Things To Do
in Żebbuġ

Żebbuġ is a historic Maltese town known for its limestone streets and traditional balconies. It sits on the island's western side, offering a calm base to explore coastal and rural scenery. The town has a strong sense of community and hosts a number of festivals and church events throughout the year.

Visitors can wander narrow lanes, sample local flavors, and discover centuries of Maltese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Żebbuġ
morning
:

Begin your adventure in Żebbuġ with a stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional Maltese houses. Visit the parish church, where the intricate artwork and serene atmosphere provide a glimpse into the local culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, indulging in local pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the surrounding countryside, taking in the beautiful landscapes and views of the Mediterranean Sea. Consider visiting the nearby cliffs, where you can witness breathtaking panoramas and enjoy some quiet time in nature. Capture the essence of Żebbuġ with a few photos of its scenic spots.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to a local restaurant to feast on traditional Maltese dishes, such as rabbit stew or fresh fish. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their culinary traditions while enjoying the warm atmosphere. End the evening with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the vibrant energy and beautiful twilight.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Historical Insights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Żebbuġ Heritage Museum, where exhibits showcase the rich history of the village. Take your time to absorb the stories and artifacts, enhancing your appreciation of this unique locale. Following the museum, stop for a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, sampling freshly made bread.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting nearby historical sites, like the ancient temples and ruins scattered throughout the region. Consider joining a guided tour to deepen your understanding of Malta's intriguing past and cultural heritage. Don't forget to take breaks at scenic spots to enjoy the stunning views.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by participating in a local cultural event if available, or simply relax in one of the town’s quaint bars. Engage with residents, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and perhaps catching a performance of traditional Maltese music. The evening may culminate with a delightful dessert, like a slice of pastizzi, as the stars begin to twinkle above.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🚌Bus ride (one-way)$2-3
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$100-180
🛍️Souvenir$5-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Historic town with authentic Maltese charm
  • Close to Gozo's natural scenery
  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Good base for day trips to Gozo and the coast
  • Limited nightlife within the town
  • Some services concentrated in bigger Gozo towns
  • Seasonal crowds during holidays
  • Limited direct airport access (requires transfer)
  • "Bongu" - Hello
  • "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Ma nifhimx il-Malti" - I do not understand Maltese
  • "Kemm jiswa dan?" - How much is this?
  • "Tistgħu titkellmu bl-Ingliż?" - Can you speak English?

Places to Visit in Żebbuġ

Visit one of these nice places.

Żebbuġ Town Square and Narrow Lanes

Characterful limestone facades, traditional balconies, and morning light reflections.

Parish Church Square and Limestone Alleys

Historic church facade framed by stone buildings and quiet backstreets.

Coastal Views Near Marsalforn/Xlendi

Charming sea panoramas and sunset silhouettes over the Gozo Channel.

Culinary Guide

Food in Żebbuġ

Gozo/Maltese cuisine is Mediterranean and hearty, centered on fresh seafood, hearty stews, olive oil, and wholesome bread. Expect a mix of home-style tavern fare and modern eateries that celebrate local ingredients.

Żebbuġ Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rabbit Stew (Fenek)

Slow-cooked rabbit with garlic, wine, and herbs; a Maltese classic found in traditional eateries.

Must-Try!

Aljotta

A tomato-based fish soup with garlic, herbs, and olive oil; usually served with crusty bread.

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry stuffed with ricotta or mushy peas; widely available at bakeries and cafés.

Ħobż biż-Żejt

Bread rubbed with olive oil and filled with tuna, olives, and tomatoes; a simple local snack.

Bigilla

Malta’s bean paste served with bread or crackers; a staple of local breakfasts and bites.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Żebbuġ Local Market

Weekly stalls with fresh produce, bread, and locally made products.

Marsalforn Street Food

Coastal area stalls offering seafood bites and Maltese snacks along the promenade.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities and outdoor dining.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a friendly 'Bongu' or 'Hello'; tone and manner matter in social interactions.

Dress code

Dress modestly when visiting churches; cover shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malta is generally safe; petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings; in an emergency call 112 or 999.

Tipping in Żebbuġ

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 5-10% tip in small cafés; 10-15% in restaurants if service is good; always check the bill first.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is common in markets; some smaller places may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming almond trees; ideal for walking and photography.

Summer

Hot, dry days with family-friendly beaches nearby; carry water and sun protection.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; great for cycling and hiking.

Winter

Milder than mainland Europe and often rainy; fewer crowds; enjoy indoor museums and cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Żebbuġ at Night

Żebbuġ itself is tranquil and more residential, with limited nightlife. Nearby Gozo towns like Marsalforn and Victoria offer bars, live music, and waterfront terraces that are popular after dark.

Hiking in Żebbuġ

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gozo Countryside Walks

Rural trails through olive groves and stone walls; easy to moderate.

Coastal Footpaths

Scenic routes along the coastline with sea views and rugged beaches.

Airports

How to reach Żebbuġ by plane.

Malta International Airport (MLA)

Main international gateway of Malta; well-connected to Europe and beyond. Reach Żebbuġ by car or bus (approximately 25-35 minutes) via the main road network.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable with narrow lanes; parking can be limited, so walking or short drives are convenient. Some attractions require a short bus or taxi ride to Gozo’s coastal spots.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals

Predominantly Maltese residents with strong community ties; English is widely spoken.

Tourists and expatriates

A mix of visitors and short-term residents exploring Gozo and the Maltese coast.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport, with local clubs in nearby towns and weekend leagues.

Water sports

Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking along Gozo’s coast.

Bocce / Petanque

Casual outdoor games in village squares and parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Żebbuġ is generally light; Gozo's roads are narrow and quieter than mainland Malta. Public buses (Malta Public Transport) connect to ports and major towns; during peak season some routes can be crowded.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Żebbuġ.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Maltese dishes can be adjusted; look for veggie plates, tomato/olive oil-based dishes, and pasta or grain bowls; ask if bigilla can be served as a vegetarian dip.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is primarily accessed in Malta via public hospitals on the main island with Gozo-based clinics for basic services; private clinics and pharmacies are common in larger towns on Gozo; carry a European Health Insurance Card if applicable.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide