Żejtun Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Żejtun with our comprehensive travel guide which includes information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, itineraries, food scene, local culture, safety, and logistics.
- Introduction to Żejtun
- List of Places to Visit in Żejtun
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Żejtun
- Coastal Walk from Żejtun to Marsascala
- Best Things to Do in Żejtun: Activities and Tours
- Horse Riding at Bidnija Horse Riding Stables
- Malta Jeep Safari Tours from Żejtun
- Week-Long Itinerary for Żejtun
- Food and Drink Scene of Żejtun
- Where to Stay in Żejtun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Burrow Guest House
- Palazzino Sapiano
- What to Buy in Żejtun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Żejtun Honey
- Filigree Jewelry
- Local Culture and Customs of Żejtun
- Best Time to Visit Żejtun
- Do’s and Don’ts of Żejtun
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Żejtun: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Żejtun
- Where to Go Next from Żejtun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Marsaxlokk
- Valletta
- Conclusion
Introduction to Żejtun
Located in the southern region of Malta, Żejtun is a charming city that offers a unique blend of historical and cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. With its narrow streets and colourful houses, Żejtun is a joy to explore on foot. The city is also home to several historic landmarks and museums that showcase the island’s rich history. From hiking and biking along the coast to savouring delicious Maltese cuisine, there’s always something to do in Żejtun.
List of Places to Visit in Żejtun
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish Church
Built in the seventeenth century, St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish Church is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Żejtun. The church’s stunning architecture, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful frescoes provide a glimpse into Żejtun’s rich history.
Tal-Barrani Tower
Tal-Barrani Tower was built in the seventeenth century and served as a watchtower during the Ottoman Empire’s rule over Malta. Today, the tower is a popular tourist attraction and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Żejtun Parish Museum
The Żejtun Parish Museum is housed in a former seminary and features a large collection of cultural and religious artifacts from Żejtun’s past. Visitors can explore exhibitions that showcase the city’s history, including traditional clothing, weaponry, and religious artifacts.
Natural Attractions of Żejtun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Blue Grotto
Located just a short drive from Żejtun, Blue Grotto is one of the most popular natural attractions in Malta. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the stunning sea caves and admire the crystal-clear waters.
Villa Bighi Gardens
Nestled in the picturesque town of Kalkara, Villa Bighi Gardens is a tranquil oasis that offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour. The gardens feature a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as benches and picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Żejtun
Coastal Walk from Żejtun to Marsascala
This scenic six-kilometre walk takes visitors along Malta’s picturesque southern coastline. Walking from Żejtun to Marsascala, you’ll pass by several hidden coves, sandy beaches, and view the stunning Mediterranean Sea. It’s a popular route for both walkers and cyclists.
Best Things to Do in Żejtun: Activities and Tours
Horse Riding at Bidnija Horse Riding Stables
Located just a short drive from Żejtun, Bidnija Horse Riding Stables is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable horseback ride. The stables offer a range of tours that cater to riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders.
Malta Jeep Safari Tours from Żejtun
Join a jeep safari tour from Żejtun to explore Malta’s stunning natural scenery. The tours are led by experienced guides who will take you through Malta’s rugged terrain, past hidden coves and spectacular viewpoints.
Week-Long Itinerary for Żejtun
Day | Activity |
---|---|
1 | Explore the Old Town of Żejtun, including St. Catherine’s Church |
2 | Visit the Żejtun Parish Museum and Tal-Barrani Tower |
3 | Take a coastal walk from Żejtun to Marsascala |
4 | Horseback riding at Bidnija Horse Riding Stables |
5 | Explore the Blue Grotto and its surrounding area |
6 | Join a Malta Jeep Safari Tour from Żejtun |
7 | Relax in Villa Bighi Gardens and take in the views of Grand Harbour |
Food and Drink Scene of Żejtun
Must-Try Dishes
Pastizzi
Pastizzi is a staple of Maltese cuisine and a must-try dish in Żejtun. These delicious pastries are made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with either cheese or peas.
Rabbit Stew
Malta is known for its delicious rabbit dishes, and the rabbit stew in Żejtun is no exception. This hearty stew is made with tender rabbit meat, local vegetables, and a rich wine sauce.
Local Beverages
Kinnie
Kinnie is a popular Maltese soft drink that has a unique taste made from a blend of bitter oranges and aromatic herbs. It’s the perfect drink to quench your thirst on a hot summer’s day.
Lokanda Wine
Lokanda Wine is a locally produced wine that’s exclusive to Malta. It has a rich, fruity flavour and is the perfect accompaniment to any Maltese meal.
Where to Stay in Żejtun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Burrow Guest House
Located in the heart of Żejtun, The Burrow Guest House offers comfortable, modern rooms at an affordable price. The guesthouse features a communal living room and kitchen, perfect for those who want to self-cater and save money.
Palazzino Sapiano
For those seeking a more luxurious stay, Palazzino Sapiano is the perfect choice. This beautiful 17th-century palazzo has been restored to its former glory and features traditional Maltese architecture and decor. The hotel also boasts a rooftop swimming pool with stunning views of the city.
What to Buy in Żejtun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Żejtun Honey
The honey produced in Żejtun is renowned for its high quality and delicious taste. Be sure to pick up a jar to bring home with you as a souvenir.
Filigree Jewelry
Filigree jewelry is a traditional Maltese craft that dates back to the Knights of St. John. Żejtun is home to several local artisans who create beautiful filigree jewelry pieces that make the perfect souvenir to bring home.
Local Culture and Customs of Żejtun
The people of Żejtun are proud of their cultural heritage and devout Catholic faith. It’s important to respect local customs, including dressing appropriately when visiting religious sites. It’s also polite to greet locals in Maltese by saying “bonġu” (good morning), “bonswa” (good evening), or “bonġu tat-tard” (good afternoon).
Best Time to Visit Żejtun
The best time to visit Żejtun is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. This is also a great time to avoid the crowds that come with the summer tourist season.
Do’s and Don’ts of Żejtun
Do:
- Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Try the local cuisine and drinks
Don’t:
- Leave your trash behind
- Wear revealing clothing in public
- Be disruptive in religious sites
Safety and Health
Safety in Żejtun
Żejtun is a safe city that’s free from serious crime. However, visitors should still exercise caution and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with them.
Health in Żejtun
There are no specific health risks associated with Żejtun or Malta. The island has a modern healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care at several clinics and hospitals located throughout the island.
Getting to Żejtun: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Żejtun
The nearest airport to Żejtun is Malta International Airport, located approximately 7km away.
Bus Stations Near Żejtun
Żejtun has its own bus station with connections to other cities throughout Malta, including Valletta, St. Julian’s and Sliema.
Other Options
Taxis and car rentals are also available, making it easy to get around Malta at your own pace.
How to Get Around in Żejtun
Żejtun is a small city, and many of the attractions can be explored on foot. However, if you prefer to take public transport, the city’s bus station offers connections to other popular cities throughout Malta.
Where to Go Next from Żejtun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Marsaxlokk
Located just a short drive from Żejtun, Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village known for its colourful boats and seafood market. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon admiring the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Valletta
Valletta is Malta’s stunning capital city, known for its beautiful architecture and historic sites. Visitors can explore Valletta’s many museums and cultural attractions or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets.
Conclusion
Żejtun is a charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of historical attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. With its winding streets and stunning architecture, Żejtun is a joy to explore on foot. Be sure to try the local cuisine, pick up some souvenirs to bring home, and respect local customs and traditions during your visit.