Every year in April, a world-class fireworks event is held: the Malta International Fireworks Festival. A great Maltese tradition that goes back to the dawn of time and a national pride that will enchant you during your stay in Malta during the festas every week from April to November…

The history of fireworks in Malta

Fireworks in Malta have an ancient historical origin: from the time of the Knights of St. John, in the 16ᵉ century, they are used to express joy on the occasion of the election of a Grand Master, the Pope, the birth of a Prince…
The explosives used for fireworks in Malta were extracted from mortars at that time. The first pyrotechnic creations were undoubtedly inspired by cannon fire and firearms. They are called “Musketterija”, “Solfarelli d’aria”, “Irdieden” (a very old artifice showing a very spectacular rotating jet effect).

During the 19 and 20ᵉ centuries, the art of pyrotechnics became professionalized in Malta to celebrate the events of the English crown, as the island was a British colony at the time.
Today, the Maltese tradition continues: every major national event, every holiday ends with fireworks in Malta!

The actors of the fireworks in Malta

More than 35 associations are specialized in fireworks in Malta: preparation of powder mixtures, computer programming of pyrotechnic shows, musical synchronization, positioning of explosives on barges for fireworks shot on water… Artificing in Malta is a passion and rarely a profession but always honored with great national pride. On June 18, 2011, the world record for the largest Irdieden or Maltese wheel, 32 meters in diameter, was set by a manufacturer in Malta (the Lily Company of Mqabba).

To know: Don’t be surprised to hear explosions, from 9 o’clock in the morning in summer, on the days of festas: you will see in the sky the smoke clouds resulting from the rockets sent to celebrate the beginning of the festivities! Sometimes it’s about testing, but it’s also about which commune (or parish) will make the most noise all day! The fireworks rivalry in Malta is also a national sport!

The next edition of the International Fireworks Festival in Malta

The World Competition welcomes every year fireworkers from Australia, Canada, Venezuela, Italy, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Great Britain and other nationalities. A national competition is also held to determine the best Maltese fireworkers.
It is usually held in April or May – the most grandiose show often takes place in late April with the finalists and enjoys an exceptional location: it is shot from boats maneuvering in the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta’s capital.
To find the program of the next edition of the Fireworks Festival in Malta, go to the Malta Fireworks Festival website.

Catherine’s Wheels, the contest.

Also known as “Nar tal-Art”, this festival is rarely mentioned in tourist guides but is very popular with the Maltese, bringing together about 20pyrotechnic associations, each with 2 Maltese models of their own wheel. It is always held in the main square in front of the church of San Pubrijo in Floriana, a few hundred meters from the main entrance to Valletta.
We recommend that you check out the Catherine Wheels contest. It often takes place in Floriana (Plaza Granary, not far from the entrance of the “CityGate” of Valletta).

Our tips for attending the fireworks in Malta

Places to see the most beautiful fireworks from April to November: Sliema – San Julian’s – Valletta – Zurrieq – The Three Cities. Some companies offer to attend the shows from a boat like Supreme Cruises or Fernandes…
Think about the night buses provided to attend the fireworks in Malta (variable price).
Detonations and crackling sounds can be violent and can frighten small children.

Maltese Lexicon :
* The musketterija: A hundred explosions of crackers in rapid succession, fired from the roof of a church or building. (we hate it!!!)
* The Solfanelli d’aria: a series of rapid shots faintly colored in the sky.
* The Irdieden or Catherine’s wheels or Maltese wheels: they are made of a metal structure with a spiral or round rotation mechanism and tubes filled with powder allowing their movement. When they ignite, they spin quickly, producing sparks and flames of all colors. Very spectacular!!!

Find here the calendar of festas in Malta and Gozo/

Here is our list with, in our opinion, the best bars in Malta according to My Little Malta :

Bars in Paceville, St Julians

1. The cheap bar with atmosphere: Footloose in Paceville

Between the 5€ cocktail pitchers and the free shooters, you won’t know which way to dance at the beginning of the night! One of the best places to dance and party in Paceville! There is plenty of space, the atmosphere is very nice and the music is lively and topical.

Where is it?

2. Chicha bar and cocktails : Fuego speakeasy in St Julian’s

Very cool lounge bar with possibility to smoke chicha and drink good cocktails, we recommend this place for a quiet drink, a pizza and more if affinity!

Where is it?

