Southern Region, Malta Travel Guide
Discover the Southern Region of Malta: A blend of ancient history, stunning coastal scenery, and charming fishing villages for an unforgettable Maltese experience.
The Southern Region of Malta offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque area is home to some of the island's most significant archaeological sites and charming fishing villages. The ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are a must-visit, showcasing Malta's rich prehistoric heritage. Wander through these magnificent ruins and marvel at the craftsmanship of ancient civilizations. In addition to its historic sites, the Southern Region is known for its stunning coastal views. The Blue Grotto is a breathtaking natural wonder, where you can take a boat tour through the sea caves and witness the mesmerizing blue waters. The area is also perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. Don't miss the chance to explore the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Here, you can stroll along the waterfront and admire the colorful fishing boats, known as luzzus. The Sunday fish market is a local highlight, where you can sample fresh seafood and experience the lively atmosphere. Marsaxlokk also boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in Malta, serving delicious dishes made from the day's catch.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Southern Region.
- Visit the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Take a boat tour of the Blue Grotto around midday for the best light conditions to see the vibrant blue waters.
- Plan your visit to Marsaxlokk on a Sunday to experience the bustling fish market and sample the freshest seafood.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes when exploring the ancient ruins and coastal paths, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the clear waters and marine life around the Blue Grotto and nearby beaches.
Top City Travel Guides in Southern Region
The cities of Southern Region, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Southern Region
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Southern Region: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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All Attractions
Ramla Bay Resort
Experience the beauty of Malta at Ramla Bay Resort, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and gastronomic delights in a stunning beachfront setting.
Palazz San Anton
Explore the historical elegance and tranquil gardens of Palazz San Anton, a must-visit attraction in Attard, Malta.
Montekristo Estate
Explore Montekristo Estate in Siġġiewi, Malta - a vibrant blend of animal parks, breweries, and delicious dining experiences await you.
Little Armier Beach
Experience the tranquility of Little Armier Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Mellieħa, Malta, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
Best landmarks in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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All Landmarks
Mdina Gate
Discover the majestic Mdina Gate, a historic landmark that transports you to Malta's rich past with its stunning architecture and captivating views.
Upper Barrakka
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering stunning views of Valletta's Grand Harbour.
Popeye Village
Experience the magic of childhood at Popeye Village, Malta's whimsical theme park filled with fun activities, stunning views, and delightful characters.
Triton Fountain
Explore the Triton Fountain, an iconic landmark in Floriana, Malta, showcasing stunning art and historical significance in a vibrant atmosphere.
Best restaurants in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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All Restaurants
Ta' Kris
Discover authentic Maltese cuisine at Ta' Kris Bistro in Sliema - A must-visit culinary gem for travelers seeking local flavors.
Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden
Experience exquisite Italian and Maltese cuisine at Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden in Mdina with stunning views and a tranquil ambiance.
one80 Kitchen & Lounge
Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at One80 Kitchen & Lounge in Mellieħa – where flavor meets stunning views.
Nine Lives Malta
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Nine Lives Malta with breathtaking views and locally sourced ingredients.
Best bars in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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Black Gold Saloon
Discover Black Gold Saloon in Sliema, Malta: a lively live music bar and restaurant offering delicious cuisine and unforgettable entertainment.
The Brew Grill & Brewery
Discover the best of Maltese cuisine and craft brewing at The Brew Grill & Brewery, a vibrant dining destination in Sliema.
The Dubliner
Discover The Dubliner, an authentic Irish pub in St. Julian's, Malta, where lively ambiance and traditional fare create unforgettable moments.
Bar Native
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of St Julian's at Bar Native, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Best nightclubs in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
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All Nightclubs
VELVET LOUNGE CLUB (SHISHA AND FOOD )
Discover Velvet Lounge Club: a vibrant cocktail and shisha bar in San Pawl il-Baħar, perfect for a night of relaxation and entertainment.
