Why you should try Malta at night

It may not be in the same league as Ibiza for Clubs, Mykonos for parties or Magaluf for simply getting battered – but Malta does hold its own when it comes to a decent nightlife. Besides, the reason you are in Malta is because you want to do things during the day too, instead of sleeping in past lunch and getting back on the bevies in an attempt to hair-of-the-dog yourself before the night ahead.

Nonetheless, the island does play host to internationally renowned DJs like Paul Oakenfold, Erick Morillo, Magda, Tiesto, Van Heill and some of the nightclubs are pretty mega in scale. Throw in the hundreds of decent bars and late night activities and you will not find yourself bored at the end of the day.

So below is an rough guide on what Malta has to offer when the sun goes down and why you should visit this Mediterranean destination:

Paceville

Paceville in St. Julian’s, Malta, is known for its vibrant nightlife and clubbing scene. This area is particularly popular among locals and tourists alike for its numerous bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. The nightlife in Paceville typically starts late in the evening and continues into the early morning hours. Top places to go here include:

Club Havana: Situated at the heart of Paceville, this well-known establishment stands out as the largest and premier club for soul, hip hop, and R&B on the island. Particularly bustling during weekends, it is advisable to secure entry promptly to avoid missing out on the vibrant atmosphere. The venue tends to reach full capacity quickly, making early arrival a wise choice for those eager to partake in the lively experience.

The Playground @Sky Club: Another big hitter in Paceville. Opened in 2007 this club has a 3,400 guest capacity and the ability to serve 800 drinks a minute. Add to this the 2,00om of floor space, 130dB sound quality, state-of-the-art lighting system, floating floors, bass traps and much much more and you will be in a clubber’s paradise.

Footloose: You know you are in for a good time when the motto is “Wild Surprising Fun.” This venue is more akin to apres ski in a hot climate than clubbing. This is an extremely lively bar, with a dancefloor, lively and uplifting music. The atmosphere at Footloose is electrifying, featuring spontaneous performances, themed parties, and impromptu bar offers that add a dash of excitement to the evening. Just don’t expect to see Kevin Bacon on the dancefloor.

Twenty-Two: A pretty exclusive club and lounge bar situated near the top of Malta’s tallest tower (no points for guessing the floor). During the weekdays it has more of a wine-baer vibe, which is nice if you want to chill out and look out upon the great 360 degree panoramic across Malta. The weekends though are more lively, as the resident DJs come align to pump out the tunes. This place does have a strict dress code though, and anyone who gets a big risk appetite after a few drinks should be aware of the famous Portomaso Casino at the base of the tower.

Outside of Paceville

Although Paceville is Malta’s main party zone, there are one or two places that are definitely worth visiting elsewhere on the island.

Gianpula Village: This expansive venue in the middle of the island boasts an impressive total of 11 distinct spaces, including both indoor and outdoor settings, rooftop parties, and even festival arenas. With a diverse range of atmospheres, it caters to a wide audience, ensuring there’s something for everyone. While just a short taxi ride from Paceville, the journey proves to be well worth it for the array of experiences awaiting visitors at this multifaceted destination.

Valletta

Yard 32: Tucked away in a back alley off Strait Street, Valletta, you’ll come across a turquoise door adorned with scribbles beneath a prominent “Gin & Tapas” sign. This door leads to Yard 32, considered one of the finest bars not just in Valletta but across all of Malta.Whether you visit on weekends for live music or any other day of the week, you can expect excellent service to complement the inviting atmosphere. This hidden gem in Valletta promises a unique and memorable experience for gin enthusiasts and tapas lovers alike.

Bridge Bar: For an unparalleled live jazz experience in Malta, look no further than Bridge Bar. Every Friday from May 1st to the end of October, this bar transforms into the ultimate destination for live jazz sessions, offering an atmosphere that is truly one-of-a-kind. At Bridge Bar, patrons are typically seated outside, often on the stairs unless a table has been booked in advance. Here, amidst the enchanting ambiance, you can revel in live music while savoring local food and beverages.

The Beer Cave: The Beer Cave stands out as a distinctive venue for live entertainment, set in a truly unique environment. Upon entering the pub and descending the stairs, you find yourself in a 450-year-old cellar. This retro craft beer pub is unlike any other, featuring various rooms and hosting a range of events for exploration. What sets The Beer Cave apart is its diverse array of entertaining events. Beyond live music, the venue plays host to stand-up comedy nights, game nights, and themed events.