A fun-filled day at Malta’s Popeye Village

Everyone around the world seems to know Popeye. But if it’s your first time in Malta you might be surprised to learn that there’s an entire village dedicated to the squinty-eyed, spinach-loving sailor man right here on the island.

Malta’s Popeye Village was originally the movie set for the 1980 classic starring Robin Williams and Shelley Duvall, which has since transformed into a beloved family attraction. The village, designed to resemble Sweet Haven, now offers a delightful theme park experience that appeals to the young and the young at heart.

For those embarking on their first adventure to Popeye Village, this handy guide provides everything you need to know about this charming attraction. Join us as we explore what awaits you, your family, and friends within the whimsical Popeye movie set.

Back in 1980, Popeye sailed into the Anchor Bay in Mellieha, transforming this serene part of Malta forever. This vibrant set became the backdrop for the live-action comedy starring the legendary Robin Williams in his debut film role. Taking seven months to construct using imported timber from Holland and Canada, the cartoon village of Sweet Haven was brought to life with its vividly painted huts, shops, and houses—many of which served as iconic settings for memorable scenes featuring beloved characters including Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto, and Wimpy.

Such love and creativity was poured into the building of the movie set that no one seems to have wanted to tear it down. Its streets and huts now house a collection of games, movie memorabilia, and museums. Tucked away near a hard to reach stretch of coastline, it doubles as a hotspot for swimming and water games, complete with inflatables. To top it off, the village boasts its very own bar and restaurant, ensuring a delightful day out for all.

Include Popeye Village on your holiday in Malta itinerary for a fabulous day of family fun. Plan an action-packed visit with these exciting activities awaiting you at the village.

Before even stepping foot into Popeye Village, make a pit stop at the breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Anchor Bay. If you’re driving, navigate your way to the narrow countryside street Triq tal-Prajjet. Otherwise, a ride-hailing service will also get you there. From this vantage point, you can marvel at the picturesque spread of Popeye Village along the coastline below. The scene is especially enchanting at sunset, offering one of Malta’s finest sunset views—so a stop before heading home is also highly recommended. From this point, you can drive down to the theme park. You might also consider strolling around the coast towards the Popeye movie set, but be mindful of Malta’s summer heat.

Every trip to Popeye Village deserves a thorough exploration of the iconic movie set. Wander through familiar huts and houses, each offering a peek into the film’s world with character mannequins and authentic movie props. Explore huts filled with Popeye memorabilia, from his comic book origins to a quaint cinema screening a captivating 15-minute documentary chronicling the making of Robin Williams’ debut film. With numerous picture-perfect spots, there are plenty of opportunities to capture magical moments with your loved ones.

There’s a whirlwind of excitement on offer at Popeye Village’s game zones! From giant tic-tac-toe to towering Jenga, and thrilling throwing challenges, there’s plenty of fun to enjoy. And don’t forget to tee off at the mini-golf course, perfect for some family-friendly competition and loads of laughter.

Popeye Village also has a fabulous team of animators who bring the characters of Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto to life in colourful costumes, performing hilarious skits and sketches around the village. The animation team also invites visitors to take part in the action, with special movie making events happening throughout the day. Here, you and your friends become the actors of a short live action movie, which is filmed and edited for you to take home as a truly unique souvenir.