Things To Do
in Luqa

Luqa is a small but vibrant town located in the southern part of Malta, best known as the site of the Malta International Airport. It boasts a rich history with charming architecture, including the stunning Parish Church of St. Andrew. The town serves as a gateway to explore the broader attractions of Malta, making it a convenient base for travelers.

Its welcoming atmosphere and local charm provide an authentic experience of Maltese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Luqa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parish Church of St. Andrew, where you can admire its beautiful Baroque architecture. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of Luqa to appreciate the local shops and cafes.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby town of Paola to explore the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, an underground burial site dating back to prehistoric times. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe before continuing your exploration.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at one of Luqa's local restaurants, trying traditional Maltese dishes, followed by a relaxing evening walk through the town.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring the Surroundings
morning
:

Take a morning excursion to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colorful luzzu boats. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café while overlooking the harbor.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at St. Peter's Pool for some sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Pack a picnic or grab snacks from local vendors.

evening
:

Return to Luqa for dinner, then explore the local nightlife at a nearby wine bar or pub, where you can engage with locals and enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$2-$4
🍕Pizza$7-$12
🚕Taxi fare (within town)$10
🏨Hotel per night$70-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Convenient location for exploring Malta
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent
  • "Merhba" - Welcome
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Kif inti?" - How are you?
  • "Jien" - I am
  • "Taf x'jien?" - Do you know what I mean?

Places to Visit in Luqa

Visit one of these nice places.

Parish Church of St. Andrew

Capture the stunning architecture and intricate details of this beautiful church, especially during sunset.

Marsaxlokk Harbor

The colorful luzzu boats against the clear blue sea provide perfect photo opportunities.

St. Peter's Pool

A natural swimming pool with clear waters and rocky cliffs, ideal for breathtaking landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Luqa

Luqa offers a delightful array of traditional Maltese cuisine that reflects the island's rich cultural heritage.

Luqa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fenek

Rabbit stew, seasoned with garlic and wine, is a Maltese delicacy that you must try while in Luqa.

Must-Try!

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, these snacks are perfect for a quick bite on the go.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marsaxlokk Fish Market

A vibrant market held on Sundays, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Luqa experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters usually hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is most common between November and February, but overall, Malta enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is the common form of greeting. It's polite to greet people when entering shops or restaurants.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; casual attire is acceptable in most other settings.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it’s polite to engage in conversation during meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Luqa is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Luqa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included, and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available throughout Luqa. However, carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and crowded, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's ideal for beach lovers but stay hydrated.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) features pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore local attractions.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is mild but can be rainy. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for those seeking a calm experience.

Nightlife Guide

Luqa at Night

Luqa's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities like Valletta. However, you can find a few cozy bars and pubs where locals gather for drinks and conversation. Live music is often featured, especially on weekends, providing a laid-back atmosphere for enjoying the Maltese evening.

Hiking in Luqa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

The Victoria Lines

A scenic hike along a historic fortification, offering stunning views of the countryside and the coast.

Zurrieq to Blue Grotto

A trail leading to the famous Blue Grotto, featuring breathtaking coastal scenery and opportunities for photography.

Airports

How to reach Luqa by plane.

Malta International Airport

Located within Luqa, this is the main airport serving Malta, offering flights to many international destinations and providing essential travel services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Luqa is relatively walkable, with most local attractions, shops, and cafes within a reasonable distance. The town's layout makes it easy to explore on foot, although some areas may have uneven pavement. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Luqa's population consists of Maltese locals, who maintain traditional values and a strong sense of community.

Tourists

Luqa attracts tourists, especially those arriving via the airport, looking for a more authentic Maltese experience away from the bustling tourist spots.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

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

Water Sports

With its beautiful coastline, water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and sailing are immensely popular among both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Luqa can be busy, especially during peak hours due to the airport's proximity. Public transportation options include buses that connect Luqa to other parts of Malta, but schedules may vary. It's advisable to check local transport apps for real-time information.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Luqa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, with dishes centered around fresh vegetables and legumes.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Maltese cuisine includes many bread-based dishes, some restaurants cater to gluten-free diets upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Malta is of a high standard, with both public and private facilities available. The public healthcare system is accessible to residents and EU citizens, while private healthcare is also available for travelers. Pharmacies are widespread, often providing over-the-counter medications.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide