Imsida
,Imsida is a small town located in central Malta, just north of the capital city of Valletta. It is known for its picturesque harbor and waterfront area, which is popular among locals and tourists alike. The town is home to several historical buildings, including the neo-Gothic Parish Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Imsida offers a charming mix of traditional Maltese architecture and modern amenities, making it a delightful destination for visitors seeking a taste of local culture.
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jiena mghandni" - I don't understand
- "Fejn hu?" - Where is it?
- "Tajjeb" - Good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the Waterfront
morning
:Start your day with a peaceful walk along the Imsida waterfront, enjoying the views of the marina. Stop for a local breakfast at a nearby café with stunning sea views.
afternoon
:Visit the historic Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, known for its beautiful architecture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant and explore the local shops.
evening
:Wind down with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets. Dinner at a local bistro will complete your day.
Discover History
morning
:Begin your day at Fort Saint Elmo, where you can learn about Malta's maritime history. Enjoy the extensive views of the harbor from the fort's ramparts.
afternoon
:Head to the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta to explore Malta's ancient past. Have a light lunch at a café nearby.
evening
:Return to Imsida and savor dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant. Enjoy an evening stroll, soaking in the night ambiance.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.
- Rich history and culture, with numerous historical sites and landmarks.
- Proximity to the sea, offering various water sports and recreational activities.
- Growing expatriate community and welcoming locals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other European locations.
- English is widely spoken, making it easy for expatriates to communicate.
Bad
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for easy travel.
- High population density can lead to overcrowding in popular areas.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for non-Maltese speakers.
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some, especially without air conditioning.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger European cities.
- Certain areas can experience noise pollution, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Walking Tours
Explore the charming streets of Imsida on foot, taking in the beautiful architecture and local culture.
Cycling Along the Waterfront
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the waterfront, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Picnicking in the Gardens
Visit local parks and gardens for a relaxing picnic in the natural surroundings.
Beaches and Swimming
Spend a day at nearby beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe, and engage in water sports.
Skateboarding at Public Parks
Utilize skate parks available in the area for some fun and energetic skateboarding.
Exploring the Coastline
Take a coastal walk or hike to discover hidden coves and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Local Market Visits
Visit local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods, which can be an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Imsida with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Imsida Waterfront
A picturesque area along the waterfront offering stunning views of the harbor and the colorful boats. Perfect for capturing sunset photos.
University of Malta
The university grounds feature beautiful architecture and gardens, providing numerous spots for great photos, especially with the backdrop of the historic buildings.
Sliema Promenade
Just a short walk from Imsida, the Sliema promenade offers panoramic views of Valletta, ideal for landscape photography and evening shots of the city lights.
St. Joseph Parish Church
A lovely church with an impressive facade that can provide striking photos, particularly with the sun setting behind it.
Fort Tigne
Located nearby, this historic fort offers elevated views of the surrounding areas, including Sliema and Valletta, making it a great spot for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fenkata
A hearty rabbit stew, usually cooked in red wine and served with spaghetti. Can be enjoyed at 'Ta' L-Ingliz Restaurant' in nearby Valletta.
Must-Try!
Pastizzi
Flaky pastries filled with either ricotta cheese (pastizzi tal-irkotta) or a mushy pea mixture (pastizzi tal-piżelli). Try the best at 'Crystal Palace' in Rabat.
Hobż biż-żejt
Traditional Maltese bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and topped with a variety of ingredients such as tuna, capers, olives, and cheese. Visit 'Café Jubilee' for a great hobż biż-żejt experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Imsida better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Valletta Food Market
Explore a vibrant market offering local produce, spices, and traditional delicacies. Don't miss out on the freshly-made Gozitan cheese and sun-ripened tomatoes.
Marsaxlokk Sunday Fish Market
Experience the colorful hustle and bustle of a traditional Maltese fish market. Sample freshly caught seafood and engage with local fishermen for an authentic food experience.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Imsida, it is common to greet with a handshake. Close friends may also exchange kisses on the cheeks. It’s polite to greet everyone in the room when entering.
Dining Etiquette
If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine. During meals, wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.
