This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Gżira.
Gżira is a small Maltese town of almost seven thousand inhabitants, located on the central-eastern coast of Malta island and it bordered with the popular city of Sliema and the town of Msida. It is strategically centrally located, serving as the gateway to Valletta and Sliema; hence most transportation passes through Gzira. Your Gżira hostel will be within short walking distance from a bus stop.
Historically, Gzira was quite an infamous area, with prostitution thriving along its main streets. During the last decade, though, the town experienced a rather rapid development and a large proportion of the old houses has been either renovated or demolished and substituted by luxurious block of flats. A luxurious yacht marina took its position in Gzira’s sea. This development, the strategic location, and the proximity to the University of Malta attract new settlers.
There are not so many sightseeing spots in Gżira. It is mostly famous for the promenade in the seafront -- The Strand, as it is known -- which will provide you with some excellent views over the walled capital of Malta and Valletta, as well as the small Fort Manoel Island. An evening stroll down there is highly recommended. You should also visit the beautiful parish church, which features some nice history.
Generally, Gżira itself is not a very touristic destination and it, thus, doesn’t host many hotels and hostels. Do not hesitate to ask your Gżira hostel’s staff or the pedestrians for whatever info you need; Maltese people are in general very friendly and helpful. If you decide to book a hostel in Gżira, do not expect to have a lot of fun. There are not many bars and restaurants around so you’ll have to use transportation; the town is very well served by buses so this will be fine. Malta is not large, though, so you can even walk if you enjoy so -- walking to St. Julian’s can take up to forty minutes. Transportation is not expensive in Malta; it is recommended to buy a multiple ways ticket -- just ask the driver and purchase it from him/her.
Written by local enthusiast for Gżira hostels
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