3. The best cocktail bar: Thirsty barber at St Julian’s

The cocktails are original and very well made! We are conquered by the friendly staff. In the spirit of a 1920s London pub with live music from Malta and elsewhere.

Where is it?

4. RnB bar club : Havana in Paceville

You’ll get lost both literally and figuratively in this huge club with Soul and RnB sounds! On three floors, you will be able to meet up to 3,000 people, enough to meet a lot of people! The prices of this very popular club are in the average of the bars of Paceville: 7€ the pitcher of cocktail, 2€ the shooter, and 2€50 the beer.

Where is it?

5. The classy bar: Hugo’s Terrace in Paceville

This bar, with its bay windows overlooking Paceville beach, is very elegant. The atmosphere is very good, as is the food. The prices are accordingly, but remain reasonable. This bar is in the same direction as the Hugo Hotel.

Where is it?

6. The latino bar: Native in Paceville

The Native is THE latino bar in Paceville! You will be able to dance, eat and breathe Latino! Salsa classes are organized during the week. You can enjoy tapas and guacamole on the terrace at your convenience and excellent mojitos, especially at happy hour every day from 6 to 7:30 pm! Vamos!

Where is it?

Bars in Sliema

1. Cocktail bar : Tex Mex in Sliema

The best cocktails in Malta, two for less than 6€ during happy hour, everything is said. My Little Malta warns you, the choice is very difficult! Paradise has hours: Monday to Friday from 4pm to 7pm, and Saturday from 3pm to 6pm. You can accompany your white russian or your mojito with Mexican or American cuisine, in the form of snacks or real dishes. The tapas lovers will also find there their account.

Where is it?

2. English pub : Black Gold Saloon in Sliema

Very popular English style pub with live music. They also have a restaurant with good burgers among others. This saloon is ideal for watching live sports or relaxing with a beer. You will also appreciate the numerous concerts that are organized there from 10 pm every Friday. The view of the marina of Sliema is also very nice.

Where is it?

Bars elsewhere in Malta

Pool lounge bar : Café del Mar in Qawra

Good atmosphere and nice infinity pool, for 15€ (the entrance) you can spend the day sunbathing and drinking cocktails! It is also a restaurant where you can eat very well! In our opinion also one of the most Instagrammable places in Malta.

Jazz music bar : Bridge bar in Valletta

If you are a jazz lover, you will love this place in Valletta ! They organize live sessions every Friday. Useful if your hotel is in Valletta. The nightlife here is less developed, but if you prefer a night out at a restaurant and a drink rather than a crazy night in a youth club, this is the right place!

Where is it?

And for you, what are the best bars in Malta?

To taste all these drinks, discover here the best bars in Malta and where to go out in Malta .

1. The famous Kinnie

It is the favorite soda of the Maltese. It’s a non-alcoholic, slightly carbonated and bitter drink, created in the 1950s and produced by the island’s leading beverage company. This drink made of quinine and bitter oranges has a very particular taste, according to us amixture of Schweppes Tonic and Ice Tea. An experiment that may well make a splash!

2. The Cisk

Among the local drinks, “La Cisk”, unpronounceable, we agree. It is the Maltese blond beer. It is widely consumed mainly because it is not expensive. Count about 2€-2€50 a pint in the bars. Some variants such as Cisk Excel or the flavored Cisk Lemon and Cisk Berry are, moreover, very appreciable.

3. Maltese wine

In Malta, we find vines of so-called “classic” grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot… But we also discover two “endemic” grape varieties (specific to the country), the Gellewza (a red giving rather round and fruity wines), and the Girgentina (a white allowing thirst-quenching wines with a floral and fruity nose). Find out more about the wines of Malta and Gozo thanks to the interview of an expert!

4. The Café

On the Maltese archipelago, people are great fans of coffee “Italian style” (rather short), so they adopt the same way of preparing it and are inspired by the culture of the neighboring peninsula in this area (and many others). Depending on your favorite type of coffee, you may find the Maltese version to be a bit “spicy“. My Little Malta advises you to order an “esssspresssso longo, please!!!” if you’re looking for a good espresso, as the standard espresso can be a little strong on the taste buds.

5. The Shandy

Shandy is the local shandy. It looks like our brave Desperados. It is very refreshing and much appreciated in high temperatures.

