St. Julian's, Malta Travel Guide

Discover St. Julian's in Malta: A Coastal Gem with Vibrant Nightlife, Tranquil Bays, and Rich History

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St. Julian's

St. Julian's, located on the northern coast of Malta, is a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition. Known for its lively nightlife, stunning beaches, and historical architecture, this city offers a unique experience for all kinds of travelers. Paceville, the city's famous entertainment district, is a hub of activity with its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. Whether you are looking for a high-energy night out or a relaxed evening by the sea, Paceville has something for everyone. The area is especially popular among young tourists and those looking to experience Malta's vibrant social scene. For those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere, Spinola Bay is a picturesque spot with its charming fishing boats and waterfront cafes. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely meal while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. The bay also offers a glimpse into the local way of life, with fishermen bringing in their daily catch and locals enjoying their evening walks. St. Julian's is also home to some of Malta's most luxurious hotels and resorts. These establishments offer world-class amenities and stunning views of the coastline. Whether you are staying in a high-end resort or a cozy boutique hotel, you will be treated to exceptional Maltese hospitality. Beyond the beaches and nightlife, St. Julian's has a rich history waiting to be explored. The city is dotted with historic landmarks, including the iconic Spinola Palace and the charming Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Walking through the streets, you will find a blend of old and new, with traditional Maltese architecture standing side by side with modern developments.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. Julian's.

Visit Paceville for an electric nightlife experience with a variety of bars and clubs.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Spinola Bay, enjoying local seafood and picturesque views.
Book your accommodation early, especially during the summer months, as St. Julian's is a popular tourist destination.
Explore the historic landmarks such as Spinola Palace and the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Use public transport or walk to explore the city, as parking can be limited in busy areas.

Explore St. Julian's: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in St. Julian's

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Best Attractions

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Mdina Gate

Explore the enchanting Mdina Gate, an iconic historical landmark that opens the door to Malta's rich past and stunning architecture, perfect for every traveler.

4.8

Upper Barrakka

Discover the beauty and history of Upper Barracca Gardens in Valletta, where stunning views of the Grand Harbour await every visitor.

4.7

Triton Fountain

Discover the enchanting Triton Fountain, a symbol of Malta's rich heritage and a picturesque spot to enjoy the beauty of Floriana.

4.7

Malta National Aquarium

Explore the vibrant underwater world at the Malta National Aquarium, a top tourist attraction in St. Paul's Bay showcasing rich marine biodiversity.

4.3

Best landmarks in St. Julian's

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Upper Barrakka

Discover breathtaking views and serene beauty at Upper Barrakka Gardens, a historic park in Valletta overlooking the stunning Grand Harbour.

4.7

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Discover the opulence of Baroque architecture at St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, home to stunning art and rich history.

4.7

The Red Tower

Discover the rich history and stunning views at The Red Tower, a must-visit historical landmark in Mellieħa, Malta, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

4.3

Torri ta' San Ġiljan

Explore the historic Torri ta' San Ġiljan in Sliema, Malta for stunning views and a glimpse into the island's fascinating past and vibrant culture.

4.4

Best restaurants in St. Julian's

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The Avenue Restaurant

Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining at The Avenue Restaurant in St. Julian's - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.

4.4

CUBA Restaurant, St.Julian's, Spinola Bay

Experience Mediterranean flavors at CUBA Restaurant in St.Julian's; where delicious cuisine meets stunning bay views.

4.1

Gululu Restaurant @ Spinola Bay, St. Julians

Experience authentic Maltese cuisine at Gululu Restaurant by Spinola Bay—where delicious food meets stunning waterfront views.

4.1

Gozitan Restaurant

Experience authentic Maltese cuisine at Gozitan Restaurant in St. Julian's - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in St. Julian's

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The Dubliner

Immerse yourself in Irish culture at The Dubliner, a vibrant pub in St Julian's, Malta, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.

4.5

Bar Native

Experience the vibrant nightlife of St Julian's at Bar Native, where delicious drinks and great ambiance await every visitor.

4.1

Hugo's Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious gastropub offerings at Hugo's Pub in the heart of Paceville, Malta.

4.2

Bellinii

Discover the vibrant nightlife of St. Julian's at Bellinii, where creative cocktails and lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.6

Best nightclubs in St. Julian's

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Havana Club Malta

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Havana Club Malta, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await in the heart of St Julian's.

3.4

Footloose

Discover the energetic nightlife of Malta at Footloose, where the music never stops and the dance floor awaits your moves.

3.2

TwentyTwo

Discover the pulsating nightlife at TwentyTwo, a top-tier night club in St. Julian's, Malta, where cocktails and dancing await.

3.6

Clique

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Clique Night Club in St. Julian's, where energy, music, and unforgettable moments come together.

3.4

Best shops in St. Julian's

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The Point Shopping Mall

Discover The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, Malta – a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment with stunning sea views.

4.3

Bay Street Shopping Complex

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Bay Street Shopping Complex in St. Julian's, Malta, where retail meets dining and entertainment.

4.2

Cleland & Souchet

Explore Cleland & Souchet, a charming gift shop in St Julian's, Malta, offering unique souvenirs, exquisite wines, and stunning jewelry for every traveler.

4.6

Travellers - St.Julian's

Explore the enchanting coastal town of St. Julian's, Malta, where history meets modern charm amidst stunning waterfront views.

4.6

Explore St. Julian's on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in St. Julian's, mapped for you.

