Munxar vs Zebbug (Gozo)
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 above Xlendi Bay, scoring 8/10 for beaches and 6/10 for family appeal. Residents reach Xlendi's restaurants and beach within a 5-minute drive. Zebbug occupies a hilltop position in northern Gozo, rated 7/10 for beaches and 5/10 for family lifestyle, with a 10-minute drive required to reach Victoria for shops and services. Both villages rate 9/10 for safety but just 2/10 for public transport, served by separate infrequent bus routes (306 and 311) connecting through Victoria.
Property in Zebbug ranks among Gozo's cheapest, even cheaper than Munxar which is already very affordable by local standards. Munxar attracts nature lovers and families with its cliff-top walks along the Ta'Cenc plateau and dramatic coastal scenery. Zebbug draws nature lovers and retirees with surrounding farmland trails, prehistoric cart ruts, megalithic sites, and traditional houses featuring roof terraces with sea views. Neither village has shops, cafes, or restaurants within walking distance. The Mgarr ferry terminal sits 20 minutes away by car from both locations, with airport journeys exceeding 90 minutes including the crossing.
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 Zebbug (Gozo)
Zebbug is a small hilltop village in northern Gozo — not to be confused with the larger Haz-Zebbug on Malta. The name means 'olives' in Maltese, a reference to the olive groves that once covered the surrounding hillsides. It's one of Gozo's highest points, and the views from the church square take in the entire northern coastline. The village is small even by Gozitan standards, with a single square, a parish church, and a few streets of traditional houses. The surrounding countryside is some of Gozo's finest — open farmland, dry stone walls, and walking trails that lead to the coast at Marsalforn and Qbajjar. The Zebbug plateau has several prehistoric sites, including cart ruts and megalithic remains that are yet to be fully excavated. Property in Zebbug is among the most affordable in Gozo. Traditional houses with views come at prices that are remarkably low for the quality of life on offer. The village has minimal amenities — a church, a band club, and a few houses — which is either a drawback or the whole point, depending on your perspective.
Highlights
- One of Gozo's highest villages with panoramic northern views
- Named after historic olive groves
- Walk to Marsalforn and the salt pans
- Prehistoric cart ruts and unexcavated megalithic sites
- Among the most affordable property in Gozo
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Munxar
Munxar comes out ahead in dining, family, beaches .
Choose Zebbug (Gozo)
Zebbug (Gozo) comes out ahead .
