Things To Do
in Kirkop

Kirkop is a charming village located in the southern part of Malta, known for its rich history and close-knit community. The village features beautiful architecture, including traditional Maltese houses adorned with colorful balconies. Nestled near the airport, Kirkop serves as a convenient base for exploring the island while offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling tourist spots.

Visitors can enjoy local culture and heritage through the village's churches and annual festivities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kirkop
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Church of St. Leonard, an architectural gem that showcases traditional Maltese design.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the village streets, visiting local shops and enjoying the scenic views. Stop for lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk to the nearby park for relaxation.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the nearby Roman Villa in the village of Rabat, learning about Malta's ancient history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Malta International Airport area for a guided tour of the aviation museum.

evening
:

Return to Kirkop for dinner and enjoy a traditional Maltese folk performance if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
🥗Salad$7
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$3
🍷Glass of Wine$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Less crowded than major tourist spots.
  • Convenient location near the airport.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer attractions directly within the village.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • "Merhba" - Welcome
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Kif inti?" - How are you?
  • "Taf x'inhu?" - Do you know?
  • "Jien inkun" - I am

Places to Visit in Kirkop

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of St. Leonard

Capture stunning shots of this beautiful church, especially during sunset when the light enhances its facade.

Kirkop Village Center

The lively atmosphere and traditional architecture make the village center a great spot for street photography.

Nearby Cliffs

Just a short drive away, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of the coastline, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kirkop

Kirkop offers a delightful array of traditional Maltese cuisine with influences from Mediterranean flavors, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Kirkop Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastizzi

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

Must-Try!

Rabbit Stew

A traditional dish known as 'Fenek', slow-cooked with a mix of herbs and spices.

Bragioli

Beef olives stuffed with a mix of minced meat, herbs, and spices, simmered in tomato sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kirkop Market

A local market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats.

Valletta Street Food

Just a short drive away, Valletta offers vibrant street food options showcasing Maltese delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kirkop experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more common between October and March, while the summer months are typically dry. Overall, the climate is conducive for outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and locals appreciate friendly conversation.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites; beachwear is not acceptable outside beach areas.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before beginning to eat, and it's polite to say 'Bon Appétit' before dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kirkop is generally considered a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as locking your doors, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and keeping personal belongings secure are advisable. Emergency services can be reached at 112, and having local emergency numbers handy is wise.

Tipping in Kirkop

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is customary in Malta; it's common to leave around 10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather, blooming flowers, and numerous outdoor festivals, making it a great time for exploration.

Summer

Hot weather with plenty of beach activities; however, be prepared for larger crowds and higher temperatures.

Autumn

Temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, ideal for hiking and cultural events, with fewer tourists.

Winter

Mild temperatures and occasional rain; it’s a quieter time to visit, perfect for enjoying local life without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Kirkop at Night

Kirkop has a laid-back nightlife scene with a few local bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. While it may not be as vibrant as larger towns, visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening with friends over drinks. Nearby Valletta or St. Julian's has more lively options, including clubs and bars for those seeking a more energetic night out.

Hiking in Kirkop

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park

A protected area featuring coastal trails with stunning views, ideal for hiking and observing local flora and fauna.

The Dingli Cliffs

A short drive from Kirkop, these cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and are perfect for scenic hikes.

Airports

How to reach Kirkop by plane.

Malta International Airport

Located just a few kilometers from Kirkop, this is the main airport in Malta, offering numerous international flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kirkop is a compact village, making it easy to navigate on foot. Most attractions, cafes, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy the local atmosphere. However, some areas may have uneven pavements, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Maltese Residents

The majority population in Kirkop consists of Maltese locals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Expat Community

A small but growing expat community, primarily from the UK and Italy, who have settled in the area for work or retirement.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Malta, with many local clubs and a national league that draws significant local support.

Water Sports

Given Malta's extensive coastline, water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and sailing are prevalent and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kirkop is generally light, with most locals traveling by car. Public transportation options, such as buses, connect Kirkop to other parts of Malta, but service may be less frequent during off-peak times. Visitors can also opt for taxis or rideshare services for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkop.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Kirkop offer vegetarian dishes, including pasta and salads.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are available, but it's advisable to inform the staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Malta is generally of a high standard, with public and private facilities available. In emergencies, visitors can access public hospitals or private clinics. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health expenses and to familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide