Things To Do
in Marsa
Marsa is a small harbour town on Malta's southern coast, perched along Grand Harbour with a mix of industrial heritage and seaside charm. Its location near Valletta and the Three Cities makes it a convenient base for exploring Malta’s history, ferries, and coastal scenery. The promenade and quay offer maritime views and easy access to nearby Birgu, Kalkara, and Marsaxlokk without the crowds of bigger resorts.
This town provides an authentic Maltese experience with a calm atmosphere and straightforward connections to Malta’s cultural hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Maltese pastries. Take a stroll along the breathtaking coastline and absorb the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can also visit nearby St. Thomas Bay for some early morning photography and peaceful beach time.
After lunch, make your way to the nearby village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colorful fishing boats. Spend some time exploring the local market, where you can purchase fresh seafood and handcrafted souvenirs. Don’t forget to savor some fresh catch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
In the evening, return to Marsa and unwind with a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade. Enjoy the sunset as you sample delicious Maltese cuisine at a local restaurant. End your day with gelato from a nearby shop, soaking in the vibrant ambiance of the town.
After breakfast, travel to Valletta, Malta's capital, and start your exploration at the Upper Barracca Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Visit the historic St. John's Co-Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece adorned with stunning artwork. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city with a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology.
Enjoy lunch in a quaint café in Valletta before taking a guided walking tour of the city’s hidden gems, including the narrow streets and charming boutiques. The afternoon can be spent visiting the beautiful Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theaters in Europe. Make sure to find some time to relax at the Lower Barracca Gardens.
As the day winds down, explore the lively street life of Valletta and dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the waterways. Indulge in traditional Maltese dishes while watching the glittering lights of the city reflect on the water. Check out some local live music for a perfect ending to a culturally rich day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $90-150 |
| 🚌Public transport daily pass | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent base for exploring Valletta, the Three Cities, and the Maltese south.
- Calm harbour atmosphere with good walking routes and access to water activities.
- Less nightlife and resort-style buzz compared with St. Julian’s or Sliema.
- Limited direct beaches in Marsa; short trips to nearby coastal villages required for sandy shores.
- "Bongu" - Hello
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Titkellem bil-Ingliż?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Marsa
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbour views with ships, ferries, and the Birgu skyline across the water; best at sunrise or sunset.
Historic fortress with water reflections and narrow lanes; great for dramatic harbour portraits.
Cross-harbour vantage point capturing the fortified cityscape and boats in motion.
Industrial-chic backdrop with maritime textures, mooring lines, and fading signage for atmospheric shots.
Food in Marsa
Marsa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or mushy peas, a quintessential Maltese street-food snack.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked rabbit with tomatoes, wine, and herbs; a Maltese classic served with crusty bread.
Traditional Maltese bread filled with onions, tomatoes, olives, and olive oil; great for a picnic or light lunch.
A thick bean dip served with bread, often enjoyed as part of a shared antipasti.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant Sunday morning market where fresh seafood is bought directly from fishermen; ideal for tasting seafood and sampling Maltese snacks.
Indoor market areas with local produce, snacks, and casual eateries offering Maltese bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats when indoors.
Handshake is common; Maltese and English are widely spoken; a friendly greeting goes a long way.
Ask for permission when taking people’s portraits, especially in religious settings or private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Marsa
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in larger establishments; otherwise a small tip (around 5–10%) for good service is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is always useful for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with strong sun; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and use sunscreen; harbour breezes provide some relief.
Mild and occasionally rainy; temperatures around 11–15°C (52–59°F); use a light jacket and be prepared for short showers.
Pleasant and sunny with blooming countryside; ideal for walking, photography, and outdoor meals.
Continued mild weather and fewer crowds; great for coastal walks and cultural day trips.
Marsa at Night
Hiking in Marsa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A wooded hill area just inland from Rabat, offering pleasant hikes and viewpoints within a short drive from Marsa.
Dramatic coastal cliffs to the west; longer hikes with panoramic sea views (drive required).
Open green spaces near the capital area; easy trails and opportunities for a leisurely stroll.
Airports
How to reach Marsa by plane.
Main international gateway to Malta, located in Luqa/Gudja; well-connected to Marsa by bus and taxi; modern facilities and frequent flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Maltese residents with strong English proficiency; a mix of family-owned businesses and public services.
A number of expatriates and seasonal workers; English is widely spoken and used in many services.
Visitors from across Europe and beyond, drawn to Malta's history, coastline, and accessibility.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Malta, with many local teams and facilities accessible from Marsa.
A traditional water sport in Malta with a strong club scene; local pools host matches and training.
Harbour access makes sailing and boat tours common activities for visitors and residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marsa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Maltese cuisine can be veggie-friendly with dishes like ftira, salads, grilled vegetables, and bean dips; ask for no meat stock or rennet in sauces, and request cheese options if needed.