MALTA'S COSMOPOLITAN HEART
Sliema & St Julian’s
Seafront promenades, Spinola Bay dining, Paceville nightlife — and a 15-minute ferry to Valletta
FERRY TO VALLETTA
15 mins
ST GEORGE'S BAY
Sandy beach
PACEVILLE
Nightlife hub
HOTELS
5-star strip
SLIEMA & ST JULIAN'S, MALTA
Sliema unfolds along a stunning promenade where Mediterranean chic meets urban sophistication. Designer boutiques and charming cafes line the bustling Strand, while frequent ferries whisk discerning travelers to Valletta's historic heart. This cosmopolitan haven seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with traditional Maltese charm, offering an elegant gateway to the island's cultural treasures. Sunset strolls along the water's edge reveal why Sliema captivates visitors with its refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
St Julian’s
St Julian’s pulses with vibrant energy centered around the picturesque Spinola Bay, where colorful fishing boats bob beside upscale waterfront dining. The legendary nightlife of Paceville beckons with chic clubs and trendy bars, while the hotel strip radiates Mediterranean luxury. This dynamic enclave offers a sophisticated blend of leisure and excitement, where sunset cocktails at marina-side venues transition seamlessly into evenings of world-class entertainment and culinary excellence.
St George’s Bay
St George’s Bay presents a haven of azure waters and golden sands, where discerning visitors luxuriate at exclusive beach clubs. The Hilton and Corinthia hotels offer private beach access with impeccable service, creating an oasis of tranquility away from the bustle. Crystal-clear waters invite refreshing swims, while sun loungers shaded by elegant umbrellas provide the perfect setting for indulgent relaxation in this Mediterranean paradise.
Sliema and St Julian’s radiate an electric Mediterranean energy where sophisticated leisure meets vibrant nightlife.
Where to Eat & Drink
Sliema and St Julian’s culinary scene dazzles with waterfront elegance at Spinola Bay's acclaimed restaurants. Balluta Square's charming terraces offer al fresco dining with panoramic sea views, while Caffe Berry serves artisanal delights. The Black Sheep pub provides a sophisticated pub experience with premium selections. From Mediterranean flavors to international cuisine, the area's gastronomic offerings cater to discerning palates with style and substance.
Where to Stay
Luxury accommodations abound in this coastal paradise, with the Hilton Portomaso setting the standard with its marina views and world-class amenities. The Westin Dragonara offers timeless elegance with its private beach and casino, while the Corinthia impresses with its grand architecture and spa facilities. Boutique options like The Victoria Hotel provide intimate charm and personalized service, ensuring every discerning traveler finds their perfect Mediterranean retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sliema or St Julian’s better for a holiday?
It depends on your priorities. Sliema suits visitors who want a quieter, more residential atmosphere with excellent shopping, a long seafront promenade, and easy ferry access to Valletta. St Julian’s suits those who want more nightlife, a wider restaurant choice, and proximity to beach clubs at St George’s Bay. Both are well connected and most hotels in either area give you access to both within a 20-minute walk.
How do I get from Sliema to Valletta?
The Sliema Ferry crosses to Valletta Waterfront in 15 minutes, departing every 30 minutes from the Ferries area on the Sliema seafront. Tickets cost €2.50 each way. This is the most enjoyable way to reach Valletta — arriving by water gives an unparalleled view of the fortifications. Bus routes 12 and 13 also connect Sliema and St Julian’s to Valletta in 25–30 minutes for €2.
What is Paceville like?
Paceville is Malta's main nightlife district, located in St Julian’s. It consists of a compact area of clubs, bars, and restaurants that operate until the early hours throughout summer. The atmosphere is lively and young-skewing, with international visitors mixing with locals. Several rooftop bars above Paceville offer a more relaxed alternative to the street-level clubs. Paceville is within walking distance of most St Julian’s hotels.
Are there beaches in Sliema and St Julian’s?
Both Sliema and St Julian’s have rocky lidos rather than sandy beaches — platforms cut into the limestone coastline that provide sea access without sand. St George’s Bay in St Julian’s is the nearest sandy beach, with beach clubs operated by the Hilton and InterContinental. Golden Bay, Malta's most popular sandy beach, is approximately 25 minutes by car from St Julian’s.
Which hotels are best in St Julian’s?
The Hilton Malta at Portomaso Marina is the area's flagship property — 5-star with a full pool complex, marina views, and the best spa in the resort area. The Westin Dragonara Resort occupies a dramatic headland position with direct sea access. The InterContinental and Radisson Blu both offer strong 5-star options. For boutique options, Hotel Juliani in St Julian’s offers 34 rooms with rooftop pool and harbour views.
FLY DIRECT FROM LONDON
Stay in Sliema or St Julian’s with KM Malta Airlines
KM Malta Airlines flies direct from London Heathrow and London Gatwick to Malta, approximately 3 hours. ATOL-protected packages available.
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