Sliema and St. Julian's Guide: Shopping, Restaurants and Nightlife

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