6. Local liqueurs

There are several flavors: almond, carob, orange or pomegranate. The Madlien is one particularly consumed by the Maltese, based on aromatic herbs, mainly produced in Naxxar. Similarly, the bajtra is the prickly pear.

7. Tap water

It is desalinated, by a complex process of reverse osmosis allowing the island to meet the needs of agriculture and the population, and therefore drinkable according to the authorities. Many will tell you not to drink it, however, there is no problem, it is more a matter of taste.

You are now ready to drink in all serenity on the island of Malta. Cheers!
We invite you to continue reading with the typical dishes of Malta.

If Las Vegas is often considered the temple of gambling, there is a real Palace in Malta where enthusiasts meet. They can combine their passion for gambling and the Maltese heritage. Since the 19th century, the Dragonara Casino in Malta was first the residence of one of the great families of the archipelago. It became one of the best and most important casinos on the island in the 1960s.

VISIT THE DRAGONARA PALACE DURING YOUR STAY IN MALTA

No matter how long you stay in Malta, the island has many treasures that you must visit. This is notably the case of the Dragonara Palace, built in 1870. It is located at the tip of the Tad-Dragun peninsula, in the very chic and sought-after town of St Julian’s. You are therefore only a few kilometers from the capital Valletta. This palace is one of the most extraordinary and imposing private properties in Malta. Much of its original architecture has been preserved for a truly magical and majestic experience. Since 1964, the Dragonara Palace has also been home to the best casino in Malta. It is also recognized as one of the most important in the southern Mediterranean.

Find the list of casinos in Malta here.

Don’t want to gamble money? The Dragonara is also the ideal place for private events and catering. You can even watch live broadcasts of major sporting events in the Sports Bar & Grill.

Located in the heart of the Palace floor, this unique venue offers sports enthusiasts an incredible experience. Indeed, they will be able to watch live matches and, if necessary, make sports bets on their favorite teams. Soccer matches, world championships or horse and car races are regularly on the agenda.

If gambling is not your thing, Dragonara Palace also offers one of the best dining experiences in Malta. Indeed, the Dragonara brewery, which overlooks the bay of Saint Julian’s, will allow you to spend an unforgettable evening. With constant improvements and an exceptional contemporary vision of the culinary art, the various exclusive dishes, meticulously concocted in the kitchen, will electrify your taste buds.

DRAGONARA CASINO, THE GAMBLING PALACE

If you are looking for the thrill and excitement of the gaming world, look no further. For an immersive experience steeped in elegance and history, Dragonara Casino is an inevitable destination to experience the unique feeling you’ll get when the dealer flips the cards or you settle into the slot games.

You have a wide variety of casino games at your disposal. From beginners to casino VIPs, it is open to all types of players, sure to find their happiness.

They will be greeted by a selection of approximately 300 slot machines. Dragonara Casino offers all the pokers and card games typical of European casinos, with the added advantage of playing in a palace. You will have a truly unforgettable, glamorous and exciting time. So you can’t miss this opportunity when you visit the Maltese islands.

Play roulette, lotto, blackjack, you will find the latest and most popular casino games. For fans, classics like the slot machine are also part of the game. You can always cross your fingers and hope to hit the jackpot and win some money. You can then head to the palace’s brasserie for a meal.

Measure yourself against professional poker players

But Dragonara Casino is also home to daily tournaments in one of the finest poker rooms you’ll find anywhere. Located overlooking St. George’s Bay, players enjoy a unique backdrop. The room is designed so that they can enjoy an outdoor environment during the summer months.

A setting unmatched not only by other poker rooms in Malta but also by any other poker room in Europe.

Both Maltese and foreign players can meet at the various gaming tables for tournaments. Professional dealers ensure that both expert and amateur players get the most out of the experience. Thus, well-planned cash games are the icing on the cake at Dragonara Poker Room. Poker games have become one of Dragonara’s main assets, allowing you to meet and compete with a number of renowned players.

Find Dragonara Casino online

The Dragonara experience does not end with your visit to the Dragonara Palace. You may wish to continue your gaming experience with the internet casino portal: dragonara.mt, a digital gaming experience of the highest quality. Dragonara.mt is operated by IZI Interactive Limited, duly licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/B2C/345/2016).

At the frontier of heritage and unique and exclusive gaming experiences, Dragonara Palace is the only casino that perfectly combines spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, exceptional heritage, a top-notch gaming experience and extremely tempting dining services. Opened to the public over 50 years ago, it was the first casino established in Malta and remains by far the most popular and number one in Malta.

