Shopping is among the favourite activities on many a holidaymaker’s to-do list. Malta offers numerous and diverse opportunities and is sure to satisfy the casual buyer as well as the serious shopaholic.
Retail outlets and shopping centres can be found in all the major towns and villages, but the foremost amongst these are at Valletta in Republic Street and Merchants Street; in Tas-Sliema mostly along Tower Road, Bisazza Street and the Strand; in St. Julian’s and Paceville; in Paola town centre; in Ħamrun along High Street; in Mosta around the town centre; in Buġibba and St. Paul’s Bay; and in Victoria (Rabat) in Gozo.
Shops are normally open from Monday to Saturday, mornings and evenings. Opening times of shops are usually between 09.00 – 13.00 and 16.00 – 19.00hrs. However, in tourist areas, shops are open throughout the day Mondays to Saturdays, from 09.00 till 19.00 hrs and even later.
Shopping for Crafts
Crafts have undergone a revival in recent years. Not solely because they make interesting souvenirs but also because of their high cultural value to the Islands. Some crafts, such as knitwear, basket-ware and lace, have a long history.
Open Air Markets
Markets are at the heart of Maltese village life and an experience not to be missed by visitors. Almost every town and village has its version. For the locals, they are a place for socialising, catching up with neighbours and local news, as much as for buying daily necessities.
Shopping Malls
The concept of Shopping Mall is a relatively new addition to the Maltese commercial landscape, but is one that has rapidly gained popularity amongst locals and tourists. The comfort and convenience of shopping under one roof has seen a number of malls opening in both Malta and Gozo.