St. Julian's Essentials

St. Julian's is located on the northeastern coast of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), approximately 10 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to St. Julian's, which takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the public bus service, with routes X2 and TD2 connecting the airport to St. Julian's. Car rental services are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive.
St. Julian's is well-connected by public transportation. The Malta Public Transport buses are frequent and cover most areas within and around St. Julian's. Taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate in the area. For a unique experience, try the local ferry services that connect various coastal locations. Renting a bicycle or an electric scooter is also a popular option for getting around, especially in the summer months.
The official currency in Malta is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout St. Julian's. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for public transportation. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and in some hotels.
St. Julian's is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any tourist area, it is important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas such as Paceville, which is known for its nightlife. Avoid walking alone late at night in secluded areas, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the general European emergency number. The nearest police station is located in St. Julian's, and medical facilities, including clinics and pharmacies, are readily available. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies in the area offer over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do have exact change ready for bus fares and be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonġu' (Good morning). A handshake is common among acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties like pastizzi and rabbit stew. Don't leave a tip on the table; it is more customary to hand it directly to the server.
To experience St. Julian's like a local, take a stroll along the Spinola Bay waterfront and enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes. Visit the Balluta Bay area for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. If you enjoy nightlife, Paceville offers a variety of clubs and bars. For a cultural experience, don't miss the local festas (festivals) that often include fireworks, music, and traditional Maltese food. Engage with locals, as they are friendly and willing to share insights about their town.

When is the best time to visit St. Julian's?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for St. Julian's

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in St. Julian's. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonġu
  [bon-joo]
- GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
- YesIva
  [ee-va]
- NoLe
  [leh]
- Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok/Il-ħoss
  [yek yoh-hob-ok/eel-hos]
- Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
- Excuse me/SorrySkuzi/Sorry
  [skoo-zee/sorry]
- How are you?Kif int?
  [keef eent]
- Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo eent]
- Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-kel-lem bing-leez]
- I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heems]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq nara l-menù, jekk jogħġbok
  [nix-teyq na-ra l-mey-new, yek yoh-hob-ok]
- I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [ma nee-ek-olsh la-ham]
- Cheers!Saħħa
  [sa-ha]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq nħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nix-teyq n-hal-las, yek yoh-hob-ok]
- Help!Għajjat!
  [ai-yat]
- Go away!Mur!
  [mur]
- Call the Police!Ċempel l-Pulizija!
  [chem-pel l-pu-leet-see-ya]
- Call a doctor!Ċempel tabib!
  [chem-pel ta-beeb]
- I'm lostInħallas
  [in-hal-las]
- I'm illJien imdejjaq
  [yeen im-dey-yak]
- I'd like to buy...Nixtieq nagħmel ix-xiri...
  [nix-teyq na-mel ish-she-ree]
- I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [ked na-ra beess]
- How much is it?Kam jiswa?
  [kam yis-wa]
- That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [dan hoo-wa wees-shi]
- Can you lower the price?Tista' tnaqqas il-prezz?
  [tis-ta tna-kwas il-prez]
- What time is it?Xi ħin hu?
  [she heen hoo]
- It's one o'clockHuwa waħda
  [hoo-wa wa-hda]
- Half past (10)Noqs f'għaxar
  [noqs fay-ashar]
- MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-odoo]
- AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-no-sin-har]
- EveningFilgħaxija
  [fil-a-ksee-ya]
- YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bi-er-ah]
- TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
- TomorrowGħada
  [a-da]
- 1Wieħed
  [wee-hed]
- 2Tnejn
  [t-neyn]
- 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
- 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
- 5Ħamsa
  [ham-sa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Sebgħa
  [seb-a]
- 8Tmienja
  [tmeen-ya]
- 9Disgħa
  [dis-a]
- 10Għaxra
  [a-shra]
- Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [fyen hemm]
- What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shin-hu l-ind-ee-rez]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turieli (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta too-ree-li fooq il-map-pa]
- When's the next (bus)?Meta hu l-ewwel (karozza)?
  [me-ta hoo l-ewel ka-rot-za]
- A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet tal]

History of St. Julian's

St. Julian's, known locally as San Ġiljan, has a history that dates back to the Bronze Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by ancient civilizations, with various artifacts and structures discovered in the region. The town was named after Saint Julian, the patron saint of hunters, which reflects the area's historical significance as a hunting ground.
During the medieval period, St. Julian's was a small fishing village. Its strategic location along the coast made it an important spot for maritime activities. The arrival of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century marked a significant turning point. The Knights fortified Malta, including the area around St. Julian's, to protect against Ottoman invasions. The Balluta Bay area, in particular, became a focal point for these defensive measures.
In the 17th century, Fra Paolo Raffaele Spinola, a Knight of St. John, constructed the Spinola Palace in St. Julian's. This Baroque-style palace remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the town. Spinola also initiated the development of the area, turning it into a summer retreat for the Knights. The palace and its surrounding gardens played a central role in the social and cultural life of the time.
With the arrival of the British in the early 19th century, Malta, including St. Julian's, underwent significant changes. The British introduced modern infrastructure, including roads and public services. The establishment of the Malta Railway in 1883, which connected Valletta to various parts of the island, facilitated travel and commerce. St. Julian's began to transform from a quiet village into a bustling town.
World War II brought considerable hardship to Malta, and St. Julian's was no exception. The area suffered from aerial bombardments, leading to significant destruction. Post-war reconstruction efforts saw the rebuilding of damaged structures and the development of new residential and commercial properties. This period marked the beginning of St. Julian's transformation into a modern urban center.
From the latter half of the 20th century, St. Julian's emerged as a premier tourist destination. The construction of luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, particularly in the Paceville area, attracted visitors from around the world. St. Julian's became synonymous with vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The town continues to evolve, blending its rich historical heritage with modern amenities.