Malta

San Giljan

San Giljan

San Giljan, also known as St. Julian's, is a vibrant seaside town located on the northeast coast of Malta. It is a popular tourist destinat…

Best for you if…

  • A week-long stay
  • Walkable sightseeing
  • Beach holidays travelers
  • Water sports travelers
  • Visiting in June to September
Recommended stay
5-7 days days
Best time
June to September
Walkability
Compact
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

San Giljan is a strong pick for beach holidays & water sports — plan about 5-7 days days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: June to September.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 84/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈1.7 km span)

18 Places to explore
5-7 days Recommended days
June to September Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: June to September

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · October · November

Weather

Autumn

20-25°C

Spring

15-20°C

Summer

25-30°C

Winter

10-15°C

How to get there

How to Reach San Giljan in Malta

San Giljan, also known as St. Julian's, is a vibrant town located on the northeastern coast of Malta. Renowned for its bustling nightlife, beautiful beaches, and entertainment options, San Giljan is a popular tourist destination. Here are several ways to reach this exciting town:

By Air:

If you are arriving by air, the closest airport to San Giljan is Malta International Airport, located about 11 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked airport transfer to reach San Giljan. Alternatively, you can also rent a car at the airport and drive to the town, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

By Public Transport:

Malta has an extensive public transport network, making it convenient to travel to San Giljan by bus. Various bus routes connect the town with other major locations on the island. From Valletta, the capital city of Malta, you can take bus number 13 or 14 to reach San Giljan. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

By Ferry:

Another unique way to reach San Giljan is by ferry. From Valletta, you can take a ferry to Sliema, a neighboring town. Once in Sliema, San Giljan is just a short walk away. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Maltese coastline and is a delightful experience in itself.

By Car:

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car is a great option to reach San Giljan. Malta has a well-developed road network, and the town can be easily accessed via various major roads. However, it's worth noting that parking in San Giljan can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons.

By Taxi:

Taxis are readily available throughout Malta, and you can easily hire one to reach San Giljan. Taxis offer a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation, particularly if you have heavy luggage or prefer a direct journey without any stops.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, once you arrive in San Giljan, you'll find yourself in a vibrant and lively town with plenty of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options to explore. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful part of Malta!

Getting to know San Giljan

San Giljan, also known as St. Julian's, is a vibrant seaside town located on the northeast coast of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination, well-known for its beautiful beaches, bustling nightlife, and wide range of entertainment options.

The town offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. Along the picturesque Spinola Bay, visitors can admire traditional Maltese boats and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The bay is also home to several acclaimed seafood restaurants, where visitors can sample fresh local cuisine.

San Giljan is famous for its lively nightlife scene, particularly in the renowned Paceville district. Here, visitors can find an array of bars, clubs, and casinos, creating an electric atmosphere that attracts party-goers from all over the island. The area also offers a wide range of international dining options, ensuring there is something to suit every taste.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, San Giljan offers several tranquil sandy beaches, such as St. George's Bay and Balluta Bay, where visitors can sunbathe, swim, or indulge in water sports. The town is also home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including the historic Portomaso Marina, which showcases a mix of traditional Maltese architecture and contemporary design.

With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, San Giljan is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Malta. Whether you're looking for relaxation on the beach, excitement in the nightclubs, or a taste of Malta's history and culture, this charming seaside town has it all.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit St. Julian's Bay for stunning views
  • Try local seafood dishes at the restaurants in Spinola Bay
  • Explore the historical landmarks of Balluta Bay
  • Attend the Malta Jazz Festival in July
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife at Paceville

Places worth exploring

18 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in San Giljan?

Most travelers spend about 5-7 days days in San Giljan, Malta.

When is the best time to visit San Giljan?

High season is typically June to September.

Which months are more budget-friendly in San Giljan?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, October, November.

What kind of trip is San Giljan good for?

San Giljan suits Beach holidays, Water sports, Historical sites, Cultural events.

Is San Giljan walkable?

Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.

Any local tips for San Giljan?

Visit St. Julian's Bay for stunning views

Build your trip

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • San Giljan → Gzira, Malta → Ta' Xbiex · ≈2 km
  • San Giljan → Gzira, Malta → Msida · ≈2 km
  • San Giljan → Gzira, Malta → Sliema · ≈2 km

Same vibe

Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.

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