Half Day Tour in Marsaxlokk Village, Market, Blue Grotto & Qrendi
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk and its traditional Sunday open market, travel to Zurrieq Valley to visit the marvellous Blue Grotto where you can also take an optional boat trip to the caves, end your tour with a walk at Qrendi, one of Malta’s unspoilt traditional villages.
Available options
With French-Speaking Guide
Meeting Point/Pick-Up Time: Make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location (meeting point) and pickup time.<br/>Pickup included
With Italian-Speaking Guide
Meeting Point/Pick-Up Time: Make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location (meeting point) and pickup time.<br/>Pickup included
With Spanish-Speaking Guide
The tour is done with a Spanish-speaking guide or with an English-speaking guide together with a Spanish-speaking translator.<br/>Meeting Point/Pick-Up Time: Make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location (meeting point) and pickup time.<br/>Pickup included
With German-Speaking Guide
Meeting Point/Pick-Up Time: Make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location (meeting point) and pickup time.<br/>Pickup included
With English-Speaking Guide
Meeting Point/Pick-Up Time: Make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location (meeting point) and pickup time.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
All transportation during the tour in an airconditioned coach or bus
Pick-up and drop-off transfers (choose your preferred location from one of our meeting points)
Licenced tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We start our tour with a visit to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
This gorgeous village is the largest fishing harbour in Malta, and has been so since antiquity, today the greater part of fish sold on the islands are caught by fishermen coming from this village. Traditional “luzzu’s” (brightly coloured traditional fishing boats) and larger fishing vessels line the sheltered harbour in a colourful display that has been the subject of countless photoshoots.
2
Marsaxlokk is also popular for its many delightful restaurants and nice cafés huddled along its entire promenade and for it’s charming and large open-air market, selling a vast assortment of food and a wide array of durable goods, such as fish, locally produced honey and fruit jams, traditional sweets and other delicacies, local wines and liquors, souvenirs, clothes, shoes, traditional lacework and crafts, custom jewellery, accessories and many more.
This is the perfect location to spend a Sunday morning, enjoying a stroll in the unique settings of this quaint village where you can rub your shoulders with the locals, experience the Maltese way of life and admire the lovely sea views while browsing the market, looking for ‘that’ perfect deal!
3
Stop 3
Our next stop is Żurrieq Valley where we will visit the magnificent Blue Grotto and appreciate the fantastic scenery and breath-taking views surrounding the entire site.
The Blue Grotto is a complex of seven caves found along the southern coast of the island, this complex comprises of a massive and very impressive main arch, which is approximately 30 meters in height, as well as a system of 6 other caves, amongst which you will find the Honeymoon Cave, the Cat’s Cave, and the beautiful Reflection Cave.
Featured in numerous movies shot in Malta, owing to its natural beauty, enchanting structure, and perfect location, such as Cutthroat Island (1995), The Count of Monte Cristo (2002) & Troy (2004), this extremely popular site attracts many visitors each year, with many opting to see the amazing grotto up-close, weather permitting you will also have the time and opportunity to visit the grotto and caves by taking one of the boat trips (boat trip is not included in the price).
4
We end our tour with a visit to Qrendi, one of Malta’s unspoilt traditional villages, our guide will help you explore this peaceful and charming typical Maltese village. While small and compact with a population of just 2,700 persons, it is at the same time bursting with interesting attractions, from the main square to the hub of the village, with its parish church and band club, you will be led through a maze of winding narrow streets that all have a story to be told.
What's not included
The optional boat trip at the Blue Grotto (to be paid on location), the cost is around €10 p/person
Food and drinks
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The time shown on the website or on your ticket is the approximate start time of the activity and not the time when you will be picked up from your hotel (or closest meeting point). At least a few days before the date of your activity, you need to make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pick-up location and pick-up time. Your pick-up time can be anytime between 8:15 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on where you are staying.
The tour will be guided in the language you have booked; however, please note that, at times, depending on operational circumstances, the commentary might be provided by a multilingual guide (limited to a maximum of 2 languages).
The tour in Spanish will be conducted by either a Spanish-speaking guide (subject to availability) or an English-speaking guide together with a Spanish-speaking host serving as a translator.
The boat trip at the Blue Grotto is optional (to be paid on location), and it’s always subject to favourable weather conditions. The fee for the boat trip is around €10 for adults and €5 for children (the fee can change without any prior notice).
The market at Marsaxlokk might be closed on public holidays falling on a Sunday and on other rare occasions as determined by the local council of the village. When this happens, the visit to the Marsaxlokk fishing village will be carried out normally, but if the market is closed, we will visit a different market.
