Popeye Village Film Set

Exploring Malta’s Unique Film Set: A Review of Popeye Village

If you’re looking for a charming, laid-back experience during your Malta trip, the Popeye Village Film Set offers a fun glimpse into movie-making history combined with a variety of engaging activities. While I haven’t personally visited this site, the reviews and details paint a clear picture of what to expect.

Two things we truly appreciate about this experience are its value for money and its family-friendly vibe. At just over $17 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a mixture of entertainment, scenic views, and cultural touches without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the variety of activities—from puppet shows to mini-golf—means there’s often something for all.

A possible consideration is that the tour duration is flexible, averaging 2 to 4 hours, so if you’re hoping for a full-day adventure, you might need to supplement it with other Malta sights. It’s also worth noting that most travelers find this experience suits families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, playful outing.

This tour would fit best for those who enjoy movie history, appreciate scenic seaside spots, and want a stress-free, interactive experience that doesn’t require a lot of planning. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with kids or simply love a good mix of entertainment and leisure.

Key Points

• Unique setting: The only fully standing film set in Europe for the movie Popeye.
• Affordable entry: Around $17.20 per person, offering great value for a full day of fun.
• Activities galore: Puppet shows, mini-golf, animation programs, and even filmmaking experiences.
• Scenic location: Situated at Anchor Bay, offering lovely sea views and turquoise waters.
• Family-friendly: Plenty of kid-focused activities and relaxed pace.
• Weather-dependent: Many activities are seasonal or outdoor, so check the weather before visiting.

What Makes Popeye Village Special?

Walking into Popeye Village feels like stepping into a colorful film set straight out of a fairy tale. Built in 1979 as the backdrop for Robin Williams’ first movie, it’s the only fully standing film set of its kind in Europe. Even if you’re not a Popeye fan, the charm of the place is undeniable. The bright, cartoonish houses, lush surroundings, and the proximity to the water create a playful atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

The site is open year-round, and you can expect a warm welcome from staff who are eager to show you around. The guided tours are in English, offering interesting tidbits about the film’s background and the set’s construction. But frankly, much of the enjoyment comes from simply wandering through the set, snapping photos, and soaking up the whimsical vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting at Popeye Village Malta

Your journey begins at Popeye Village, which is more than just a film set—it’s a lively hub of entertainment. Here, you’ll find guided tours that give you insight into how the set was built for the 1980 Paramount production, as well as the opportunity to meet characters like Popeye himself and his friends. This interaction is especially fun for kids and fans of the movie.

Shows and Puppet Performances

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the animation program packed with shows, sketches, and puppet performances. Visitors often mention how these shows are lively and funny, maintaining a festive atmosphere. The reviews reflect that people, including children, laugh and enjoy the whimsical storytelling.

Interactive Experiences: Become a Movie Star

For those who want to get involved, the Take2 Filming experience is a highlight. You get to participate in filming your own mini-movie, which can be a delight for families or groups wanting a bit of hands-on fun. Afterwards, the cinema shows a documentary and even hosts a premiere of your own short film, adding a memorable personalized touch to the visit.

Museum, Snacks, and Souvenirs

The Comic and Memorabilia Museum offers a look at various costumes, posters, and behind-the-scenes photos—great for movie buffs. Plus, visitors receive free popcorn in the cinema and a postcard to take home, which adds a sweet, nostalgic element. If you’re craving some downtime, the mini-golf course and wooden carnival games provide easy, lighthearted entertainment.

Seasonal Activities and Facilities

During the summer months, the site offers additional features like inflatable obstacle courses, splash pools, and kid’s play pools. These are designed to keep the little ones entertained, making it a great spot for families wanting a relaxed, playful day.

The Value and Practicalities

At $17.20 per person, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck. Admission includes access to all the main attractions—guides, shows, museum, and activities—so once inside, you can roam freely without extra charges. The inclusion of snacks, free popcorn, and a postcard makes it feel like a thoughtfully packaged experience.

The duration varies by how much you want to do—some visitors spend just a couple hours, while others stay longer enjoying the sun and seaside. The flexible schedule and seasonal opening hours make it manageable to plan around your itinerary.

You should note that lunch isn’t included but can be purchased on-site. The proximity to public transportation and the location at Anchor Bay makes it convenient for most travelers.

What the Reviews Say

Many visitors highlight how much fun they had. Sonia_S shared that it was “the most memorable thing,” emphasizing the fun with kids, the photos, and the refreshing atmosphere. She appreciated the “magical view to the sea,” which adds a peaceful backdrop to the playful setting.

Amandine_B, speaking in French, described the site as “pleasant” and “festive,” recommending it as a must-visit at least once in Malta. She also appreciated the beach-like ambiance and the availability of transats and a beach for those who want to relax longer.

However, some reviews point out the importance of good weather, as many activities depend on outdoor conditions, especially during summer. The tour’s appeal is largely based on its scenic surroundings and open-air attractions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, laid-back outing with a touch of movie history, Popeye Village checks all the boxes. It’s particularly great for families with children, thanks to its interactive shows and kid-friendly facilities. It also suits couples or groups who want a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views.

For travelers on a budget, the cost-to-activities ratio makes this a worthwhile stop. But if you’re expecting a deep historical or cultural tour, this might not satisfy those interests—it’s more about entertainment, scenery, and light fun.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities and spontaneous adventures, the flexibility and variety of activities mean you can tailor your visit to your mood and weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Popeye Village open all year round?
Yes, it’s open throughout the year, allowing visitors to enjoy the site regardless of season.

How long does the tour usually last?
Most visitors spend between 2 and 4 hours here, depending on how much time you want to dedicate to shows, activities, and relaxing.

How much does it cost?
The entrance fee is around $17.20 per person, which includes many activities, shows, and access to the film set.

Are snacks included?
Yes, visitors get free popcorn once inside, and there are snacks available for purchase.

Can I meet Popeye and other characters?
Yes, you can meet Popeye and the gang during your visit, adding to the fun, especially for kids.

Are there facilities for kids?
Absolutely. There are splash pools, inflatable obstacle courses, wooden carnival games, and playground areas, especially active during summer.

Is there a museum or shop?
Yes, the Comic and Memorabilia Museum showcases costumes, posters, and photos, and souvenirs can be purchased on-site.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are outdoor-centric, so poor weather might impact your experience. However, you can reschedule or get a full refund if the experience is canceled due to weather.

Is the experience suitable for families?
Yes. It’s very family-friendly, with plenty of activities that appeal to children and relaxed pacing that suits all ages.

How do I get there?
The meeting point is at Popeye Village, Triq Tal-Prajjet, Il-Mellieha. It’s near public transport, making it accessible from most parts of Malta.

In summary, Popeye Village offers a cheerful, reasonably priced escape into a movie-set wonderland with plenty of opportunities for fun, photos, and relaxation. It’s best suited for those who appreciate an easygoing day in scenic surroundings, especially if you’re traveling with kids or enjoy playful outdoor environments. While it’s not a deep cultural experience, it’s a charming, memorable stop that adds a bit of whimsy to your Malta journey.