There are so many excellent spots to drink in the capital of Malta (Valletta) and the capital of entertainment (Pacevillle), but what about other localities? Here are our top seven off-the-beaten-track watering holes.

1. Grasshopper Bar, Lija

A secluded bar found behind the Lija parish church, Grasshopper is a great spot to grab a drink with a few tricks along the way. If you ask nicely, the owner will transform into a live magician, and show you a few of his best card tricks - what a treat!

2. Zmerc, Balzan

Zmerc is a great place to go when you’re not quite sure if you fancy a drink or a nibble. This happenin’ pub is all about the freebies, serving up quality nibbles with every order. The food just keeps coming so the least you can do is drink up and call this your spot for the night, right?

3. Is-City Bar, Mosta

This gem in the heart of Mosta is absolutely awesome! Full of character, liveliness and a whole lot of bevvys that are sure to wet your whistle. Is-City Bar lives by the concept of heading to the pub to make new friends - what better excuse to hit the bar?

4. Old Smugglers, Balzan

A Balzan bar with the greatest menu and the best drinks to enjoy with your besties. Old Smugglers is ready to serve up some of the best spirits with the greatest dishes, so head here if you’re looking to lay back and relax while good tunes play in the background.

5. Hole in the Wall, Sliema

Retro, funky, hip - Hole in the Wall is a great spot to drink up with your buds in the heart of Malta’s centre of entertainment. Tucked in a narrow alley in the Sliema backstreets, this hipster haven is all about the relaxed vibes from the music, craft beer and super crowd.

6. Downtown Bar, San Gwann

Downtown Bar is your typical Maltese take-away joint where the ftira is always crunchy and the tea is always brewing. But by night, this super spot transforms into a genuine hangout place where locals down the drinks and talk about the hottest topics, politics, religion and football.

7. Kings Arms, Rabat

Walking by this place during the day at the weekend feels like you’re walking past a pumpin’ club in Paceville - it’s super loud and ready to get the party started. The guys at Kings Arms mean business, and it’s clear with their choice of classic rock music and their big pastizzi sign on the door.

Any excuse to drink right? And why not at the village local?