Where to Stay in Sliema Malta

Ferries, Sea Views, Smart Stays

Sliema is one of the easiest places to stay in Malta if you are looking for stunning sea views, a variety of delicious restaurants, convenient bus service, the nearby Valletta ferry, and a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and aparthotels.

While it might not be the ideal choice for a peaceful, sandy beach holiday, it is perfect as a practical and easily accessible base that doesn’t require a car.

From our experience, Sliema works best when you treat it as a practical base rather than a quiet resort. It is the kind of place where you can walk out for dinner, get to Valletta by a short ferry, join a harbour cruise, or enjoy the promenade without needing to plan every small journey.

👉 Compare available places to stay in Sliema here and see which part of the town suits your trip best.

Where to stay in Sliema Malta guide with hotel rooms, pool and boutique entrance.Find the best place to stay in Sliema, from seafront hotels to practical apartments

Is Sliema A Good Place To Stay In Malta?

Yes, Sliema is among the top locations in Malta for convenience, sea views, dining, shopping, buses, and easy access to the capital city, Valletta.

  • Best for: First-time visitors, couples, older travellers, short breaks, no-car holidays and travellers seeking good transport.
  • Think twice if: You want either a sandy beach outside your hotel or a very quiet village atmosphere.
  • Main advantage: Enjoy convenient ferry, bus, and promenade access, making exploring the area a delight.
  • Main drawback: Swimming is mostly from rocky coasts, not sandy beaches.

Our honest local view is that Sliema is one of the easiest areas to recommend for a first Malta trip because of its convenience. It is not Malta’s most traditional or peaceful base, so Valletta, Birgu, Rabat or Gozo may suit you better if you want charm and quieter streets.

If you like Sliema’s convenience but want a calmer base, our guide to the quietest areas to stay in Sliema can help you choose the right part of town.

Best Area To Stay In Sliema

Map showing the main areas to stay in Sliema, Malta.Sliema’s main areas at a glance

Sliema is a very walkable area, with each area offering its own unique charm. Some parts are perfect for catching ferries and buses, while others are great for enjoying beautiful sea views, shopping, relaxing strolls along the promenade, or easy access to St Julian’s.

For a first-time visitor, start with Sliema Ferries or The Strand for convenience, Tower Road or Exiles for promenade walks and rocky swimming, and Tigné for a modern area. The Balluta side is close to St Julian’s without the busy nightlife streets.

Here is a friendly overview of the main areas to help you decide the best place to stay.

For a deeper area-by-area breakdown, see our guide to which part of Sliema to stay in, including Tigné, The Strand, Tower Road, Balluta side and the Gżira edge.

Sliema Ferries / The Strand

  • Best for: First-time visitors, Valletta ferry, buses, restaurants, and harbour views.
  • Choose this area if: You want the easiest base and do not want to think too much about transport.

If ferry access is your priority, our guide to where to stay near Sliema Ferries explains the best streets, nearby transport and who this area suits most.

Tigné Point

  • Ideal for modern apartments, shopping, sea views, and stylish accommodation options.
  • Choose this area if: You want a smarter, newer side of Sliema close to The Point and the waterfront.

Tower Road / Exiles

  • Best for: Promenade walks, sea views, swimming from the rocks, cafés.
  • Choose this area if: You wish to stay close to the sea and enjoy morning or evening walks.

If you are unsure whether views are worth the extra cost, our guide to Sliema seafront promenade or one street back compares noise, value, views and walking comfort.

Balluta Side

  • Best for: Staying in a spot that’s between Sliema and St Julian’s.
  • Choose this area if: You want easier access to both Sliema and St Julian’s, but prefer not to stay right in Paceville.

If you are still deciding between nearby bases, our guide to Sliema vs St Julian’s vs Gżira compares transport, atmosphere, nightlife, sea views and value.

Quick Picks For Where To Stay In Sliema

Best Places To Stay In Sliema

Below are our selected places to stay in Sliema, including hotels, apartments, aparthotels and boutique-style stays. Each option has been chosen for a different type of visitor, whether you want sea views, easy ferry access, more space, better value or a practical base without a car.

We recommend confirming the exact street in Sliema, not just the hotel name. A property may appear nearby on a map, but the atmosphere varies whether near the ferry, promenade, Tigné, Exiles, or Gżira side of The Strand.

The price guide is based on each property’s overall position in Sliema, including location, room type, facilities, sea views, apartment space and whether it feels more budget, mid-range, upscale or luxury.

Prices can change depending on season, room choice, sea-view category, cancellation terms and how early you book, so treat this as a quick guide rather than a fixed nightly rate.