Although we usually visit Qrendi for our village walk, the provider reserves the right to change the location to another typical Maltese village, when this happens, we always make sure that the tour will retain the same appeal, charm, and value of the original programme/itinerary.
The tour operator reserves the right to change the order of the visits without any prior notice.
Not recommended for travellers with mobility impairments
Important notes
• The time shown on the website or on your ticket is the approximate start time of the activity and not the time when you will be picked up from your hotel (or closest meeting point). At least a few days before the date of your activity, you need to make sure to contact the tour operator to confirm your pick-up location and pick-up time. Your pick-up time can be any time between 8:15 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on where you are staying.
• To confirm your pick-up location (meeting point) and your pick-up time, please send an e-mail to internal-tours@robertarrigo.com at least a few days before the date of your activity. Make sure to include your booking reference number in the e-mail.
• It is very important that you arrive at your pick-up location (meeting point) at the given time; however, if transport is a bit delayed due to unexpected traffic conditions, do not become alarmed. Please allow up to 15 minutes of waiting time before contacting our emergency number.
• The boat trip at the Blue Grotto is optional (to be paid on location), and it’s always subject to favourable weather conditions. The fee for the boat trip is around €10 for adults and €5 for children (the fee can change without any prior notice).
• Out of respect for all guests who would already be waiting on the bus/coach, as well as other guests who would be waiting for their pick-up at their respective meeting points, please be aware that transport will not wait for late arrivals, as this will only cause an ensuing series of delays to the entire pick-up process and the tour; therefore, please ensure you are waiting at the correct meeting point at the given time by the provider. If you miss your transport, you will not be able to join the tour later; this is a tour in motion, and therefore joining the tour will be logistically impossible. No refunds will be given to any customers who are late for their pick-up.
About Mgarr
Mgarr is a charming, rural village in Malta known for its lush countryside, traditional farmhouses, and the picturesque Mgarr Harbour. It offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist areas, with beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and a strong sense of local culture.
Top Attractions
Mgarr Harbour
A picturesque fishing harbor surrounded by cliffs, offering stunning views and a glimpse into traditional Maltese fishing life.
Scenic
1-2 hours
Free
Ta' Qali Crafts Village
A collection of workshops and shops showcasing traditional Maltese crafts and artistry.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
St. Mary's Church
A beautiful Baroque church in the heart of Mgarr, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
Gnejna Bay
A beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Beach
Half-day
Free
Feldan Estate
A historic estate with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a glimpse into Malta's rural past.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free or small fee for guided tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ftira
A traditional Maltese bread, often served with various fillings such as tuna, olives, and capers.
Bread
Vegetarian options available
Pastizzi
Small, flaky pastries filled with either ricotta cheese or peas, a popular street food in Malta.
Snack
Vegetarian
Stuffat tal-Qarnit
A traditional Maltese rabbit stew, slow-cooked with wine, garlic, and herbs.
Dinner
Contains meat
Kannoli
A sweet pastry filled with ricotta cheese, often flavored with vanilla or chocolate.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking and walking trails in the countryside
Water sports at Gnejna Bay and Golden Bay
Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches
Enjoying the peaceful countryside and scenic views
Visiting St. Mary's Church and other historic sites
Exploring the Ta' Qali Crafts Village
Swimming and snorkeling at Gnejna Bay
Boat tours at the Blue Grotto
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Mgarr is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is warm, the countryside is lush, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Maltese, English
- Widely spoken: English, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mgarr is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas and on public transport.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
- • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Malta International Airport • 15 km from Mgarr
By bus
Valletta Bus Terminal, Birkirkara Bus Terminus
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in Malta and connect Mgarr to other parts of the island. The service is reliable and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mgarr Village Center
Mgarr Harbour
Ta' Qali
Gnejna Bay
Day trips
Golden Bay
10 km from Mgarr • Half-day
A beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Dingli Cliffs
15 km from Mgarr • Half-day
Spectacular coastal cliffs offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Mdina
10 km from Mgarr • Half-day
A medieval walled city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming streets.
Festivals
Mgarr Local Council Summer Festival • August
Feast of the Assumption of Mary • August 15
Pro tips
- Visit the Mgarr Local Council Summer Festival in August for a unique cultural experience.
- Explore the countryside on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and scenic views.
- Try the fresh seafood at Rubino's or other local restaurants in Mgarr Harbour.
- Buy souvenirs directly from local artisans at the Ta' Qali Crafts Village.
- Stay in a traditional farmhouse or villa for a unique and authentic experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
