Things To Do
in Qormi

Qormi is a historic town in central Malta, renowned for its long bread ovens and bustling local markets. It blends a friendly, residential vibe with a strong crafts heritage and daily life that locals cherish. The town’s narrow lanes, Church Square, and traditional bakeries give a vivid sense of Maltese culture away from the coast’s tourist hubs.

With easy access to Valletta and Mdina, Qormi serves as a compact base for island explorations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Maltese pastries like pastizzi. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Qormi, where the ancient architecture and narrow alleys transport you back in time. Don’t miss the stunning Church of St. George, an iconic landmark with intricate details and rich history.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Qormi Artisan Village, where you can observe local craftsmen at work, creating beautiful pottery and textiles. Grab a light lunch at a family-run eatery, enjoying local specialties like rabbit stew or fresh seafood. Explore the unique shops dotted along the streets, offering handmade goods and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a traditional Maltese restaurant for dinner, relishing the flavors of the Mediterranean. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the atmosphere of the town at night. End your day with a glass of local wine at a cozy bar, chatting with friendly locals.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the bustling Qormi market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods. Engage with vendors and sample local delicacies such as ġbejniet (cheeselets) and sun-dried tomatoes. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with the sounds of bartering and laughter.

afternoon
:

After the market, head to the nearby Villa Rundle Gardens for a peaceful picnic lunch surrounded by greenery. Spend some time relaxing in the gardens, enjoying the natural beauty and the fresh air. Later, visit the Malta National Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta to appreciate the works of renowned Maltese and European artists.

evening
:

Return to Qormi for an evening of traditional Maltese entertainment at a local theater or cultural center. Experience a folk dance performance or a live music event that showcases the rich heritage of the island. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby café, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre, monthly)$900-1200
🎟Cinema ticket$8-12
🚆Public transit pass (monthly)$40-50
Coffee in a cafe$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact, walkable town with strong bakery heritage
  • Good base for exploring central Malta and nearby towns
  • Limited nightlife compared to coastal hubs
  • Some streets can be steep and narrow for uneven surfaces
  • "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Kemm jiswa dan?" - How much is this?
  • "Titkellem bil-Malti?" - Do you speak Maltese?
  • "Skużani" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Qormi

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic bread ovens and bakery lanes

Brick ovens, flour dust on façades, and morning light create textured, atmospheric close-ups of Malta’s bread traditions.

Old town alleyways with Maltese balconies

Narrow, sunlit lanes and colorful wooden balconies offer strong framing opportunities and dramatic shadows.

Main square at golden hour

Quiet corners, street life, and historic building details come alive as the light shifts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qormi

Malta’s cuisine is Mediterranean with Italian and North African influences. In Qormi, the town’s baking heritage shapes many meals, giving you easy access to fresh bread, pastries, and simple, hearty Maltese dishes.

Qormi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas; widely available in bakeries and street stalls across Qormi.

Must-Try!

Ftira Maltija

Malta’s iconic flatbread, often filled with local ingredients; a staple at bakeries and casual eateries.

Fenek (Rabbit Stew)

Slow-cooked rabbit with garlic and wine; a traditional Maltese dish found in many taverns and casual restaurants.

Bigilla

A thick bean paste served with Maltese bread and olive oil; a popular dip or spread in local eateries.

Imqaret

Date-filled deep-fried pastries; common at bakeries and street stalls, especially in the afternoon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local bakeries and pastry stalls

Frequent stops for fresh pastizzi, ftira, and other Maltese treats; morning visits are ideal.

Markets and seasonal produce

Occasional morning markets nearby offer seasonal fruit, vegetables, and Maltese products; great for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malta has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers (June–August) with long sunny days and cooling sea breezes, and mild, wetter winters (December–February). Spring and autumn are pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity, making outdoor activities very comfortable year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Church and dress code

Dress modestly for church visits; remove hats and speak quietly in sacred spaces.

Greetings and etiquette

A polite greeting and a handshake are standard. Queuing and letting others finish speaking is appreciated.

Noise and respect

Residential areas are often quiet at night; avoid loud behavior in late hours in neighborhoods.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malta is generally safe for travelers with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on buses. Use licensed taxis or reputable transport, and keep an eye on personal belongings. In emergencies, dial 112.

Tipping in Qormi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, 5–10% is common for good service, with smaller tips for casual cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments are common in shops and eateries; some smaller street stalls may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry, with long sunny days. Hydration is essential; seek shade during peak heat and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Mild and pleasant with cooler evenings. Great for street photography and outdoor exploration without the peak-summer crowds.

Winter

Mild but can be rainy and windy. Pack light layers and a waterproof layer; expect fewer tourists and quieter streets.

Spring

Comfortable temperatures and blooming landscapes. Ideal for long walks, photography, and outdoor café culture.

Nightlife Guide

Qormi at Night

Qormi’s nightlife is generally low-key compared to Malta’s busier hubs. Expect cozy bars and cafés in the town center, with occasional live music or street performances. For a broader scene, many locals head to nearby Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s for late-night options, clubs, and waterfront venues.

Hiking in Qormi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mdina and Rabat countryside

Scenic rural lanes and viewpoints just a short drive from Qormi, suitable for day-long hikes.

Airports

How to reach Qormi by plane.

Malta International Airport (MLA) - Luqa

Main international gateway to the islands; taxi or bus connections to Qormi and other towns.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qormi is highly walkable within its historic center, with many bakeries, cafés, and shops within short distances. Some outer residential streets may be uneven or hilly. The town is well connected by bus to Valletta, Mdina, and other major sights, making day trips convenient. Overall, you can comfortably explore most of the core sights on foot in a few hours before returning to a quieter neighborhood ambiance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Maltese

Long-established families and commuters who work in nearby towns and Valletta.

Industries and artisans

A heritage of bakery craft, small manufacturing, and local trades.

Expats and students

A growing community drawn by Malta’s lifestyle and proximity to educational institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in Malta with local clubs and community matches.

Water polo

Strong coastal sporting culture; competitive leagues and clubs around the islands.

Transportation

Traffic

Malta relies primarily on buses and private vehicles. Qormi sees typical urban traffic, especially during morning and late afternoon commutes. Parking near the historic center can be challenging; using public transit or arriving early helps. The road network is compact, so plan for slower speeds and occasional congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qormi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in bakeries and eateries (pastizzi with ricotta, vegetable dishes, and local salads). Look for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, legumes, and dairy/cheese options if allowed; inform staff about dairy or egg restrictions when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Malta has good healthcare facilities, with Mater Dei Hospital in Msida serving as the main acute-care hospital and a network of private clinics. Local GPs and pharmacies in Qormi provide primary care services, with specialists in nearby towns. International travelers should have travel insurance and carry relevant medical information; in emergencies, call 112 for ambulance services.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide