Things To Do
in Ta’ Xbiex
Ta’ Xbiex is a small, scenic coastal town on Marsamxett Harbour just north of Valletta. Its long seafront promenade and marina-side calm create a relaxed, buoyant atmosphere, perfect for a pedestrian-friendly visit. The town blends residential charm with easy access to Malta’s major sights via nearby Sliema, Gzira, and Valletta.
It’s an ideal base for walkers, boat lovers, and travelers who want a peaceful waterfront vibe with quick connections to the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the picturesque promenade that lines the coastline of Ta’ Xbiex. The cool morning breeze and beautiful views of the harbor set a perfect tone for the day ahead. Don’t forget to stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Maltese breakfast featuring pastizzi and coffee.
In the afternoon, take a short boat trip to explore the nearby islands, such as Comino or Gozo. The stunning waters and secluded beaches provide an afternoon of relaxation and exploration. After returning, unwind in one of the charming waterfront restaurants with fresh seafood.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy beach bar for drinks while enjoying the vibrant sunset over the Mediterranean. The atmosphere becomes lively with locals and tourists alike, making for a perfect social setting. Cap off your evening by taking a leisurely walk along the illuminated promenade.
Dedicate your morning to discovering the rich history of Ta’ Xbiex by visiting the local churches and historical sites. The morning light brings out the beauty of the architectural details, making your exploration even more rewarding. Engage with local residents to learn about the community’s heritage.
After a hearty lunch, spend the afternoon visiting the Malta Maritime Museum in nearby Vittoriosa to understand Malta’s pivotal role in naval history. The fascinating exhibits will captivate history buffs and casual visitors alike. Wander through the narrow streets of the area, enjoying the blend of history and modern life.
In the evening, discover local craftsmanship at a nearby artisan market where you can find handmade goods and traditional Maltese crafts. As night falls, join a local cooking class to learn how to create authentic Maltese dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share the experience with fellow food enthusiasts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport (one-way ticket) | $2-3 |
| 🍺Domestic beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact harbour town with easy access to Valletta and the Three Cities
- Beautiful waterfront promenades and marina ambiance
- English widely spoken and good transport connections
- Safe, walkable environment with plenty of scenic photo opportunities
- Limited nightlife directly in Ta’ Xbiex; better options in nearby areas
- Some areas can be pricey, especially waterfront dining
- Parking can be challenging during peak season
- "Bongu" - Hello / Good morning
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Iva" - Yes
- "Le" - No
- "Tista' titkellem bil-Ingliż?" - Can you speak English?
- "Jekk jogħġbok, fejn il-banju?" - Please, where is the bathroom?
- "Kemm jiswa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Ta’ Xbiex
Visit one of these nice places.
A long waterfront walk with uninterrupted views across Marsamxett Harbour and the Valletta skyline, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Historic fortifications set against the harbour, offering classic Maltese coastal photo angles.
Glassy water reflections, boats, and the glittering capital in the distance.
Golden hour shots of Valletta’s fortifications and domes framed by harbour waters.
Food in Ta’ Xbiex
Ta’ Xbiex Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry pockets stuffed with ricotta or mushy peas; widely available in cafés across Sliema and Valletta.
Must-Try!
Malta's traditional round bread stuffed with tomatoes, tuna, olives, and capers; best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries.
A classic Maltese dish braised with herbs and garlic; try it at family-run eateries in nearby towns.
A tomato-based fish soup with garlic and herbs, a Maltese seaside staple.
A garlicky bean dip served with crusty bread.
Maltese-style ratatouille with eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant weekly market near the promenade offering fresh produce, snacks, and local bites.
Colorful morning market renowned for fresh seafood; great for a day trip from Ta’ Xbiex.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and speak quietly in sacred spaces.
A handshake is a common greeting; kindly address people with polite language in Maltese or English.
Evenings after 10 pm tend to be quieter in residential areas; be mindful in late-night areas near the promenade.
Safety
Tipping in Ta’ Xbiex
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. In cafes and bars, a small tip for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in most venues. ATMs are plentiful around Ta’ Xbiex, Sliema, and Valletta.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun. Bring sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water; sea breezes help along the promenade, and waterfront areas fill with both locals and visitors.
Mild temperatures with occasional showers. Ideal for walking and outdoor dining; sea remains pleasant for boat trips.
Mild and rainy on occasion; daytime temps are comfortable for city exploring, but carry a light rain jacket.
Warm and pleasant with blooming flora; great for outdoor activities, coastal walks, and photography.
Ta’ Xbiex at Night
Hiking in Ta’ Xbiex
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy coastal walk around Manoel Island with water views and birdlife.
Extended coastal path ideal for a relaxed hike or bike ride with harbour panoramas.
Short local trails and vantage points around the harbor offering dramatic coastal views.
Airports
How to reach Ta’ Xbiex by plane.
Located near Luqa, about a 15-25 minute drive from Ta’ Xbiex; frequent connectivity to major European cities and domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of traditional families and modern professionals living in and around Ta’ Xbiex and neighboring towns.
A sizeable community drawn to Malta’s climate, business, and lifestyle; English is widely used in daily life.
Visitors attracted by the harbour scenery, nearby Valletta, and easy connections to other Maltese highlights.
Rides and services around the campus areas in nearby towns contribute to a seasonal mix of activity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Maltese pastime with many clubs and marina access around Ta’ Xbiex and nearby towns.
Popular in Maltese clubs; you’ll find competitions and friendly matches along the coast.
Widely played; local leagues and stadiums within a short drive.
Explore wrecks and clear waters around Malta’s coastline with many dive shops nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ta’ Xbiex.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Maltese dishes can be adapted to vegetarian options; look for vegetable stews, cheese pies, lentil or bean dishes, and ask to substitute meat or rabbit with extra vegetables.