Dragonara Casino is operated by Dragonara Gaming Limited and is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/B2C/181/2010). To visit Dragonara Casino, Maltese nationals must be 25 years of age or older, while the minimum age for foreigners is 18. Games at Dragonara should be played responsibly. Visitors who are playing games can ask for help at www.rgf.org.mt.

The place of gambling in Malta

Land-based casinos in Malta

Maltese casinos often occupy high-class establishments and the casino hotels are among the most luxurious in Malta.
Malta has partly found its place thanks to poker players moving to the islands to take advantage of the benefits that the archipelago offers for players.

Online casinos in Malta

The Malta Gaming Authority is the regulatory body for gambling in Malta. Malta’s gaming license is one of the most prestigious and Malta’s online and land-based casinos have an excellent reputation. Malta was one of the first countries in Europe to allow and regulate online gambling back in 2000. Since then, MGA has licensed over 100 companies. These companies include online casinos, casino game software developers and other entities involved in the online gaming industry.

Where are the casinos in Malta?

Malta is a small island located in the heart of the Mediterranean, divided into two parts: the northern part, called Gozo has no casino. The island of Malta on the other hand being the most populated and urbanized contains several interesting casinos!

Most Maltese casinos are located in St Julian’s such as Portomaso and Dragonara but there are also some in the north towards St Paul’s Bay. St Julians, as well as Sliema, is a tourist and cosmopolitan town with many hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs. The bay of Saint Paul is larger and more family oriented.

Casino clientele in Malta

Malta is a prime destination for betting and gambling enthusiasts. Indeed, the small European island has several renowned casinos that attract thousands of visitors each year for an international and varied clientele. Poker players from all over the world are attracted to the many gaming opportunities and the spirit of the establishment. Many tourists also come simply to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the casino and the many activities offered. Malta’s casinos are open every day of the week and offer many activities other than gambling for its visitors.

The best casinos in Malta

Casinos in St Julians

Dragonara Casino

Dragonara Casino is Malta’s premier gambling destination. You are assured of the highest level of service and the ultimate gaming experience in a beautiful setting. The Dragonara casino looks like a palace with an extraordinary view.
See on Maps

Casino Malta by Olympic Casino

Casino Malta, owned by Olympic Casino, is the largest and newest casino in Malta. This Malta casino combines exceptional customer service, Las Vegas-style entertainment and innovative interior design to ensure an exceptional gaming experience.
See on Maps

Portomaso Casino

Portomaso Casino is part of the elegant Portomaso leisure complex located in the area known as the capital of Maltese nightlife, Paceville.
See on Maps

Casinos in St Paul’s bay

Oracle Casino

Oracle Casino is located in the vibrant tourist town of Buġibba, within the newly renovated four-star Dolmen Hotel Resort.
This is the most relaxed beachfront casino. It offers a selection of poker games, table games and live sports games for locals and tourists.
See on Maps

Activities other than the casino

When you’re not at the casino in Malta, don’t worry, there’s plenty to do. Enjoy a more tranquil experience, there are spas, pools and beautiful scenery to visit. Malta is also known for its many sandy and flat beaches. Travelers can enjoy the sun almost year round and relax in the many bars and restaurants along the beach.

FAQ

Places to go out in Malta

The best areas to go out in Malta are the following:

• Paceville to St. Louis St. Julian’s – main nightlife area.
• Buġibba, Qawra and St. John’s. St. Paul’s Bay in the north of Malta – Some bars and clubs.
• Rabat for Gianpula and Numero Uno (popular open-air clubs during the summer months).
• Valletta and Sliema – mostly cocktail bars/pubs and wine bars.
• Birgu and Mdina – wine bars

Find here our selection of the best bars in Malta.

Let’s take a closer look at what each of these neighborhoods has in store for us in terms of nightlife:

Paceville

Paceville is a district of St Julian’s or San Giljan in Maltese located between Spinola Bay (the LOVE Monument) and St George’s Bay. “Paceville” and everything is said in the name! Indeed, “pace” means “rhythm” in English. This area is indeed the most popular area to party in Malta! With over 40 bars, pubs and nightclubs concentrated in a few streets, this is where many Maltese nights end up! Thousands of people gather there every evening, and this, until the early morning. Establishments close around 5am and admission is free and open to all persons over 17 years old. Indeed, the age is limited to 17 years old minimum (in theory).

