best nightlife in malta

Experience The Island's Nightlife Till The Early Hours Of The Morning

If you are looking to have a blast, then the nightlife in Malta is something you shouldn't miss. This archipelago offers numerous nightclubs and party destinations, especially in Paceville.

If you are travelling as a family with children, there are a whole lot of other alternatives such as dining at a restaurant, attending one of Malta's events or during the summer season, enjoying a village feast.

If you are not sure what to do at night in Malta, this page will help you choose. Partying and clubbing are not the only nightlife things to do in Malta.

Paceville Malta Nightlife

nightlife in malta - table of contents

• Where can I find the best nightlife in Malta?
• Partying in Malta
• How To Enjoy Your Evenings In Malta And Gozo
• Leisure Nightlife In Malta
• Planning Your Night Out In Malta
• Questions About The Nightlife In Malta

Where can I find the best nightlife in Malta?

Paceville (St. Julian’s): Paceville is the epicentre of nightlife in Malta. Located in St. Julian’s, it is bustling with a wide variety of night clubs, bars, lounges, and entertainment venues.

Buġibba, Qawra, and St. Paul’s Bay: This cluster of villages offers a more laid-back nightlife scene compared to Paceville. Buġibba and Qawra, in particular, are known for their numerous bars, pubs, and a few clubs.

Rabat (Outskirts): Rabat, particularly its outskirts, is home to some of Malta’s most famous open-air clubs. The Gianpula Village complex features several venues such as Gianpula Main Room, Marrakech, and the Rooftop, each offering unique experiences. Numero Uno, another popular open-air club, is known for its lively summer events and big-name DJ performances. These venues are especially popular during the summer months.

Valletta and Sliema: Valletta offers a sophisticated and diverse nightlife scene. Valletta, the capital city, is rich in history and culture, and its nightlife reflects this with a variety of bars, pubs, and wine bars. Sliema, on the other hand, combines a modern touch with numerous waterfront bars and lounges. Both Valletta and Sliema boast numerous 4 and 5-star hotels that feature upscale restaurants, bars, and lounges.

Birgu and Mdina: For a more intimate and historical nightlife experience, Birgu (Vittoriosa) and Mdina are ideal. Both cities are renowned for their wine bars, where you can enjoy fine wines in beautifully preserved historical settings.

Marsaxlokk: The village of Marsaxlokk is known for its picturesque fishing village charm, it offers some quiet bars and waterfront dining options perfect for a tranquil night out.

Gozo: The island of Gozo, Malta’s sister island, offers a more relaxed nightlife compared to the main island. Victoria (Rabat) features several bars and clubs like La Grotta, known for its stunning outdoor setting. Xlendi and Marsalforn are also popular areas, offering seaside bars and casual nightlife spots.

Carnival Malta | Last Day of The Celebrations

Partying in Malta - is malta a party place?

Get ready for an unforgettable experience while partying in Malta from visiting the clubs at Paceville, to massive parties, boat parties and summer music festivals. Enjoy the energetic atmosphere with part enthusiasts looking to dance the night away.

paceville malta nightlife

Paceville is Malta's premier nightlife destination, with an extensive choice of entertainment options including pubs, clubs, discos, casinos, gentlemen's clubs, and movies. Every night, especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, people throng to this area, filling its streets and venues until the early hours, making it Malta's greatest nightlife destination.

Several popular clubs for partying in Malta at Paceville:

• Havana Club: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse music genres and lively dance floors.
  
• Sky Club Malta: One of the largest indoor clubs, it hosts international DJs and large-scale events.
• Fuego Casa Latina: Famous for its Latin music and dance offering a unique experience with its lively salsa and reggaeton nights.
• Twenty-Two, Portomaso: An upscale club offering stunning panoramic views and a sophisticated setting.
• Alex House: A popular spot for a younger crowd, known for its energetic vibe and variety of music.
• Shadow Club: A well-known club offering a mix of electronic and house music, ideal for dance enthusiasts.
• Hugo’s Terrace: A trendy spot with a rooftop bar, offering great views and a mix of music genres, perfect for a lively night out.

