Sliema, a bustling coastal town in Malta, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, modern amenities, and stunning Mediterranean views. For those pondering things to do in Sliema, strolling along the picturesque Sliema Promenade, which offers beautiful views of Valletta and the sea, and enjoying the town’s numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment options are essential experiences.
The town’s rocky beaches and clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The Tigne Point area, with its contemporary architecture and upscale shopping mall, reflects Sliema’s modern, cosmopolitan side.
Beyond its urban attractions, Sliema serves as a convenient base for exploring other parts of Malta, including nearby historical sites and natural attractions. For those exploring the best places to visit in Malta, Sliema’s blend of modern lifestyle, leisure activities, and scenic beauty makes it a lively and attractive destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Sliema, Malta
1. Sliema Promenade
The Sliema Promenade is a bustling waterfront walkway offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Valletta’s skyline. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Location: Runs along the Sliema coastline, connecting to St. Julian’s and Gżira.
Scenic Spot: Stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Valletta’s skyline, lined with cafes and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade during sunset for breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere.
2. Tigne Point
Tigne Point is a modern shopping and leisure complex, featuring a range of international and local retail outlets, dining options, and leisure activities. It’s also known for its contemporary urban design and public spaces.
Location: At the tip of the Sliema peninsula, near The Point Shopping Mall.
Scenic Spot: Offers panoramic views of Valletta’s fortifications and the harbor.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for great lighting and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for shopping, dining, and relaxing.
Price: Free to visit; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Visit the Tigne Point area for shopping and dining, and don’t miss the opportunity to walk to the tip of the peninsula for panoramic views of Valletta.
3. Sliema Beaches
Sliema offers several rocky beaches along its coastline, popular for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Location: Various rocky beaches along the Sliema coastline, including Exiles Beach and Surfside.
Scenic Spot: Crystal-clear waters, flat sunbathing rocks, and excellent spots for snorkeling.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-September) for the best swimming conditions.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and older children; not ideal for toddlers due to rocky terrain.
Price: Free to access; sunbed and umbrella rentals available for €5-€10.
Travel Tip: While these are not sandy beaches, the flat rocks provide a unique sunbathing experience, and the sea is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
4. Salesian Theatre
The Salesian Theatre is a historic theatre offering a variety of cultural events, including plays, concerts, and artistic performances.
Location: Located in central Sliema, near Independence Gardens.
Scenic Spot: A historic theater hosting plays, concerts, and artistic performances.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings when performances are scheduled.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but show themes may vary.
Price: €10-€30 depending on the performance.
Travel Tip: Check the theatre’s program in advance to catch a local performance or concert during your visit.
5. Independence Gardens
Independence Gardens is a small but lush park in Sliema, offering a peaceful escape with shaded areas, benches, and a children’s playground.
Location: Along the Sliema Promenade, close to Exiles Beach.
Scenic Spot: A green oasis with shaded areas, benches, fountains, and a children’s playground.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially good for families with children.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Take a relaxing break in the gardens, and if you’re traveling with children, they’ll enjoy the playground area.
6. St. Julian’s Tower
St. Julian’s Tower, a historic watchtower built by the Knights of St. John, marks the border between Sliema and the neighboring town of St. Julian’s.
Location: On the border between Sliema and St. Julian’s, near Balluta Bay.
Scenic Spot: A historic 17th-century watchtower overlooking the sea.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day, with evening offering great sunset views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the climb to the tower area may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The area around the tower, including the picturesque Spinola Bay, is great for exploring on foot.
7. The Point Shopping Mall
The Point Shopping Mall is the largest retail mall in Malta, offering a wide range of shops, from high-street brands to luxury goods, and several dining options.
Location: Tigne Point, Sliema, near the ferry terminal.
Scenic Spot: Malta’s largest shopping center with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, family-friendly with various shops and dining options.
Price: Free to enter; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Apart from shopping, the mall often hosts events and activities, especially during holiday periods.
8. Sliema Ferries
Sliema Ferries is the departure point for various boat tours and ferry services to Valletta and other locations around the island.
Location: Sliema waterfront, near the main promenade.
Scenic Spot: The departure point for ferries and boat tours, offering scenic harbor views.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for calm waters and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ferry rides are enjoyable for all.
Price: €2.80 for a one-way ferry to Valletta; boat tours start at €15.
Travel Tip: Take a ferry ride to Valletta for a quick and scenic trip across the harbor, offering a great view of the city from the sea.
9. Exiles Beach and Surfside
Exiles Beach, near Surfside, is a popular spot for swimming, water sports, and has a vibrant beach club scene.