On these 2-3 streets are concentrated dozens of bars and clubs that allow to offer many different atmospheres and not to get bored by discovering several musical universes. With so many different bars and clubs to choose from, you won’t know what to dance to!

For example, expect to hear pop-rock music at the Nordic Bar. For quality electro music, go to Soho. On the other hand, if you are more into Latin music, head for the Native Bar or Hugo’s Bar. For R&B and Hip Hop sound you will have the Havanna or the Footloose or the Plush for the current international varieties. For Techno music, it will be for example at Clique that it happens.

The particularity of Paceville lies in the massive distribution of tickets in front of bars and clubs offering cocktails or shooters at reduced prices, or even free (so you are sure to have at least one ticket in the evening!). Otherwise, the glass or the bottle are much cheaper than in western Europe. We turn around 2.50€ the glass of vodka or whisky, and around 45€-55€ for the bottle with access VIP corner.

If at night, Paceville is “THE” meeting place for the island’s partygoers, during the day this district is no less lively thanks to its many restaurants, its cinema and its bowling alley. In addition, all bars are equipped with large televisions showing sports events. Finally, the beach of St George Bay is a 2-minute walk away. It is of course not the most beautiful beach on the island, but it is still very pleasant after a day of work or at sunrise after a crazy night of partying!

Valletta and its nightlife

Valletta is the capital of the island of Malta and the busiest city on the island during the day. The nightlife in Valletta is different. The clientele is older than in Paceville, there is no discotheque. We come here to have a good dinner in one of its many restaurants and a drink. There are excellent wines and cocktails with live music.

Go to the Strait street side, then try the Bridge bar and the Caffe Cordina for their jazz concerts some nights, the Loop Bar for their cocktails or the Yard 32 for the tapas.

Sliema

Sliema is perfect to live in, it is between Valletta and St Julian’s. There are also many restaurants and bars. Perfect for an early evening drink and dinner and if you want to extend your evening, then you will not be far from Paceville where you will find the clubs and the party until the end of the night.

Buġibba and Qawra

Located in the northern region of the island of Malta, Buġibba has a seaside promenade that stretches from Salina bay to St. Paul’s bay, popular with tourists and locals alike.
Buġibba and Qawra are two very popular tourist areas containing many hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos. The area’s popularity soars in the summer due to its seaside location, but it can be a bit windy and cold in the winter.

Near the bay of Saint Paul, we recommend the following addresses:

• Café del Mar is the largest bar/club in the north of Malta, located on the sea front and open as a nightclub in the summer. Swimming pool, deckchair, music, restaurant, sea view, it is really the foot.
• Ecstasy Lounge Bar-Club Malta is a small party club with good music and drinks at reasonable prices.
• The Velvet Lounge is a stylish bar/lounge, ideal for a cocktail and a bite to eat. They also offer chicha if that’s your thing.

Best discos in Malta

The best discos in Malta are :

• Havana (admission is free.) There are six bars and two dance floors where you can listen to hip-hop, R&B and 90s hits.
• Sky Club Malta – Malta’s largest indoor club, covering 2,000 square meters and accommodating up to 3,400 partygoers. Entrance fees and beverage prices vary depending on the events taking place there. It is one of the biggest and best places on the island for parties and concerts.
• The Shadow Club (free admission) is a popular destination and has a great atmosphere on busy weeknights. Three well-stocked bars and a delicious cocktail menu offer everything you need for a great night out.
• TwentyTwo, (Portomaso Tower) – For a more elegant experience, take in the view from above, dance and have a drink or two with friends. Admission to this club is usually free, but there may be a fee.

Outdoor clubs

Several outdoor discos are open in late spring and summer. These include:

• Gianpula hosts many parties in Rabat. It is the largest open-air disco in Malta and is usually packed on weekends.
• Uno Malta, located in the artisan village of Ta ‘Qali, has the largest dance floor on the island, with four full-size bars and a capacity of 4,000 people. This place is popular with locals for its Sunday night parties.
• Aria complex in San Ġwann is a larger outdoor venue that regularly hosts weekend club events.
• Medasia Playa in Sliema is a beachfront pool and beach that regularly hosts parties and events in the summer.

