One of the many churches you'll find in Sliema
During my two weeks in Malta I stayed in the charming neighborhood of Sliema. It was a perfect location to get out and see the rest of the island via the extensive, albeit slow, bus system.
Its best asset is its promenade, which was recently developed and winds like a ribbon around the twisting inlets of Malta’s coast. Every day the promenade is filled with locals, kids, pets, and runners who are soaking up the sun and the sea air. The promenade is dotted with ancient towers, sculptures, cafes, a myriad of benches, and playgrounds.
Opposite the promenade are modern hotels and condos which seem rather cold and lifeless, but the real estate is prime and considering Malta is a vacation destination for many Europeans, the high rises make sense. However, it doesn’t take but a few blocks to get beyond the perimeter of high rises and back into the real, local neighborhoods of Sliema which is where I was most happy with my camera. The architecture, house names, and little bars kept me entertained for hours as I would walk around the winding streets with my camera.
The inlets make a jagged but calm coastline in Sliema
Trifecta!
The Sliema houses are some of the best kept houses in Malta
Small neighborhood markets are found on every corner.
There are ample places to sit and enjoy the view along the promenade
Loved the symmetry of this corner home in Sliema.
A mobile fish vendor stands on the corner in the neighborhood.
The promenade offers a perfect place to stroll or run.
Colorful doors, balconies, and cars!
Green space makes the Sliema water front a place everyone wants to be.
By Austin Peckham March 23, 2012 - 2:43 pm
Great pics. We were there (in 2005) before the restorations, and loved it then as well.
Thanks. Great memories.
By denise March 24, 2012 - 4:55 am
I do miss Sliema…and yes, the waterfront high rise buildings are just disgusting. This is, as you said though, one of the most expensive real estate areas on the island, which used to look lovely in the past, built up with beautiful stone townhouses.
By Tamsin March 25, 2012 - 8:25 pm
Stunning photos!!!
By Amanda March 26, 2012 - 9:42 pm
Wow, stunning shots, Sherry! Some of my favorites from you, I think!
By Jess C. April 1, 2012 - 1:13 pm
I live in Sliema! I love hearing when others enjoy it as much as my partner and I do. It’s a beautiful little town and the best of both worlds: ‘urban’ (by Maltese standards) and seaside. Great photos!
By Escape Hunter January 30, 2014 - 7:38 am
Hey, I had luck, because I actually stayed in Sliema and I got the chance to visit the area thoroughly. Explored as much as I could. It was such a great experience!
Some of your photos bring back good memories!
By Tripper February 26, 2016 - 7:11 am
There is one very interesting aspect of this walk that may be overlooked by the average tourist. There are some Cart Ruts to the right that go straight into the water. To my astonishment, they turned out to be ancient, although the appeared to be modern.