  • Price Guide: € = Budget
  • Price Guide: €€ = Good value / mid-range
  • Price Guide: €€€ = Upscale
  • Price Guide: €€€€ = Luxury

This is a general guide only. Prices can change depending on season, room type, sea views, availability and how early you book.

The Waterfront Hotel – Best Overall Stay In Sliema

View over Sliema harbour with boats, marina, pool and the Valletta skyline.Sliema hotel room with harbour view.

Area: Sliema / The Strand
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, short breaks and no-car stays
Price guide: €€€ - Upscale waterfront hotel with sea-view rooms and rooftop amenities.

The Waterfront Hotel near Sliema and The Strand is a solid all-round choice for sea views, nearby restaurants, and easy access to buses, ferries, and boat trips. It suits visitors wanting a practical base close to Valletta, St Julian’s, and the Sliema promenade. The hotel offers sea-view rooms, family rooms, and a rooftop terrace with harbour views, catering to a wide range of travellers.

Key Facts: Hotel • Sea-view room options • Family rooms • Rooftop terrace • Good transport access.

Why stay here: It offers one of the best balances of location, comfort, and convenience in Sliema.

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Barceló Fortina Malta – Best Sea-View Hotel In Sliema

Hotel room in Sliema with balcony and harbor view.Sliema hotel room from Barceló Fortina Malta with harbour view

Area: Tigné / Sliema Waterfront
Best for: Couples, luxury stays, sea views and special trips
Price guide: €€€€ – Luxury five-star seafront hotel featuring premium terraces and scenic views.

Barceló Fortina Malta is one of the strongest options in Sliema if you want a more polished stay with standout views. It offers sea-view rooms with terraces overlooking the sea and Valletta, ideal for couples or special trips. While not a budget, it provides a luxury base near the waterfront, restaurants, shopping, and the Valletta ferry.

Key Facts: 5-star hotel • Sea-view rooms • Terrace options • Spa and pool facilities • Excellent waterfront position.

Why stay here: Choose this hotel if views, comfort and a more premium stay in Sliema are your main priorities.

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Sliema Tigné Suites – Best Apartment In Sliema

Modern Sliema apartment kitchen with dining area.Apartment-style stay at Sliema Tigné Suites, Sliema

Area: Tigné
Best for: Families, friends, longer stays and self-catering trips
Price guide: €€€ / €€€€ – Premium apartments equipped with kitchens, sea views, and a rooftop pool.

Sliema Tigné Suites offers more space than typical hotel rooms, situated in the Tigné area near the seafront, shopping, and dining options. Designed for short or long stays, these suites feature fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and modern interiors, ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking independence.

Key Facts: Apartment-style stay • Fully equipped kitchens • Spacious living areas • Rooftop pool • Good for longer stays.

Why stay here: It offers you apartment space and flexibility in one of Sliema’s most convenient, modern areas.

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Sliema Studios – Best Aparthotel For Longer Stays

Comfortable Sliema hotel bedroom with modern decor.Comfortable bedroom stay at Sliema Studios, Sliema

Area: Sliema / Exiles side
Best for: Longer stays, couples, solo travellers and self-catering comfort
Price guide: €€ / €€€ – Mid-range studios with kitchen facilities and access to a rooftop pool.

Sliema Studios is a good choice if you want the independence of an apartment-style stay. Ideal for longer stays near the seafront and in central Sliema, it offers independence, with amenities including air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a kitchen. Perfect for travellers seeking simple comfort rather than full hotel services.

Key Facts: Aparthotel-style stay • Kitchen facilities • Air-conditioned units • Rooftop swimming pool • Good for independent travellers.

Why stay here: It is a practical long-stay option for travellers who want more flexibility than a standard hotel room.

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Preluna Hotel + Spa – Best Family-Friendly Stay In Sliema

Sliema seafront pool with sunbeds overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.Seafront pool stay at the Preluna Hotel, Sliema

Area: Tower Road / Sliema Seafront
Best for: Families, facilities, seafront stays and summer holidays
Price guide: €€€ – Luxury seafront hotel featuring a beach club and amenities for families.

Preluna Hotel + Spa in Sliema offers families more facilities than a simple city hotel. Restaurants, bars, a spa, and a private beach club featuring a saltwater pool, children’s pool, sun loungers, parasols, and a bar and grill. Ideal for families wanting a base with nearby pool and beach facilities.

Key Facts: Seafront hotel • Private beach club • Saltwater pool • Children’s pool • Spa and dining facilities.

Why stay here: It offers families more facilities than many hotels in Sliema, especially in the warmer months.

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Mr Todd Hotel – Best Budget Stay In Sliema

Modern Sliema hotel bedroom with desk and seating area.Modern hotel room at Mr Todd Hotel, Sliema

Area: Sliema Ferries / Central Sliema
Best for: Budget travellers, short breaks and no-car stays
Price guide: €€ – A central hotel that offers good value, located near the seafront.

