Malta’s best farmers markets are Ta’ Qali (open Tuesdays and Saturdays, 7am–3pm), Marsaxlokk (daily, Sundays busiest), and It-Tokk in Gozo (daily, morning until afternoon). All three sell fresh local produce directly from Maltese farmers, including seasonal fruit and vegetables, gbejniet (Maltese cheeselets), honey, bigilla (bean dip) and freshly caught fish.
If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Malta, there’s no better place to find it than the island’s bustling farmers markets. These markets offer visitors the chance to buy fresh, locally grown produce directly from the farmers who grew it, all while experiencing a lively atmosphere and the traditional culture of the island. From popular markets to hidden gems, you’re almost always bound to find friendly vendors, cheap prices, and the freshest, most colourful produce.
Farmers markets in Malta are more than just places to buy fresh food — they offer a cultural experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Walking through the vibrant stalls, you’ll encounter friendly vendors eager to share their products and knowledge. From fresh fruits and vegetables to local treats like bigilla and gbejniet, these markets are a feast for the senses.
Market | Open | Hours | Best buys |
Ta’ Qali | Tue + Sat | 7am–3pm | Seasonal veg, honey, bigilla, gbejniet, bread, meat, fish |
Marsaxlokk | Daily (Sun best) | Morning–midday | Fresh fish, seafood, lace (bizzilla), fruit & veg, cannoli |
It-Tokk (Gozo) | Daily | Morning–afternoon | Gozitan gbejniet, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, honey, fish |
Birgu Artisan | Sat (monthly) | 9am–2pm | Artisan food, crafts, local honey, jams, olive oil |
Valletta Sunday | Sun (seasonal) | 9am–1pm | Local produce, artisan goods, street food |
Why Visit Malta’s Farmers Markets?
Farmers markets in Malta are more than just places to buy fresh food; they offer a cultural experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Walking through the vibrant stalls, you’ll encounter friendly vendors eager to share their products and knowledge. From fresh fruits and vegetables to local treats like bigilla (a Maltese bean dip) and gbejniet (local cheeselets), these markets are a feast for the senses.
Whether you’re looking for a bustling local market or a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot, Malta has something for everyone.
So come along and discover the best places to buy fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, and other local specialties in Malta’s best farmers markets.
Our top picks for Farmers Markets in Malta:
1. Ta’ Qali Market: Malta’s Largest and Most Popular Farmers Market
Open: Tuesdays and Saturdays | Hours: 7am–3pm | Location: Ta’ Qali, Central Malta
Getting there: Bus route 56 from Valletta or St Julian’s stops near the market. Parking is available on site. Approx 20 minutes from Sliema by car.
Ta’ Qali Market is undoubtedly the largest and most popular farmers market in all of Malta, and it’s not hard to see why. Held on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7am to 3pm, this bustling market offers visitors the chance to buy fresh, locally grown produce directly from the farmers for wholesale prices. With around 30 stalls, all selling exclusively Maltese produce, this is the definitive taste of the island.
What to buy: Seasonal fruit and vegetables, gbejniet (Maltese cheeselets), honey, bigilla (the traditional Maltese bean dip), fresh bread, fish and meat. Prices drop noticeably towards midday when farmers are selling off remaining stock.
Insider tip: Arrive before 9am for the best selection. Come back around 1–2pm for the bargains.
2. Birkirkara Market: A Traditional Local Experience
Open: Wednesdays and Fridays | Hours: Morning | Location: Tumas Fenech Street, Birkirkara (near St Helen’s Basilica)
Getting there: Birkirkara is served by multiple bus routes from Valletta and St Julian’s, it is one of Malta’s most accessible towns. The market is a short walk from the bus terminus.
If you’re looking for a traditional market experience away from the tourist trail, Birkirkara Market is not to be missed. Held on Wednesday and Friday mornings in Tumas Fenech Street, close to the impressive St Helen’s Basilica, this open-air market offers a wide range of fresh produce, including locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh fish and seafood.
The market sits in the heart of Birkirkara, one of the island’s oldest and most populated towns. Here, locals gather to chat and haggle with vendors, many of whom they know on a first-name basis, this is a working neighbourhood market, not a tourist attraction. The authentic village atmosphere and competitive prices make it a genuine hidden gem for visitors who venture off the beaten path.
What to buy: Fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and seafood. Prices are typically lower than at tourist-facing markets. Arrive early for the best selection.
Insider tip: This is a great market to combine with a visit to St Helen’s Basilica, one of Malta’s most impressive baroque churches, which is steps away.
3. The Veg Box (Manikata): Organic Delights and Hidden Gems
Open: Check ahead for current hours | Location: Manikata, North-West Malta (near Golden Bay)
Getting there: Manikata is a small rural village in north-west Malta, most easily reached by car. From St Julian’s, allow approximately 30 minutes. It is close to Golden Bay beach — combining both makes an excellent half-day out.
Nestled in the rural countryside of Manikata, The Veg Box is a hidden gem for those seeking fresh, organic produce in Malta. Unlike the island’s open-air markets, this is a working farm with an on-site shop — and one of the few places in Malta where you can buy certified pesticide-free, traditionally grown produce directly from the people who cultivated it.
