Tarxien, Malta Travel Guide

Discover Tarxien, Malta: A captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant culture, home to the renowned Tarxien Temples and a gateway to Malta's rich heritage.

Nestled in the south-eastern region of Malta, Tarxien is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern charm. This small yet historically rich town draws visitors from all over the world with its awe-inspiring archaeological sites and vibrant local culture. One of the main attractions in Tarxien is the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These megalithic structures date back to 3600-2500 BC and provide a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric inhabitants of the island. The intricate carvings and well-preserved ruins tell a story of a sophisticated society with advanced architectural skills. Beyond its ancient wonders, Tarxien is also known for its friendly locals and lively festivals. The town's annual feast of the Annunciation is a highlight, featuring traditional music, food, and fireworks. Visitors can also explore the local markets, where they can find handmade crafts and fresh produce, giving them a taste of Maltese daily life. Tarxien's convenient location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of Malta. Just a short drive away, visitors can find beautiful beaches, bustling cities, and other historical sites. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to experience the charm of a small Maltese town, Tarxien has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tarxien.

Visit the Tarxien Temples early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Attend the Feast of the Annunciation in March to experience local traditions and festivities.
Explore nearby towns like Paola and Marsa for more historical sites and local dining options.
Use public transportation or taxis to easily navigate around Tarxien and its surrounding areas.
Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk through the archaeological sites.

Explore Tarxien: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Upper Barrakka

Discover the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, a serene park offering stunning views of the Grand Harbour and rich historical significance.

4.7

Triton Fountain

Experience the beauty of Triton Fountain in Floriana, Malta, a stunning tourist attraction featuring exquisite sculptures and breathtaking water displays.

4.7

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Explore the breathtaking Baroque beauty of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, a must-see for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

4.7

City Gate

Discover the architectural marvel of City Gate, Valletta—a historic landmark blending ancient and modern Malta in a vibrant cultural hub.

4.7

Best landmarks in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Explore the ancient depths of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and uncover Malta's prehistoric mysteries and rich cultural history.

4.4

Tarxien Temples

Uncover the ancient mysteries of the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Malta's prehistoric architectural marvels and rich cultural heritage.

4.4

St. Elmo

Explore the captivating St. Elmo Bridge in Valletta, where history meets stunning Mediterranean views in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4.7

Siege Bell War Memorial

Discover the Siege Bell War Memorial in Valletta, a poignant tribute to Malta's wartime heroes, offering stunning views and rich history.

4.6

Best restaurants in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Enchanté Restaurant

Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining at Enchanté Restaurant in Senglea - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

4.6

Zeffie's Bistro & Pizzeria

Experience authentic Maltese and Italian cuisine at Zeffie's Bistro & Pizzeria in Ħaż-Żabbar – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.4

Burger King

Experience iconic fast food at Burger King in Paola - where delicious flame-grilled burgers meet convenience.

4.1

Eda Kebab house

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Eda Kebab House in Fgura – where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.

4.4

Best bars in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

The Pavilion Gastro Pub

Experience the best of local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at The Pavilion Gastro Pub in Paola, Malta's culinary gem.

4.4

Vi-Vi Cafeteria and Bistro

Discover the delightful flavors of Malta at Vi-Vi Cafeteria and Bistro in Tarxien, where every meal is a taste of local tradition.

4.7

Il-Miżien Snack Bar

Experience the heart of Maltese cuisine at Il-Miżien Snack Bar in Paola, where delicious snacks and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.

4.5

Patakkus

Discover the essence of Maltese cuisine at Patakkus in Tarxien, where tradition meets taste in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Gianpula Main Room

Discover the heart of Malta's nightlife at Gianpula Main Room, a vibrant night club with electrifying music and a stunning atmosphere.

4.2

Shadow Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Shadow Club, St Julian's top destination for late-night dancing and vibrant atmosphere.

2.5

FLOW Night Club

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at FLOW Night Club in St Julian's, Malta, where the beats keep you dancing all night long.

3.0

The Playground Malta

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at The Playground Malta, where unforgettable parties and vibrant music create the perfect clubbing experience.

4.7

Best shops in Tarxien

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Marsaxlokk Open Market

Discover the vibrant Marsaxlokk Open Market, where fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Maltese flavors await in a picturesque fishing village.

4.2

The Point Shopping Mall

Discover shopping bliss at The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, Malta, where style meets stunning Mediterranean views.

4.3

Il-Minċott

Explore Il-Minċott, your ultimate destination for unique home goods and authentic Maltese souvenirs in Tarxien.

4.5

Tom Tailor

Explore the latest fashion trends at Tom Tailor in Tarxien, Malta, where style meets quality for the whole family.

