A hobby and model shop stocks the kits, materials and tools behind hands-on pastimes. That covers plastic model kits, diecast collectables, model railways, radio control and all the paints and glues that hold a project together. Across Malta and Gozo, these shops serve first-time builders, families and serious collectors alike.

This guide explains what local shops carry, how the main product types differ, and how to find the right store for your next build. New to making things? Yellow's guide to alternative hobbies you can start can help you choose a first project.

Scale models and kits for every skill level

Scale models are replicas built to a fixed ratio of the real thing, such as 1:72 for aircraft or 1:24 for cars. Kits range from quick weekend builds to detailed projects with hundreds of parts.

Plastic, wooden and metal kits

Plastic models make up the bulk of most ranges, with subjects running from fighter aircraft and warships to cars, figures and model rockets. Malta's shops stock kits from well-known names such as Airfix, Revell and Tamiya, alongside wooden ship kits, metal models and balsa wood for scratch building. Beginners can start with snap-together kits that need no glue, then move up to full builds with cement, filler and paint.

Diecast models and collectables

Diecast models arrive built and painted, which makes them collectables rather than projects. Diecast model cars in scales like 1:18 and 1:64 are the most popular, joined by trucks, motorcycles, construction machines, military vehicles and F1 diecast models of current and classic race cars. Slot car sets and track bring that racing home. Browse shops stocking diecast cars to compare collections.

Model trains and railways

Model trains remain one of the most loyal corners of the hobby. Shops carry locomotives, rolling stock, model train track and the scenery that turns a loop of rails into a proper layout. Common gauges include OO, HO and N, and staff can point you to the controllers, buildings and spare parts that match your setup.

Radio control: cars, planes, boats and drones

Remote control cars are the fastest-moving corner of many shops, from tough ready-to-run trucks and crawlers to race buggies you build and tune yourself. RC planes, helicopters, boats and tanks follow the same split between beginner models and hobby-grade machines with spare parts, chargers and RC batteries. Malta also has active model flying clubs where new pilots learn the basics safely.

Drones sit in this category too. See which shops stock drones, and before you fly in Malta, check the current rules with [Transport Malta's Civil Aviation Directorate].

Board games, trading cards and toys

Hobby shops are not only about building. Board games, puzzle games and playing cards cover family game nights, while many stores run or support trading card games such as Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering. Younger children are well served with educational games and construction toys from names like LEGO and Playmobil, and you will also find comic books, action figures, kites and doll house kits. Compare shops stocking board games before your next games night. For a present built around making something, see Yellow's DIY gift ideas for Father's Day.

Model paint, glue and hobby tools

Model paint comes in acrylic and enamel ranges, in pots and sprays made for brushes and airbrushes, including sets for miniature figures. The right hobby tools matter just as much: a sharp knife, side cutters, files, tweezers, a cutting mat and a magnifier for fine work. Add model glue suited to your material, plus paintbrushes, primer and polymer clay for sculpting, and one visit can cover a whole project. See shops stocking model paint and hobby tools on Yellow.

Finding a hobby model shop near you

Searching for a hobby model shop near me works best when you can compare what each store actually stocks. Yellow lists hobby and model shops across Malta, in towns from Valletta and Birkirkara to Mosta, Fgura and Qormi, with photos, contact details and opening hours on every listing. You can also filter for shops open on Saturday. Specialist stock moves quickly in a small market, so call ahead if you are after a particular kit or spare part.

Frequently asked questions

Where to find hobby supplies in Malta?

Dedicated hobby and model shops are the most reliable source, since they keep kits, paints, glues, tools and spare parts under one roof. Use the category listings on Yellow to compare stores by town and by stock, then check the photo galleries for a feel of each range.

Where can I find model train accessories in Malta?

Several hobby and model shops carry railway stock, track, scenery and parts alongside their kit ranges. Availability changes quickly, so check each listing and phone ahead to confirm the gauge or accessory you need is on the shelf.

Are there shops selling model kits in Gozo?

Most listed shops in this category are on Malta. If you are in Gozo, check individual listings for online ordering or delivery options, or call ahead and ask whether a kit can be set aside before you cross.

How to choose the right paint for plastic model kits?

Acrylics are the easiest starting point: water-based, quick to dry and simple to clean up. Enamels take longer to dry but give a tough, smooth finish. Prime bare plastic first, match the paint to brush or airbrush work, and ask shop staff to recommend a range for your kit.

Find hobby & model shops near you

From a first snap-together kit to a growing diecast collection, Malta's hobby and model shops keep every builder supplied. Compare hobby & model shops across Malta and Gozo on Yellow Pages, check what each store stocks, and pick the one nearest to your next project.