Is Sliema safe?
Very safe. Crime is low and the district feels calm; the main risks are traffic, summer heat and slippery rocks at swimming spots.
Key facts
- SoloSquare safety rating: 5/5, very safe.
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2026-07-08.
- Homicide rate in Malta: 0.6 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths in Malta: 4.1 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: All emergencies 112.
Safety in Sliema at a glance
| What to expect | |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5/5 · Very safe |
| Crime | Occasional pickpocketing on busy summer promenades and buses; rare bag theft from beaches and cars. |
| At night | The promenade is calm and safe at night; bars close earlier than in Paceville. Use Bolt for late rides. |
| Solo women | Very comfortable for solo women, including walking the promenade at night. Normal care with drinks and late buses. |
| Other risks | Summer heat above 35°C; Slippery rocks and sudden swell; Heavy traffic and few crossings |
Scams, areas and local laws
Common scams
- Boat-tour touts on the Strand quoting inflated prices
- Overpriced taxis from the ferries late at night
Take care
- Slippery rocks at swimming spots and rough water in winter
- Busy roads and fast cars around the Gżira roundabout
Calmer areas to stay
Laws visitors break by accident
- Adults may possess a little cannabis privately, but using it in public is illegal and fined.
How Sliema compares in Malta
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Valletta | 5/5 · Very safe |
| Sliema | 5/5 · Very safe |
| Gozo | 5/5 · Very safe |
| St. Julian's | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Sliema safe for solo female travelers?
Very comfortable for solo women, including walking the promenade at night. Normal care with drinks and late buses.
Is Sliema safe at night?
The promenade is calm and safe at night; bars close earlier than in Paceville. Use Bolt for late rides.
What is the crime rate in Sliema?
Occasional pickpocketing on busy summer promenades and buses; rare bag theft from beaches and cars. Nationally, Malta records 0.6 homicides per 100,000 people a year (2023).
What number do I call in an emergency in Sliema?
All emergencies 112.
More about Sliema
Going to Sliema solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Sliema meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Malta Public Transport
- Malta International Airport
- Visit Malta
- Bolt Malta
- World Bank: intentional homicides (UNODC)
- World Bank: road traffic deaths (WHO)
Safety ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment from official advisories, crime data and local reporting. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.