Things To Do
in Żurrieq
Żurrieq is a historic village in the southwest of Malta, perched near dramatic coastal cliffs and the Blue Grotto. It offers a quiet, authentic Maltese village atmosphere with easy access to southern highlights. The town serves as a gateway to scenic walks, sea caves, and nearby nature reserves.
Its charm lies in traditional architecture, local eateries, and the warm Maltese hospitality that greets visitors at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Żurrieq and check into your accommodation, a cozy local guesthouse that offers a warm welcome. Take a leisurely stroll through the village to acclimate to the Maltese atmosphere, observing charming old buildings and the vibrant local life. Enjoy your first taste of traditional Maltese breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh pastries and strong coffee.
Visit the nearby Blue Grotto, famous for its stunning sea caves and crystal-clear waters. Consider taking a boat trip to explore the caves up close or enjoy a pleasant hike along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Afterward, return to Żurrieq for a leisurely lunch, trying local seafood delicacies.
As the sun sets, the village takes on a magical ambiance, perfect for a sunset walk along the cliffs. Have dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant, where you can sample local dishes like rabbit stew or bragioli. Finish your day by enjoying a quiet evening at a local bar, sipping on a glass of local wine.
Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery before heading to the nearby Ħaż-Żebbuġ parish church, which boasts stunning baroque architecture. Explore the intricacies of this historical site and take in the beauty of local art. Next, make your way to the nearby archaeological site of the Tarxien Temples, where you can marvel at ancient artifacts and learn about Malta's prehistoric culture.
After immersing yourself in history, have lunch in Kalanka with picturesque views of the bay. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Hagar Qim Temples, another UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander the ancient stones and partake in a guided tour. The dramatic coastal landscapes surrounding the temples add to the magic of the experience.
Return to Żurrieq for an evening at leisure, where you can indulge in local street food from lovely vendors. Join a community cultural event if available, which might include live music or local crafts. End your evening at a quaint café enjoying traditional sweet treats under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Maltese village atmosphere
- Proximity to great sea and nature sites
- Relatively affordable compared to Valletta
- Rich history and culture
- Good base for exploring southern Malta
- Quiet nightlife; fewer big-city amenities
- Limited direct beaches within the town
- Few high-end dining options in-town
- Seasonal crowds can affect availability
- "Bongu" - Hello / Good morning
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jekk tista' tgħinni?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Żurrieq
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic sea caves and limestone cliffs; best photographed during golden hours when the light enhances the blue water and rock textures.
Colorful traditional balconies and narrow alleys in the village core offer charming, timeless compositions.
Rugged coastline with rock formations and sea spray ideal for wide-angle seascapes and dramatic compositions.
Food in Żurrieq
Żurrieq Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rabbit stew, a Maltese staple slowly simmered with garlic, tomatoes, and wine.
Must-Try!
Maltese bread with olive oil, tomatoes, tuna or olives, and salt; a common snack or light meal.
Flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas; a beloved street-food classic.
Seasonal fish (dorado) prepared baked or grilled with Mediterranean herbs when in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and local snacks; a good place to sample snacks and mingle with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bongu' or 'Bongu, kif inti?'; modest, polite conversations are valued.
Dress modestly, speak softly, and remove hats when entering churches; show respect to sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Żurrieq
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with strong sun; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Mild days with occasional rain; pack a light rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes; expect cooler evenings.
Pleasant temperatures, wildflowers along coastal paths, good visibility for outdoor exploration.
Moderate weather, fewer crowds, excellent sea conditions for boat trips and coastal walks.
Żurrieq at Night
Hiking in Żurrieq
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Clifftop trail offering views of the southwest coast; moderate section with rewarding panoramas.
Short, scenic coastal hikes with sea views and easy accessibility; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Żurrieq by plane.
Main international gateway to Malta; approximately 20-25 minutes by car from Żurrieq; taxis and buses are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of local families; a family-friendly environment with safe outdoor spaces.
Growing community drawn by climate, lifestyle, and proximity to workplaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Malta with local clubs and national competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Żurrieq.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Maltese dishes can be adapted; look for vegetarian stews, grilled vegetables, salads, and mezze-style plates; ask for olive oil-based preparations and avoid meat-heavy sauces.