Things To Do
in Kalkara
Kalkara is a small coastal town on Kalkara Creek facing Valletta across the Grand Harbour. The town blends a quiet residential atmosphere with maritime history, including Fort Rinella and a scenic waterfront promenade. Its narrow lanes and Baroque touches reflect Malta's architectural heritage while providing easy access to the Three Cities and Valletta.
Visitors can enjoy waterfront cafés, boat trips, and panoramic views for a relaxed Mediterranean getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Kalkara by visiting the ancient Fort Ricasoli, which features stunning architecture and overlooks the Grand Harbour. Take in the fresh sea air as you stroll along the coast, immersing yourself in the rich history of the fort. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café where you can savor traditional Maltese pastries.
After lunch, head over to the beautiful Kalkara seafront, embracing the vibrant local atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the promenade, or opt for a scenic boat tour around the harbor to appreciate the breathtaking coastal views. Stop at the colorful fishing boats lining the shore for excellent photographic opportunities.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, relishing authentic Maltese dishes. As the sun sets, the picturesque views and tranquil sounds of the sea create a peaceful ambiance. Take a final stroll along the beach to capture the enchanting sunset over the horizon.
Begin your day at the Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa, just a short distance from Kalkara. Explore the rich maritime history of Malta through fascinating exhibits, including ancient ships and naval artifacts. Enjoy a light breakfast in the museum café, surrounded by the charisma of the historic surroundings.
After immersing yourself in maritime history, head to the nearby Inquisitor's Palace to discover more about Malta's intriguing past. Take a guided tour to better understand the experiences of the Maltese people during the Inquisition. Spend some time wandering through the narrow streets of Vittoriosa, soaking in the charming vibe and local shops.
Dinner will be a culinary delight at a local trattoria, where you can taste exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. Post-meal, head to a local bar for a taste of Maltese wine and a chat with locals about their favorite hidden gems in Kalkara. End your evening with a leisurely walk alongside the waterfront, enjoying the cool breeze and views of the illuminated fortifications.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚎Public transport pass | $30-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil waterfront with easy access to Valletta and the Three Cities
- Historic fortifications and scenic harbor views provide distinctive photo opportunities
- Nightlife is relatively low-key in Kalkara itself
- High-end dining options are more concentrated in nearby Valletta and Sliema
- "Bonġu" - Hello / Good morning
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Tista' tgħidli fejn il-belt/t-toroq?" - Can you tell me where the city/roads are?
Places to Visit in Kalkara
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, calm waters, and the Valletta skyline on the horizon create ideal sunset shots.
Historic fortifications with expansive harbor views perfect for wide-angle harbor photography.
Broad quay with seawater, boats, and distant silhouettes of the Three Cities.
Food in Kalkara
Kalkara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or mushy peas; a quintessential Maltese snack.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked rabbit with garlic, herbs, and wine; a Maltese classic.
Lampuki (dolphin fish) dishes vary seasonally—grilled, baked, or with olives and lemon.
A thick bean paste served with crusty bread and sometimes with capers and olives.
Date-filled fried pastries, a popular Maltese dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh seafood, produce, and crafts—accessible for a half- or full-day trip from Kalkara.
A lively market in the capital area with local produce, snacks, and coffee stops nearby.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Malta is bilingual (Maltese and English). A polite hello and a handshake are common in informal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; swimwear is only appropriate at beaches and pools.
Safety
Tipping in Kalkara
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges aren’t always included; typically 5-10% is appreciated in tourist areas if no service charge is on the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with peak tourist crowds. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and enjoy sea swims along the coastline and nearby beaches.
Warm days and cooler evenings; great for outdoor walks and harbor photography with mild humidity.
Mild, with intermittent rain and fewer crowds. Good for indoor dining experiences and museum visits.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, and comfortable days for long coastal walks and photo sessions.
Kalkara at Night
Hiking in Kalkara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal walking route offering harbor panoramas and photo stops.
Historic fortifications and scenic harbor views across the water.
Long coastal trail with seabird watching and rugged shorelines nearby.
Airports
How to reach Kalkara by plane.
Located near Luqa, about 8-12 miles from Kalkara; well-connected by road and public transport to Kalkara and the Three Cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Maltese families and retirees, with a growing number of expatriates in newer housing areas.
Visitors exploring the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and the waterfront.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A natural fit for Malta’s archipelago environment and harbor towns.
Wrecks and reefs around Grand Harbour and nearby coastlines.
Popular local sport with community clubs and matches nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalkara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Maltese restaurants (pasta, salads, vegetable stews). When ordering, ask for dishes without meat and specify no animal products if needed.