Photo: Reflex © Gianpula
When the suns sets over the Maltese archipelago, the fishing villages and historic forts fall peaceful, and the clubbing hotspots come into their own. Malta boasts the kind of late night venues and open-air partying that attracts clubbers in the know, and the best in the global music business. Follow our guide (and the savviest crowds) to the must-visit venues in Malta’s nightlife scene.
Paceville
Located in St Julian’s near the Marina hotel, Paceville is home to Malta’s largest concentration of clubs and bars. Both locals and visitors party side by side here, as there’s a wide selection of venues with something for every taste.
When visiting Paceville make sure to check out Sky Club, a giant venue that attracts big-name artists and often puts on huge (and very popular) events. However, if you’re looking to hear music from a particular genre or era try Havana club for hip hop and R&B, Flashback for 80s and 90s old school tunes or Muddy Waters bar to hear vintage 60s and 70s music.
Paceville also offers plenty of options for pre-dancefloor drinks, including the laid back Shadow Lounge and Smooth Jazz music bar, which hosts live artists. For something a bit more upbeat to kick off your evening, try Footloose Fun Bar or Nordic Bar, where you can win free drinks by rolling dice – if you’re feeling lucky.
Rabat
Long summers and Mediterranean temperatures mean plenty of open-air partying in Malta. Head to Rabat, where many of these venues are open seasonally, and dance the night away under the stars. Start with Gianpula Village, a large and ever-more-popular complex housing four venues: Gianpula Main Room houses seven bars and is the place to go for events, Marrakech Club boasts a stylish garden setting, Phoenix bar is up and coming as the latest addition, and Groove Gardens, which is a mecca for underground music in Malta.
Gozo
For partying with a little twist of adventure, head to Malta’s sister island, Gozo. Nestled in this stunning environment is La Grotta, a club within a giant natural cave. Indoor and outdoor dancefloors await, making it a truly unique venue in which to dance the night away. In winter when La Grotto is closed, head for KU Club in nearby Victoria, and its roster of international DJs.
