Sliema and St. Julian's are the beating heart of modern tourist Malta — two neighbouring towns that together form the centre of nightlife, shopping and the seafront promenade.
Sliema — who is it for?
Sliema is Malta's most urbanised town. No historic churches or narrow medieval streets — but the island's longest seafront promenade, excellent transport connections and a full range of accommodation.
What to do in Sliema
- Sliema Promenade — several kilometres of waterfront walking, cafés, views of Valletta. An evening walk is essential
- Tower Road — the main shopping street, shops, restaurants, pharmacies
- Ferry to Valletta — from Sliema (Ferries Wharf) → 5 minutes for €1.50. Best way to reach Valletta
- Ferries Wharf — ferry terminal, also where boat trips depart (Blue Grotto, Comino)
- The Point Shopping Mall — mall with brand-name stores and cinema
Beaches in Sliema?
No sandy beaches — but rocky platforms (lidos) run along the shoreline. Swimming means descending stone steps to the rocks. For sandy beaches: Mellieha Bay (45 min by bus).
St. Julian's — who is it for?
St. Julian's borders Sliema and has two faces: peaceful seafront neighbourhoods and the legendary Paceville — Malta's bar and nightclub district.
What to do in St. Julian's
- Spinola Bay — a beautiful small bay, restaurants with waterside terraces, colourful traditional luzzu fishing boats
- Portomaso Marina — luxury marina with restaurants, sea views and a casino
- Paceville — Malta's nightlife centre. Bars, clubs, music until dawn. Loud, crowded, lively. For fans — a paradise. For those seeking quiet — a district to avoid at night
Where to eat
- Spinola Bay — restaurants with terraces and bay views. Higher prices, but the atmosphere is worth it
- Streets behind Spinola Bay — hidden local spots with Maltese food, more affordable prices
- Sliema Promenade — cafés and bistros with Valletta and sea views
A Sliema base is a great choice for a first visit — ferry to Valletta, boats to Comino and Blue Grotto, good bus connections. If you like nightlife — St. Julian's/Paceville. If you want peace — Sliema, or further from the centre (Mellieha).