The low-down on Malta's clubbing scene
Malta was once regarded as a cultural hub and therefore appealed best to history buffs who were looking to educate themselves about the decades of chronicles enclosed by the bastions of the island. While Malta’s allure never falters, the island has built itself a reputation in the clubbing scene over the past years. As a result, several students, as well as young adults, venture to the Maltese island for a few days of zeal and bliss. Below is an overview of Malta’s clubbing scene for all of you looking to loosen up - the Maltese way.
1. Paceville, St. Julian’s - Malta's most popular nightlife location
Located in the midst of St Julian’s, Paceville is at the heart of Malta's clubbing scene - perfect for individuals looking to enjoy a night out. The party hub doesn’t solely feature clubs but also hosts an exquisite range of restaurants. Amongst the most popular clubs in Paceville is Havana which mainly attracts people who fancy a night of dancing. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a fancier time out, the Shadow Club might be more apt for your taste. Chill on the leather couches or party away to the beats the DJ of the night decides to drop.
2. Gianpula Village - L/O Żebbuġ
If you’re planning to visit Malta in summer, Gianpula is not to be missed. Gianpula is housed in an old farmhouse in the limits of Żebbuġ. Surprisingly, the quaint village conceals within its borders a package of fun and entertainment. Whether it’s nightclubs, exclusive parties or cocktails accompanied by a taste of the setting sun - Gianpula has it all on offer! Apart from offering stunning clubbing opportunities, the site makes use of its extensive outdoor space to host Malta’s biggest concerts and festivals - easily holding groups as big as 20,000 people.
3. Aria Village - San Ġwann
Aria is a party complex in San Ġwann that forms part of Malta's clubbing scene. The venue organises pool parties in summer and cosy indoor nights in winter to cater for all sorts of people and tastes. Aria is no ordinary nightclub, though - the venue will throw the most unique concepts your way, such as foam parties and themed events. Aria does away with recorded tracks and opts for live music and DJs on most of the nights. Aria is also host to many private events so careful not to crash a wedding during your visit to the complex!
4. Café Del Mar - Bugibba
Café Del Mar is an entertainment site best suited for people looking for a chill evening. Café Del Mar is based in Bugibba and forms part of the renowned Ibizan chain. Sip on some cocktails by the infinity pool or attend one of the exclusive events hosted at the location. Unfortunately, Café Del Mar is only open between May and October for events so you’ll miss out on the incredible fun at the venue if you visit during the colder months.
5. Uno Village - Ta' Qali
Uno Village is set in the confines of Ta’ Qali and prides itself in being the biggest club amongst Gozo's and Malta's clubbing scene. Given that the venue is set on the outdoors, the venue can only function in summer but the Uno crew takes advantage of the winter to recharge and come back with bigger and better events every year. At Uno, you can dance to the latest tracks of RnB, commercial house and alternative rock while treating yourself at the four full-sized bars located on the scene.
Important information to keep in mind
Minimum drinking age
Unlike the United States, most European countries allow the consumption of alcohol to individuals between the ages of 16 and 18. The legal minimum drinking age in Malta is, in fact, 17 years. In Malta, people under the age of 17 may only be allowed in a club on condition that no alcohol is served on the premises. Several clubs organise teen parties to cater for people between 13 and 17 years of age who are restricted in terms of partying options within Malta clubbing scene.
Transportation
Drinking and driving is, of course, prohibited in Malta - as is in all other countries. If you’ve booked a car during your stay, we recommend you leave it behind for the night. There are several ways of going to and fro your favourite party locations stress-free, after all.
Book a taxi
There are several cheap taxi options that will drop you off at the exact location you’re planning to visit and pick you up at whichever time you wish to make a move. Taxis are especially handy if you’re new to the island and are lost about the whereabouts of the club you’re looking to go to.
Ride the bus
Malta Public Transport designed a route to facilitate travelling from one club to another. If you fancy starting your night off at Paceville and dancing the early morning hours away at Gianpula, the Disco Bus is the ideal service for you! When the time comes to go home, you can opt for the night buses which operate between midnight and 5 am across all the major cities of Malta.
Share a van
If taxis are out of your price range and you find buses tedious, you should consider making use of a shuttle service. Outside Malta’s major clubbing destinations, you’ll spot passenger minivans. These vans can carry up to 15 people at a time. Given that the vans board groups of people at a time, you’ll be guaranteed a very small fee for the ride.
Safety and security
Given that Malta is slow-paced and calm, the island has a very low crime rate. Whilst very little violence occurs against tourists, we recommend moderate discretion. Clubs tend to attract pickpockets who will take advantage of wandering eyes to snatch phones out of hands or unattended handbags off of tables.
It is also important to keep in mind that individuals suffering from asthma or prone to claustrophobia might feel triggered by the overcrowded clubs.
Should any emergencies arise, we recommend you call 112 to assistance.
All things considered, we believe you’re set for a memorable holiday! Take advantage of our best offers to book a trip to experience Malta's clubbing scene - firsthand.
Book your trip to Malta with Choice Holidays for stunning offers.