Things To Do
in Mosta

Mosta is a central Maltese village famed for its colossal Rotunda, one of Europe’s largest unsupported domes. Its winding lanes, traditional bakeries, and intimate piazzas blend history with everyday Maltese life. The location offers easy access to Mdina, Rabat, and the north coast, making day trips convenient.

Visitors encounter a relaxed village atmosphere enriched by local cafés, historic sites, and warm Maltese hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Mosta
morning
:

Upon arrival, take a moment to settle into your accommodation and soak in the picturesque views of Mosta's streets. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Maltese pastries. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the charming town, visiting the iconic Rotunda of Mosta.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the nearby village of Naxxar to explore the imposing Palazzo Parisio, known for its lavish gardens and baroque architecture. You can also visit some local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs. As the afternoon sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk through the village's tranquil streets.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local tavern, where you can feast on authentic Maltese dishes such as rabbit stew or seafood pasta. Afterward, visit one of Mosta's lively bars for a taste of local wine or a refreshing Kinnie. Wind down with a stroll around the illuminated Rotunda, taking in the beauty of this architectural marvel at night.

day 2
Exploration of Mdina
morning
:

Begin your day with a short trip to the ancient walled city of Mdina, often referred to as the 'Silent City.' Stroll through its narrow streets and admire the medieval architecture, including the beautiful St. Paul's Cathedral. Don't forget to visit the Mdina Dungeons to delve into the city’s fascinating history.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a café with panoramic views, explore the nearby Rabat area, home to the Catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha. These historical sites provide a glimpse into Malta's rich history and early Christianity. Take your time wandering through the ancient burial sites and reflecting on their significance.

evening
:

Return to Mosta and enjoy dinner at a local bistro, indulging in even more delicious Maltese cuisine. Afterward, relax at your accommodation or take a stroll through the town, perhaps stopping for gelato. End the day with a quiet evening, sipping a drink as you reflect on the beauty of the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🧺Weekly groceries for two$40-70
🚍Public transport day pass$4-7
Coffee/tea at a cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Iconic architectural landmark in a charming village setting
  • Strategic base for day trips to Mdina, Rabat, and the coastline
  • Relaxed pace with authentic Maltese culture and cuisine
  • Accessible by public transport and within easy reach of Valletta
  • Limited nightlife compared to coastal tourist hubs
  • Some sights require short drives to nearby towns
  • Seasonal crowds can affect parking and traffic during peak months
  • Smaller dining scene inside the village itself; more options nearby
  • "Merħba" - Welcome
  • "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Titkellem bl-Ingliż?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Fejn hu l-banju?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kif inti?" - How are you?
  • "Jiena nemmen bil-Malti ftit" - I speak a little Maltese
  • "Jekk jogħġbok, ikollni l-menu bil-Ingliż" - Please have the menu in English

Places to Visit in Mosta

Visit one of these nice places.

Mosta Rotunda (Exterior)

The dome dominates the skyline; capture it from the central square and along Triq il-Belt road for dramatic angles, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Mosta Village Square and Balconies

Photograph traditional Maltese balconies and sunlit piazzas that reflect village life and architectural character.

Mdina Gate Viewpoint (Mdina–Rabat route)

A short trip from Mosta, this spot offers medieval walls, narrow lanes, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Dingli Cliffs Vista

Coastal cliffs with dramatic horizons; ideal for sunset photography and wide sea-scape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mosta

Malta’s cuisine blends Mediterranean flavors with Italian and North African influences. Expect seafood, fresh vegetables, herbs, and hearty meat dishes, often served with rustic bread and local cheeses.

Mosta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rabbit Stew (Fenkata)

A classic Maltese stew braised with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs; best enjoyed with crusty Maltese bread.

Must-Try!

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or pea purée; a ubiquitous Maltese snack found in bakeries and stalls.

Ftira

A thick, rustic Maltese bread filled with olives, tuna, capers, and vegetables—great for picnics or a casual meal.

Bragioli

Beef olives stuffed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and pancetta; slow-cooked for a comforting, hearty dish.

Imqaret

Date-filled sweets fried crisp and dusted with sugar; a popular dessert in Maltese cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ta' Qali Craft Village

A nearby craft village with snack stalls, pastries, and a range of local crafts—great for trying street bites and buying souvenirs.

Marsaxlokk Market (nearby, Sunday)

A famous Sunday market by the fishing village, offering fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (June–August) and mild, wetter winters (December–February). Spring and autumn are pleasant with moderate temperatures, making outdoor exploration enjoyable most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Church Respect

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites; speak softly and avoid loud behavior.

Greetings

A handshake is common; Maltese and English are widely used in daily interactions. Politeness and small courtesies go a long way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mosta is generally safe for visitors with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, and use licensed taxis or trusted transit. Emergency services in Malta are reliable and English-speaking.

Tipping in Mosta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not always included; a 5-10% tip in restaurants and cafes is common if service is good. Round up bills for small purchases and round numbers for taxi rides.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for small shops and markets that may not accept cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect hot, dry days with abundant sunshine. Coastal towns can be breezy; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Outdoor sightseeing and long evenings are popular.

Winter

Mild to cool temperatures with occasional rain. Pack a light rain jacket and shoes suitable for damp streets; many outdoor sites remain accessible year-round.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers; ideal for walking tours, meandering through old towns, and outdoor café culture.

Nightlife Guide

Mosta at Night

Mostra's nightlife is low-key compared to Sliema or St. Julian's. Expect quiet bars, family-friendly pubs, and cafés in the town center. For more vibrant nightlife, a short ride to nearby towns or Valletta offers a broader array of clubs and live music.

Hiking in Mosta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mdina to Rabat hilltop walk

Scenic route along historic walls with views over the surrounding countryside.

Dingli Cliffs coastal walk

Stunning sea views and cliff-edge paths ideal for a half-day hike.

Buskett Gardens trails

Easy woodland trails near Verdala Palace for a relaxed nature walk.

Airports

How to reach Mosta by plane.

Malta International Airport (MLA)

Located near Luqa, ~15-20 minutes by car from Mosta; well-connected by bus, taxi, and rental services.

Gozo Airport (GZM)

Smaller regional airport on Gozo; reachable via ferry services from Malta and suitable for day trips or short visits to Gozo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mosta is moderately walkable in the town center, with most sights within comfortable strolling distance. Side streets can be steep or uneven, so wearing sturdy footwear is advisable. For connections to Mdina, Rabat, and Ta' Qali, a short drive or bus ride completes the itinerary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Maltese families

Core residents with deep roots in Mosta’s history and culture.

European expats and visitors

People drawn to Malta’s climate, languages, and lifestyle.

Retirees

Many choose Malta for a relaxed pace and accessible healthcare.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in Malta with local clubs and community games widely followed.

Water polo

A strong tradition in Maltese sports culture with local clubs and regional competitions.

Basketball

A growing sport with local leagues and youth programs.

Transportation

Traffic

To travel between Mosta and major hubs like Valletta or Mdina, drive times are usually short, but peak hours can see congestion. Malta’s bus network (Public Transport) provides an affordable alternative, though schedules can be busy during peak tourism seasons. Parking in the village center is possible but can be limited during busy periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mosta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Maltese dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable stews, lentil soups, pasta with tomato and cheese, and stuffed peppers. Ask for no meat stock and request cheese or mushroom fillings where possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public and private healthcare facilities are accessible. The main public hospital is Mater Dei Hospital (in Msida), with English-speaking staff and emergency services. Pharmacy access is widespread in Mosta and nearby towns, and private clinics offer rapid consultations if needed.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide