Marsaxlokk is a small, traditional fishing village in the Southern Region of Malta. It has a harbour, and is a tourist attraction known for its views, fishing and history. As of March 2014, the village had a population of 3,534. Wikipedia
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–October) – Ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Summer (June–August) – Lively atmosphere, especially on Sundays, but warmer and busier.
Winter (November–February) – Peaceful and mild (12–17°C); great for a quiet stroll and photography.
From Valletta:
By bus: Route 81 or 85, ~30–40 minutes.
By car: ~25 minutes; public parking available near the waterfront.
By taxi or Bolt: Easy and quick, especially if traveling as a group.
Best visited in the morning or for a seaside lunch.
Marsaxlokk Harbour – Iconic postcard view with bobbing luzzus painted in blue, yellow, and red.
Sunday Fish Market – The liveliest time to visit. Local fishermen sell fresh catches; also includes clothes, crafts, and food stalls.
St. Peter’s Pool – A natural rock-cut swimming cove nearby, perfect for cliff jumping and sunbathing.
Delimara Peninsula – Scenic coastal trails, natural pools, and quiet beaches.
Marsaxlokk Parish Church – Dedicated to Our Lady of Pompei; sits in the main square and is beautifully lit at night.
Fort Delimara (view from afar) – A 19th-century fort built into the cliffs (currently under restoration).
Walk along the promenade – Browse small shops, grab a gelato, or just enjoy the harbor views.
Swim or sunbathe – Head to St. Peter’s Pool, Kalatina Bay, or Hofriet Window nearby.
Eat fresh seafood – Try the local lampuki (dorado) if in season (Aug–Dec).
Boat tours – Hire a fisherman for a short harbor ride (especially on quiet weekdays).
Photography – Sunrise and early morning light are magical over the colorful boats.
Boutique guesthouses and B&Bs in the village (limited but charming).
Nearby towns: More options in Birżebbuġa, Zejtun, or Valletta if you're doing a day trip.
Farmhouses or coastal villas around Delimara for a quiet escape.
Seafood is the star:
Grilled swordfish, octopus stew, calamari, lampuki pie, and stuffed squid
Top spots:
Tartarun – Elegant seafood dining
La Nostra Padrona – Harbor views with fresh catch specials
Roots, Harbour Lights, and Sundown Restaurant – Casual and local favorites
Try: Maltese appetizers like bigilla (bean dip), kapunata, and ftira (Maltese bread with toppings)
Marsaxlokk is one of the oldest and most traditional fishing villages in Malta.
Luzzus are painted with the Eye of Osiris for protection — a Phoenician custom still preserved.
Sunday is market day — vibrant and social, with a strong sense of local pride.
The pace is slow, welcoming, and peaceful — an ideal contrast to busier parts of the island.
Arrive early on Sunday – The fish market gets crowded by mid-morning.
Bring sun protection – Especially if walking or swimming around Delimara.
Wear good shoes – Coastal paths to St. Peter’s Pool can be rocky and uneven.
Avoid driving deep into town on Sundays – Road closures and market crowds limit parking.
Visit on a weekday for tranquility, or on Sunday for energy and tradition.