Sliema

Sliema is the modern waterfront area with shopping malls, hotels, and most budget hostels. It's safe and practical with a cosmopolitan feel, but lacks historic character.

Sliema is across the harbor from Valletta with frequent ferries (5 minutes). Where Valletta has baroque architecture, Sliema has shopping malls, modern apartments, waterfront restaurants, and contemporary hotels. The seafront promenade goes on for kilometers with joggers, families, and dog walkers from morning to late evening. Most budget hostels are here since Valletta has few options, so it's where many travelers stay. The area is busy at all hours and feels safe, with people walking alone even late at night. The mix of locals, expats, and tourists creates a cosmopolitan feel where you don't stand out. Everyone speaks English in restaurants, shops, and hotels. People eat alone all the time, often working on laptops in cafes. The downside is it feels generic and touristy compared to Valletta's historic character. Shopping centers like The Point dominate, and lots of restaurants serve international food instead of Maltese. Street harassment gets reported in crowded areas, and pickpocketing happens in busy shopping zones and on packed buses. Buses connect to everywhere on Malta, and the ferry to Valletta runs often with harbor views.