Transportation to the outdoor clubs

Malta Public Transport operates a special bus service during the summer months on Friday and Saturday evenings (and into the night), with a direct route from Gianpula village to Uno Malta and St. Petersburg. St. Julian’s/Sliema.

The boat parties

In spring and summer (April to September), an operator organizes parties on board boats that leave from Sliema (near St. Julian’s) along the northern coast of Malta.

It’s a clubbing experience bringing together good music, an open bar and food, with the option to swim at various stops along the way.

Read our full article and book your ticket for the boat party here.

Good to know:

• The party lasts about 5 hours, from 6:30 pm to about midnight. It may seem early, but it’s really the perfect time to throw this kind of party.
• I really recommend swimming from the end of May as it is too cold for most people before then.
• In April-May and September, the weather is not always perfect and tours may be cancelled (and tickets refunded).
• July and August are the peak tourist season, so expect a lot of people to sign up for these parties at this time. If crowded clubs are not your thing, this time of year is not for you.

Getting around at night

Many buses serve the festive Maltese capital until about 11 pm. To get there or to leave, you will have to take the night buses (2€50, from 11pm to 4am), the small red shuttles (2€), a VTC (ecabs or bolt) or other cabs (avoid the white cabs, their service is bad and excessively expensive) Please note that day tickets are not valid at night, nor are weekly tickets. However, if you live in the vicinity of St Julian’s or Sliema, you can choose to go there on foot.

Snacking during the evening

If you are hungry, you can have a snack for 60 cents for a pastizzi (a local specialty with cheese, chicken, peas or ham) and about 2 euros for a piece of pizza. Enough to soak up all the hard liquor you drank during the night.

Discover also our selection of the best burgers in Malta.

Other holidays in Malta and Gozo

The isle of MTV

The Isle of MTV festival is a huge annual music festival (about 50,000 people attend!) organized by MTV Europe. Famous artists such as Lady Gaga, Maroon 5, Snoop Dogg and the Black Eyed Peas, among many others, have participated in this festival, which is usually held in Floriana (a large square located near the City Gate of Valletta).

The Malta International Fireworks Festival

This spectacular event takes place at the end of April to commemorate Malta’s accession to the European Union. The festival includes fireworks designed by foreign pyrotechnic companies as well as some of the best local fireworks factories and takes place in various locations around the islands.
Read our article about the festival here.

Malta Jazz Festival

Another annual festival is held in July. It brings together leading international and Maltese artists who present the eclectic jazz styles of the current art scene.

Candlelight night (Birgufest)

Both events take place in October with a spectacular night party in the capital Valletta (where Notte Bianca is held) and Birgu.

Delicata and Marsovin Wine Festival

These wine festivals take place in Valletta (Upper Barraka Gardens and Hastings Gardens respectively) and more recently on Malta’s sister island, Gozo.

The Festas

With the local festival season starting two weeks after Easter, fireworks are a common sight on summer nights in Malta and Gozo.
Read our article on festas.

Each village celebrates a different patron saint. Many events are offered at each festival, including concerts, fireworks and parties. Country music clubs are always a good place to start, selling alcohol and spirits at low prices and creating a party atmosphere.

What to do the day after the party?

Relax on one of the best beaches in Malta gathered here.

For a wide range of free or paid activities, you can read our article here

What is it?

The principle is simple: party on a beautiful schooner (pirate ship) for hours on end.

Reservations on the organizer’s website
Best price

How does it work?

Most of the boat parties are run in the same way. The boat leaves Sliema Ferries in the early evening (around 7pm). Before that, you may even be invited to a “before” party at a particular bar, depending on the organizer.

Then, once on the boat, the open bar and open food are yours, meaning unlimited food and drinks! The type ofalcohol and food varies depending on the provider, but it’s quite often: cocktails, hard liquor, beer and sandwiches. With music playing, you can admire the island’s coastline under the setting sun and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, when you are allowed to do so, you can jump off the boat! Then it’s back to midnight, destination Paceville thanks to the shuttles (2€). The party continues.

How much does it cost?

This activity will cost you 60 euros. To this, you will have to add the price of the shuttle back or the night bus ticket to return, count about 65 euros for the whole evening. Once on the boat, you have no more expenses, so everything is fine!

How to book your ticket?

Boat party dates vary from month to month, from 2 days a week in spring to almost every day in July and August. It is important to reserve your place in advance to avoid running out of availability, because as the organizers point out, they are almost always sold out.

