Things To Do
in Żejtun

Żejtun is a historic inland town in southeastern Malta, set among gentle countryside and olive groves. It blends centuries-old stone architecture with a relaxed, village-like atmosphere and easy access to both the coast and the island’s archaeological sites. The town sits a short drive from Marsaxlokk’s fishing harbour, offering a convenient base for exploring the southeast.

In Żejtun you’ll find traditional Maltese cafés, local bakeries, and a sense of community that’s rooted in daily life rather than tourist crowds.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Żejtun and settle into your accommodation. Start your exploration with a stroll through the picturesque streets of the town, admiring the traditional Maltese architecture. Stop at a local café for a delicious breakfast featuring fresh pastries and local coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Parish Church of Saint Catherine, known for its impressive Baroque design. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste traditional Maltese dishes. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local markets, picking up unique souvenirs and experiencing the local culture.

evening
:

Dine at a charming trattoria, enjoying freshly caught seafood and homemade pasta. In the evening, take a peaceful walk through the town, soaking in the ambiance of the twinkling lights and live music. End the night with a glass of local wine as you reflect on your first day in Żejtun.

day 2
Historical Immersion
morning
:

Embark on a guided tour of the ancient remains at the nearby Mnajdra Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the prehistoric culture and architectural achievements of the Maltese people. Return to Żejtun for a hearty breakfast at your hotel.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby town of Birgu for lunch and explore the stunning waterfront views. Visit the Inquisitor's Palace to delve into Malta's rich history and judicial system. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the Grand Harbour, soaking up the coastal scenery.

evening
:

Return to Żejtun and relish a dinner at a local pizzeria. Spend the evening relaxing at a bar, mingling with locals and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Participate in an Maltese cultural event if available, experiencing traditional music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$40-70
Coffee in a café$2-4
🚎One-way ticket on local transit$2-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming, walkable town with authentic Maltese atmosphere
  • Easy access to nearby historical sites and coastal villages
  • Limited nightlife within Żejtun itself; more options in nearby towns
  • Some attractions require a car or reliable bus connections for convenience
  • "Bonġu" - Good morning
  • "Bongu" - Good evening
  • "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Jekk tista’ tgħinni?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Żejtun

Visit one of these nice places.

Parish Church Square and Żejtun Streets

Photogenic stone facades, balconies, and the church square provide classic Maltese town imagery, especially during golden hour.

Olive groves and countryside lanes on the town outskirts

Rural Maltese scenery with dry stone walls and cypress or olive trees offers tranquil landscape shots.

Marsaxlokk Harbour viewpoints

Colorful fishing boats, crystal water, and the bustling quay create dynamic coastal photography opportunities just a short drive away.

Culinary Guide

Food in Żejtun

Malta’s cuisine is Mediterranean with Sicilian influences, focused on fresh seafood, olive oil, vegetables, and hearty country dishes. In Żejtun you’ll find traditional eateries alongside casual cafés serving Malta’s beloved snacks and beverages.

Żejtun Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fenek (Rabbit Stew)

Slow-cooked rabbit with garlic, tomatoes, wine, and herbs; a Maltese classic often served with potatoes or bread.

Must-Try!

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry pockets typically filled with ricotta or mushy peas; widely available from local pastizzerias and bakeries.

Aljotta

A garlicky fish soup made with tomatoes and fresh herbs; a comforting Maltese staple, especially in coastal areas.

Bigilla

A thick bean paste dip usually served with bread and galletti crackers, often accompanied by olives and capers.

Lampuki Pie

Seasonal fish pie made with lampuki (mahi-mahi) and vegetables enclosed in pastry; a coastal Maltese favorite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Żejtun Local Market

Occasional weekly or seasonal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olive oil, and local crafts; great for a quick bite or to pick up ingredients for a picnic.

Pastizzerias and Snack Stands

Casual stalls and bakeries in town offer pastizzi, ftira, and other Maltese bites ideal for a quick street-food break.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malta has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers with plenty of sunshine and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and modesty

Greet with a friendly 'Bongu' (good evening) or 'Hallo'; dress modestly when visiting churches; politeness and a calm demeanor are valued.

Photo-taking

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in family settings or religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Żejtun is typically safe and walkable, with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: watch valuables in crowded areas, be cautious at night in less busy streets, and follow local advisories in case of sudden weather changes.

Tipping in Żejtun

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Malta a small tip of 5-10% is common if service charge isn’t included. For taxis, rounding up fare is typical.

Payments

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in towns; cash is handy for small cafés and markets. ATMs are common in Żejtun and nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry with plenty of sun. Hydrate, wear hats, and use sun protection. Evenings are pleasant; seaside trips can be popular on weekends.

Winter

Mild and wetter, with occasional strong showers. Jackets needed for cooler evenings; some sites may have limited access after rain.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside; ideal for walking and photography around Żejtun and nearby villages.

Autumn

Comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds; great time for coastal walks and exploring the countryside.

Nightlife Guide

Żejtun at Night

Żejtun offers a quiet, village-style nightlife with local cafés and bars. For more options, head to nearby Marsaxlokk or Valletta where there are coastal venues, live music spots, and a broader selection of bars and clubs.

Hiking in Żejtun

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Żejtun Countryside Loop

A gentle to moderate hike through olive groves and limestone countryside on the outskirts of Żejtun.

Coastal and Rural Trails toward Marsaxlokk

Scenic walks along the coast and through small hillside paths linking Żejtun to nearby villages with sea views.

Airports

How to reach Żejtun by plane.

Malta International Airport (Luqa)

Main international gateway to Malta; about a 15–25 minute drive from Żejtun depending on traffic. Taxis, buses, and car rental are available on arrival.

Getting Around

Walkability

Żejtun has a compact, walkable town center with pleasant pedestrian streets. To access surrounding villages, coastal sites, or Tarxien and Marsaxlokk, a car or reliable public transport is helpful.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Maltese residents

Predominantly Maltese families and older residents with a strong sense of community.

Visitors and expatriates

Tourists exploring the southeast and some expatriates drawn to quieter rural settings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in Malta; local clubs and public facilities are common throughout the island.

Water polo

A traditional aquatic sport with a presence in coastal towns and clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Malta has a straightforward, grid-like road network in towns; driving is common and parking can be tight in peak times. Public buses run across the island, and traffic can build up near popular sites during holidays. A car or reliable bus access helps reach surrounding attractions efficiently.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Żejtun.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Malta offers plant-based options at many eateries; ask for mushroom dishes, ricotta pastizzi, grilled vegetables, and salads. Staff are usually helpful with substitutions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available locally; more extensive services are found at Mater Dei Hospital in Msida and other larger facilities in Valletta or around the island. Pharmacies are common in town, with English-speaking staff in many locations.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide