Kirjiet fi Zurrieq

A large village in the deep south, above the coast at Wied iz-Zurrieq and the Blue Grotto. It is one of the bigger southern towns, with a proper centre, and it is among the more affordable places on the island to rent something with space.

L-istil ta’ ħajja

Zurrieq is a long way from the harbour towns in feel as much as distance. Daily life is Maltese-speaking and village-paced; the expat presence is small compared with the north-east. There is enough here to live without leaving — shops, schools, a health centre — and a car for everything else. The commute to Sliema or Valletta at peak times is substantial and should be driven before it is agreed to. In exchange, housing costs less here than almost anywhere within reach of the coast, and there is space. Summer brings visitors down to the Blue Grotto, which affects the coast road rather than the village.

Propjetà fi Zurrieq

Mostly townhouses and maisonettes, with houses of character in the older core and newer apartment blocks around the edges. Roof terraces and small yards are normal rather than exceptional. Standards vary widely and older stone properties may need work. Unfurnished lettings are the norm for houses; apartments are more often furnished. Prices sit well below the coastal towns for equivalent space.