Things To Do
in Ħamrun
Ħamrun is a compact town just east of Valletta, historically tied to Malta's brick-forging and industrial heritage and now a lively residential hub. The streets blend old Maltese brick façades with colorful balconies, small shops, and a strong sense of local community. It feels authentically Maltese yet conveniently connected to the capital region via frequent buses and walkable streets.
Visitors can savor traditional Maltese cuisine, enjoy relaxed cafés, and use Ħamrun as a comfortable base for exploring nearby historic sites and the Grand Harbour area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Ħamrun, take some time to settle into your accommodation and freshen up. Head out for a leisurely walk to explore the charming streets adorned with traditional Maltese architecture. Don’t forget to visit the local shops and grab a taste of pastizzi, a popular Maltese snack.
Visit the beautiful Parish Church of St. Joseph, a stunning example of baroque architecture. Spend your afternoon strolling through the picturesque streets, stopping for lunch at a local café where you can savor authentic Maltese dishes. You may also want to explore the nearby area of Msida, where you can enjoy views of the marina.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local restaurant that offers traditional Maltese cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while soaking in the atmosphere of Ħamrun. End your day with a stroll to appreciate the illuminated buildings and feel the vibrant nightlife of the area.
Start the day with a visit to the Ħamrun Ecumenical Church, where you can admire its unique architecture and interior design. After, take a short walk to the nearby historic site of the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows, where you can reflect on its serene surroundings. Engage with locals and learn about the cultural significance of the area.
Enjoy a guided walking tour of the town, where you'll discover fascinating stories about Ħamrun’s history and its importance to Maltese culture. Visit local art galleries and craft shops to appreciate the talent of Maltese artisans. Pause for lunch at a traditional eatery and taste local favorites like rabbit stew.
Experience an evening of local folklore and traditional music at a nearby venue. As you enjoy the performances, immerse yourself in the stories that define Malta's rich cultural heritage. Wind down with a glass of Maltese wine in hand as you reflect on the day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $90-130 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3-4 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to Valletta and the harbor
- Great value for food and casual Maltese culture
- Strong local services and frequent buses to major sights
- Nightlife is quieter than Paceville or Sliema
- Limited green spaces within Ħamrun itself; some streets can be busy
- Parking can be challenging; rely on public transport
- "Bongu" - Hello / Good morning
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Int titkellem Ingliż?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ħamrun
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Maltese red-brick townhouses with ornate wooden balconies; best captured in the soft morning or late afternoon light along main streets.
An open square framed by pastel façades and activity; ideal for candid street portraits and atmospheric shots.
Industrial landmarks and railway remnants along the town's edge; contrasts between old structures and modern elements.
A short ride to Valletta or the Sliema waterfront offers dramatic harbour panoramas at dusk.
Food in Ħamrun
Ħamrun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky, savory pastries filled with ricotta or peas; a Maltese staple found in bakeries across town.
Must-Try!
Tender rabbit slow-cooked with garlic, wine, and herbs; a classic Maltese dish often served with potatoes.
A baked macaroni and ricotta dish, a comforting traditional Maltese staple.
Traditional Maltese flatbread stuffed with olives, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes tuna; great for a beachy lunch or market snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Sunday market by the harbor offering fresh seafood, vegetables, cheese, and Maltese snacks; a lively place to taste local bites.
Covered market with a variety of stalls selling local produce, baked goods, and quick Maltese bites; easy to combine with a Valletta visit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Malta uses Maltese and English; greet with a simple 'Hello' (Bongu) or 'Hello' in English; a handshake is common in casual settings.
When visiting churches, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; remove hats indoors.
Evenings are social; keep noise respectful in residential areas, particularly after 10 pm.
Safety
Tipping in Ħamrun
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; leaving 5-10% for good service in restaurants is common practice.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also common. Contactless payments are convenient, and ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Most outdoor events run in the evenings when temperatures are milder.
Mild and occasionally rainy; pack a light jacket. Rain is infrequent but showers can happen, especially in November and December.
Pleasant and green with wildflowers; excellent for walking and photography without peak heat.
Warm with cooler evenings; great for harbor walks and short day trips.
Ħamrun at Night
Hiking in Ħamrun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near Rabat and Siġġiewi with scenic views and easy to moderate hikes.
Coastal walking paths with dramatic sea views and limestone landscapes; doable as a day trip.
Ancient streets with short, shaded routes, caves, and limited hillside trails nearby.
Airports
How to reach Ħamrun by plane.
Located near Luqa, about 8-20 minutes by car from Ħamrun; taxis and buses connect the airport to Valletta and surrounding towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority local population with a mix of ages and family life.
A steady presence in housing, work, and study communities; multicultural influences appear in cuisine and language use.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Malta, with local clubs and matches across the island.
Strong tradition in Maltese clubs; pool-based competitions and youth programs.
Growing communities with local clubs and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ħamrun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widespread, with vegetable stews, mezzes, and pastizzi filled with ricotta or peas available in most places.