The farm’s commitment to traditional farming methods results in vibrant, flavourful seasonal vegetables that supermarkets simply cannot match. As you wander through the little shop, you’ll find wicker baskets brimming with freshly plucked artichokes, beetroots, chard, marrows, broccoli, and a range of other seasonal produce grown on-site.
What to buy: Organic seasonal vegetables (artichokes, beetroot, chard, marrows, broccoli and more depending on season), a selection of health foods, and artisan products. The Veg Box also stocks boho clothing, second-hand items and upcycled furniture.
Events: The Veg Box regularly hosts flea markets, live music events and community gatherings. Check their social media before visiting — an event day transforms the farm into one of Malta’s most characterful afternoons out.
Best for: Visitors interested in organic produce, slow travel, or an off-the-beaten-path Malta experience. Also ideal to combine with a walk at Għajn Tuffieħa or a swim at Golden Bay.
4. Marsaxlokk Market: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Open: Daily (Sunday is busiest) | Hours: Morning until midday | Location: Marsaxlokk waterfront, South Malta
Getting there: Bus route 81 from Valletta (about 40 minutes). Limited free parking on the waterfront on weekdays; arrive early on Sundays.
Marsaxlokk is the best place on the island to pick up fresh fish. Arrive early in the morning and witness fishermen unload their catch — immediately sold at the market at fantastic prices. The market opens daily, but Sundays are particularly bustling with countless stalls selling seafood, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, sweet pastries, cannoli and almond biscuits.
What to buy: The freshest fish in Malta — including swordfish, sea bream, octopus and lampuki (mahi-mahi, in season September–November). Also excellent for traditional Maltese lace (bizzilla), artisan handicrafts and local souvenirs.
Combine with: The Marsaxlokk to St Peter’s Pool walk — take a gentle stroll along the seafront after the market, then follow the coastal path to St Peter’s Pool for a swim. See our Malta walking guide for directions.
5. It-Tokk (Gozo): A Must-Visit for Gozitan Produce
Open: Daily | Hours: Morning until afternoon | Location: Independence Square (Pjazza Indipendenza), Victoria, Gozo
Located in the heart of Independence Square, It-Tokk is a must-visit for anyone spending time on Gozo. Open daily, the market offers a stroll through stalls of sea-fresh catch, vibrant fruit and vegetable displays, and the finest Gozitan produce — including the island’s famous gbejniet (Gozo cheeselets), sun-dried tomatoes, olives and honey.
What to buy: Gozitan gbejniet (firmer and more flavourful than their Maltese counterpart), olives, sun-dried tomatoes, local honey, and seasonal fruit. These products are exclusive to the island and make excellent gifts.
Malta market glossary: what to look for
Gbejniet (cheeselets): Small, round fresh cheeses made from sheep or goat milk. Eaten fresh, sun-dried or peppered. Gozo versions tend to be firmer and more aged.
Bigilla: A thick dip made from mashed tic beans (ful), garlic, olive oil and herbs. Malta’s version of hummus — served with crusty ftira bread.
Ħobż biż-żejt: Maltese bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil. A staple at markets, sometimes topped with tuna and capers.
Lampuki: Malta’s most prized seasonal fish (mahi-mahi), caught offshore September–November. If visiting in autumn, don’t leave without trying it.
Bizzilla: Hand-made Maltese lace, a craft with roots in the 16th century. Best found at Marsaxlokk and from artisan market stalls.
Kinnie: Malta’s distinctive bittersweet soft drink, made from bitter oranges and aromatic herbs. Available at most market refreshment stalls.
Explore the Best Markets in Malta and Enjoy an Authentic Local Experience
Farmers markets in Malta provide a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors, showcasing the island’s rich agricultural heritage and culinary delights. Indulge in the freshest produce and delicacies while immersing yourself in Malta’s vibrant local communities. By supporting local farmers, you not only contribute to the sustainability of the Maltese agricultural industry but also get to savour the authentic taste of Malta’s finest foods. For the perfect base to explore these markets, consider staying at Verdi Hotels – and don’t forget to join Verdi DISCOVERY to unlock exclusive perks, curated experiences, and rewards every time you visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best farmers market in Malta?
Ta’ Qali is the largest and most comprehensive, open Tuesdays and Saturdays. For atmosphere and seafood, Marsaxlokk on a Sunday morning is hard to beat.
Is there a market in Malta on Sundays?
Yes, Marsaxlokk has its biggest market day on Sundays, and there are seasonal Sunday markets in Valletta. Ta’ Qali is only open on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Can you buy fresh fish at Malta markets?
Yes, Marsaxlokk is the best place for fresh fish, with fishermen selling directly from the boats in the morning. Ta’ Qali also has fish stalls, though the selection is smaller.
Are Malta farmers markets tourist-friendly?
Very much so. Most vendors speak English, prices are clearly displayed, and many stalls offer tastings of local produce. The markets are a genuine part of daily Maltese life rather than tourist attractions, which is part of their appeal.
