When planning my budget trip to Malta, I knew I wanted a central, convenient, and affordable place to stay—somewhere that would let me experience the best of the island without overspending. St. Julian’s turned out to be the perfect base, offering easy access to top attractions, affordable accommodations, and a lively atmosphere that made my trip both exciting and budget-friendly.
Here’s why St. Julian’s should be your go-to base for exploring Malta on a budget.
Affordable Accommodation Without Sacrificing Comfort
One of the biggest reasons I chose St. Julian’s? The variety of budget-friendly accommodation options. From hostels and guesthouses to reasonably priced hotels, there’s something for every traveler. I stayed at Vivaldi Hotel, which was centrally located and gave me easy access to public transport, shops, and restaurants.
The Hub’s Top Budget Tip: Booking a stay in St. Julian’s over more expensive areas like Valletta helped me save money while still staying close to all the action.
A Well-Connected Hub for Exploring Malta
St. Julian’s is perfectly positioned to explore Malta without breaking the bank on transportation. Malta’s bus system is affordable and efficient, making it easy to reach must-visit destinations like:
Valletta – Just a short bus or ferry ride away, packed with history.
Mdina – A stunning medieval city that’s completely free to explore.
The Three Cities – Less crowded, full of history, and easily accessible.
With buses costing just a few euros per ride, I was able to maximize my budget on experiences rather than transport.
Beautiful Beaches and Free Coastal Walks
If you love beach days without the hefty price tag, St. Julian’s is the ideal spot. A short walk brings you to Balluta Bay and Spinola Bay, where you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax by the sea for free.
The Best free activities in St. Julian’s:
Fireworks over the Mediterranean – If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the stunning Dragonara Casino fireworks, an unexpected and completely free highlight of my trip
Coastal Walk to Sliema – One of my favorite things to do! A scenic stroll with breathtaking sea views and a lively evening atmosphere.
Vibrant Atmosphere and Nightlife on a Budget
St. Julian’s is famous for its nightlife, especially in Paceville, where you’ll find bars, clubs, and live music venues. But don’t worry—you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it! Many places offer:
Happy hour deals – Cheap drinks & great vibes.
Live music spots – A relaxed way to soak up the atmosphere without clubbing.
People-watching & street performances – A budget-friendly way to experience St. Julian’s energy!
Even if partying isn’t your thing, the vibrant streets come alive at night, making it a fun place to soak up local culture without spending much.
Delicious and Affordable Eats
One of the best parts of staying in St. Julian’s? The incredible food scene—without the tourist markups! You’ll find budget-friendly local eateries, international cuisines, and supermarkets for quick, affordable meals.
Best budget food options:
- Local bakeries – Try Malta’s famous pastizzi (flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) for under €1!
- Casual seaside cafés – Great for cheap eats with a view.
- Supermarkets & mini-marts – Perfect for stocking up on snacks and picnic essentials.
Pro Tip: Grabbing takeaway food and eating by the waterfront is a great way to save money while enjoying incredible views.
Final Thoughts…
Choosing St. Julian’s as my base was one of the best decisions I made for my budget-friendly Malta trip. With affordable accommodation, easy transport links, beautiful beaches, and great nightlife, it gave me the perfect balance of savings and experiences.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Malta and want to see more for less, St. Julian’s is the place to be! Would you make it your base? Let me know in the comments!
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