Żabbar Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Żabbar, Malta.


Introduction to Żabbar

Located on the southeastern coast of Malta, Żabbar is a picturesque, historic town that offers visitors a glimpse into Malta’s rich culture and history. The town’s name means “olives” in Maltese, which is a nod to the area’s once-thriving olive groves. Żabbar is known for its quaint streets, historic architecture, and warm, welcoming people.

List of Places to Visit in Żabbar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Żabbar has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums and historical sites that are worth visiting during your stay. Some of the highlights include:

  • The Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces: Considered one of the most beautiful churches in Malta, this Baroque-style church dates back to the 17th century and is adorned with exquisite sculptures and frescoes.

  • The Żabbar Sanctuary Museum: Located inside the Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces, this museum houses a fascinating collection of religious artifacts and paintings, including an impressive collection of votive offerings.

  • The Żabbar Local Council Museum: This small museum is located in the town square and features exhibits on Żabbar’s history and culture, including traditional crafts, clothing, and furniture.

Natural Attractions of Żabbar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

While Żabbar may be a small town, it’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

  • Marsaskala Promenade: Take a scenic stroll along the charming seaside promenade that winds its way through the neighboring town of Marsaskala.

  • Hiking trails: Żabbar is surrounded by lush countryside and rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for hikers. Some of the most popular trails include the Victoria Lines Walk and the Coastal Walk from Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Żabbar

If you’re looking for a more active way to explore Żabbar and its surroundings, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Some of the best routes include:

  • The Victoria Lines Walk: This challenging hike takes you along the historic Great Wall of Malta, which was built by the British in the 19th century to defend the island against invasion.

  • Coastal Walk from Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk: This scenic coastal walk takes you past beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and charming fishing villages.

Best Things to Do in Żabbar: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring Żabbar’s historic sites and natural landscapes, there are plenty of other fun activities to enjoy during your stay. Here are a few ideas:

  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare some of Malta’s most iconic dishes, including rabbit stew and pastizzi, at a local cooking school.

  • Join a boat tour: Take a relaxing boat tour and discover the stunning coastline of Malta, including Comino’s beautiful Blue Lagoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Żabbar

If you’re planning to spend a week in Żabbar, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Day 1: Explore Żabbar’s historic center, including the Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces and the Żabbar Sanctuary Museum.

Day 2: Take a scenic hike or bike ride along the Victoria Lines or the Coastal Walk from Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk.

Day 3: Visit neighboring towns and villages, such as Marsaxlokk, Birżebbuġa, and Żejtun.

Day 4: Spend the day relaxing at one of Żabbar’s nearby beaches, such as Pretty Bay or St. Thomas’ Bay.

Day 5: Join a boat tour and explore Malta’s stunning coastline, including the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino.

Day 6: Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare some of Malta’s most delicious dishes.

Day 7: Enjoy a leisurely day in Żabbar, exploring the town’s quaint streets and enjoying its local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Żabbar

Malta is known for its delicious cuisine, which reflects the island’s cultural influences from Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to enjoy during your stay in Żabbar:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rabbit stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek): This hearty dish is a Maltese favorite, made with braised rabbit, red wine, celery, onions, and tomatoes.

  • Pastizzi: These savory pastries are a popular Maltese snack, filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas.

Local Beverages

  • Kinnie: This refreshing soft drink is made from bitter oranges and aromatic herbs, and is a favorite among the locals.

  • Malta Guinness: This non-alcoholic sweet stout is a popular beverage in Malta and is a must-try for beer lovers.

Where to Stay in Żabbar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Żabbar has several excellent accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the best options include:

  • Palazzo Citta’ Victoria: This elegant 4-star hotel is housed in a historic building in the heart of Żabbar, with luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities.

  • Hostel Jones: This trendy, budget-friendly hostel is located in nearby Marsaskala and offers comfortable dorms and private rooms, as well as a fantastic on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Żabbar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from your trip to Żabbar, here are some ideas:

  • Maltese lace: This delicate and intricate lacework is a beloved Maltese tradition and makes for a unique and beautiful souvenir.

  • Filigree jewelry: Malta is known for its stunning filigree jewelry, which is handmade with intricate designs and high-quality materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Żabbar

Malta has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are warm, welcoming, and proud of their traditions. Here are a few customs and traditions to keep in mind during your stay in Żabbar:

  • Dress modestly: Maltese culture places a high value on modesty, and it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting churches or other religious sites.

  • Respect the locals: Maltese people are friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to show respect for their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Żabbar

The best time to visit Żabbar is between April and June, or between September and November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Żabbar

Do:

  • Do visit the local markets and try some of the local cuisine.

  • Do respect Maltese customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in public spaces.

  • Don’t dress inappropriately when visiting churches or other religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Żabbar

Żabbar is a safe and welcoming town, and visitors are unlikely to face any major safety concerns. However, it’s important to take basic precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your personal belongings.

Health in Żabbar

Malta has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can feel confident that they will receive quality medical care if needed. However, it’s always a good idea to travel with travel insurance in case of unexpected medical emergencies.

Getting to Żabbar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Żabbar is located about 8 kilometers from Malta International Airport, with several transportation options to choose from.

Airports Near Żabbar

  • Malta International Airport: This large airport is located in nearby Luqa and offers frequent flights to cities throughout Europe and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Żabbar

  • Żabbar Parish Church Bus Stop: This bus stop is located in the heart of Żabbar, with frequent bus service to other towns and cities on Malta.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Renting a car is a great option for visitors who want to explore Malta’s countryside and cultural attractions at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Żabbar

Żabbar is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot, with many of its top attractions located within walking distance of each other. Additionally, the town has a reliable bus system that connects to other towns and cities on Malta.

Where to Go Next from Żabbar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Malta and its neighboring islands, here are a few popular destinations to consider:

  • Valletta: Malta’s stunning capital city is a must-see for its historic architecture, charming streets, and fascinating museums.

  • Gozo: This neighboring island is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Żabbar is a charming destination that offers something for everyone. From exploring the town’s historic sites to enjoying its local cuisine and natural attractions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Żabbar. Plan your trip today and discover the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of this hidden gem on Malta’s southeastern coast.

Church of Our Lady of Graces Church of Our Lady of Graces