Things To Do
in Kalkara

Kalkara is a picturesque coastal village located on the southeastern coast of Malta, known for its stunning harbor and historical significance. It is home to the famous Fort Rinella, which houses a massive Armstrong gun, and offers breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour. The village's charming streets are lined with traditional Maltese houses, creating a captivating atmosphere for visitors.

Kalkara also serves as a gateway to the nearby Three Cities, making it a perfect base for exploring Malta's rich history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Kalkara
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Fort Rinella to learn about Malta's military history and see the impressive cannon.

afternoon
:

Stroll along the Kalkara waterfront, enjoying the sea views and stopping for lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant and take a leisurely evening walk along the promenade to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Discovering the Three Cities
morning
:

Take a ferry from Kalkara to the nearby Three Cities and explore the historic streets of Vittoriosa.

afternoon
:

Visit the Maritime Museum and the Inquisitor's Palace, then enjoy lunch in one of the charming local eateries.

evening
:

Return to Kalkara for dinner and perhaps enjoy a glass of local wine at a cozy bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal views and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during the summer months.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Merhba" - Welcome
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Jiena nixtieq" - I would like
  • "Fejn hu" - Where is
  • "Tafni?" - Do you know?

Places to Visit in Kalkara

Visit one of these nice places.

Fort Rinella

Capture stunning views of the harbor and the historic fort itself, especially during sunset.

Kalkara Waterfront

A picturesque spot to photograph the traditional Maltese boats and the vibrant sea.

Three Cities Viewpoint

An elevated view of the Three Cities, perfect for panoramic shots of the skyline and harbor.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kalkara

Kalkara offers a delightful taste of Maltese cuisine, with an array of local dishes that are a must-try for any visitor.

Kalkara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or peas, a popular snack.

Must-Try!

Fenkata

Traditional rabbit stew, often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Bragioli

Beef olives stuffed with a mixture of ground meat and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kalkara Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and various street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kalkara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 32°C (90°F), while winter averages around 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is more common from October to February, but sunny days are frequent year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; addressing locals with respect is appreciated.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating and try to sample all dishes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kalkara is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings are advisable.

Tipping in Kalkara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for beach outings, but expect tourist crowds.

Autumn

Temperatures cool down, making it a pleasant time to explore without the summer rush.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; perfect for cultural explorations and fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Kalkara at Night

Kalkara's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger urban areas, but there are charming bars and cafes that create a relaxed atmosphere. Locals often gather at waterfront bars for drinks, especially during the summer. For more vibrant nightlife, head to nearby Valletta or Sliema, where you can find nightclubs and live music venues.

Hiking in Kalkara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Għar Lapsi to Blue Grotto

A scenic coastal hike offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and the famous Blue Grotto.

Majjistral Nature and History Park

A beautiful park with trails that showcase Malta's natural landscape, including cliffs and coastal views.

Airports

How to reach Kalkara by plane.

Malta International Airport (MLA)

Located about 8 km from Kalkara, MLA is the main airport serving Malta, offering connections to numerous international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kalkara is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The waterfront promenade is particularly pleasant for walking, and the village's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Maltese Locals

The majority of residents are Maltese, with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community.

Expat Community

Kalkara is becoming increasingly popular with expatriates from various countries, attracted by its beauty and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Malta, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Water Sports

Due to its coastal location, water sports like sailing, diving, and windsurfing are widely enjoyed.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kalkara is generally manageable, but like many places in Malta, it can become congested during peak hours. Public transportation consists of buses that connect Kalkara to other parts of the island, and taxis are readily available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalkara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, confirm ingredients as local cuisine often includes meat.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but many restaurants are accommodating to requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Malta is generally of high quality, with several public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are reliable, and visitors can access medical care through local clinics if needed. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide