Sliema offers many opportunities to watch the world go by from a bench on its long, scenic promenade.

The vibrant, seaside town of Sliema has a lot to offer – from some of the best eateries on the island to lively bars, great shopping, and stylish entertainment spots. It’s no wonder then, that it attracts locals and visitors in droves all year round, though it really comes into its own in summer. During the hot season, the lure of a refreshing dip or sunbathing session along the coast or at one of the stylish beach clubs is simply too strong to resist!

Ironically, its name is derived from sliem, the Maltese word for peace, yet while it may not be the best way to describe it today, it harks back to a very different past. Once a summer resort for affluent locals who would escape the island’s central regions for the cooler air of the coast, its streets were lined with elegant townhouses throughout the 19th century, with their colonial-era bay windows offering stunning sea views.

Few of these windows to the past remain today, and a walk through the town’s backstreets will uncover some which have been lovingly restored into beautiful, contemporary residences. Still, for the most part, the promenade today features highly sought-after apartment blocks, giving way to a modern aesthetic in tune with the changing times.

Over the years, Sliema’s picturesque promenade, stretching from as far back as Manoel Island, near Gzira, right up to Balluta Bay in St Julian’s, has drawn the crowds: from joggers and families with pushchairs to friends enjoying a stroll, it’s always busy. Between these points lie hundreds of cafés, shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, and residences, dotted along and behind the promenade, tempting visitors to their doors.

Making your way to Sliema is simple: it’s well connected by the island’s public transport system, and the road is well sign-posted if you’re driving. Be warned though, the streets can get busy, and parking may not be the easiest! An alternative (and far prettier) way to get there is by ferry from Valletta – the short ride from the capital affords a great view of the seaside spot as you come in to dock at an area aptly referred to as The Ferries.

It’s a great place to start your tour of the town, leading up to Sliema’s primary shopping streets: Bisazza Street and Tower Road. Here, you can indulge in some retail therapy, with myriad stores selling everything from fashion and homeware to electronics and books. Further along the coast, The Point, one of the island’s largest shopping malls, boasts a large open square, ideal for kids to run around in while the adults catch a short break. And as the day draws to a close, a cocktail al fresco in one of the many laidback bars followed by a memorable dinner will be just what the doctor ordered.

What's your favourite thing to do in Sliema?