Popeye Village, an open-air film set in Malta, offers a unique experience for visitors. Originally constructed for the 1980 film "Popeye," this vibrant and charming town recreates the fictional Sweethaven, complete with colorful wooden buildings and a picturesque harbor. After the filming, the set was preserved as a year-round tourist attraction, providing engaging activities, animation programs, and a chance to take in the beloved movie’s enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply seeking a delightful family-friendly destination, Popeye Village promises to captivate and surprise you.
Good To Know
- Popeye Village is an open-air film set in Malta, originally built for the 1980 Popeye movie, and now operates as a year-round tourist attraction.
- The set features colorful wooden buildings, winding paths, and a harbor, recreating the fictional town of Sweethaven from the Popeye comics.
- Visitors can enjoy continuous animation programs, immersive experiences, a comic and memorabilia museum, and a cinema showcasing Popeye-related documentaries.
- The village offers various activities, including "Take2 Filming" for guests to create their own movies, silver smith demonstrations, and mini-golf.
- Popeye Village has implemented sustainable practices, such as using solar panels, recycling systems, and rainwater harvesting, to promote eco-tourism.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
About Popeye Village
Situated on the picturesque shores of Anchor Bay in Malta, Popeye Village is an open-air film set that was originally constructed for the 1980 Paramount production musical "Popeye" starring Robin Williams.
Established over seven months in 1979, the quaint village remains open year-round, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the charming movie set and engage in a variety of activities.
From continuous animation programs to a take-on-filming experience, Popeye Village provides an immersive and entertaining experience for all ages.
The site also houses a comic and memorabilia museum, a cinema showcasing a documentary, and various other attractions, catering to both families and film enthusiasts alike.
Film Set and Production
The original Popeye Village was constructed over seven months in 1979 as the film set for the 1980 Paramount musical "Popeye" starring Robin Williams.
Located in Anchor Bay, Malta, the village was meticulously built to recreate the fictional seaside town of Sweethaven from the Popeye comic strips.
The elaborate set featured colorful wooden buildings, winding paths, and a harbor with a variety of boats.
After filming concluded, the village was preserved and opened as a year-round tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to experience the world of Popeye.
Today, the Popeye Village continues to delight guests with its charming atmosphere and range of activities inspired by the classic character.
Attractions and Activities
Popeye Village offers visitors a host of engaging activities and attractions inspired by the beloved cartoon character. The site features a continuous animation program with shows, sketches, puppet shows, dances, and family games.
Visitors can also take part in the "Take2 Filming" experience, where they become movie stars for a day and premiere their own film.
Beyond these, the village boasts:
- Silver smith demonstrations
- Mini-Golf
- Wooden Carnival Games and Scavenger Hunt
Plus, the village houses a comic and memorabilia museum and a cinema screening a documentary with free popcorn.
Visitor Information
Admission tickets to Popeye Village include access to the various activities and experiences offered on-site.
The village is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with public transportation nearby and infant seats available. Visitors receive confirmation at booking, though the tickets are non-refundable.
The opening hours vary throughout the year, with the village open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM during the peak season of July through September.
Hours shift to 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM in October and 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM from November through January.
Visitors can expect an enjoyable atmosphere and engaging activities based on the positive reviews, which highlight the village’s overall 4.0 out of 5-star rating.
Opening Hours and Seasons
Operating on a seasonal schedule, Popeye Village adjusts its hours throughout the year to accommodate visitor needs.
From July 1st to September 30th, the village is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. During the shoulder season from October 1st to October 31st, the hours shift to 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
In the off-season from November 1st to January 22nd, Popeye Village operates from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. This seasonal approach ensures guests can enjoy the village’s charms during the peak tourist months as well as the quieter periods.
- July 1st – September 30th: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- October 1st – October 31st: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- November 1st – January 22nd: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Reviews and Ratings
With a total of 87 reviews, Popeye Village has earned an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.
Visitors have praised the enjoyable atmosphere and variety of activities, with 42 reviews awarding the maximum 5-star rating.
Another 21 reviews gave 4 stars, while 10 reviewers rated it 3 stars.
However, a few visitors were less impressed, with 6 reviews at 2 stars and 8 at 1 star.
Getting to Popeye Village
Reaching Popeye Village in Malta is relatively straightforward. The village is located in Anchor Bay, on the northern side of the island.
Visitors have several options to get there:
- By car: Popeye Village has its own parking lot, making it easy to drive and park on-site.
- By public transportation: Buses regularly run from various parts of Malta to Anchor Bay, with the nearest stop within walking distance of the village.
- By ferry: Visitors can take a scenic boat ride from the nearby town of Valletta to the Popeye Village jetty.
Once at the village, guests can explore the charming film set and enjoy the wide range of activities and attractions it has to offer.
Sustainability and Environment
Popeye Village takes an active approach to sustainability and environmental conservation. The film set uses solar panels to generate renewable energy, reducing its carbon footprint.
Waste management systems recycle and repurpose materials, minimizing landfill waste. Water conservation measures, including rainwater harvesting, help limit resource usage.
The village also promotes eco-tourism, encouraging visitors to adopt sustainable practices during their stay. Guided tours educate guests about the site’s environmental initiatives.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Visitors Take Photos With the Popeye Characters?
Yes, visitors can pose for photos with the Popeye characters throughout the attraction. This interactive experience allows guests to get up close with the iconic cartoon figures and capture memorable photos during their visit.
What Types of Food Are Available On-Site?
Popeye Village offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant serving traditional Maltese cuisine, a snack bar with sandwiches and light bites, and a beverage station for drinks and ice cream. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the film set’s lively atmosphere.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages for Group Bookings?
Popeye Village offers group booking discounts. Visitors can save on admission fees when booking tickets for larger parties. Package deals may include additional perks like complimentary activities or catering options.
Can Visitors Interact With the Filmmaking Equipment?
Yes, visitors can interact with some of the filmmaking equipment at Popeye Village. The "Take2 Filming Experience" allows guests to become movie stars for a day and premiere their own film.
Are There Any Accommodation Options Near Popeye Village?
There are no accommodation options directly at Popeye Village, but visitors can find various hotels, apartments, and B&Bs in the nearby towns and cities of Malta, which is where the film set is located.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- The Traditional Harbour Cruise
- Malta Express Private Full Day Tour
- Ultimate Private Jet-Ski Experience in Malta
- Lazy Pirate Party Boat in Malta
- 6-Hour Private Tour Around Malta
- Customizable Tour in Malta or Gozo – Private Car
- Chocolate Making Workshop
- Malta Segway: Dingli Funtastic Tour
- Private Boat Charter to Comino Blue Lagoon
- 3 Cities Tour
- Private Boat Tour Experience With Snorkeling Blue Lagoon and Comino
- Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise
- The Food & History Private Tour of Malta
- Swim, Snorkel and Relax in the Blue & Crystal Lagoons
- Hera 3 Bay Cruise Including the Blue Lagoon
The Sum Up
Popeye Village remains a delightful film set destination, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the whimsical world of the beloved cartoon character. With its vibrant buildings, engaging activities, and picturesque setting, it continues to captivate both families and movie lovers alike. Whether exploring the authentic movie sets or enjoying the on-site entertainment, Popeye Village provides a truly unique and enchanting experience.