Things To Do
in Balzan
Balzan is a charming village located in the central part of the island of Malta. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque streets, Balzan is a popular residential area for locals and expats alike. The village is characterized by its beautiful old architecture, including traditional Maltese townhouses and churches.
Balzan also has a strong sense of community, with local shops, cafes, and events bringing residents together.
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jiena mghandni" - I don't understand
- "Fejn hu?" - Where is it?
- "Tajjeb" - Good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Balzan Parish Church, known for its stunning architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the quiet streets and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the nearby Palazzo Falson to explore the fascinating history of the Knights of St. John. After the tour, stop by a local café for a delicious traditional Maltese lunch.
Wind down with a peaceful walk around the picturesque Balzan gardens. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Maltese specialties.
Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta to appreciate the rich artistic heritage of Malta. Spend time admiring the classical and contemporary works displayed.
Head back to Balzan and enjoy lunch at a cozy bistro. After eating, take a guided tour of the town to learn about its history and architecture.
Enjoy a sunset at the Upper Barracca Gardens, which offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour. Conclude your day with a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Residential area with a peaceful atmosphere
- Strong sense of community and local culture
- Access to various amenities including shops, schools, and parks
- Proximity to Valletta, offering historical and cultural attractions
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate
- Relatively low crime rates compared to other areas
- Limited public transport options
- Can be overcrowded during tourist season
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Higher property prices due to demand
- Traffic congestion in peak hours
- Some areas may lack modern facilities
Best Activities in Balzan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a pleasant walk or picnic in the tranquil Balzan Garden, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Explore the scenic hiking trails surrounding Balzan, offering stunning views of the Maltese landscape and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Take advantage of the cycle paths to enjoy a leisurely ride through Balzan and its neighboring villages, experiencing the natural beauty of the area.
Visit local markets for fresh produce and artisan goods, where you can enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere and support local vendors.
Participate in horse riding sessions offered by nearby stables, exploring the countryside from a unique vantage point.
Tours
Uncover the best of Balzan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Balzan
Visit one of these nice places.
The stunning architecture and the surrounding area provide beautiful photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
This historical villa with its well-maintained gardens offers picturesque views and a serene environment for photography.
A scenic park in the heart of the village, perfect for capturing nature and local life.
An intimate chapel set against a rustic backdrop, it offers a glimpse into local heritage along with charming photo opportunities.
The outskirts of Balzan provide breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Food in Balzan
Balzan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas, a popular savory snack that can be found at various local bakeries such as Crystal Palace and Maxokk
Must-Try!
A traditional Maltese dish featuring rabbit slow-cooked with red wine, herbs, and vegetables. Recommended at Ta' Nenu Bakery and Cafe
A rustic Maltese bread topped with local favorites like sun-ripened tomatoes, olives, capers, and tuna. Can be savored at Il-Majjistral Farmers' Market
Unique Experiences
Get to know Balzan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant display of fresh produce, local cheeses, honey, and preserves. Don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic Maltese street food like hobz biz-zejt (bread with tomato paste, olive oil, and toppings) and qassatat (small pastry filled with spinach, peas, or ricotta)
A weekly market where you can explore an array of regional foods such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and capers. Visitors can also savor local snacks like imqaret, sweet pastries filled with dates
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting locals in Balzan, a friendly handshake or a warm greeting such as 'Bongu' (Good morning) is appropriate. It’s customary to maintain eye contact during greetings to show respect.
If invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine. During meals, wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep hands on the table (but not elbows).
Dressing well is appreciated in Malta, especially when attending social events or religious sites. Opt for smart casual attire and ensure modest clothing when visiting churches.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Balzan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Balzan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Balzan, Malta, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is good. However, some places may include a service charge in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary, usually rounding up the fare. For hotel staff, a small tip for porters and housekeeping is welcomed.
Payments in Balzan can be made using cash, credit, or debit cards. Euro is the official currency. Most restaurants, shops, and other services accept card payments, though it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets. Contactless payments are also popular and widely accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Balzan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Balzan. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Flowers bloom, and the countryside is lush and green. It’s ideal for hiking, exploring historical sites, and enjoying outdoor cafes.
Summer (June to August) brings hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It’s a vibrant time in Balzan with many festivals and events. However, tourists should be prepared for the heat, stay hydrated, and seek shade in the afternoons.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent time to visit. The weather is still warm, but more comfortable, ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). The tourist crowds begin to thin, and it's a great time for cultural events and wine festivals.
Winter (December to February) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F). While it can be rainy, it's a quiet time to explore Balzan’s attractions without the crowds. It's perfect for experiencing local culture and holiday festivities.
Balzan at Night
Hiking in Balzan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring diverse trails among stunning coastal landscapes and a rich variety of flora and fauna.
An expansive area with walking trails, scenic views, and open spaces for picnics, set in a historical former airfield.
A rugged peninsula offering coastal hikes, panoramic views of the sea, and a chance to explore diverse wildlife.
A serene area perfect for hiking, featuring beautiful valleys, and lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers.
A picturesque valley known for its walking trails along the water, surrounded by lush vegetation and historic sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Balzan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Balzan by plane.
The main international airport serving Malta, located in Luqa, approximately 7 km from Balzan.
An international airport located in Catania, Sicily, Italy, about 130 km from Balzan.
Also known as Falcone-Borsellino Airport, it is located in Palermo, Sicily, approximately 250 km from Balzan.
An airport serving the island of Lampedusa, Italy, situated about 280 km from Balzan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Balzan, constituting the majority of the population.
Includes individuals from various other countries who have settled in Balzan, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
Older adults, often retirees, who make up a significant portion of the community.
Young people, including students and young professionals, who play an essential role in the local social scene.
Households consisting of parents and children, representing a core demographic in Balzan.
The Soul of Balzan
Discover the essence of Balzan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Balzan, with the local club Balzan FC competing in the Maltese Premier League.
Basketball has a growing following in Balzan, with local clubs participating in various leagues.
Athletics is promoted through local clubs, encouraging young athletes to participate in track and field events.
Tennis is a popular sport with facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.
Swimming is a favored activity, particularly during the summer months, with local swimming clubs providing training and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balzan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Maltese cuisine has a strong focus on seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Balzan offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as stuffed bell peppers, grilled vegetables, and hearty bean stews. Da' Pippo Trattoria, for instance, provides a variety of options suitable for vegetarians and vegans
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free ftira (local bread) and dishes like grilled fish, fresh salads, and risotto at several establishments like Rampila and Da' Pippo Trattoria, which accommodate dietary needs with specific menu items
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Balzan with these cultural adventures.
