Visiting Popeye Village in Malta: A Cartoon Come to Life

Hidden in a colorful cove on the northwest coast of Malta lies one of the island’s most unique attractions — Popeye Village. Originally built as a film set in 1980, this quirky, picture-perfect spot has since been transformed into a fun theme village that feels like stepping into a cartoon. Whether you're a fan of the classic Popeye character or just looking for a family-friendly day out in Malta, Popeye Village offers a mix of nostalgia, scenery, and light-hearted fun. 🧭 Where Is Popeye Village? Popeye Village is located in Anchor Bay, just outside the town of Mellieħa in northern Malta. The location is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and some of the best coastal views on the island. • By car: ~40 minutes from Valletta or Sliema. • By bus: Direct lines from Mellieħa or a transfer from major cities via Route 101. • Parking: Free on-site parking available. 🎬 From Film Set to Tourist Village Popeye Village was built in 1979 by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney for the musical “Popeye”, starring Robin Williams. Instead of being taken down after filming, the elaborate wooden village was preserved and reopened as a public attraction. Today, you can walk through the original movie set, complete with crooked wooden houses, painted signs, and props from the film — all set against a stunning coastal backdrop. 🏡 What to Do at Popeye Village • Explore the original film set, including Popeye’s cabin and other quirky wooden houses. • Meet live characters like Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto in fun performances. • Watch behind-the-scenes clips from the 1980 movie in the on-site cinema. • Swim and relax by Anchor Bay (summer only) or enjoy the sunbeds and floating platforms. • Enjoy mini golf and games — great for kids and families. 🕒 Opening Hours & Ticket Info • Open daily: Hours vary by season, typically 10:00–17:00 in winter and 10:00–18:00+ in summer. Tickets: • Winter: ~€11 for adults, €8.50 for kids • Summer: ~€15–€20, includes use of sunbeds, access to swimming areas, and a welcome drink • Online booking recommended, especially in peak season. 💡 Tip: Ticket often includes a free postcard and a short boat ride around Anchor Bay (weather permitting). 🍽 Food & Facilities • On-site restaurants serve snacks, pasta, burgers, and local dishes. • There’s also a souvenir shop, restrooms, baby-changing facilities, and shaded picnic areas. • Outside food is usually not allowed inside. 📸 Photo Tips • Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full village from above. • The best viewpoint is from the cliffs above the entrance — no ticket needed to admire the view from there! • Early morning or late afternoon light makes the colors pop in photos. 🎒 Is Popeye Village Worth Visiting? If you're looking for something playful, scenic, and different, absolutely! While it's more geared toward families, couples and solo travelers also enjoy its surreal charm, coastal beauty, and relaxed vibe. It’s not a high-thrill park, but it makes for a great half-day trip, especially if combined with a visit to Mellieħa Bay or nearby beaches.