Gianpula village: Malta's ultimate nightlife destination

Gianpula is one of Malta's largest and greatest nightclubs, with over ten venues all in one location. They organise some of the island's largest parties. Whether you choose an indoor or outdoor nightclub, a sun-kissed rooftop bar, a pool club, or a festival arena, Gianpula is dedicated to being Malta's leading entertainment and nightlife destination.

cafe del mar: A premier waterfront venue

Café del Mar Malta is a beachfront pool deck and lounging area with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. You may spend the day by the pool, enjoy nighttime entertainment, and attend major events here. The National Aquarium is right across the street, so you can relax by the pool, eat Mediterranean food, or sip cocktails while watching the sunset.

aria complex: Premier Entertainment Hub

The Aria Complex, located on the outskirts of San Gwann village, is another well-known nightlife hotspot. This fully equipped facility provides a unique experience by hosting a range of private, corporate, public, and franchised events throughout the year. Aria Complex's broad choice of events ensures an amazing experience.

la grotta xlendi gozo: Stunning Cliffside Nightclub

La Grotta is Gozo's main nightclub, where you may dance the night away in a breathtaking environment. It is located on the road leading to the popular Xlendi Bay and has both indoor and outdoor dance floors. La Grotta, known for hosting huge parties and gatherings, presents a magnificent backdrop thanks to its unusual setting in a limestone cave among the cliffs of the Xlendi Valley.

Lazy Pirate Boat Party - malta boat parties

Want to spice up your nightlife in summer? Why not book yourself a spot on the 5-hour Lazy Pirate boat party on the "Fernandez 2"? Dance the night away with over 200 guests and a DJ. What is better than having an open bar with food included in the price?

Sail across the Maltese seas towards the sunset from Sliema and continue sailing along the Maltese coast. Sail across the Maltese seas, enjoying stunning views, beginning at 6:30 PM from Sliema. A refreshing swim in the Mediterranean will be possible after the boat anchors.

Book your spot now on the Lazy Pirate Boat Party

summer music festivals

A fantastic summer music festival awaits you in one of the hottest international festival destinations. Due to Malta's small size and quiet atmosphere, you might think there aren't many fun things to do. There are increasing numbers of festivals on our island every year due to our island's rapid growth.

Some of the popular music festivals include, Isle of MTV, Summer Daze, Earth Garden, AMP Presents Lost & Found amongst many more.

Nightlife In Malta | Summer Daze Malta Concert

how to enjoy your evenings in malta and gozo

Your evening can also be spent strolling through the capital city and enjoying its lively bars, enjoying the sunset on the coast, attending an international event or even a summer village feast.

nightlife in valletta

Valletta as we all know is another hub of nightlife entertainment. From bars to restaurants, theatres and events, you will find something to do in the night if you are visiting Valletta. During the past few years, our capital city has been revamped with new restaurants and bars to give life to the city.

best bars in malta valletta

Here are some bars where you can have a drink and some nibbles:

Wild Honey – A Beer Lover and Craft Beer Fanatic Will Love This Place.

• This bar is located on St. Lucy Street which is in the heart of Valletta. There is a large selection of craft and Belgian beers, from bottled beers or draft beers.

Café Society – The Home Of Cocktails.

• A bar of entertainment with a mix of movie screenings, live music and more. Check out this bar if you want to sip on a great cocktail and have some nibbles. This bar is located on St. John's Street.

Bridge Bar – Have a Unique and Authentic Experience.

• A highly popular bar located on St. Ursula Street in Valletta. This bar is mostly active during the seasons of late spring and summer. There are regular Jazz sessions that start from the beginning of May. 

Waterfront Valletta - A water's edge dining location

• A long stretch along the waters on the outside of Valletta is packed with restaurants and bars. A mix of Italian, Maltese and traditional restaurants.

Strada Stretta (Strait Street)

• One of Valletta's most popular streets that is alive at night with amazing entertainment full of bars and people drinking and having a chat.

st. Julian's and sliema

If you want a relaxing evening you can head to Sliema and enjoy a walk along the promenade from St. Julian's to Sliema continuing even further to Msida. For refreshments or a bite to eat, you can stop at a bar or restaurant along the way. As you walk along the Sliema Ferries, you can see a stunning view of Valletta which is just across from Sliema.

