The supermarket chains in Malta aren’t interchangeable: prices, hours and what they’re actually good for vary more than you’d expect on an island this size.
Lidl
The same chain as in Spain and much of Europe, and a favourite among Maltese shoppers for its range and prices. Generally the cheapest option in central Malta. The busiest branches are in Sliema and San Gwann, so living near a Lidl is worth factoring into where you rent.
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 7:00–19:00, Fri 7:00–22:00, Sat 7:00–20:00, Sun 8:00–18:00.
Dave’s
Popular with Erasmus students specifically because most branches are open 24 hours. Some locations are little more than a convenience store; the larger ones, like Gżira, carry a proper range.
Convenience Shop
A chain of small stores carrying the basics. Prices run higher than the big three, and hours vary store to store, but useful if one is close to home and you just need something quickly.
Welbee’s
Similarly well known, with prices on the higher side, but some branches have a prepared food counter, which the others don’t.
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 7:30–20:00, Fri 7:30–21:00, Sat 7:30–20:00, Sun 8:00–18:00.
Getting your bottle deposit back
Plastic bottles in Malta carry a 10-cent deposit built into the price, refunded when you return the bottle to one of the island’s recycling machines. You get a voucher redeemable at participating stores. This map shows where to redeem it.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the cheapest supermarket in Malta?
Lidl, generally, followed by Dave’s for late-night or 24-hour needs. Convenience Shop and Welbee’s run more expensive but make up for it in opening hours or extras like prepared food.
Is there a 24-hour supermarket in Malta?
Yes, most Dave’s branches operate around the clock.
How does the bottle deposit scheme work?
You pay a 10-cent deposit on plastic bottles, refunded as a voucher when you return the bottle to a recycling machine, redeemable at participating stores.
Where to go next
Renting an apartment in Malta
Studios, shared flats and what areas near Lidl and the other chains actually cost.
Things you must know before going to Malta
Water, plugs, currency and the other basics worth knowing in advance.