4.7

Explore Tarxien on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tarxien, mapped for you.

Tarxien Essentials

Tarxien is located in the southeastern part of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), approximately 5 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Tarxien. The journey typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or around 30 minutes by bus. Buses from the airport to Tarxien are frequent and cost-effective.
Tarxien is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local buses are readily available and connect Tarxien to other parts of Malta. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Taxis are another alternative, but they can be more expensive. Consider using ride-sharing apps for a more budget-friendly option.
The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit smaller establishments. ATMs are available throughout Tarxien, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed.
Tarxien is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Tarxien does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tarxien. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonġu' (Good Morning in Maltese). A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Tarxien like a local, visit the local 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 town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the town and enjoy the local architecture.

When is the best time to visit Tarxien?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tarxien

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

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tarxien. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerħba
  [mer-hba]
- GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
- YesIva
  [ee-va]
- NoLe
  [leh]
- Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yoj-bok]
- Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
- Excuse me/SorrySkuzani
  [skoo-za-nee]
- How are you?Kif int?
  [keef int]
- Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo int]
- Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliz?
  [tit-kel-lem bing-lees]
- I don't understandNaqra
  [nak-ra]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq nara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyeck nara el-meyn-oo, yekk yoj-bok]
- I don't eat meatM'iniex inqajjim it-tiġieġ
  [min-yeks in-ya-meet it-tee-jeej]
- Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sa-ha]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyeck in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]
- Help!Għajjat!
  [ai-yat]
- Go away!Mur!
  [mur]
- Call the Police!Ibqgħu l-Pulizija!
  [ib-goo l-pu-lee-zee-ya]
- Call a doctor!Ibqgħu tabib!
  [ib-goo ta-beeb]
- I'm lostNinsab ħażin
  [nin-sab ha-zin]
- I'm illNixtieq infejjaħ
  [nis-tyeck in-fe-ya]
- I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nis-tyeck in-ix-tree]
- I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [ked nara biss]
- How much is it?Kemm jiswa?
  [kem yis-wa]
- That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq għali
  [dan hoo-wa wees-kal-ee]
- Can you lower the price?Tista' toħroġ il-prezz?
  [tis-ta toh-rodge il-prez]
- What time is it?Xi ħin huwa?
  [she hin hoo-wa]
- It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel waħda
  [hoo-wa lew-wel wa-hda]
- Half past (10)Noqsan (għaxar)
  [noq-san a-shar]
- MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-jo-du]
- AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-nofs-in-har]
- EveningFilgħaxija
  [fil-ja-hee-ya]
- YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bier-ah]
- TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
- TomorrowGħada
  [a-da]
- 1Waħda
  [wa-hda]
- 2Tnejn
  [tnayn]
- 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
- 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
- 5Ħamsa
  [hamsa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Sebba'
  [seb-ba]
- 8Tmienja
  [tmi-en-ya]
- 9Disgħa
  [dis-ya]
- 10Għaxra
  [a-shra]
- Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hem]
- What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shee-nu l-ind-ee-reets]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turiġġini (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta too-ridge-gi-ni fook il-map-pa]
- When's the next (bus)?Meta huwa l-veċċa li ġejja?
  [me-ta hoo-wa l-vech-cha li jay-ya]
- A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet gal]

History of Tarxien

The Tarxien Temples, dating back to approximately 3150 BC, are a testament to Malta's prehistoric era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases intricate stone carvings, altars, and statues, including the famous 'Fat Lady' statues. These temples were a significant religious site for the ancient Maltese, reflecting their sophisticated society and advanced architectural skills.
The Tarxien Temples were discovered in 1913 by a local farmer who stumbled upon large stone blocks while plowing his fields. Excavations led by Sir Themistocles Zammit from 1915 to 1919 revealed the full extent of this prehistoric complex. The findings included pottery, tools, and animal bones, which provided insights into the daily life and rituals of Malta's ancient inhabitants.
After the decline of the temple-building culture around 2500 BC, Tarxien continued to be an important site during the Bronze Age. Evidence of this era includes the remains of a cremation cemetery discovered within the temple complex. This transition marks the evolution of burial practices and societal changes over millennia.
During World War II, Malta faced heavy bombardment, and there were concerns about the preservation of the Tarxien Temples. Protective measures were taken to safeguard this invaluable heritage site. Post-war efforts focused on restoration and conservation, ensuring that future generations could continue to explore and learn from these ancient structures.
Today, the Tarxien Temples are not only a significant archaeological site but also a cultural symbol for Malta. They attract thousands of visitors annually, contributing to the local economy and fostering a deeper appreciation for Malta's rich historical tapestry. Ongoing archaeological work and technological advancements continue to shed light on the mysteries of Tarxien, making it a dynamic field of study.