Public Behavior
Respectful behavior in public places is important. Avoid loud discussions or public displays of anger. Dress modestly when visiting sites of religious significance, as a sign of respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Imsida with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Imsida, Malta, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to round up the bill in restaurants or leave a small percentage (5-10%) if service was satisfactory. In cafés and bars, leaving small change is also customary. Tipping taxi drivers is rare, but rounding up the fare is often seen as a nice gesture.
Payment
Most establishments in Imsida accept a variety of payment methods including cash and credit/debit cards. Malta uses the Euro as its currency. Cash payments are common, especially in smaller shops and markets, while larger restaurants and hotels are equipped for card transactions. Contactless payments are also widely accepted.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Imsida.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Imsida, Malta. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is ideal for outdoor activities, exploring historical sites, and enjoying local festivals. The landscape is lush and blooming, making it a great time for photography.
Summer
Summer (June to August) in Imsida features hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season, with vibrant nightlife and beach activities. Expect crowded beaches and various local events, but be prepared for high temperatures and potential heatwaves.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) offers warm weather, particularly in September and October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is ideal for exploring the city without the summer crowds. The sea remains warm for swimming, and various cultural events take place, making it a pleasant time to visit.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Imsida is mild compared to many other regions, with temperatures typically between 10°C and 17°C (50°F to 63°F). While this is the off-peak season, it can be an excellent time for those seeking tranquility. Expect some rain and fewer crowds, with the opportunity to explore the attractions at a relaxed pace.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Zabbar to Fgura Walk
A scenic walk from Zabbar to Fgura, showcasing some beautiful countryside views and local flora.
Victorian Urban Trail
A trail exploring the Victorian architecture of the surrounding areas, with paths that lead to natural landscapes.
Marsaskala to St. Thomas Bay
A coastal walk offering stunning sea views, ideal for casual hiking and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.
Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park
A protected area featuring cliffs, coastal paths, and rich biodiversity, perfect for both hiking and nature enthusiasts.
Buskett Gardens
A wooded area that provides various trails, great for leisurely hikes, picnics, and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Imsida through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Imsida by plane.
Malta International Airport (MLA)
The main international airport serving Malta, located approximately 8 km from Imsida.
Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Located in Sicily, Italy, this airport is about 150 km from Imsida, served by various international flights.
Palermo Airport (PMO)
Also known as Falcone-Borsellino Airport, located around 230 km from Imsida in Sicily, Italy.
Lampedusa Airport (LMP)
An airport on Lampedusa Island, Italy, located approximately 330 km from Imsida, mainly serving regional flights.
Comiso Airport (CIY)
An airport located in Sicily, Italy, about 160 km from Imsida, catering to both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Maltese Nationals
The primary demographic group in Imsida, comprising individuals who are citizens of Malta.
Foreign Residents
Individuals from other countries residing in Imsida, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
Students
A significant number of students from local universities, particularly the University of Malta, who live in Imsida.
Retirees
Older adults, often Maltese or expatriates, who choose to reside in Imsida for its amenities and community feel.
Young Professionals
Individuals in their early to mid-career stages, often living and working in the nearby towns or cities.
The Soul of Imsida
Discover the essence of Imsida through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Imsida and Malta as a whole, with many local clubs and a strong following.
Water Polo
Water polo has a significant presence in Malta due to the country's maritime culture and is played competitively.
Basketball
Basketball is increasingly popular in Imsida, with clubs and local leagues encouraging participation at all ages.
Volleyball
Volleyball enjoys popularity in local communities, with beach volleyball also being a favorite during the summer months.
Athletics
Athletics has a dedicated group of participants in Imsida, with events ranging from running to field sports.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Most restaurants and cafes in Imsida offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including stuffed bell peppers, grilled vegetable platters, and lentil soups. 'Sotto Pizzeria' in Sliema is known for its delicious vegetarian pizza options.
Gluten-Free Choices
While Maltese cuisine heavily features bread, many restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free diets. 'Mint' in Sliema provides a range of gluten-free options, including pasta and desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Imsida with these cultural adventures.
