Things To Do
in Paola
Paola is a small, historic town in Malta’s southeast, known for its proximity to important archaeological sites like the Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples. The town provides a quiet, authentic Maltese atmosphere with easy access to Valletta and the Three Cities. Its streets weave between old stone houses, rural lanes, and a relaxed village rhythm that makes it a convenient base for day trips.
Paola blends cultural depth with approachable travel experiences, from ancient sites to nearby coastlines.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Malta and spend your morning settling into your accommodation in Paola. Afterward, head to nearby Valletta to explore the beautiful capital city's historic architecture. Don't miss the remarkable St. John's Co-Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque art.
Enjoy lunch at a local café in Valletta, sampling traditional Maltese cuisine such as pastizzi and rabbit stew. Continue your exploration by visiting the Upper Barracca Gardens for stunning views of the Grand Harbour. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets and admire the intricate facades of the buildings.
As dusk falls, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, soaking in the views of the harbor as the lights of Valletta begin to twinkle. After dinner, consider taking a guided night walk to witness the charming atmosphere of Valletta's streets under the stars. End the evening with a local wine or a traditional dessert.
Catch an early ferry to Gozo, Malta's sister island, and start your day by exploring the stunning Azure Window ruins and the nearby Fungus Rock. Visit Dwejra Bay for breathtaking coastal views and take some time to relax by the sea. Don't forget to grab a local snack at a nearby kiosk.
After lunch in the charming village of Xlendi, tour the ancient citadel in Victoria, where panoramic views of Gozo await you. Explore the quaint streets lined with shops selling handmade crafts and local produce. This afternoon is perfect for a visit to one of Gozo's beautiful sandy beaches, such as Ramla Bay.
Return to Malta in the evening and enjoy dinner at a rustic restaurant in Paola featuring local dishes. Share stories of your adventures with friendly locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up your day with a relaxing evening walk around the neighborhood.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $1.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in a restaurant | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location in Malta with easy access to Valletta and the Three Cities
- Rich archaeological and cultural sites nearby
- Quiet village atmosphere with authentic Maltese life
- Good public transport connections and moderate driving distances
- Limited nightlife within Paola itself
- Summer heat can be intense
- Parking can be challenging in peak times
- Some sights require a short drive to neighboring towns
- "Bongu" - Hello / Good morning
- "Jekk jogħbok" - Please
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Iva" - Yes
- "Le" - No
- "Kemm jiswa din?" - How much is this?
- "X'inhu l-bogħod?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Int titkellem bil-Ingliż?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Paola
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient subterranean temple complex; capture the hillside setting and the approach path for atmospheric wide shots.
Well-preserved megalithic structures set in a rural landscape; ideal for light and shadow photography.
Baroque façade and central square provide classic Maltese ecclesiastical architecture shots.
Colorful luzzus and a working fishing harbor; perfect for sunrise or golden-hour maritime photography.
Food in Paola
Paola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas; widely available from local pastizzerias.
Must-Try!
A Maltese favorite slow-cooked with tomatoes and herbs; try it at traditional eateries.
A thick bean paste served with bread or crackers; a common Maltese dip.
A Maltese flatbread layered with vegetables, olives, and sometimes fish or cheese.
Date-filled fried pastries often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling coastal market with fresh fish, local produce, and Maltese snacks near the harbor.
Popular spots for pastizzi, fresh bread, and sweet pastries throughout the region.
Small, family-run stalls offering quick Maltese bites and coffee in town squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are typically polite; a handshake is common, and Maltese and English are widely spoken.
Malta is predominantly Catholic; dress modestly when visiting churches and be respectful during religious holidays.
Maltese and English are official languages; English is widely understood and used in most signs and menus.
Safety
Tipping in Paola
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In casual eateries, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; in nicer restaurants 10%+ is typical.
Cash and cards are widely accepted, with contactless and mobile payments common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with little rain; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures with occasional showers; great for city walks and golden-hour photography.
Mild to cool with rare heavy rain; fewer crowds and opportunities for indoor cultural experiences.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming countryside; ideal for hiking, biking, and outdoor exploring.
Paola at Night
Hiking in Paola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic rural loop around Tarxien and Paola with views of Maltese farmland and ancient sites.
Historic towns Mdina and Rabat connected by scenic lanes with countryside and ruins.
Coastal path near Marsaxlokk with sea views and rugged shoreline.
Airports
How to reach Paola by plane.
Main international gateway to Malta; about 15-20 minutes by car from Paola, depending on traffic.
Small airport serving Gozo; less frequent flights; typically accessed via ferry connections from Malta.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Maltese with a growing presence of expatriates from the UK, Italy, and other EU countries.
A steady community of English-speaking residents and international visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across Malta, with local clubs and amateur leagues.
A traditional sport with strong local participation and coastal club culture.
Coastal Malta offers abundant sailing and diving opportunities around bays and reefs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for pasta dishes, vegetable stews, lentils, and cheese-based plates; ask for vegetarian adaptations of Maltese staples.