Malta Nightlife Guide 2025: Paceville, St Julian's & Beyond

Malta punches well above its weight when it comes to nightlife. For a small island, it offers everything from mega-clubs hosting international DJs to intimate cocktail bars and Mediterranean beach parties. Here's your complete guide to experiencing Malta after dark.

Paceville: Malta's Party Central

Paceville is the beating heart of Malta's nightlife scene. This compact area in St Julian's packs more bars and clubs per square meter than almost anywhere in Europe. It's loud, hectic, and unapologetically fun.

🎵 Top Clubs in Paceville

Havana Club

The largest and most famous club in Malta, Havana has been the island's flagship nightclub for over two decades. Three floors, multiple rooms, and a rooftop terrace mean there's something for everyone.

• Music: Commercial house, EDM, hip-hop
• Entry: €15-25 (free before 11:30 PM)
• Best nights: Friday & Saturday
• Capacity: 3,000+
• International DJs regularly
• Multiple bars to avoid queues

Gianpula Village

Technically outside Paceville (in Rabat), Gianpula is Malta's premier open-air venue. The summer season brings massive pool parties and world-class DJs. This is where the serious clubbers go.

• Music: Techno, house, EDM
• Entry: €20-50 (depending on event)
• Season: May - October
• Pool parties during the day
• Shuttle buses from Paceville
• Multiple stages and areas

Club Numero Uno

A more intimate venue in Paceville focusing on electronic music. Popular with a slightly older, more discerning crowd.

• Music: Tech house, deep house
• Entry: €10-20
• Best nights: Saturday
• Quality sound system
• Less commercial than Havana

Sky Club

Rooftop club offering open-air partying with views over St Julian's Bay. Popular in summer months.

• Music: Commercial, R&B, hip-hop
• Entry: €15-20
• Outdoor terrace
• VIP areas available

Best Bars in St Julian's & Paceville

🍺 Casual Bars

Hugo's Lounge

A Paceville institution with a terrace overlooking the street action. Perfect for starting the night with drinks before hitting the clubs.

• Vibe: Lively, social
• Drinks: €5-10
• Great cocktails
• People watching central

Fuego Salsa Bar

Latin vibes with salsa dancing and Caribbean cocktails. Free salsa lessons on certain nights.

• Vibe: Dancing, social
• Drinks: €6-12
• Mojitos and Cuba Libres
• Live music sometimes

Ryan's Irish Pub

A proper Irish pub in the heart of Paceville. Live sports, Guinness on tap, and a break from the club scene.

• Vibe: Relaxed, pub atmosphere
• Pint of Guinness: €5.50
• Premier League and rugby
• Pub quiz nights

🍸 Cocktail Bars

Hole in the Wall

Award-winning cocktail bar tucked away in St Julian's. The bartenders here take their craft seriously.

• Cocktails: €10-15
• Reservation recommended on weekends
• Creative menu
• Intimate atmosphere

Native Bar

Hip cocktail spot with an emphasis on local ingredients and creative mixology. A more refined option away from the Paceville chaos.

• Cocktails: €10-14
• Seasonal menus
• Small plates available

Beyond Paceville: Alternative Nightlife

🏛️ Valletta

The capital offers a more sophisticated nightlife scene with wine bars, jazz clubs, and intimate venues.

Strait Street (Strada Stretta)

Once the red-light district where sailors partied, now transformed into Valletta's nightlife hotspot with bars and live music venues.

• Bridge Bar: Live jazz, blues, and acoustic
• StrEat Whisky & Bistro: Whisky bar with 300+ varieties
• Wild Honey: Cocktails and DJs
• Trabuxu: Wine bar in a historic cellar

The Yard

Outdoor venue in Valletta hosting events, live music, and themed nights. Check their schedule for what's on.

🏖️ Beach Clubs

Café del Mar Malta

The famous Ibiza brand's Malta outpost. Stunning sunset views, quality music, and Mediterranean vibes at St Paul's Bay.

• Best for: Sunset sessions
• Entry: Free (minimum spend)
• Cocktails: €12-18
• DJs from sunset onwards
• Pool access with day bed rental

Tiki Beach Club (Bugibba)

More casual beach bar with regular parties and events. Popular with younger crowds and budget-conscious nomads.

• Entry: Usually free
• Drinks: €5-10
• Pool parties in summer
• Less pretentious vibe

🌙 Sliema Nightlife

While Sliema is quieter than Paceville, it has some great options for a more relaxed night out:

• Ta' Kris: Late-night local institution serving Maltese food until 2 AM
• Level 22: Rooftop bar at the AX The Palace with panoramic views
• Sky Beach Club: Poolside drinks at the InterContinental

Nightlife by Night of the Week

Practical Tips for Nightlife in Malta

🚕 Getting Home

• Bolt/eCabs: The go-to apps for taxis. Expect surge pricing 2-4 AM
• Night buses: N1 and N2 routes run through the night on weekends
• Walking: Sliema/Gzira to Paceville is 20-30 minutes on foot
• Don't drink and drive: Zero tolerance and frequent checkpoints

💰 Money-Saving Tips

• Arrive before midnight for free entry at most clubs
• Pre-game at home or cheap bars before Paceville
• Thursday student nights have the best drink deals
• Happy hours 6-9 PM at most bars
• Guest lists available via Instagram for some venues

⚠️ Safety Notes

• Paceville is generally safe but stay aware of pickpockets
• Avoid confrontations - security takes it seriously
• Keep your phone secure in crowded clubs
• Walk in groups when leaving late
• Trust your instincts with drink safety

LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Malta is one of Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly countries with legal protections and a welcoming attitude.

• Michelangelo: Malta's main gay club in Paceville
• Birdcage: LGBTQ+-friendly bar with drag shows
• Pride Week: September - major events across the island
• Most mainstream venues are very welcoming

Seasonal Considerations

☀️ Summer (June - September)

• Beach clubs and pool parties peak
• International DJs at Gianpula and UNO
• Rooftop venues come alive
• More tourists, busier nights

❄️ Winter (October - May)

• Indoor venues dominate
• More locals, fewer tourists
• Christmas and NYE big events
• Some beach clubs close

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the legal drinking age in Malta?

The legal drinking age is 17, but most clubs have an 18+ policy. Bring ID - they do check.

What's the dress code for clubs?

Smart casual is fine for most venues. Avoid flip-flops, sports jerseys, and beachwear. Some upscale venues require collared shirts.

How much money do I need for a night out?

Budget €50-80 for a standard night out including entry, drinks, and taxi home. Pre-gaming can cut this significantly.

Is Paceville safe for solo travelers?

Generally yes. It's busy and well-lit with lots of security. Use common sense about your belongings and getting home.

When do clubs close?

Most clubs stay open until 4 AM, some until 6 AM on weekends. The night doesn't really start until after midnight.

Can I smoke in bars and clubs?

Smoking is banned indoors. All venues have outdoor smoking areas.