Munxar vs Safi
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Munxar sits on Gozo's south coast overlooking Xlendi Bay, with a cliff-top position that delivers an 8/10 beach rating and 5-minute drive access to restaurants. It suits nature lovers and families who want coastal walks along the Ta' Cenc plateau. Property is very affordable even by Gozo standards. However, the village has no shops, cafes, or restaurants of its own, and public transport scores just 2/10. Reaching Malta's airport takes over 90 minutes including the ferry from Mgarr.
Safi is one of Malta's tiniest villages with a population of 2,100, surrounded by agricultural land and prehistoric temple sites. It offers the lowest property prices in Malta and rates 9/10 for safety. The airport is just 10 minutes away by car. Like Munxar, transport scores 2/10 and amenities are minimal. Safi suits families seeking extreme quiet and rural atmosphere without needing tourist facilities. Both areas share identical nightlife ratings of 1/10 and family ratings of 6/10.
Living in Munxar
Munxar is a small village on Gozo's south coast, perched on the cliffs between Sannat and Xlendi. The name means 'bucksaw' in Maltese, supposedly referring to the jagged shape of the coastline below the village. It's one of Gozo's least-known villages — most visitors drive past it on their way to Xlendi without realising it's there. The village centre is tiny — a church, a square, and a few streets of traditional houses. But Munxar's real identity is tied to the coastline below: Ta' Cenc plateau extends to its west, and the cliffs between Munxar and Xlendi contain some of Gozo's most dramatic coastal scenery. Mgarr ix-Xini, the fjord-like inlet shared with Sannat, is accessible from Munxar's side. Property in Munxar is very affordable, even by Gozo standards. Traditional houses with sea views are available at prices that seem extraordinary given the coastal position. The village has minimal amenities — a church, a social club, and not much else. Xlendi's restaurants are a five-minute drive.
Highlights
- Cliff-top position above Xlendi Bay
- Access to Ta' Cenc plateau walks
- Very affordable even by Gozo standards
- Dramatic coastal scenery on the doorstep
- Five minutes from Xlendi's restaurants
Living in Safi
Safi is one of Malta's tiniest villages — a hamlet on the southern edge of the island with a single church, a square, and a handful of streets. The name comes from the Arabic 'safi' meaning pure or chosen, possibly referring to the quality of the local spring water that once made this area a stop on inland routes. The village is surrounded by agricultural land and sits at the boundary between Malta's residential south and the open countryside that leads toward the cliffs. The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and the megalithic temples are within a short drive, connecting Safi to Malta's prehistoric landscape despite its modest appearance. Property in Safi is among the cheapest in Malta. Traditional houses are available at rock-bottom prices, though the village has minimal amenities — residents travel to nearby Zurrieq or Paola for shopping, medical care, and services. It's a niche choice for buyers who value extreme quiet and low cost above all else.
Highlights
- One of Malta's smallest villages
- Among the lowest property prices in Malta
- Surrounded by agricultural land
- Near prehistoric temple sites
- Extreme quiet and rural atmosphere
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Munxar
Munxar comes out ahead in dining, beaches .
Choose Safi
Safi comes out ahead .
