Under $100: Marsaxlokk, Malta

A quick glance at the coastal town of Marsaxlokk in southern Malta will reveal that the entirety of the small fishing village can be seen in just one day. If visiting on any day not Sunday, you may even be hard-pressed to find things to do. Regardless of which day you’re in Marsaxlokk, here are a few ways to pass the time in the sleepy fishing town.

Both locals and visitors pick up their morning coffee at the corner Costa Coffee, a British chain coffee shop that serves creative concoctions like gingerbread lattes served with tiny gingerbread cookies, as well as a bevvy of pastries. Across the plaza is the towering Parish Church, a Catholic church whose bell towers ring through the town each Sunday.

If you happen to be in Marsaxlokk on a Sunday, spend an hour or two strolling through the outdoor markets along the waterfront promenade where vendors sell everything from freshly caught seafood to Malta souvenirs, and from clothing to items for the home.

On the east side of the harbor, stop in for lunch on the sunlit patio of Terrone where a fresh fish dish and glass of wine won’t set you back more than $15.

Along the harbor, try your best bartering skills with the boat drivers for a ride to St. Peter’s Pool, a picturesque public beach on the other side of the peninsula, ripe for photography and a late afternoon swim.

Once back in Marsaxlokk, take your pick from one of the dozen or so promenade restaurants, all offering the freshest seafood dishes, pasta and (of course) copious Maltese wine.