Staying in Sliema: harbor side or open-sea side
Sliema has two distinct waterfronts, and choosing between them changes your daily route. The Strand faces Valletta and puts the ferry within easy reach. Tower Road follows the open sea, with rocky bathing areas and a longer promenade walk. Inland streets connect the shores over higher ground, so check the gradient as well as the distance. A room advertised as near the sea may still be a considerable walk from the ferry.
At a glance
- Best for
- Sea walks, restaurants, choice
- At night
- Lively along the front
- Getting around
- Ferry to Valletta; many buses
- Price level
- €€
The modern resort suburb across Marsamxett Harbour: a long seafront, shops, and a ferry to Valletta every thirty minutes or so.
Good for
- Families and first-time visitors who want choice
- A long flat promenade and sea swimming from the rocks
- Restaurants, shops and a ferry to Valletta
Think twice if
- You want the old streets of Valletta at night
- Traffic and high-rise buildings put you off
What is near Sliema
Tigné Point
Allow about 15 minutes from the Sliema ferry landing to reach the point for views across the water toward Valletta.
Qui-Si-Sana seafront
Walk about 15 minutes from the ferry landing, crossing the peninsula to reach the open-sea promenade and rocky shoreline.
Balluta Bay
From the seafront at Fond Għadir, follow the promenade for roughly 20 minutes toward the small bay and its waterfront square.
Eating in Sliema
The Strand has plenty of places for a quick meal before or after a crossing. Around Tower Road, check whether the menu suits a full dinner or mainly drinks and snacks. Inland bakeries and small cafés can be useful for breakfast, especially if your accommodation has no dining room.
Getting around from Sliema
For Valletta, use the Sliema ferry landing on the harbor side when services are running. Bus stops line the main waterfront roads, with routes and directions shown in the Tallinja app. Allow for traffic when traveling by road toward Valletta or St Julian's. There are no train or metro lines.
Hotels in Sliema
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Other areas of Valletta
Staying in Sliema: harbor side or open-sea side
Which side should I choose for frequent Valletta visits?
Choose an address within an easy walk of the Sliema ferry landing on the harbor side. Check the actual walking route, since an inland shortcut may involve a hill.
Does Sliema have a broad sandy beach?
Much of the open-sea shore is rock, with steps or ladders at some bathing spots. Check sea conditions and your exit route before entering the water.
What happens if the ferry is suspended?
Use a bus or taxi by road and allow additional time. Check the operator's service notices before setting off, particularly when the weather is windy.