Saint Julian’s – From fishing village to tourist attraction
For centuries, Saint Julian’s remained a quiet coastal village, relying on fishing and agriculture. However, its scenic location and proximity to Valletta attracted increasing attention, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Wealthy Maltese families began constructing summer residences in the area, transforming the town into a fashionable retreat.
The 20th century marked a turning point for Saint Julian’s as Malta began to embrace tourism. The town evolved into a bustling hotspot, with Paceville emerging as the center of nightlife and entertainment. Luxury hotels, casinos, and restaurants soon followed, further cementing Saint Julian’s reputation as a must-visit in Malta.
Things to Do in Saint Julian’s
Saint Julian’s is one of the most popular cities in Malta, known for its nightlife, variety of restaurants, and coastal views.
Seafront promenade
The long promenade between Saint Julian’s and Sliema has breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The walk between these two cities can take about 50 minutes. You can take a pleasant stroll, go for a morning jog or just relax and enjoy the views with a coffee or a meal in one of the many restaurants.
Spinola Bay
Spinola Bay, the vibrant heart of St. Julian’s, is a picturesque harbor filled with colorful Maltese fishing boats (luzzus) and charming waterfront restaurants. It is the perfect place to enjoy Medetaranean or international cuisine and take in the views.
One of Spinola Bay’s most iconic landmarks is the “Love Monument”, a striking and significant work of public art that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The monument displays the word “LOVE” written in large inverted block letters, so that the word correctly appears only as a reflection in the calm waters of the bay.
Balluta Bay
Balluta Bay is a quieter option compared to Spinola Bay, with a small artificial sandy beach that is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The nearby promenade is flanked by Art Nouveau buildings and the emblematic church of Balluta (parish church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel).
Paceville
For those looking for fun, Paceville is the nightlife capital of Malta. Paceville is famous for its lively nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars to suit all tastes. Popular venues such as Havana, Sky Club, Toy Room and HIVE Club offer unforgettable experiences. Paceville also offers activities such as a cinema and bowling alley, ideal for a night out with a difference.
For those looking for excitement beyond the dance floor, Paceville offers a wide variety of entertainment options. Among the highlights is the prestigious Dragonara Casino, housed in an elegant 19th century villa with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
St. George’s Bay Beach
St. George’s Bay Beach is a small sandy beach in Saint Julian’s, popular with locals, tourists, and especially international students. Situated near some of the most important English schools in Malta, the beach is always full of students enjoying their free time. It’s a great spot to relax, swim, or enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean views. Close to Paceville, the beach is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a lively and convenient place to visit.
Portomaso Marina
Portomaso, located in the heart of Saint Julian’s, is one of the most prestigious developments in Malta, renowned for its blend of elegance and luxury. At its center lies the stunning Portomaso Marina, a tranquil hub for luxury yachts, surrounded by fine dining restaurants and cafés.
Within Portomaso, you’ll find the renowned Hilton Malta Hotel, and the residential area features some of Malta’s most exclusive apartments, offering luxurious interiors and breathtaking views of the marina or the Mediterranean Sea.
The Mercury Tower
The Mercury Tower, Malta’s tallest building at 121 meters, is a must-visit spot in St. Julian’s. Designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid, it features a unique twist between floors 10 and 13 and integrates the historic Mercury House from 1903. Opened in 2023, it offers a three-level shopping mall, a lively public square, and a mix of residential and hotel spaces. Perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying stunning architecture, the Mercury Tower blends Malta’s history with modern style in a vibrant setting.
Where to stay in St. Julian’s in Malta?
St. Julian’s has many different types of accommodations to fit any budget and preference. Whether you want to book a hotel in Malta, an apartment, or a homestay, prioritize online platforms: Expedia, Booking, etc. Here are some options you can choose from:
5-Star Hotels in St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s boasts a selection of 5-star hotels that cater to those seeking luxury, comfort, and premium service. These upscale establishments are often located in prime areas such as Portomaso Marina, Spinola Bay, and near St. George’s Beach, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Hilton Malta
The Hilton Malta, a 5-star hotel in Portomaso Marina, St. Julian’s, offers 413 Mediterranean-style rooms with views of gardens, the marina, or the sea. Ideal for all travelers and pet-friendly, it features a spa, fitness center, pools, tennis courts, and dining options like the Thai-inspired Blue Elephant and seafood-focused Oceana.
Hyatt Regency Malta
The Hyatt Regency, a 5-star hotel in the heart of Saint Julian’s, Malta, is just steps away from the vibrant Paceville nightlife. It offers 151 modern rooms, including 12 luxurious suites, and features top amenities such as two pools, a spa and wellness center, and a fitness center, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Intercontinental Malta
The InterContinental Malta, a 5-star hotel in the heart of St. Julian’s near Paceville and St. George’s Beach, is a modern resort popular with business travelers and conference attendees. It features 481 rooms over 19 floors, 24 meeting rooms, and a 6,000 m² conference space for up to 1,700 people. Facilities include two pools (one rooftop), a spa, a wellness center, and one of Malta’s largest fitness clubs, which is also open to non-guests.
3-Star Hotels in St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s offers a variety of 3-star hotels that provide comfortable and affordable accommodations for travelers seeking value without compromising on convenience. Many of these hotels are located near key attractions such as Spinola Bay, Paceville, and St. George’s Beach, making them ideal for budget-conscious visitors.
Alexandra Hotel, the Most Popular Budget Hotel in Saint Julian’s
Alexandra Hotel is a 3-star hotel, located in the heart of the bustling and sought-after city of Saint Julian’s, and is a highly sought-after establishment for travelers looking for a well-positioned hotel offering good value for money.
Information about St. Julian’s, Malta
Location
San Giljan – Malta Island
Transport
lines 13, 14 and 16 from Valletta – San Giljan Stop (Balluta, Olivier, Spinola, Ross)
Saint Julian’s (Maltese: San Ġiljan) is one of Malta’s most popular cities located just north of Valletta and next to Sliema, is known for its dynamic nightlife, multitude of restaurants and bars, shopping malls and stunning waterfront views. St. Julian’s is a favorite destination for tourists and expatriates alike, especially during the summer months.