Gracing the seaside of Malta, St. Julian’s offers a picturesque getaway with rocky beaches, period architecture and traditional fishing boats bobbing in the bays and harbours. It also has lively casinos, nightlife and high-end fashion boutiques.

Things to do

Stroll the promenade at Balluta Bay, a rocky strip of beach with enticing seafood eateries and ice-cream stands. For a spectacular sunset, visit St. George’s Bay Beach and its collection of lively beach bars and restaurants.

At Spinola Bay you’ll find old-fashioned fishing trawlers as well as Spinola Palace, a Baroque mansion with an exquisitely carved clock in the centre. Keep an eye out for the LOVE monument by artist Richard England, which includes an adjacent inversion of the word reflecting from the water.

Wander the Balluta neighbourhood and stop for lunch in one of the cafe or marvel at the beauty of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, an imposing Gothic masterpiece. Feeling lucky? Three casinos offer slots and table games, including the Dragonara Casino, housed inside a former palace.

If shopping is on your agenda, Bay Street offers everything from discount outlets to designer boutiques and custom accessory shops. Join locals for ice skating at Bay Street in winter. If you’re looking to splurge, visit the luxury shops in Portomaso, about 10 minutes’ drive away.

Getting around

Buses and taxis offer transportation around St Julian’s, while you can also rent bicycles, motorbikes, segways and scooters. Rental cars are available at Malta International Airport, about 12 kilometres away.