Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Malta.
Malta is a sun-soaked Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and North Africa, renowned for its ancient fortified cities, crystal-clear waters, and 7,000 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage jewel blends baroque architecture, prehistoric temples, and vibrant coastal life into one of Europe's most captivating destinations.
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Intricate handmade bobbin lace unique to Malta, produced in villages like Vittoriosa and Birgu. Designs range from tablecloths to framed art pieces.
Hand-blown decorative glass made with traditional techniques at the Mdina Glass workshop. Recognizable for its vivid Mediterranean colors and swirled patterns.
Hand-painted ceramic tiles, plates, and bowls featuring traditional Maltese motifs such as the Maltese Cross and luzzu boats. Popular decorative items.
Naturally harvested salt from the historic Salina salt pans near St Paul's Bay, hand-collected using traditional methods. Excellent food gift.
Traditional Maltese sheep or goat milk cheese, vacuum-packed and available in fresh, dried, or peppered varieties. A beloved local delicacy.
Traditional ring-shaped pastry filled with black treacle and spiced with aniseed, a distinctly Maltese treat. Vacuum-packed for travel.
Silver and gold jewelry incorporating the distinctive eight-pointed Maltese Cross, symbol of the Knights of Malta. Available in bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Malta's most famous outdoor market held every Sunday alongside the colorful luzzu fishing boats. Fresh fish section open daily from 7am, with additional stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and local produce on Sundays.
A permanent craft market housed in WWII RAF Spitfire base buildings, with resident artisans producing Mdina glass, lace, pottery, and metalwork. Watch craftspeople at work in their studios.
A bustling covered daily market in the heart of Valletta selling fresh local produce, fish, clothing, and sundry goods. Authentic local atmosphere away from tourist shops.
A popular Sunday morning flea market and general goods market at the foot of Mdina's walls. Good for vintage items, plants, clothing, and household goods at local prices.
Seasonal artisan and craft market near Valletta City Gate showcasing local designers, handmade crafts, organic food, and independent Maltese brands. Popular with locals on weekends.
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Where to find different types of shops.
Malta's main pedestrianized shopping street running through the heart of the capital, lined with souvenir shops, cafes, jewelry stores, and fashion boutiques. The street dates to the 16th century and is flanked by baroque palaces.
A long seafront promenade lined with international fashion brands, shoe shops, pharmacies, and casual dining. Malta's most popular everyday shopping street with a good mix of local and international stores.
A compact shopping district connecting Tower Road to The Point mall, featuring independent boutiques, opticians, beauty salons, and cafes. Popular with young Maltese shoppers.
Malta's dedicated craftsmen village where artisans produce and sell traditional Maltese crafts including glass, lace, silverware, and ceramics. Each studio offers a chance to watch the making process.
The elegant shoreline around Spinola Bay and Balluta Bay in St Julians houses upmarket boutiques, jewelry shops, and fine dining. Popular with wealthier residents and hotel guests.
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Malta's largest shopping mall in Tigne Point, Sliema, housing over 80 stores across three levels. Anchored by major international brands including Zara, H&M, and Marks & Spencer, with sea views from the terrace.
A large entertainment and retail complex in St Julians featuring cinemas, restaurants, bowling, and international fashion brands. Popular with families and young crowds, especially evenings and weekends.
Central Sliema's established mall with a supermarket, fashion stores, electronics, and a food court. Convenient for everyday shopping with parking available underground.
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Bargaining is not customary in shops, malls, or markets in Malta; fixed prices are standard
At the Sunday Marsaxlokk market, buying multiple items from the same vendor may yield a small discount if asked politely
Some souvenir shop owners near tourist sites will negotiate slightly for multiple purchases
Antique dealers at the Rabat flea market expect some negotiation
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Antiques over 50 years old require export permit; cultural artifacts from Malta's prehistoric temples are strictly prohibited from export
EU VAT (18%) can be claimed by non-EU visitors on purchases over €50 via the Tax Free shopping scheme; get form stamped at airport customs
EU residents have no duty-free limits between EU countries; non-EU visitors: 200 cigarettes, 1 litre spirits, €430 worth of goods
Malta Post (Posta Malta) ships internationally from post offices; Maltese glass and ceramics best packed professionally at purchase point
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