Go hungry to the Ta’ Qali farmers market, also known by locals as Tal-Pitkali, located in the central town of Attard. A colourful array of the freshest fruit and veg is stacked on the stands, nestled side by side with local products made by the farmers themselves. Cheeselets, bigilla (bean spread), honey, eggs, fresh bread and wine all jostle for attention and are offered at great value. The market is set up on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7am to 5pm.

One of Malta’s most famous shopping experiences, this fish market, spread along the coast of this enclave in the south of the island, attracts visitors from all over the world. The village of Marsaxlokk, with its vibrant boats and quaint square, is a working fishing port, home to hundreds of fishermen who cast their nets and sweep in fresh goods, flooding the marketplace with their wares. Sunday mornings is when the promenade comes alive, but go early to soak in the sounds and textures of the place. And, who knows, you might be lucky enough to catch some furious haggling between the hawkers and Maltese housewives as they hunt for the best deal! 

This open-air bazaar, set up on a gravel pitch just outside the Couvre Porte in Vittoriosa (Birgu in Maltese), and located in the south of the island, is a cross between a flea market and a car boot sale. Held every Sunday - unless the weather is bad – the market attracts bargain hunters, collectors and curious onlookers. What you’ll find here is a wonderful mix of items, some kitsch, some old and some simply quotidian. But keep looking: unmissable gems can be found in the general bric-à-brac. Stall holders set up shop from 6am, so going early is wise – 8am is a safe bet – particularly if you’ve got your sights set on taking home a diamond in the rough. 

Hop on a boat and make a visit to Gozo’s capital city of Rabat and its daily market in Independence Square. Otherwise known as It-Tokk, this open-air kaleidoscope of stalls and independent shops sells everything from fruit and vegetables and souvenirs to clothes, hats, fabrics and household appliances. And once you’re all spent, and you’ve had a chat with the friendly hawkers, make your way to one of the many cafés and restaurants surrounding the square for a celebratory drink and traditional pastizzi (cheese or pea cakes) – it’s what the locals do!