Mr Todd Hotel offers good value if you want to stay in central Sliema without seafront prices. Near the seafront, bus station, and Valletta ferries, it's ideal for travellers without a car. Its modern, simple rooms suit those seeking a clean, practical stay in a convenient location.

Key Facts: Modern hotel • Central Sliema location • Close to seafront • Near buses and Valletta ferries • Good value.

Why stay here: It is one of the most practical and budget-friendly options for staying close to Sliema’s transport links.

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Palazzo Violetta – Best Boutique-Style Stay In Sliema

Palazzo Violetta entrance in Sliema with red shutters.Boutique-style stay Palazzo Violetta, Sliema

Area: Sliema
Best for: Couples, longer stays, families and travellers who want character
Price guide: €€€ – Upscale boutique suites with kitchenette options and Maltese character.

Palazzo Violetta is a good boutique-style option if you prefer something smaller and more characterful than a standard seafront hotel. It offers larger suites with living areas, kitchenettes, and Maltese touches. Perfect for couples, families, or longer stays, it provides a quieter, residential alternative near Sliema and St Julian’s, though not directly on the ferry strip.

Key Facts: Boutique hotel • Suite-style rooms • Kitchenette options • Larger layouts • Good for character and space.

Why stay here: It provides a more personalised, suite-style experience for travellers seeking alternatives to large hotels.

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Land’s End Boutique Hotel – Best For Sliema Ferries

Spacious Sliema hotel bedroom with balcony and modern seating area.Spacious hotel room at Land’s End Boutique Hotel, Sliema

Area: Sliema Ferries / The Strand
Best for: Valletta ferry access, couples, short breaks and no-car stays
Price guide: €€€ / €€€€ - Luxury boutique waterfront hotel offering views of the harbor and Valletta.

Land’s End Boutique Hotel is a good choice near the Sliema ferry, offering harbour or Valletta views. Ideal for visitors crossing frequently, using buses, boat trips, or exploring without a car. The hotel has a boutique feel, dining, and rooms with views of Valletta, Marsamxett Harbour, Sliema Creek, and Manoel Island.

Key Facts: Boutique hotel • Close to Sliema ferry area • Harbour and Valletta views • Dining facilities • Good for no-car stays.

Why stay here: It's a wonderful choice if you're looking for ferry access and beautiful harbour views!

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Should You Choose A Hotel, Apartment Or Aparthotel In Sliema?

Sliema has a good mix of hotels, apartments and aparthotels. The best choice depends on how long you are staying, how much space you need, and whether you prefer hotel services or a more independent stay.

For longer stays, apartments or aparthotels are ideal in Sliema due to nearby shops, cafés, and takeaway options. For shorter stays, a hotel is more convenient, offering breakfast, reception support, and easier check-in.

Hotels

Best for: Short breaks, couples, sea views and breakfast included.

Good to know: Easier if you want reception, cleaning and hotel services.

Apartments

Best for: Families, longer stays and self-catering holidays.

Good to know: Check lift access, balcony, air-conditioning and exact location.

Aparthotels

Best for: Longer stays with hotel-style convenience.

Good to know: A good middle ground between a hotel and an apartment.

Is Sliema Good Without A Car?

Sliema is a fantastic place to stay in Malta, especially if you do not have a car. With buses, ferries, taxis, harbour cruises, restaurants and promenade walks nearby, it makes exploring much easier. See our guides to getting around Malta, Malta public transport and the Valletta ferry for more planning tips.

Not having a car will save you time on parking, as Sliema is very busy. If you plan to walk, a car isn't necessary to get around Sliema. Transportation options are easily accessible if you want to visit Valletta or even Comino.

For a more detailed look at transport, walking distances and when taxis or ferries make sense, see our guide to staying in Sliema without a car.

Does Sliema Have Good Beaches?

Sliema offers lovely rocky swimming spots, beautiful sea views, and scenic promenade walks, making it a delightful place to explore. However, if you're dreaming of soft sandy beaches with shallow waters, our guide to the best beaches in Malta has great suggestions. You might also enjoy planning a day trip to Mellieħa Bay, Golden Bay, or Għajn Tuffieħa for a perfect beach day.

Locals usually visit the promenade between St. Julian's and Gzira, which is mostly rocky with multiple flat spots ideal for relaxing and swimming. In summer, many areas get crowded. Still, it's not suitable for a traditional beach holiday.