Important tip: Book as soon as possible to make sure you get your tickets! Otherwise it’ll be too late.

Reserve your spot for the boat party

For who?

This type of party is for partygoers over 17 years old (the legal drinking age in Malta). The sailors of one evening are rather young, the older ones (age is in the head!) will perhaps not appreciate the rather particular atmosphere.

Who are the organizers?

There used to be different organizers: LazyPirate, X Clusive Boat Party, Captain Morgan, SeaAdventures… but now, the only organizer who has become the leader of boat parties in Malta is Lazy pirate Malta. It is then the one that we recommend here.

Is it worth the cost?

If you’re between 17 and 35, My Little Malta recommends a boat party, as it’s one of the Maltese specialities! You will have a great time! …and a moonlit midnight swim in Comino (if you like), simply unforgettable!

The Little Maltese’s advice

My Little Malta advises you to wear your bathing suit if you want to swim and jump off the boat. Don ‘t take valuables with you, as they can get wet. You get the idea, so book your place while there’s still time for a boat party!

Check availability and book your ticket for the boat party here :

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Book now, pay later
A pick-up service can be included

Welcome to Ta’Marija, one of Malta’s most popular restaurants! Located inside a charming Maltese country house, Ta’Marija is an ideal meeting place for all those looking to sample authentic Maltese cuisine and immerse themselves in the local culture.

A restaurant serving traditional Maltese cuisine

Located in Mosta, in the heart of Malta, this is undoubtedly the best place to discover the breadth of Maltese culinary culture. It’s the favorite restaurant of many Maltese.

The restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Maltese dishes, all prepared with fresh, top-quality ingredients. Among the most popular specialties are rabbit stew, pastizzi (a traditional Maltese pastry), snails, fresh fish, octopus, lampuki (local sea bream)… but also fresh pasta and typical stews, they’re all there and extremely fine!

The little plus: The kitchen is open so you can enjoy the view and admire the brigade at work.

An unmissable dinner and show in Malta

But Ta’Marija isn’t just a place to eat, it’s also a place to be entertained. The restaurant regularly hosts dinner shows featuring renowned local artists. While you enjoy your delicious meal, enjoy live music and traditional Maltese dancing. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the local culture in a festive and convivial way.

Ta’Marija’s setting is also breathtaking. The restored country house is surrounded by lush gardens and offers panoramic views of the Maltese countryside. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outdoors, you’re sure to be delighted by Ta’Marija’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The days of Ta-Marija folk shows

Folklore dinner shows at Ta-Marija are every Friday from January to November 2023 + every Wednesday from April to December 2023.

Reservations are required for evening shows! You can book directly by clicking here.

What we think of Ta’Marija

In short, if you’re looking for a quality restaurant in Malta, look no further than Ta’Marija – it deserves its reputation. With its authentic cuisine, quality entertainment and magnificent setting, it offers a unique culinary experience that will remain etched in your memory. So reserve your table now and get ready for an unforgettable evening at Ta’Marija!

Our advice before you go

• Convenient for families: high chairs available.
• Gluten-free dishes are available.

Visit more information here or book directly on their website below:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Book now, pay later
A pick-up service can be included

History of Paceville

Paceville, a peaceful seaside resort of the 1930s

In the 1930’s, Paceville (pronounced Pacheville!) became an exclusive seaside resort when Dr. Giuseppe Pace decided to build residences for the British. If some of them, of colonial style, are still standing today, they are surrounded by large buildings and hotels. The palazzo “Villa Rosa” with its magnificent terraces overlooks the beach of St George’s Bay. Vestige of another era, it has been transformed into 15 luxury apartments, count 1000 euros per night…

Paceville, a place of celebration for 45 years!

After independence and according to the development plans of the Ministry of Tourism of Malta, three large hotels were built in Paceville: a Sheraton, a Hilton and the Saint George’s complex on the sea front.

In the wake of the 70’s, in order to respond to a growing flow of vacationers, mostly English, they demolished, built and expanded in spite of town planning rules and building permits… Paceville quickly became a major tourist nightlife attraction.

Going out in Paceville

Paceville during the day

If you are looking for “Pace” (peace in Italian!) during your stay in Malta, Paceville is not the place to be! Although… The district is very quiet during the day, as if it were asleep compared to its torrid nights. Nice air-conditioned stores in the Bay Street shopping center, a movie theater, a bowling alley and a white sandy beach in the heart of the city, shaded terraces for lunch.

