Things To Do
in Sliema

Sliema is a vibrant coastal town in Malta, known for its stunning seafront promenade, bustling shopping areas, and lively atmosphere. It is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, offering visitors a chance to explore historical sites alongside contemporary cafes and boutiques. The town serves as a gateway to the capital, Valletta, and boasts a rich array of dining and entertainment options.

With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque views, Sliema is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sliema
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the Sliema promenade, enjoying the sea views. Have breakfast at a local café, such as The Breakfast Club, known for its delicious brunch options.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tigne Point shopping mall for some retail therapy and then explore the historic Fort Tigne for panoramic views of Valletta.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at one of the seafront restaurants like Ta' Kris, followed by a stroll along the promenade to soak in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a visit to the local market at the Sliema Ferries, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Grab a coffee at a nearby café afterwards.

afternoon
:

Take a ferry to Valletta and spend the afternoon exploring the city’s historical sites, such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

evening
:

Return to Sliema for dinner at a waterfront restaurant like The Chophouse, followed by a cocktail at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍕Fast food meal$10
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel room per night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and clean beaches
  • Vibrant dining and nightlife options
  • Rich history and culture to explore
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Higher prices in tourist areas
  • Limited parking spaces
  • "Grazzi" - Thank you
  • "Bongu" - Good morning
  • "Il-lejl it-tajjeb" - Good night
  • "Kemm jiswa?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Sahha" - Cheers

Places to Visit in Sliema

Visit one of these nice places.

Sliema Promenade

A picturesque walkway along the coast, perfect for sunset photos against a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

Fort Tigne

A historic fort offering stunning panoramic views of Valletta and the surrounding area.

Balluta Bay

A beautiful bay area with colorful buildings and clear waters, ideal for capturing vibrant shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sliema

Sliema offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Maltese dishes and international flavors. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, local pastries, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Sliema Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastizzi

Flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or mashed peas, a popular Maltese snack.

Must-Try!

Bragioli

Beef olives stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and spices, slowly cooked in wine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sliema Sunday Market

A vibrant market at the Ferries, offering fresh produce, crafts, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sliema experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), while winter temperatures hover between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). Rainfall is more common from October to March, with sunny and dry conditions dominating the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common for introductions. Friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks.

Dress Code

Casual attire is accepted, but it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting churches.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for formal events or appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sliema is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuable items. Always use reputable transportation options and be cautious when walking alone at night.

Tipping in Sliema

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect hot weather, bustling beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Be prepared for crowds and book accommodations in advance.

Autumn

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a pleasant time to explore. The tourist crowds lessen, providing a more relaxed experience.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain. Perfect for those looking to escape colder climates, though some attractions may have reduced hours.

Nightlife Guide

Sliema at Night

Sliema boasts a lively nightlife scene, featuring a variety of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. The promenade is lined with trendy bars offering cocktails and live music, while nearby St. Julian's is famous for its nightclubs. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening with friends or a vibrant party atmosphere, Sliema has options for everyone.

Hiking in Sliema

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Blue Grotto Trail

A scenic coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of the Blue Grotto and the surrounding cliffs, ideal for a day hike.

Dingli Cliffs

A stunning hiking area with dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for walking and enjoying panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Sliema by plane.

Malta International Airport (MLA)

Located about 10 km from Sliema, this is the main international airport serving Malta, offering flights to and from various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sliema is highly walkable, with a scenic promenade that connects various attractions along the coast. The flat terrain makes it easy to stroll or bike, and many restaurants, shops, and cafes are within walking distance. Public transportation is also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Maltese

The local population is primarily Maltese, known for their hospitality and rich cultural heritage.

Expatriates

Sliema has a growing expatriate community, drawn to the area for its lifestyle, job opportunities, and favorable climate.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Malta, with many local clubs and a national team competing in international matches.

Waterpolo

Waterpolo holds a prominent place in Maltese sports culture, with many clubs and a strong national team.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sliema can be busy, especially during peak tourist season. Parking can be challenging, so using public transport or walking is recommended. The local bus system provides good coverage, and ferries offer convenient options to nearby areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sliema.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Some places cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sliema is accessible and of good quality, with several clinics and pharmacies available. The public healthcare system is free for residents, while visitors may need to pay for services. Private healthcare options are available and often preferred by tourists.

Discover Malta

Read more in our Malta 2025 Travel Guide.

Malta Travel Guide