Tunnara Museum
Discover Malta's tuna fishing past and enjoy breathtaking bay views from the rooftop of this charming, donation-funded museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Tunnara Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Malta's tuna fishing past and enjoy breathtaking bay views from the rooftop of this charming, donation-funded museum.
"A small but fascinating museum telling the story of traditional Maltese tuna fishing, with a great rooftop view!"
🎯 Rooftop Views Await!
Climb the stairs to the roof for amazing bay vistas. Don't miss this photo op!
💰 Donation Welcome
The museum is donation-funded. A small contribution helps preserve this local history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tuna Fishing Heritage
Discover the traditional Maltese tuna fishing methods through engaging exhibits and models.
Rooftop Bay Views
Ascend to the rooftop for breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque bay.
Interactive Exhibits
Hands-on displays make learning about tuna fishing fun and engaging for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Rooftop View
Support a Local Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rooftop Views Await!
Climb the stairs to the roof for amazing bay vistas. Don't miss this photo op!
💰 Donation Welcome
The museum is donation-funded. A small contribution helps preserve this local history.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive exhibits make it enjoyable for children. Great for a family stop!
🚶♀️ Small but Mighty
It's a compact museum, perfect for a focused and insightful visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rooftop Views Await!
Climb the stairs to the roof for amazing bay vistas. Don't miss this photo op!
💰 Donation Welcome
The museum is donation-funded. A small contribution helps preserve this local history.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive exhibits make it enjoyable for children. Great for a family stop!
🚶♀️ Small but Mighty
It's a compact museum, perfect for a focused and insightful visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Tonnara Museum for its unique focus on Maltese tuna fishing heritage and the stunning rooftop views. It's a small, donation-funded gem that offers an engaging experience for all ages, though some note it can be under renovation at times.
"Good small museum funded by donations with interesting exhibits on the past and present of tuna fishing in the area. It has been recently renovated and has a great mix of hands-on exhibits for kids and text signs and models for adults. Also you are allowed on the roof which provides great views of the bay. Well worth a visit!!"
Oliver Gilbert
"Nice little museum with history about Tuna fishing. Interesting"
Beverly Latham
"Walked past it this morning, would have loved to go in, however it is under construction. Enjoyed the outside with the views and the wind blowing and water splashing"
Constance Motte-Heritage
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tonnara Museum is located in Mellieħa, Malta. It's easily accessible by local bus routes that serve the area. Parking might be available nearby, but public transport is often recommended to avoid hassle.
While some comprehensive tours might include a stop at the Tonnara Museum as part of a broader Gozo and Malta itinerary, it's often visited as a standalone attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. Some reviews mention it being under construction at times, so confirming availability is key.
Entry to the Tonnara Museum is typically by donation. Visitors are encouraged to contribute what they feel is appropriate to support the museum's operations.
As the museum operates on a donation basis and is quite small, advance booking is generally not required or offered. Just show up and contribute at the entrance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the history and methods of traditional Maltese tuna fishing. It features exhibits, models, and hands-on activities for kids. The highlight for many is the rooftop view.
Yes, the museum has a mix of exhibits, including hands-on ones that children often enjoy. It's a good, short educational stop for families.
Visiting on a weekday morning is generally recommended for a more relaxed experience. Afternoons can be busier, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Volunteer guides, like Tony mentioned in one review, are often available to share insights into the tuna fishing history. Their personal stories add a lot of value to the visit.
The museum's rooftop offers fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding bay and coastline. It's a great spot for photos and to appreciate the coastal scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Tonnara Museum is a small historical site focused on exhibits and views. It does not typically have on-site dining facilities. You'll find eateries in the surrounding Mellieħa area.
Mellieħa offers various dining options, from local Maltese cuisine to international dishes. You can find cafes and restaurants within walking distance after your museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of the bay, perfect for landscape shots. The exhibits themselves also provide unique photographic subjects related to maritime history.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside museums, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents often appreciate that the museum provides a good balance of educational content and hands-on activities. It’s a chance for kids to learn about a unique aspect of Maltese heritage in a stimulating environment. The donation-based entry also makes it a budget-friendly option for families looking to add a cultural experience to their day.
🚶 Budget Travelers
It's a small museum, so you won't need to allocate a large chunk of your day or budget to visit. The significant value comes from the unique historical insights and the stunning rooftop views, offering a lot for a minimal cost. Combine it with a walk along the bay for a fulfilling and inexpensive outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Maltese Tuna Fishing
Visitors can explore detailed models of fishing boats and equipment, offering a tangible connection to the past. The museum also touches upon the evolution of tuna fishing, highlighting how modern practices differ from the traditional methods. It's a fascinating glimpse into a heritage that shaped coastal communities.
Many visitors find the personal stories shared by volunteer guides, like Tony, particularly engaging. These narratives bring the exhibits to life, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by the fishermen. The museum's recent renovation has enhanced the visitor experience with a good mix of hands-on activities for younger visitors and informative displays for adults.
Panoramic Views from the Rooftop
From the rooftop, you can admire the azure waters, the rugged coastline, and the charming surroundings of Mellieħa. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a good scenic overlook. The sea breeze and the sound of the waves add to the tranquil atmosphere.
Many visitors recommend making time to enjoy this view, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, though daytime visits also offer brilliant clarity. It's a peaceful place to reflect on the maritime history you've just learned about and soak in the beauty of the Maltese coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit