definitely a fun place to visit when you are in Marsaxlokk.
At the moment, you can’t book tours of the farm on their website, but you can contact them ahead of time and ask for a tour or just ask if you can see the animals.
Where to Stay in Marsaxlokk
Dun Gorg Guesthouse | Address: Triq Tas-Silg Marsaxlokk Marsaxlokl, MXK 1140, Malta
There aren’t a ton of options when booking accommodation in Marsaxokk, but I quite enjoyed Dun Gorg Guesthouse. I arrived very early on Sunday to see the fish market, and they nicely stored my stuff until check in, and when I came back they told me my stuff was waiting in my room.
The room was very large, and they had a complimentary bottle of red local wine waiting for me – plus there was a balcony with a nice view where I could enjoy it.
They also had free breakfast, which was nothing special, but other than that I really enjoyed my stay, and the location was great!
For more accommodation choices in Marsaxlokk, search for hotels below!
Marsaxlokk Faqs
How do you get to Marsaxlokk?
To get to Marsaxlokk, Malta, you have a few options depending on your starting point:
- By Air: If you’re arriving by air, you’ll land at Malta International Airport (MLA), which is located about 8 kilometers northwest of Marsaxlokk. From the airport, you can take a taxi, hire a car, or use public transportation to reach Marsaxlokk. Buses are available from the airport to Marsaxlokk, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
- By Car: If you’re already in Malta or have rented a car, you can drive to Marsaxlokk. The village is situated on the southeastern coast of Malta, and you can reach it by following the signs or using a navigation system. There are parking facilities available in Marsaxlokk, but it can get crowded, especially on market days and during peak tourist seasons.
- By Public Transportation: Malta has an extensive bus network operated by the Malta Public Transport (MPT) company. You can take a bus from various locations on the island to Marsaxlokk. The bus routes serving Marsaxlokk include Route 81 from Valletta, Route 85 from Sliema, and Route 119 from St. Julian’s. It’s advisable to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary depending on the time of year.
- Rideshare: Both Uber & Bolt are widely available. I didn’t pay more than $20 for a ride, and sometimes I would be riding 30+ minutes
When is the best time to visit Marsaxlokk?
The best time to visit Marsaxlokk is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather in Malta is pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the village and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, the tourist crowds are generally smaller compared to the peak summer season, allowing you to have a more relaxed and authentic experience. However, if you specifically want to witness the bustling Sunday fish market in Marsaxlokk, then visiting during any time of the year is recommended as it takes place weekly.
Is Marsaxlokk accessible?
Marsaxlokk, like many old towns and villages, may present some accessibility challenges for wheelchair users. While efforts have been made to improve accessibility in recent years, it’s important to note that the village has uneven terrain, narrow streets, and some areas with steps. Here are some considerations regarding accessibility in Marsaxlokk:
- Streets and Sidewalks: The streets in Marsaxlokk are narrow, and have uneven surfaces. Sidewalks are also limited or uneven in certain areas.
- Attractions and Restaurants: Some attractions and restaurants in Marsaxlokk have steps or limited accessibility. It’s advisable to check with specific establishments beforehand to inquire about their accessibility features and services. Boats are not accessible, unfortunately.
- Parking: Accessible parking spaces may be limited in the village, especially during busy times. However, there are parking options available, and it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a suitable parking spot.
Marsaxlokk was pretty tricky for me with my balance. It’s unfortunate that every place can’t be accessible, but Malta’s infrastructure in general is very poor, and a wheelchair user would have a lot of trouble navigating the narrow streets.
Pssst – Are you planning to explore more of Malta? Check out these articles!
Why You Should Take A Gozo Jeep Tour In Malta
22 Best Restaurants in St Julian’s, Malta: The Ultimate Foodie Guide
14 Exceptional Blue Lagoon Malta Boat Trips
19 Fantastic Gozo Tours You Will Want to Book
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