This area is very lively and serves as the starting and ending point for all cruises to Gozo and Comino. Additionally, it serves as a ferry boat link between Valletta and Cospicua.

Best Nightlife Malta | St. Julians NightLife A Very Popular Area

bugibba/qawra and st. paul's bay

Towards the north of the island, you find Buġibba, Qawra, and St. Paul's Bay, three adjacent towns offering a unique blend of entertainment establishments such as casinos, restaurants, and the famous Café del Mar nightclub.

• Casinos: Oracle Casino in Qawra offers a variety of table games and slot machines, providing an exciting gaming experience with options for both novice and seasoned players.
• Bars and Restaurants: A mix of local and international cuisine is available at a variety of dining establishments, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
• Hotels: Stay at one of the numerous hotels along the shore, such as the Dolmen Hotel or the Seashells Resort at Suncrest, which provides excellent rooms and breathtaking ocean views.
• Beaches: Relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear seas, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Perched Beach and Qawra Point Beach are popular with beachgoers.
• Boat Cruises: Cruises to Gozo and Comino from the local port allow you to view the breathtaking Blue Lagoon and other beautiful spots. In the evening, join the sunset cruise with Sea Adventure.
• Public Transport: This area is well-served by public transport, making it simple to go to and from other parts of Malta and to Gozo, including Valletta and other important towns and villages.

annual International events in malta

Malta hosts a wide range of local and international art, cultural, and music events each year. Many local and international performers get the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at various festivals, making Malta a popular destination in the Mediterranean Sea.

Local events include the Malta International Fireworks Festival, the Jazz Festival, the Malta International Music Festival, and the Valletta Film Festival, among others.

When organising your trip to our islands, think about your preferences to choose the perfect festival or cultural activity for you.

casinos in malta

If you have some money to spend and are over the age of 25+, visiting a local casino in Malta might be an exciting experience. Malta has several casinos where you may test your luck and have an amazing night out.

Check out the casinos in Malta:

• The Dragonara Casino, Dragonara Road, St. Julian's - A historic casino provides a luxury gaming experience with breathtaking sea views.
• Casino Malta by Olympic Casino, St. George's Bay, St. Julians - This contemporary casino offers a diverse selection of games and a lively ambience.
  
• Oracle Casino, Qawra Seafront, Bugibba - Its beachside position provides spectacular views of the Mediterranean, which enhances the entire experience.
• Portomaso Casino, Portomaso, St. Julian's - A beautiful casino is part of the Portomaso Marina complex and provides a sophisticated gaming experience.

malta nightlife events

During the year there are several holidays or festivities where plenty of special parties are held all over the island such as Carnival, Easter, the beginning and end of summer, Christmas and plenty more. Apart from parties, several other events happen during these particular holidays.

For Carnival there are parades and floats in Valletta and Gozo, Christmas there are several Christmas markets and plenty of events both held during the day and night and for Easter there are several events including religious processions all over the islands.

malta village feasts

A village feast is a Maltese traditional event that has been going on for many years. Many towns and villages celebrate their patron saint where they decorate their particular village and have a feast.

Usually, a feast is a week-long with several activities, then on the weekend, a large amount of people visit this village and celebrate with a band march, fireworks, food stalls and lots of drinking.

Malta Village Feasts | Lija Feast on 6th August of every Year

leisure nightlife in malta

Discover the friendly calm side of Malta's nightlife with delicious eating options, lovely night walks, and energetic cultural performances in theatres and cinemas that provide a variety of leisure and enjoyment.

Dining Out in Malta

The cuisine of the Maltese Islands has evolved over the centuries from diverse cultures. The inhabitant's culinary practices are deeply influenced by this rich historical tapestry.

Malta's eating scene varies in flavour, from sophisticated premium restaurants to lovely beach cafés, all complemented by the lengthy and diverse history of many Mediterranean civilizations, resulting in a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience.