Havana Club Malta
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of St Julian's at Havana Club Malta, where electrifying music and a lively atmosphere await.
Gianpula Main Room
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Gianpula Main Room, Malta's ultimate night club, featuring eclectic music and an unforgettable party atmosphere.
Footloose
Experience the vibrant nightlife of St Julian's at Footloose, Malta's premier night club, where music and fun collide for an unforgettable evening.
Best shops in Southern Region
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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The Point Shopping Mall
Explore The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, Malta - a premier shopping destination offering an array of brands, dining, and stunning Mediterranean views.
PAMA Shopping Mall
Explore PAMA Shopping Mall in Mosta, Malta for a diverse shopping experience with dining and entertainment options for all ages.
Bay Street Shopping Complex
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Bay Street Shopping Complex, the ultimate destination in St. Julian's, Malta.
Main Street Shopping Complex, Paola
Discover the Main Street Shopping Complex in Paola, a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and local culture.
Explore Southern Region on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Southern Region, mapped for you.
Southern Region Essentials
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The Southern Region of Malta is easily accessible via Malta International Airport (MLA), which is located in the nearby town of Luqa. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a rental car, or use public transportation such as buses to reach various destinations in the Southern Region. Regular flights connect Malta to major European cities, making it a convenient travel destination.
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Public transportation in the Southern Region is efficient and affordable. Malta Public Transport operates a comprehensive bus network that connects the Southern Region to other parts of the island. Taxis are readily available, but it is advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Renting a car is another popular option, offering greater flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. Additionally, cycling is an eco-friendly way to see the area, especially in less trafficked zones.
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The official currency in Malta is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful and can be found in most towns and villages. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and remote areas where card payment may not be available.
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The Southern Region of Malta is generally safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items in public and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. Marsa is a locality where caution is advised, particularly at night. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Hospitals and clinics are available in the region, with Mater Dei Hospital in Msida being the closest major hospital. Pharmacies are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medication for minor health issues. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing very revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, it is customary to cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be considerate and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or a handshake. Locals appreciate politeness and a warm demeanor. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Maltese dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
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To experience the Southern Region like a local, visit the open-air markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Maltese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss the Għar Dalam Cave, a prehistoric site, or the Marsaxlokk fish market, which is a bustling hub on Sundays. For a unique experience, explore the narrow streets of the Three Cities - Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua - which offer stunning views and a rich historical atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Southern Region?
Useful Local Phrases for Southern Region
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Southern Region. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHowdy
[hau-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya
[see yah] - YesYep
[yehp] - NoNope
[nohp] - Please/You’re welcomePlease/No problem
[pleez/noh prah-bluhm] - Thank youThanks
[thangs] - Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
[ex-kyoos mee/sor-ee] - How are you?How ya doin'?
[hau yah doin'] - Fine. And you?Good. And you?
[guhd. And yah?] - Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
[doo yah speek ing-glish?] - I don’t understandI don’t get it
[I dohnt get it]
- HelloHowdy
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- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
[kan I see thuh men-yoo, pleez?] - I don’t eat meatI don’t eat meat
[I dohnt eet meet] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseI’d like to pay, please
[I’d laik to pay, pleez]
- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
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- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Get lost!
[get lost] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[kol thuh kops] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[get a dok-tor] - I’m lostI’m lost
[I’m lost] - I’m illI’m not feeling well
[I’m not feel-ing wel]
- Help!Help!
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- I’d like to buy...I wanna buy...
[I wanna buy...] - I’m just lookingI’m just browsing
[I’m just brow-zing] - How much is it?How much is this?
[How muhch is this?] - That’s too expensiveThat’s a bit pricey
[That’s a bit pry-see] - Can you lower the price?Can ya drop the price?
[Kan yah drop thuh pryce?]
- I’d like to buy...I wanna buy...
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- What time is it?What time is it?