Location: Near Exiles Bay, along the Sliema coast.
Scenic Spot: A popular beach club and rocky shoreline with a lively bar and restaurant.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities; evenings for a relaxed nightlife experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the nightlife is more suited for adults.
Price: Free to access; sunbed rentals €5-€10.
Travel Tip: Visit Surfside for beach activities during the day and stay for the lively atmosphere and dining in the evening.
10. Sliema Art Festival
The Sliema Art Festival, held annually, transforms the town’s promenade into an open-air art gallery featuring local and international artists.
Location: Along the Sliema Promenade, held annually in summer.
Scenic Spot: Transforms the town’s promenade into an open-air art gallery with street performances.
Best Time to Visit: During the festival (usually July) for a lively cultural experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families and art lovers.
Price: Free to attend.
Travel Tip: If visiting during the festival, it’s a great opportunity to experience contemporary art and cultural performances.
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Sliema, Malta: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Sliema: 7/10 – Sliema is family-friendly with its seafront promenade, playgrounds, and several child-friendly cafes and restaurants. The rocky beaches are good for swimming, though they might not be ideal for very young children. Nearby attractions, such as the Splash & Fun Water Park, offer additional entertainment for kids.
Nightlife in Sliema: 7/10 – Sliema has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, pubs, and lounges, especially along the promenade. While it’s less wild than nearby St. Julian’s, it offers a more relaxed and mature evening experience, with many spots offering beautiful sea views and live music.
Sport in Sliema: 7/10 – Sliema is great for water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing. The promenade is popular for jogging and cycling. Several gyms and fitness centers are available, and the Sliema Wanderers Sports Club offers facilities for football and other sports.
Culture and Attractions in Sliema: 6/10 – While Sliema is more modern and commercial, it has some cultural points of interest like historic buildings and churches. The Sliema Promenade and its surrounding area offer beautiful views and a pleasant walking experience. For richer cultural experiences, the nearby capital Valletta is easily accessible by ferry.
Gastronomy in Sliema: 8/10 – Sliema boasts a wide range of dining options, from traditional Maltese cuisine to international fare. The waterfront is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering everything from casual dining to upscale experiences. Fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes are particularly popular.
Shopping in Sliema: 8/10 – Sliema is one of Malta’s prime shopping destinations, featuring a mix of high-end stores, boutiques, and large shopping centers like The Point Shopping Mall. The area also has a variety of local shops and markets, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Prices in Sliema: 6/10 – Prices in Sliema can be relatively high, especially in terms of accommodation and dining, reflecting its popularity and prime location.
Average price for a hotel night: 150 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 20 €
Price of a beer: 4.50 €
Price of a coffee: 2.50 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Sliema, Malta
For those looking to explore beyond Sliema’s modern seafront and shopping districts, top day trips near Sliema offer a journey into Malta’s storied past and breathtaking landscapes. The historical fortifications of Valletta and the tranquil beauty of the Blue Grotto are within easy reach, providing a perfect mix of cultural immersion and natural wonder.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Sliema accommodations range from stylish hotels with panoramic views of the Mediterranean to quaint, traditional guesthouses, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable spot to unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.
FAQ About Things to Do in Sliema, Malta
What are the main attractions in Sliema, Malta?
Sliema’s top attractions include its scenic promenade, the bustling Tigne Point shopping area, and the Sliema Ferries area with its array of cafes and shops.
Can I enjoy beach activities in Sliema?
Yes, Sliema offers various beach activities along its rocky coastline, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and scuba diving.
Are there any historical sites in Sliema?
While Sliema is more modern, you can visit the 18th-century Saint Julian’s Tower and Fort Tigne for a glimpse into Malta’s historical fortifications.
What shopping opportunities are available in Sliema?
Sliema is known for its shopping, with Tigne Point being the main shopping hub along with various boutiques and high street brands lining the streets of the town.
Does Sliema have a nightlife scene?
Absolutely! Sliema has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes, especially along the promenade offering stunning sea views.
Can I find traditional Maltese food in Sliema?
Yes, there are many restaurants in Sliema where you can enjoy traditional Maltese cuisine, including seafood dishes, pastizzi, and rabbit stew.
Are there any cultural or local events in Sliema?
Sliema occasionally hosts local festivals and events, especially in the summer months, featuring music, food, and cultural displays.
Is Sliema suitable for family activities?
Sliema is family-friendly, with various parks, playgrounds, and family-oriented activities along the promenade and in nearby St. Julian’s.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sliema
https://www.getyourguide.com/sliema-l117585/
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