Local specialities like 'hobz biz-zejt' and pastizzi can be bought from several shops and cafes around the islands. Seasonal meals like Lampuki Pie and Rabbit Stew in traditional Maltese cuisine. These everyday foods highlight a distinct fusion of agricultural traditions and historical influences.

Night Walks and Historical Tours

Exploring the ancient cities by night adds a mysterious charm. Walk the silent, lamp-lit streets of Mdina, Malta’s old capital, or join a guided tour in Valletta to discover historical treasures under the soft glow of street lights. These walks offer enchantment and rich historical insights.

For more peaceful evenings, a spectacular night walk through Mdina, Malta's historic capital, transports you back in time with its lamp-lit mediaeval alleyways. Furthermore, picturesque walks along Malta and Gozo's beaches, promenades, and other coastal or countryside roads provide stunning sea or landscape views that are ideal for leisurely strolls.

Mdina In Malta | The Cathedral Square

Cinemas and Theatres

Eden Cinemas and Embassy Cinemas are Malta's leading contemporary cinema complexes, with cutting-edge facilities. In contrast, historical theatre such as Valletta's Manoel Theatre provides traditional plays, musicals, and concerts in a spectacular 18th-century setting, offering a fascinating blend of current and classic entertainment.

Malta has prime performance and music venues in Valletta, Floriana, and Ta' Qali. These include classic theatres, modern open-air venues, and large conference centres. Each venue has its own distinct ambience and hosts a variety of cultural events, concerts, and theatrical performances, all of which contribute to Malta's dynamic arts scene.

Check out the cinemas and theatres in Malta:

• Eden Cinemas besides the InterContinental Hotel, St. Julians
• Embassy Cinemas, Valletta
• Manoel Theatre, Old Theatre Street, Valletta
• Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Triq Ir-Republica, Valletta
• Mediterranean Conference Centre, Triq L-Isptar, Valletta
• MFCC Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre, Ta' Qali
• Open-air Concert Area and Grounds, Ta' Qali
• The Granaries in Floriana is a large piazza known for holding large-scale concerts and events.
  

Seaside Dining and Beach BBQs in Malta: A Culinary Coastal Experience

In Malta, enjoying a meal at a restaurant near the beach is a delightful experience, offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. Many coastal eateries serve fresh seafood and local delicacies, making for a perfect dining spot. Additionally, having a BBQ on the beach is a popular activity, but it's essential to obtain a permit beforehand. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while adhering to local regulations. Whether dining at a seaside restaurant or hosting a beach BBQ, Malta's coastal settings provide a memorable backdrop for culinary adventures.

The Valletta Waterfront | A Prime Nightlife Area in Malta

Planning Your Night Out in Malta

Plan your perfect night out in Malta with ease. From safe and convenient transportation to seasonal highlights, these tips ensure you enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife to the fullest.

Transportation and Safety

Navigating Malta is convenient with a variety of transportation options including public buses, taxis, and rideshare services. The island is generally safe, but it’s wise to remain cautious, especially at night. Well-lit and popular areas are recommended for evening outings.

Getting around Malta is relatively easy, with options ranging from public buses to taxis and rideshare services. The island is generally safe, but as with any tourist destination, it's wise to take regular safety precautions.

Tips for Enjoying Malta’s Nightlife

To maximize your nightlife experience in Malta, check local event schedules ahead of time, adhere to venue dress codes, and try to make reservations at popular spots. Exploring different areas can offer a diverse taste of the island’s vibrant night scene.

Check event schedules in advance to avoid missing out on great performances and festivals.
- Dress codes vary by venue, with clubs typically requiring smart casual attire.

Best Time to Experience Nightlife in Malta

The best time to experience Malta’s nightlife is during the summer months when the island pulses with life. Warmer temperatures bring extended hours of entertainment and a plethora of festivals and outdoor events, making it the ideal season for night-time revellers.

The summer months are particularly vibrant, as the warm weather and longer days lead to extended hours of entertainment and festivities.

questions about the nightlife in malta

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By Albert and Benjamin Magro