Gharb vs Hamrun
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Gharb is better for retirees and nature lovers seeking traditional Gozo farmhouses, while Hamrun wins for young professionals and budget buyers who need strong transport links and everyday convenience. Gharb is an ancient western hilltop village with a population of 1,500, scoring 9/10 for safety and 5/10 for beaches. Hamrun is a bustling commercial town of 10,400 residents, scoring 9/10 for transport and 7/10 for both family life and dining. The two localities sit on different islands, roughly 40 km apart by road and ferry.
Hamrun offers flat terrain and walkability, with multiple bus routes connecting to Valletta in minutes and Malta International Airport just 15 minutes away by car. Gharb relies on a single infrequent bus route to Victoria, with ferry access requiring a 20-minute drive and total airport journeys exceeding 90 minutes.
Gharb suits buyers prioritizing sunset views, courtyard farmhouses, and extreme quiet, with property prices among Gozo's most affordable. Hamrun suits those wanting one of Malta's longest shopping streets, a strong local community, and affordable central property with immediate access to daily amenities.
Living in Gharb
Gharb is one of Gozo's oldest villages, perched on a hilltop in the far west of the island with views stretching to the sea on two sides. The name means 'west' in Arabic — an accurate description of its position at Gozo's western extreme. The village is tiny, conservative, and deeply traditional, with a picturesque square that's one of the most photographed in Gozo. The square is anchored by a charming church and a collection of historic buildings that include what's said to be the oldest freestanding house in Gozo. The Gharb Folklore Museum occupies a 300-year-old building and displays traditional Gozitan crafts, tools, and household items. The Ta' Dbiegi craft village nearby is where local artisans produce handmade glass, lace, and pottery. Property in Gharb includes some of Gozo's most charming traditional farmhouses, many with thick limestone walls, internal courtyards, and roof terraces with sunset views. Prices are low, and restoration projects are common. The village is very quiet — too quiet for some — but for buyers seeking the authentic Gozitan experience, Gharb is the genuine article.
Highlights
- One of Gozo's oldest and most photographed village squares
- Traditional farmhouses with courtyards and sunset views
- Gharb Folklore Museum in a 300-year-old building
- Ta' Dbiegi craft village with local artisans
- One of Gozo's most affordable locations
Living in Hamrun
Hamrun is a dense, bustling town that connects the harbour area to Birkirkara and the interior — a through-town that most people pass through rather than visit, but one with a character and commercial strip that sustains a loyal local community. The main street is one of Malta's longest shopping streets, lined with traditional Maltese bakeries, butchers, and family-run shops alongside modern chains. The town has deep roots in Malta's political and social history. Hamrun was a centre of Maltese nationalism during the British colonial period, and several prominent Maltese politicians and intellectuals called it home. The parish church, dedicated to St. Cajetan, has an unusually tall bell tower that serves as a navigation landmark visible from across the harbour area. Property in Hamrun is affordable and practical. The town's central location — between Valletta, the Three Cities, and Birkirkara — makes it a convenient base for commuters. Prices sit well below the coastal strip and moderately below Birkirkara. The housing stock ranges from traditional terraced houses with interior courtyards to post-war apartment blocks.
Highlights
- One of Malta's longest traditional shopping streets
- Central location between Valletta and Birkirkara
- Affordable property with good transport links
- Deep political and cultural history
- Strong local community and traditional shops
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Gharb
Gharb comes out ahead in safety, beaches .
Choose Hamrun
Hamrun comes out ahead in dining, family, nightlife, transport .
Frequently Asked Questions
Available Properties
Gharb (3 listings)
House Of Character Terraced House
Farmhouse with Swimming Pool - Gharb, Gozo
3 Bedroom Apartment in Gharb, Gozo
Hamrun (4 listings)
Hamrun - 2 Bedroom Terraced House - 2 Bathrooms - Air Conditioned - Garden - €5,000 Monthly
Room to rent in a private home
Hamrun – Brand New 1 Bedroom Apartment
