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Marsa Horse Racing Track

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Marsa Horse Racing Track is Malta's oldest and most prominent equestrian sporting venue, with a rich history dating back to 1868. Originally established during the British colonial era to entertain military personnel and the local gentry, it has evolved into the central hub for Maltese horse racing. The track measures approximately 1.7 kilometers in circumference and is particularly famous for trotting races, which hold a special place in local sporting culture. Races are held almost every weekend, drawing large, enthusiastic crowds and creating a unique atmosphere of excitement and tradition. The complex features stables for hundreds of horses, training areas, and spectator stands. In recent years, ambitious redevelopment plans have been set in motion to modernize the facilities to international standards and enhance the visitor experience. More than just a sports venue, the Marsa track is a social institution where the island's long-standing love for horses is passed down through generations.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Racecourse · Holy Trinity Church · Church of the Madonna of Lourdes
Nearby: Tigné Point (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The racecourse is open to visitors during race events and training sessions. On non-race days, access to the grounds may be restricted.

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Typical hours

Race events typically take place on weekends and public holidays, with a varying calendar. Training sessions are often visible in the morning but are not guaranteed to be public.

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Photography

Photography from the grandstand during races is generally allowed. Flash may disturb the horses, so it should be avoided.

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Time needed

A race afternoon typically lasts two to three hours. A short visit just to see the facility may take about 30 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Ta’ Qali National Park. The old capital Mdina is also just 15 minutes away by car.

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Getting there

The racecourse is located in the Marsa area, about a 15-minute drive from Valletta. Public buses lines 1, 2, 3 stop nearby.

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Insider tip

Check the race calendar on the official website in advance, as events do not take place every week. Arrive early to secure a good spot on the grandstand.

Geography

Coordinates

35.87560, 14.49170

Facts

Established in 1868 during the British colonial period.
The main racing track is 1,752 meters in length.
Focuses primarily on trotting, a popular national sport.
Contains stabling facilities for over 400 horses.
Hosts more than 50 race meetings every year.
Situated within a larger sports complex in the Marsa area.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marsa<1 km · NExplore →

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum2 km · SEExplore →

Pietà2 km · NExplore →

Luqa Parish Church2 km · SExplore →

Tal-Balal Ridge2 km · NWExplore →

Concrete Batching Plants2 km · WExplore →

Cospicua (Bormla)2 km · EExplore →

National Museum of Archaeology3 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Marsa Horse Racing Track (10)

Racecourse

Horse racing track in Malta, venue for flat races.

Holy Trinity Church

Church building in Marsa, Malta, dedicated to the Holy Trinity.

Church of the Madonna of Lourdes

Church building in Paola, Malta, dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.

Teatru Malta Rehearsal Room

Rehearsal room for Malta's national theatre company.

Il-Knisja ta' San Gejtanu

San Gejtanu church in Ħamrun, Malta, is a Catholic place of worship.

Public Garden

Public garden in Malta, a green space for relaxation.

Spencer Monument

Monument in Ħamrun, Malta, commemorating a historical figure.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum🏛 museum

Neolithic subterranean structure in Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tempji ta' Kordin

Prehistoric temple ruins in Malta.

Chinese Garden of Serenity

Chinese garden located in Malta, designed in East Asian style.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When do horse races take place in Marsa?

Races mostly take place on Sundays from September to June.

Is there an entry fee for the racecourse?

Yes, there is a small entry fee on race days.

What kind of races are held there?

The track is particularly famous for harness racing.

Is food available on site?

Yes, there are bars and snack stands available for visitors.

How do you get to the racecourse?

It is located in Marsa and is accessible by southbound buses or by car.

Marsa Horse Racing Track: where is it located?

Marsa Horse Racing Track is located in Malta.

Marsa Horse Racing Track: what is there to see?

Highlights include Racecourse, Holy Trinity Church, Church of the Madonna of Lourdes.

Marsa Horse Racing Track: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Marsa Horse Racing Track: why is it worth visiting?

The Marsa Horse Racing Track is Malta's oldest and most prominent equestrian sporting venue, with a rich history dating back to 1868.

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