Xewkija vs Zejtun
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Xewkija is better for families and tourists seeking authentic Gozitan village life at Gozo's lowest property prices, while Żejtun suits families wanting affordable urban living on Malta with quick airport access. Xewkija sits strategically in central Gozo, 10 minutes by car from the Mgarr ferry and equidistant from Victoria and Ramla Bay. Żejtun is positioned in Malta's south, just 10 minutes from the airport by car and 25–30 minutes by bus from Valletta on routes 81, 82, and 85.
Xewkija scores higher for safety (9/10) and beaches (7/10), with flat terrain, easy parking, and a population of 3,300. Property here ranks among Gozo's most affordable. Żejtun houses 11,800 residents and offers comprehensive local amenities, schools, and excellent road connections, with property among the cheapest in urban Malta. Both areas have limited nightlife—Xewkija rates 2/10, Żejtun 3/10—and neither suits buyers seeking coastal living or vibrant dining scenes.
Xewkija requires a car for anything beyond village amenities, plus an 80-minute ferry crossing to reach Malta. Żejtun's spread-out layout also demands a car, and some surrounding industrial areas affect the landscape. Xewkija's landmark Rotunda dome stands at 74m diameter; Żejtun's highlight is one of Malta's finest baroque church facades.
Historic village dominated by monumental church dome
Traditional southern olive town
Living in Xewkija
Xewkija is one of Gozo's oldest villages, sitting on a plateau between Victoria and the eastern coast. The village is dominated by the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist — a colossal church whose dome is visible from nearly every point on the island. At 74 metres in diameter, it is one of the largest unsupported domes in Europe, exceeding St. Peter's Basilica in diameter, and it serves as a landmark for sailors approaching Gozo from the east. The village has a quiet, traditional character with narrow streets of old stone houses radiating from the church square. Xewkija is believed to be the first settlement established outside Victoria after the arrival of the Knights of St. John, and its name derives from the Maltese word for thorny bushes that once covered the area. The village retains a strong agricultural identity, with surrounding fields producing fruit, vegetables, and grapes for local wine. Property in Xewkija offers some of the best value in Gozo. Traditional townhouses with original stone arches and internal courtyards can be found at prices well below the coast. Newer developments have appeared along the main road toward Mgarr harbour, but the village core remains authentically Gozitan. The location is strategic — equidistant from Victoria, Mgarr ferry terminal, and the beaches of Ramla Bay.
Highlights
- The Rotunda — one of Europe's largest unsupported church domes at 74m diameter
- One of Gozo's oldest settlements, dating to the Knights of St. John era
- Strategic location between Victoria, Mgarr ferry, and Ramla Bay
- Some of the most affordable traditional property in Gozo
- Strong agricultural heritage with surrounding vineyards and fields
Living in Zejtun
Zejtun is a substantial southern town that takes its name from the Maltese word for olive oil — zejt — a reminder that this area was once covered in olive groves supplying oil across the Mediterranean. The town is one of Malta's largest and has a distinctly southern identity, with strong festa traditions, a sprawling residential area, and a historic core that's among the best-preserved in the south. The old centre clusters around the impressive parish church of St. Catherine, a baroque building with one of the finest church facades in Malta. The surrounding streets contain substantial townhouses with enclosed courtyards, some dating back to the Knights' period. The village of Birzebbuga, Hal Far industrial estate, and the Freeport all sit within Zejtun's broader boundaries. Property in Zejtun is very affordable — among the lowest prices in urbanised Malta. The town has all essential amenities and good road connections, but public transport to Valletta takes 25–30 minutes and the tourist appeal is minimal. It's a practical choice for local buyers and budget-conscious investors.
Highlights
- Named after centuries of olive oil production
- One of Malta's finest baroque church facades
- Among the most affordable property in urban Malta
- Strong festa and community traditions
- Good road connections to the south and harbour area
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Xewkija
Xewkija comes out ahead in family, safety, beaches .
Choose Zejtun
Zejtun comes out ahead in dining, nightlife, transport .