Getting Around From Sliema

  • 🚍 By bus: Sliema has bus connections to Valletta, St Julian’s, beaches and other parts of Malta.
  • ⛴️ By ferry: The Valletta ferry is one of the biggest reasons to stay near Sliema Ferries.
  • 🚕 By taxi: Bolt, Uber and local taxis are useful at night or when travelling with luggage.
  • 🚗 By car: A car is not essential in Sliema, and parking can be difficult in busy areas.
  • 🚶 On foot: The promenade is one of Sliema’s best features, particularly for evening walks.

Local advice: Sliema is a great option if you don't have a car, as parking can sometimes be a headache unless your accommodation offers it. We consider Sliema a transport hub due to the number of buses and harbour transport.

If Our Top Picks Are Sold Out

Sliema offers a variety of accommodation options, so it is a good idea to explore a few extra choices in case your first pick isn't available or if prices are higher. You will find some options right in Sliema, while others are nearby around The Strand or in the Gżira area, which can still provide a convenient base for your stay.

Before you make your booking, be sure to double-check the property’s exact location, the most recent facilities, recent guest reviews, and official booking information. This way, you can feel confident that it will be the perfect fit for your trip.

Apartments & Aparthotels

Sea View Hotels

  • Verdi Gżira Promenade – A great waterfront option on The Strand, just moments from Sliema’s main tourist area.
  • Diplomat Hotel - Seafront hotel on Tower Road with sea views, a rooftop pool and easy access to Sliema’s promenade.
  • Carlton Hotel - A seafront accommodation near the promenade, cafés, restaurants, and rocky swim spots around Balluta and Sliema.

Budget Stays

  • Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels – Simple central option, with shops, restaurants and the ferry, on the waterfront.
  • Sliema Chalet Hotel – a practical seafront option if you mainly want location over luxury.
  • Plaza Regency Hotels – good-value option near Balluta, between Sliema and St Julian’s, directly opposite the promenade.

Boutique & Couples Stays

  • Amery House – an elegant boutique hotel close to the promenade, good for couples wanting a smaller Sliema stay.
  • Giorgio Boutique Hotel – Charming, small townhouse-style boutique hotel that truly reflects local character. It offers a quieter vibe reminiscent of Sliema.

Find Your Sliema Hotel Or Apartment With The Map Below

When using the map, focus on the location of the property rather than just comparing prices. Being a few minutes closer to the ferry, promenade, or bus stops can significantly improve your experience, especially if you're visiting Malta without a car.

FAQ - Where to stay in Sliema

Is Sliema a good place to stay in Malta?

Sliema is a wonderful place to stay if you are looking for convenience, delicious restaurants, stunning sea views, good public transport, and easy access to Valletta.

Which part of Sliema is best to stay in?

Sliema Ferries is a great choice for quick transport and easy access to Valletta. If you are looking for modern accommodation and shopping options, Tigné is perfect. For delightful promenade walks and stunning sea views, Tower Road and Exiles are the best spots to enjoy.

Is Sliema good without a car?

Yes, Sliema is a very convenient spot in Malta if you do not have a car, since buses, ferries, taxis, shops, and restaurants are all nearby, making it easy to get around and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Does Sliema have sandy beaches?

Sliema is primarily known for rocky swimming spots rather than sandy beaches. If a sandy beach is your main focus, consider Mellieħa, Golden Bay, or Għajn Tuffieħa.

Is Sliema better than St Julian’s?

Sliema generally offers better options for transport, shopping, and a more relaxed atmosphere as a base. In contrast, St Julian’s is ideal for nightlife, with numerous restaurants around Spinola Bay, and a more lively evening scene.

Is Sliema good for families?

Yes, it is a great idea, especially if you opt for an apartment or an aparthotel and want easy access to transportation. That said, families looking for a relaxing sandy beach holiday might find Mellieħa or some areas of St Paul’s Bay more appealing.

Who is Sliema best for?

Sliema suits first-time visitors, couples, older and solo travelers, and those wanting an easy base without a car. It’s also good for families preferring apartments or aparthotels, but not ideal for sandy beach holidays.

How many days should I stay in Sliema?

Sliema suits anything from a short weekend break to a full week in Malta. For most first-time visitors, 3 to 5 nights is enough time to visit Valletta, St Julian’s, the Three Cities, Mdina, beaches, and boat trips from here.

Is Sliema walkable?

Sliema is one of the most walkable places in Malta, especially along the promenade, The Strand, Tower Road, and near the ferry area. If you want easy access to buses, boats, restaurants, and the Valletta ferry, staying near Sliema Ferries or The Strand is a good choice.

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Albert and Benjamin Magro, local Malta travel writers

We're Albert and Benjamin Magro, two Malta locals sharing the island through the eyes of people who live here and still love exploring it like visitors. We spend our time discovering beaches, restaurants, hidden corners, and practical tips to help you plan a better trip to Malta. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook, where we share more of Malta through our photos and videos.