Malta

Sliema

Sliema

Sliema is a vibrant coastal town located on the northeast coast of the Mediterranean island of Malta. Situated just a few kilometers away f…

Best for you if…

  • A week-long stay
  • Walkable sightseeing
  • Beach travelers
  • Historical sites travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
7 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Compact
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Sliema is a strong pick for beach & historical sites — plan about 7 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: Summer.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 96/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈2.5 km span)

50 Places to explore
7 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

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

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · November · December

Weather

Autumn

20-25°C

Spring

15-20°C

Summer

25-30°C

Winter

10-15°C

How to get there

How to Reach Sliema in Malta

Sliema, a charming coastal town located on the northeastern coast of Malta, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning sea views, vibrant shopping scene, and lively nightlife. Here are a few ways to reach Sliema:

By Air:

If you are arriving by air, the nearest airport is Malta International Airport, which is located about 10 kilometers southwest of Sliema. From the airport, you can easily reach Sliema by taxi, bus, or car rental. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and the journey to Sliema takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take the X2 or TD2 bus from the airport to Sliema, which operates regularly throughout the day.

By Ferry:

Sliema is well-connected to Valletta, the capital city of Malta, by a regular ferry service. The ferry terminal in Sliema is located near the town's waterfront promenade. Ferries operate frequently, and the journey to Valletta takes around 10 minutes, offering a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between the two destinations.

By Bus:

Malta has an extensive public bus network, and Sliema is well-served by buses from various parts of the island. If you are staying in a different location in Malta, you can easily reach Sliema by bus. The main bus terminal in Sliema is located near the town center, making it convenient to explore the surrounding areas.

By Car:

If you prefer to drive, Sliema is easily accessible by car. The town is connected to the major road networks in Malta, and there are several parking options available, including street parking and public car parks. However, it's important to note that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to plan your journey accordingly.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Sliema is relatively straightforward, and once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the town's picturesque waterfront, bustling streets, and a wide range of attractions and activities to enjoy.

Getting to know Sliema

Sliema is a vibrant coastal town located on the northeast coast of the Mediterranean island of Malta. Situated just a few kilometers away from the capital city of Valletta, it is a popular tourist destination renowned for its stunning sea views and bustling atmosphere. With its picturesque promenade, charming streets, and numerous entertainment options, Sliema offers visitors a delightful mix of relaxation and excitement.

One of the main attractions of Sliema is its beautiful waterfront promenade, stretching for several kilometers along the rocky coastline. Lined with palm trees and dotted with benches, it provides the perfect spot for leisurely strolls while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is also a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying jogging, cycling, or simply sitting and watching the world go by.

Sliema is also a shopper's paradise, boasting a wide range of retail outlets, boutiques, and malls. The main shopping street, known as the Tower Road, offers a plethora of options for fashion enthusiasts and those looking for souvenirs to take back home. In addition to international brands, visitors can explore local shops that showcase traditional Maltese crafts and products.

When it comes to dining, Sliema offers an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to all tastes. From traditional Maltese cuisine to international dishes, visitors can indulge in a diverse culinary experience. The town's waterfront is particularly renowned for its seafood restaurants, where one can savor freshly caught fish and other delicious seafood delicacies while enjoying stunning sea views.

Pre-trip checklist

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

Local tips

  • Visit St. Julian's Bay for a lively nightlife experience
  • Explore the historic streets of Valletta
  • Take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto
  • Try local Maltese cuisine, such as pastizzi and rabbit stew
  • Visit the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk

Places worth exploring

50 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 7-day outline

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

Hotels nearby

Stays around Sliema — sorted so you can pick quickly.

Hotel Juliani

Highest guest rating nearby

4.7 Tripadvisor (2,549)

25 St George's Road St Julians, St Julian's, San Ġiljan

1.5 km 2138 8000

More details Website

Vivaldi Hotel

Well-reviewed by many guests

3.7 Tripadvisor (2,013)

8 Triq id-Dragunara, San Ġiljan, Saint Julian's

1.8 km 2137 8100

More details Website

Europa

Within about 1 km of center

2.8 Tripadvisor (865)

138 Triq it-Torri, Tas-Sliema, Tas-Sliema SLM 1604

320 m 2133 4070

More details Website

Listings update over time — confirm availability before you book.

Frequently asked questions

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

How many days do you need in Sliema?

Most travelers spend about 7 days in Sliema, Malta.

When is the best time to visit Sliema?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Sliema?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, November, December.

What kind of trip is Sliema good for?

Sliema suits Beach, Historical sites, Shopping, Nightlife.

Is Sliema walkable?

Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.

Any local tips for Sliema?

Visit St. Julian's Bay for a lively nightlife experience

Build your trip

Add Sliema and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Sliema → Ta' Xbiex → Pieta · ≈2 km
  • Sliema → San Giljan → San Gwann · ≈3 km
  • Sliema → Gzira, Malta → Ta' Xbiex · ≈2 km

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