Sliema is a resort town on the east coast of the Mediterranean island of Malta. The waterfront features a long promenade and the 18th-century polygonal Fort Tigné in the south. To the north, St. Julian’s Tower is a 17th-century watchtower and battery. The baroque-inspired Stella Maris Church dates from the 1850s. On tiny Manoel Island is the star-shaped Fort Manoel, built by the Knights of St. John. β Google
Best months:
May–June and September–October – Warm weather, fewer crowds, great for swimming and dining al fresco.
July–August – Peak season with buzzing nightlife, beaches, and festivals.
November–April – Cooler and quieter, but still mild (good for coastal walks and city breaks).
From Valletta:
By ferry – Valletta ↔ Sliema in 5–10 minutes, scenic and efficient.
By bus – Multiple routes (13, 14, 15, 16) in 20–30 minutes.
By taxi or Bolt – ~10–15 minutes depending on traffic.
From Malta International Airport:
~20–30 minutes by taxi, or take an express bus (e.g., X2).
Sliema is a lively shopping, café, and residential area with a beautiful seafront promenade (Triq ix-Xatt) running along the rocky coast. It’s ideal for relaxing, dining, and watching sunsets.
Stroll the promenade – From Tigné Point to Balluta Bay; great sea views and public art.
Tigné Point – Modern shopping complex with designer stores, restaurants, and sea access.
Sliema Ferries area – Departure point for harbor cruises, Gozo/Comino day trips, and local boats.
Swim off the rocks – Clean, flat rocks serve as sunbathing and swimming spots along the coast.
Relax at beach clubs – Like MedAsia Playa or Pearl Beach Club for sunbeds, music, and drinks.
Just up the road from Sliema, St. Julian’s (San Δ iljan) is famous for its nightlife, restaurants, and luxury hotels. The area blends old fishing village charm (Spinola Bay) with modern entertainment zones (Paceville).
Spinola Bay – Picturesque bay lined with traditional boats and seafood restaurants.
Paceville – Malta’s nightlife capital with clubs, pubs, and lounges.
St. George’s Bay – Sandy public beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Portomaso Marina – Upscale harbor with fine dining and luxury apartments.
Love Monument – A famous mirrored sculpture spelling "LOVE" (best viewed in reflection
Harbor cruises & day trips – Departing from Sliema Ferries
Try water sports – Jet-skiing, parasailing, diving, or banana boat rides
Sunset cocktails – Rooftop bars and beach clubs in both towns
Shopping – Tigné Point Mall and small boutiques
Food tours or wine tastings – Explore Maltese and Mediterranean flavors
Visit Dragonara Casino – Historic building and gaming hotspot in St. Julian’s
Luxury:
Hilton Malta (Portomaso), The Westin Dragonara, AX The Palace
Mid-range:
be.HOTEL, 1926 Hotel & Spa, Hotel Juliani
Budget:
Sliema Marina Hotel, Inhawi Hostel, Corner Hostel
Apartment rentals: Widely available on Airbnb with sea views and modern setups
Local Maltese cuisine:
Try fenek (rabbit stew), aljotta (fish soup), kapunata, or ftira
Seafood:
Spinola Bay is known for fresh fish and waterfront dining
Popular restaurants:
Barracuda, Wigi’s Kitchen, Ta’ Kris, Zeri’s, Salis
International & trendy spots: Sushi, tapas, Italian, Lebanese, vegan, and fine dining are all available
Dessert cafés & gelato: Amorino, Dolci Peccati, Sottozero
Sliema and St. Julian’s are cosmopolitan and modern — ideal for all traveler types.
English is widely spoken.
The area is popular with both locals and expats, and is especially lively in the evenings.
Church feasts and fireworks still light up the skyline during summer.
Best explored on foot – The promenade links both towns easily.
Swimming – Bring reef shoes if you plan to swim from rocks.
Paceville at night – Fun but can get rowdy; stay aware of surroundings.
Use Bolt or walk – Parking is limited and traffic can be heavy.
Sun protection – The promenade and beaches get full sun most of the day.