Things To Do
in San Ġiljan
San Ġiljan is a bustling town located on the northeast coast of Malta, known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The town is famous for its numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs along the waterfront promenade, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. San Ġiljan also boasts sandy beaches such as St. George's Bay and Spinola Bay, offering opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
With its lively atmosphere, stunning views, and diverse dining options, San Ġiljan is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the vibrant side of Malta.
- "Kif inti?" - How are you?
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jiena mghandni" - I don't understand
- "Fejn hu?" - Where is it?
- "Tajjeb" - Good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the picturesque Balluta Bay. Grab a coffee at a seaside café and savor the morning sunshine.
Visit the vibrant Spinola Bay and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants. Take a stroll along the waterfront and explore local shops for some unique souvenirs.
Experience the lively nightlife of San Ġiljan with a visit to its bars and clubs. Enjoy dinner by the bay while watching the sunset.
Visit the nearby Malta National Aquarium for a fascinating look at marine life. Spend time exploring the exhibits and learning about local biodiversity.
Attend a guided tour of the Spinola Palace to delve into Malta's history. Enjoy a traditional Maltese lunch at a nearby café afterward.
Head to St. George's Bay for dinner and enjoy live music at a local bar. Take a leisurely walk along the beach to end your day on a high note.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal views and access to beaches.
- Lively nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
- Rich history and culture, with easy access to historical sites.
- A friendly and welcoming local community.
- Good public transport connections to other parts of Malta.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas of Malta.
- Limited parking availability, making it difficult for residents and visitors.
- Noise and activity levels can be high, particularly at night.
- Some areas may be overly commercialized, detracting from local charm.
Best Activities in San Ġiljan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day at the popular St. George's Bay with accessible sandy beach and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Engage in various water sports activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing available at local operators along the beach.
Take a scenic walk along the coast from San Ġiljan to Sliema, enjoying beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the local architecture.
Join a diving tour to explore the stunning underwater landscapes and marine life around the Blue Lagoon on Comino island.
Stroll around Spinola Bay, a picturesque waterfront area filled with restaurants, cafes, and charming views of the traditional Maltese boats.
Rent a bicycle and cycle along the scenic promenade that stretches from San Ġiljan to Sliema, perfect for leisure and exploration.
Join a beach volleyball match at various beach spots, enjoying a fun and active way to socialize with locals and tourists.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Ġiljan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Ġiljan
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque bay known for its stunning waterfront views, colorful traditional fishing boats, and vibrant nightlife. The perfect spot for sunset photography.
An upscale marina featuring luxury yachts and cafes. Great for capturing photos of the marina against the backdrop of modern architecture.
A beautiful bay that offers a mix of beach and urban scenery, ideal for both sunrise and sunset photography.
This park provides a lovely green space with views overlooking the bay and the coastline, ideal for nature and landscape photography.
An iconic church in San Ġiljan, with stunning architecture and scenic surroundings, providing a great backdrop for architectural photography.
A coastal promenade with excellent views of Valletta and the fortifications, offering great opportunities for scenic images.
A lively promenade lined with cafes and bars, perfect for capturing the vibrant atmosphere and views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Food in San Ġiljan
San Ġiljan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maltese dish, fenek is a flavorful rabbit stew slow-cooked with tomatoes, wine, and a blend of herbs and spices. It's a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Malta. Recommended at Ta' Kolina restaurant.
Must-Try!
These flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas are a popular savory snack in Malta. They can be found at various street food vendors and bakeries throughout San Ġiljan, with the best-known spot being Crystal Palace.
This traditional Maltese open-faced sandwich features crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and topped with a spread of tuna, olives, capers, and onions. It's a staple dish and can be enjoyed at local cafes like Caffe Cordina.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Ġiljan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located near San Ġiljan, this bustling fish market offers an authentic taste of local life and an array of fresh catches. Visitors can also find seafood street food stalls offering freshly grilled fish and octopus.
