Saint Julian's

Saint Julian's, known locally as San Ġiljan, is a bustling coastal town situated on the northeastern coast of Malta, just north of Sliema and Valletta. Originally a sleepy fishing village centered around the picturesque Spinola Bay, the town has transformed into Malta's premier entertainment, dining, and resort destination. It is highly popular among international travelers, offering a vibrant mix of luxurious seafront hotels, upscale marinas, and sandy beaches.

The town is characterized by its dynamic coastal promenade, which stretches from Gżira all the way to St. George's Bay. While modern high-rises and commercial developments dominate the skyline, Saint Julian's still retains pockets of its historical charm, particularly around the traditional boat-dotted waters of Spinola Bay and its surviving 17th-century palaces.

Saint Julian's is a lively destination throughout the year, but the peak travel season is during the summer months (June to September) when the nightlife is at its height and the coastal waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. For those preferring a more relaxed experience with milder weather, the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November) are ideal.

The town is highly pedestrian-friendly, with a wide, scenic promenade connecting its major bays: Balluta Bay, Spinola Bay, and St. George's Bay. Public buses run frequently along the coast, providing direct connections to Valletta, Sliema, and the northern beaches. Taxis and ride-hailing services are extremely popular and readily available at all hours, especially around the Paceville entertainment district.

• Saint Julian's - A vibrant coastal resort town famous for its luxury hotels, diverse dining, and energetic nightlife.

Saint Julian's is the culinary capital of Malta, boasting an exceptional range of dining options. The waterfront at Spinola Bay is lined with restaurants offering fresh Mediterranean seafood, traditional Maltese rabbit, and Italian cuisine. From casual pizzerias and burger bars to award-winning fine dining establishments like Caviar & Bull, the town caters to every palate. The Portomaso Marina also offers premium waterfront dining overlooking luxury yachts.

While famous for modern entertainment, Saint Julian's celebrates its traditional roots during the annual feast of Saint Julian, held on the last Sunday of August. This event features decorated streets, brass band marches, and the traditional ġostra, a game where participants climb a greased pole over the sea to retrieve flags. The town also features historic landmarks such as the 17th-century Spinola Palace and the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

• Strolling along the Spinola Bay promenade at dusk, admiring the traditional Maltese luzzu fishing boats lit up on the water.
• Visiting the historic Dragonara Palace, an elegant 19th-century mansion built on a rocky peninsula, which now operates as a casino.
• Dining al fresco at Portomaso Marina, enjoying premium Mediterranean cuisine with views of the yachts and contemporary harbor architecture.