Qawra Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Qawra, Malta. This comprehensive travel guide covers top attractions, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, local food and drinks, and much more.


Introduction to Qawra

Located on the stunning Malta Island in Europe, Qawra is one of the most popular tourist destinations. This town has a lot to offer for both solo travelers and families alike, from picturesque countryside and beautiful beaches to historical landmarks and vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning to visit Qawra, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Qawra

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Parish Church of Saint Francis of Assisi
    • This stunning church dates back to the 19th century and features intricate detailed woodwork and stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Bugibba Temple
    • Built during the Bronze Age, this temple is one of the oldest religious sites in the world.
  • Salina Nature Reserve and Bird Sanctuary
    • This beautiful nature reserve features stunning landscapes and is home to over 150 different bird species.

Natural Attractions of Qawra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Malta National Aquarium
    • This attraction houses over 200 species of marine life and offers exciting events such as feeding shows and interactive exhibits.
  • St. Paul’s Bay
    • This stunning beach offers clear water for swimming and a variety of exciting water sports activities, such as diving and snorkeling.
  • Ta’ Cenc Cliffs
    • Offering breathtaking scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the sea, this is the perfect spot for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qawra

Qawra offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for all levels of experience. Some popular routes to explore include:

  • Coastal routes, offering stunning views of the sea
  • Rural routes, taking you through the beautiful Maltese countryside
  • Heritage routes, visiting some of Qawra’s cultural landmarks

Best Things to Do in Qawra: Activities and Tours

  • Historical city tours
    • These tours allow visitors to discover Qawra’s rich history and culture while exploring some of its most famous landmarks.
  • Water sports activities
    • Try your hand at diving, snorkeling, or jet skiing for an unforgettable experience.
  • Nightlife activities
    • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Qawra with a variety of clubs, bars, and restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qawra

For a week-long trip in Qawra, consider the following itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Parish Church of Saint Francis of Assisi
2 Spend the day at St. Paul’s Bay
3 Tour the Bugibba Temple
4 Explore the Ta’ Cenc Cliffs
5 Visit the Malta National Aquarium
6 Experience the nightlife in Qawra
7 Take a day trip to nearby Gozo Island

Food and Drink Scene of Qawra

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pastizzi
    • This flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mashed peas is a Maltese delicacy.
  • Lampuki
    • A popular fish in Malta, Lampuki is often served with a tomato and garlic sauce.
  • Rabbit Stew
    • A traditional Maltese dish made with rabbit meat, vegetables, and red wine.

Local Beverages

  • Cisk
    • Produced locally, Cisk is a popular lager that can be found on tap at most bars.
  • Kinnie
    • This bitter-sweet, non-alcoholic drink is made with a combination of oranges and herbs. It is a Maltese favorite.

Where to Stay in Qawra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • db San Antonio Hotel + Spa
    • This 4-star hotel offers guests stunning sea views and luxurious amenities.
  • White Dolphin Holiday Complex
    • A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool.
  • Qawra Palace Hotel
    • Located in the heart of Qawra, this hotel offers guests easy access to the beach and local attractions.

What to Buy in Qawra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Filigree jewelry
    • This traditional Maltese jewelry is made with thin twisted wires of gold and silver and often features intricate designs.
  • Lace
    • Malta is famous for its lacework, made popular during the 19th century.
  • Maltese honey
    • Produced locally, Maltese honey is a delicious souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Qawra

The Maltese culture is rich in tradition and festivals. Visitors can enjoy a variety of events throughout the year, including:

  • Malta Jazz Festival (July)
  • The Maltese Carnival (February/March)
  • The Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck (February)

Best Time to Visit Qawra

The best time to visit Qawra is between April and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you want to avoid crowds, visit during the shoulder season (October/November and March), when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are lighter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qawra

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Swim in areas marked as unsafe
  • Remove items from historical sites or museums
  • Smoke in non-designated areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Qawra

Qawra is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always recommended to take basic precautions, such as:

  • Keep valuables in a safe place
  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Health in Qawra

Travelers should have travel health insurance before visiting Qawra. In addition, it is recommended to have routine vaccines, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and the seasonal flu shot.

Getting to Qawra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Qawra

The closest airport to Qawra is Malta International Airport, which is approximately a 25-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Qawra

Qawra has a bus station, from where visitors can easily travel to other parts of the island.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available options to get around Qawra and the rest of the island.

How to Get Around in Qawra

Qawra is a small town and is best explored on foot. Bikes and scooters can also be rented for a more adventurous exploring.

Where to Go Next from Qawra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Malta offers a wealth of other attractions and adventure possibilities.

  • Valletta
    • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital of Malta is perfect for history and culture lovers.
  • Gozo Island
    • Located only a short ferry ride away from Malta and offers visitors an authentic look at Maltese culture and stunning landscapes.
  • Comino Island
    • This tiny and picturesque island is famous for its stunning Blue Lagoon.

Conclusion

Visiting Qawra is an unforgettable experience. With a range of attractions and activities available, tourists can make the most of their trip, whether it’s soaking up the sun at one of the town’s exceptional beaches or exploring the stunning natural scenery. Enjoy the hospitality of Malta and explore the vibrant culture and diverse local cuisine of Qawra on your next vacation.