While not in San Ġiljan, the Valletta Food Market, a short drive away, is a fantastic place to explore an assortment of fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional Maltese snacks like ftira bread.
San Ġiljan is home to a lively food truck park where visitors can sample an assortment of international and local street food, providing an excellent opportunity to experience a fusion of flavors from various cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Ġiljan, Malta, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites or local neighborhoods. Swimwear is acceptable at the beach, but visitors should cover up when leaving the area.
Using polite greetings is an important aspect of Maltese culture. A simple 'Bongu' (Good morning) or 'Bona sera' (Good evening) is appreciated, and a friendly smile goes a long way.
Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events. Observing local practices and being respectful of communal gatherings is essential for building goodwill with residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Ġiljan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Ġiljan
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Ġiljan, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants if service is good. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a few euros is customary, while in bars or cafes, leaving small change is seen as a good gesture.
Payments in San Ġiljan can be made using cash or credit/debit cards. Euros are the official currency. Most restaurants, hotels, and shops accept cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets. Mobile payment options are also increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Ġiljan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit San Ġiljan. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Expect blooming flowers, fewer crowds compared to summer, and various outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in San Ġiljan. Expect hot temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, crowded beaches, and vibrant nightlife. This is the best time for beach enthusiasts and those looking to experience the lively atmosphere of the local festivals and events.
Autumn (September to November) offers a great balance of warm weather and fewer tourists. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C in September and gradually cool down. Visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean climate, and it's an ideal time for outdoor activities, cultural events, and exploring historical sites.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season in San Ġiljan. Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C, making it cooler and a quieter time for travel. Expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, but some attractions may have limited hours. It's a great time for sightseeing and enjoying local culture without the busy tourist rush.
San Ġiljan at Night
Hiking in San Ġiljan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque valley with a walking path along the river, featuring stunning views and lush greenery.
A protected natural area offering hiking trails with scenic coastal views, diverse flora, and fauna.
A dramatic cliff area providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and a range of hiking trails.
Located near Rabat, this area has several walking paths amid a mix of natural forest and cultivated gardens.
Offers trails that lead to beautiful beaches and scenic views, perfect for a day of hiking and relaxation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Ġiljan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Ġiljan by plane.
The primary airport serving Malta, located approximately 10 km from San Ġiljan.
Located in Sicily, Italy, about 150 km from San Ġiljan, serving numerous international flights.
Located in Palermo, Sicily, roughly 250 km away from San Ġiljan and offers various international services.
An airport located on Lampedusa Island, about 300 km from San Ġiljan, serving some international destinations.
Located in Trapani, Sicily, approximately 280 km from San Ġiljan, it offers seasonal international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Ġiljan, representing the native population of Malta.
Includes expatriates and individuals from various countries who live and work in San Ġiljan.
A significant transient population that visits San Ġiljan, especially during the summer months.
Includes both local and international students attending educational institutions in the area.
A growing group, often consisting of both locals and expatriates who have chosen to retire in San Ġiljan due to its pleasant climate and amenities.
The Soul of San Ġiljan
Discover the essence of San Ġiljan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Waterpolo is the most popular sport in San Ġiljan, with the local club, Sport Mgarr Waterpolo Club, being highly competitive in national leagues.
San Ġiljan has facilities for swimming and is known for its swimming schools and competitions.
Football enjoys popularity in the region, with local teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Basketball is also a favored sport, with local clubs and regular community events.
Given its coastal location, beach volleyball is a popular recreational activity among both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Ġiljan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
San Ġiljan's culinary scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes offering plant-based dishes such as stuffed bell peppers, caponata, and hearty salads infused with local produce.
While traditional Maltese cuisine heavily features bread and pasta, many dining establishments in San Ġiljan provide gluten-free alternatives, including gluten-free pasta and bread, as well as dishes naturally free from gluten, such as fresh seafood and grilled meats.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Ġiljan with these cultural adventures.