[What taim is it?] - It’s one o’clockIt’s one o’clock
[It’s wun uh-klok] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Haf past ten] - MorningMorning
[mor-ning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[af-ter-noon] - EveningEvening
[eev-ning] - YesterdayYesterday
[yes-ter-day] - TodayToday
[to-day] - TomorrowTomorrow
[to-mor-row] - 1One
[wun] - 2Two
[too] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[for] - 5Five
[fiv] - 6Six
[siks] - 7Seven
[sev-en] - 8Eight
[ayt] - 9Nine
[nayn] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?What time is it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
[Where’s thuh...?] - What’s the address?What’s the address?
[What’s thuh ad-dress?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
[Kan yah sho mee (on thuh map)?] - When’s the next (bus)?When’s the next (bus)?
[When’s thuh nekst (bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[A tik-it (to ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
History of Southern Region
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The Southern Region of Malta, known locally as 'Ir-Raħal Ġdid', offers a rich tapestry of history and culture that dates back thousands of years. This area is home to some of the most significant archaeological sites, historic towns, and cultural landmarks in Malta.
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Dating back to around 4000 BCE, the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni is an underground prehistoric burial site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered one of the oldest and most well-preserved examples of subterranean structures, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of Malta’s early inhabitants.
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Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village that has played a crucial role in Malta's maritime history. Known for its vibrant Sunday fish market and traditional 'Luzzu' boats, Marsaxlokk was also the landing site of the Ottoman forces during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.
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The Tarxien Temples, dating back to 3150 BCE, are a complex of megalithic structures that provide insight into the ceremonial practices of Malta's early inhabitants. These temples are renowned for their intricate carvings and serve as a testament to the island's prehistoric culture.
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Located in Birgu, Fort St. Angelo has been a strategic military fortification for centuries. It became the headquarters of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and played a pivotal role during the Great Siege of 1565. Today, it stands as a symbol of Malta’s resilient spirit.
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Situated in the heart of Birgu, the Inquisitor’s Palace dates back to the 16th century and served as the residence and tribunal of the inquisitors of Malta. The palace offers a glimpse into the island's inquisitorial past and the broader history of the Catholic Church in Malta.
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Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, is one of the Three Cities and was the initial seat of the Knights of St. John upon their arrival in Malta. Its historic streets and buildings, such as the Auberge de France and the Church of St. Lawrence, reflect the Knights' influence on Maltese architecture and culture.
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Zejtun, often referred to as ‘Città Beland’, is a town with a rich history in the cotton industry. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Zejtun was a major center for cotton production and trade, contributing significantly to the Maltese economy of the time.
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Marsaskala, once a small fishing village, has evolved into a popular tourist destination. The town’s development from a humble fishing port to a bustling seaside resort reflects the broader economic and social changes in Malta over the centuries.
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St. Thomas Tower, located in Marsaskala, was built by the Knights of St. John in 1614 as part of the island's coastal defense system. It played a significant role during the Siege of Malta, providing a strategic vantage point against Ottoman attacks.
Neighbouring Regions of Southern Region
The closest regions to Southern Region, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Malta
Looking beyond Southern Region? Discover Malta for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore MaltaSouthern Region in Photos
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Exploring the Southern Charm of Malta
The Southern Region of Malta offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque area is home to some of the island's most significant archaeological sites and charming fishing villages. The ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are a must-visit, showcasing Malta's rich prehistoric heritage. Wander through these magnificent ruins and marvel at the craftsmanship of ancient civilizations. In addition to its historic sites, the Southern Region is known for its stunning coastal views. The Blue Grotto is a breathtaking natural wonder, where you can take a boat tour through the sea caves and witness the mesmerizing blue waters. The area is also perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. Don't miss the chance to explore the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Here, you can stroll along the waterfront and admire the colorful fishing boats, known as luzzus. The Sunday fish market is a local highlight, where you can sample fresh seafood and experience the lively atmosphere. Marsaxlokk also boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in Malta, serving delicious dishes made from the day's catch.