Which is the cheapest area: Sliema, St Julians or Gzira?

Gzira is usually the most affordable of the three, with prices between St Julians/Sliema and areas like Msida. St Julians and Sliema are the most expensive due to popularity and nightlife.

Where is there more nightlife for students?

St Julians, especially Paceville, has the most nightlife. Sliema has bars and restaurants but is calmer. Gzira is more residential.

Which area is best for the beach?

Sliema has a seafront promenade and swimming spots. St Julians has nearby beaches like St George's Bay. Gzira is between both, a few minutes by bus.

Are Sliema, St Julians and Gzira well connected?

Yes. All three are on the same coastline and well connected by bus. Many schools are in these areas or a few minutes away.

Where are most English schools?

Sliema and St Julians have most schools. Gzira is between Sliema and Msida, a few minutes from several schools. See our accommodation page for more details by area.

Sliema, St Julians or Gzira: Where to Live as a Student in Malta

Sliema, St Julians or Gzira are the three most popular areas to live as an English student in Malta. The short answer: St Julians is the liveliest (Paceville, nightlife); Sliema is commercial with a seafront; Gzira is quieter and cheaper. All three are close to schools and well connected. In this guide we compare prices, vibe and transport so you can choose. Links to accommodation in Malta, where to stay and free advice.

1. Quick comparison

Area	Vibe	Price	Nightlife	Best for
St Julians	Lively, touristy	Mid–high	Very high (Paceville)	Those who want parties and social life
Sliema	Commercial, seafront	Mid–high	Medium	Balance of shopping and leisure
Gzira	Quiet, residential	Medium	Low	Budget and tranquillity

2. St Julians: vibe and prices

Vibe: tourist area, restaurants, bars and Paceville (nightlife)
Schools: many in the area or nearby
Prices: shared room €350–400/month; single €650–700/month
Best for: those who want to be in the centre of the action

If you want intense social life and don't mind night-time noise, St Julians is your area. See how much it costs to study English in Malta for more on budgets.

3. Sliema: vibe and prices

Vibe: commercial, seafront, shops and restaurants
Schools: several in Sliema or adjacent areas
Prices: similar to St Julians, €350–400/month shared
Best for: balance of shopping, beach and leisure

Sliema is calmer than St Julians but with everything nearby. Good transport to Valletta and other areas.

4. Gzira: vibe and prices

Vibe: residential, between Sliema and Msida
Schools: a few minutes by bus from Sliema and St Julians
Prices: a bit cheaper, €300–380/month shared
Best for: tight budget, more tranquillity

Gzira offers better value for money if you don't need to be in the centre of the party. See accommodation in Malta for platforms to search.

5. Transport and connectivity

All three areas are on the east coast and well connected by bus. If your course lasts 3+ months, the Tallinja card is free. From any of the three you can reach Valletta, Msida, the university and beaches in 15–30 minutes.

6. Other nearby areas

Msida: more university feel, slightly lower prices
Swieqi: residential, quiet
Valletta: historic, capital, variable prices

For more options, see where to stay in Malta for the full area guide. For help with course and area, request free advice or contact us.