Evenings in Paceville

From 6 pm onwards, there is a perceptible change of atmosphere. Groups of young people from the language schools of St Julians and Sliema converge on Paceville for a drink. Every student in the world knows where Paceville is before they set foot in Malta!
In downtown Paceville, what we call the “stairs”: Music remains at an acceptable level of sound until 10pm in most establishments. Then, it is difficult to be heard as the decibels rise in power until 5 o’clock! A joyful linguistic and musical cacophony in the streets invaded by young and not so young people from the five continents!

Our advice

Paceville is full of excellent restaurants, located more quietly, away from the “Stairs”, remember to reserve!

There are some nice casinos in Malta, you will find the majestic Dragonara nearby in Paceville.

As far as safety is concerned, Paceville, although the general atmosphere is rather good-natured, just stay alert and experience a lively night out!

Read now our full article if you want to know how and where to party in Malta: Paceville and other places to go out in Malta.

This Cuban-sounding restaurant offers the best burgers on the island, according to My Little Malta. With refined and quality ingredients, you have the possibility to taste new flavors and mixtures, and this in one of the most lively place of Malta with a very nice terrace! My Little Malta gives special mention to the XL fries (big, wide, spicy fries) included with the burgers.

Favorite: the Chicken Bun, a sweet and salty burger (11,95€) and El Gringo, a classic burger but so good (12,75€)

Price : 10,95€ – 16,45€ (in French)

How to get there?

2 New York Best

My Little Malta hesitated for a long time to take first place! Simply put, New York Best is a Maltese fast food restaurant… and of quality! Yes, it is the work of two brothers from a family of chefs since 2011. They offer succulent recipes with good local products. All burgers are homemade, and you can choose from single, double or even triple. Burger specialties are not listed on the menu. They can be found on a sign in the restaurant itself.

Favorite: the Mushwroom Burger, a burger with mushrooms and blue cheese (5€60)

Price : 3,60€ – 8,20€ (in French)

Please note: French fries are not included (from 1€80)

How to get there?

3 On the beach of Mellieha

For only 3€50, you have the most beautiful terrace of Malta, and especially an excellent and copious hamburger on the beach facing the sea! The various snack bars make very good burgers with fries.

Favorite: the classic Cheese Burger (3€50)

Price : 3,50€ (€)

How to get there?

4 Il-Gabbana

Come and enjoy a great burger by the sea in Sliema! You will enjoy good recipes and the atmosphere of this lively area of the island. Indeed, all the places are in terrace. The little plus: the staff is helpful and pleasant.

Favorite: the Muschroom & Gorzonzola (9,95€)

Price : 8,45€ – 11,45€ (in euros)

How to get there?

Read here our article on typical Maltese cuisine.

1 Happy hour at Tex Mex

This bar in Sliema offers many cocktails, you will surely find one that suits you! In our opinion, they are the best on the island: the right amount of alcohol, very nice presentation, and a wide choice. My Little Malta recommends the Mango Mojito and the White Russian.

Happy hour: 4pm-7pm on weekdays, 3pm-6pm on weekends

Where is it?

2 Happy hour at Hugo’s Lounge

Located in the heart of the lively Paceville, it is often crowded in this bar: a good place to meet people! Relax on a sofa and enjoy a good cocktail after a day of work or classes… You can also eat there until late and the food is very good (Indian, Thai and Chinese mainly)!

Happy hour : 1-6pm

Where is it?

3 Happy hour at Cork’s Irish Pub

At Cork’s Irish Pub, it’s a more friendly and popular atmosphere. Conveniently located on Paceville Road, sit at the tables at the entrance to the bar and enjoy the walk through, you’ll meet some nice people as many people tend to stop and chat. The only drawback: the cocktails are a little less worked than elsewhere, but very good all the same. My Little Malta recommends Bloody Mary.

Happy hour: 6-8pm, and 2-4pm on weekends

Where is it?

4 Happy hour at the Native

On the program: Latino atmosphere and international population! One of the favorite bars of Erasmus and salsa dance lovers. If you love to dance and meet people from all over the world, you can’t not stop at Native!

Happy hour: 6pm-7:30pm on drinks and tapas

Where is it?

Find out here where to go out in Malta .