The Pub Crawl Culture in Malta: A Guide to the Best Bars in the City

Malta is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe, and for good reason. This small island nation offers a mix of good weather, Mediterranean cuisine, and historic landmarks. But there’s one activity that’s been gaining popularity among visitors and locals alike: the pub crawl culture.Pub crawls offer an opportunity to explore the city’s nightlife while socializing with other travelers and locals. And with so many bars and clubs to choose from, it’s easy to customize your experience based on your preferences. In this guide, we highlight some of the best bars and clubs to visit during your next pub crawl in Malta.

Paceville

Paceville is the hub of Malta’s nightlife scene, so it’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination for pub crawls. The area is home to numerous bars and clubs that cater to all tastes, from the mainstream to the underground. Here are some of the top picks:

Hugo’s Terrace

Located in the heart of Paceville, Hugo’s Terrace offers a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect place for a pre-party drink or a relaxing end to the night. This venue serves as both a club and lounge, making it an excellent stopover during your pub crawl.

Footloose Fun Bar

If you’re looking for a fun and friendly atmosphere, Footloose Fun Bar should be on your list. The bar plays a wide variety of music, from old-school hits to the latest chart-toppers. The affordable drinks and friendly staff make it a popular spot among young travelers.

Valletta

Valletta might be known for its historic landmarks, but it’s also a destination for the pub crawls scene. With a mix of bars, clubs, and lounges scattered throughout the city, you’ll find the perfect spot to grab a drink or dance the night away. Below are two of the best options:

Bridge Bar & Bistro

The Bridge Bar & Bistro is one of the most popular bars in Valletta. The bar offers a range of cocktails, beer, and wine in a cozy atmosphere. With live music most nights, it’s an excellent spot to take a break from sightseeing and relax.

The Pub

As the name suggests, The Pub is a traditional English-style pub that serves a variety of beers and cider. You’ll find plenty of locals and tourists socializing over drinks, making it an excellent spot to meet new people during your crawl.

Sliema and St. Julian’s Bay

Sliema and St. Julian’s Bay are two areas that offer a mix of bars, clubs, and lounges, making them prime destinations for pub crawls. Here are two of the best places to visit:

The Hard Rock Cafe

The Hard Rock Cafe is a global chain of restaurants and bars that offer a unique blend of music, food, and entertainment. The Sliema location features a large outdoor bar area, making it a popular spot for tourists to start their night. With live music and an extensive drink menu, it’s a must-visit destination for rock fans.

The Thirsty Lawyer

The Thirsty Lawyer is a small, cozy bar that offers a vast selection of craft beer and food. The bar’s warm atmosphere makes it an excellent spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, and the knowledgeable staff is happy to recommend a drink based on your preferences.

Conclusion

While Malta might be famous for its historic landmarks, the pub crawl culture is quickly gaining popularity among tourists and locals. With so many options to choose from, you’ll find the perfect mix of music, drinks, and entertainment during your night out. Whether you’re exploring Paceville, Valletta, or Sliema, the city has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re in Malta, be sure to experience the city’s pub crawl culture for yourself!

The Insider’s Guide to Malta

Malta is a small island nation situated in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a country that most people recognize as a popular tourist destination, but it has so much more to offer beyond its beaches and bustling nightlife. As an insider, I will take you on a journey of the hidden gems, rich history, and cultural experiences that Malta has to offer.

Local Attractions

Malta has a rich history that goes back more than 7,000 years. Beyond its famous tourist spots, visitors should explore some of the lesser-known wonders. One of the most stunning attractions is the Blue Grotto, a collection of sea caves that take on a stunning blue hue from the water’s reflection. Another hidden gem is the Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground necropolis that has been preserved extremely well. Finally, for something more adventurous, visitors can take a trek through Buskett Gardens or enjoy the panoramic views from Dingli Cliffs.

Dining Spots

One of the best things about Malta is its gastronomy, which is a mix of Mediterranean, Arabic, and European cuisine. The Maltese love their traditional dishes, which include rabbit stew, pastizzi (flaky pastry with a ricotta filling), and ftira (a flatbread with tomato and anchovy). There are many restaurants to choose from, but if you’re looking for an experience beyond the food, visit the fisherman’s village of Marsaxlokk, where you can have lunch by the pier and watch the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor.

Cultural Experiences

Malta is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its many traditions, festivals, and customs. One event that stands out is the colorful Carnival, held in February, where locals wear outrageous costumes, dance on the streets, and drink wine. If you’re interested in art, head to Valletta, where you can explore the city’s famous Baroque architecture and visit the many galleries. Finally, for music lovers, visit open-air concerts at the Granaries in Floriana, or the jazz clubs in Valletta.

Local History

Malta’s history is fascinating and dates back millennia. One of the most significant historical attractions is the Megalithic temples, which some scholars consider older than the Pyramids of Egypt. Another site that stands out is the Three Cities, specifically the Cospicua fortifications, which were built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. Finally, visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where you can marvel at the impressive Baroque architecture and see the famous painting by Caravaggio, The Beheading of St. John.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you’re looking for unique experiences that you won’t find in guidebooks, try hiking the Victoria Lines, which is a series of fortifications built across the Maltese islands in the 19th century. Alternatively, take a boat tour around the neighboring island of Gozo, where visitors can explore the Gozo coastline, swim in secluded bays, and visit the Azure Window. Finally, visit the Silent City of Mdina at night, where you can experience the city’s enchanting charm and medieval architecture at its best.

In conclusion, Malta is a treasure trove of attractions, food, culture, and history that visitors should not miss. With this insider’s guide, you can enjoy a deeper and more meaningful experience beyond the usual tourist hotspots. So pack your bags, explore Malta’s hidden gems, and enjoy the unique experiences the Maltese islands have to offer.