Things To Do
in Żabbar

Żabbar is a charming town located in the southeastern region of Malta, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town features beautiful architecture, including the impressive Parish Church of St. James and various historic buildings. It is also home to vibrant local life, where traditional Maltese customs are still practiced.

Żabbar offers visitors a unique blend of serenity and cultural experiences, making it a delightful stop on a Maltese adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Żabbar
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parish Church of St. James, renowned for its stunning baroque architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café and then stroll down to the nearby Żabbar Sanctuary Museum to explore its rich collection of religious artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk around the town to admire the beautifully lit streets.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts and local produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the historic sites in Żabbar, including the old windmill and the remnants of ancient fortifications.

evening
:

End your day at a popular bar in town, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Slice of Pizza$5
🍺Beer$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Hot summers may not be suitable for everyone.
  • "Merħba" - Welcome
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Kif inti?" - How are you?
  • "Sahha" - Cheers
  • "Iva" - Yes

Places to Visit in Żabbar

Visit one of these nice places.

Parish Church of St. James

The ornate façade and stunning interiors make this church a must-capture spot.

Żabbar Windmill

An iconic historical landmark that provides beautiful views of the surroundings.

Pjazza San Ġużepp

The picturesque square is ideal for capturing local life and architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Żabbar

Żabbar offers a delectable array of Maltese cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage, with flavors influenced by Italian, Mediterranean, and North African cuisines.

Żabbar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fenkata

A traditional rabbit stew, often served with fries, considered a Maltese delicacy.

Must-Try!

Pastizzi

Flaky pastries typically filled with ricotta cheese or peas, perfect for a quick snack.

Bragioli

Beef olives stuffed with minced meat and spices, slow-cooked in red wine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Żabbar Market

A lively market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Pjazza San Ġużepp

Street vendors often sell local snacks and pastizzi during local festivals and events.

Climate Guide

Weather

Żabbar enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 34°C (93°F), while winter averages around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more common from October to March, with the driest months being July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone new.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Local Customs

Engage with locals and respect their traditions and festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Żabbar is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing valuables. Local authorities are responsive and helpful in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Żabbar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash for small vendors is recommended.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it great for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and dry, perfect for beach visits and evening strolls but be cautious of the midday sun.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring local culture and heritage.

Winter

Mild but rainy, providing a quieter atmosphere for those who prefer fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Żabbar at Night

Żabbar's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of local bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to mingle with locals. Popular spots often feature themed nights and community events, ensuring a lively experience for visitors.

Hiking in Żabbar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wied iz-Zurrieq

A picturesque valley offering scenic trails and breathtaking coastal views.

Dingli Cliffs

Famous for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Żabbar by plane.

Malta International Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Żabbar, this is the main airport serving Malta, offering numerous international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Żabbar is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town's flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and pedestrian-friendly streets encourage leisurely strolls. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, enhancing the overall walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Maltese Locals

The predominant demographic, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Expatriates

A growing community of foreigners who have settled in Malta, contributing to the local culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a highly popular sport in Żabbar, with local teams and community events celebrating the game.

Water Sports

The nearby coastline provides opportunities for water sports such as swimming, diving, and sailing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Żabbar is generally light, but can become congested during peak hours. Public transportation is available through buses that connect to other towns and cities. However, many visitors prefer walking or cycling to experience the local environment fully.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Żabbar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Żabbar offer vegetarian dishes, including pasta and vegetable-based meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Some local eateries provide gluten-free pasta and bread, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Żabbar is accessible, with local clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more specialized care, residents often visit larger hospitals in nearby towns. Emergency services are reliable, and EU citizens can access healthcare using their EHIC cards.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide