I just returned from a sun-soaked trip that changed how I think about vacations with my four-legged best friend. My destination was a vibrant seaside city full of history and charm. I am talking about Dog Friendly Travel in Sliema, Malta. This place is a gem for people who do not want to leave their pups behind. If you are a mature traveler who loves a mix of luxury and local culture, this Sliema travel guide is for you. I will share every detail of my journey so you can plan your own tail-wagging adventure.
Sliema Malta in Which Country?
People often ask me, Sliema Malta in which country is that exactly? It is located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta is a small island nation south of Sicily. Sliema travel offers a unique experience because the city is a mix of a busy business center, a top shopping destination, and a historic area. It is part of a cluster of cities along the coast. It sits right across the water from the capital city. Sliema or Valletta is a common choice for tourists. I chose Sliema because it feels more open and has a long seafront promenade that is perfect for long walks with a dog.
Preparation Is Key for a Smooth Trip
First of all, you must handle the paperwork before you even pack a bag. Malta is part of the European Union, but it has very strict rules for pets. Your dog needs a valid EU Pet Passport. If you come from a non-EU country, you will need an official health certificate instead. Every dog must have an ISO identification microchip. This chip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is given.
The timing of the vaccines is vital. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old to get the rabies shot. After the first shot, you must wait exactly 21 days before you can enter Malta. Additionally, your dog needs a tapeworm (Echinococcus) treatment. A veterinarian must give this treatment between 24 hours and 120 hours before you arrive in the country. Do not forget this step. Later, you must fill out an online pre-notification form. You need to submit this at least three working days before you land. This ensures a vet will be there to meet you at the airport or ferry terminal.
Flight Details and Arrival
I flew with my small dogs in the cabin. It is a great way to keep them calm. KM Malta Airlines is the main carrier now. They allow pets in the cabin if the total weight of the dog and the carrier is under 10 kilograms. The fee is a flat €70. However, the carrier size rules are quite tight. They ask for dimensions around 40 x 34 x 18 centimeters.
Arrival at the airport was easier than I expected. A man with an official badge met us near the baggage area. He was the government veterinarian. He checked the microchip and looked at the passport. There was no fee for this inspection at the time of my visit. Finally, we were officially in Malta.
Where to Stay in Sliema
Sliema has over 118 pet-friendly accommodation results to choose from. You can find everything from cheap suites to luxury seafront penthouses. I found that staying near The Strand or Tigné is best for easy access to the water.
- Eleven By Warren Collection: This spot is only steps from the mall. It costs about US$ 119 per night.
- Quisisana Apartments: These are superb and located right by the coast. The price is around US$ 178.
- Sea Front Spacious Valletta Views Apartments: These offer amazing views of the capital across the harbor. They cost about US$ 196.
- Luxury Seafront 3Br With Pool: If you want to splash out, this place is US$ 530 per night.
On top of that, many local hosts are very welcoming. My host even printed a list of dog-friendly beaches for me. It is a good idea to check if your hotel has a shaded patio, as the sun is very strong in the summer.
The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Sliema
Malta has 16 official dog-friendly beaches where dogs can legally swim. This is a great improvement. In the past, rules were very confusing. Now, clear signs tell you where you can go. In the Sliema area, you have two main choices.
Tigné Point is a popular spot located right behind the Point shopping center. It offers great views of Valletta and has rocky access to the water. Qui-Si-Sana Beach is another excellent choice in Sliema. It is well-kept and easy to reach from the main promenade.
If you want a sandy beach, you must travel a bit further. Imgiebah Bay in Selmun is the only official sandy dog beach in Malta. It is a protected bay with shallow water. It is perfect for dogs that are still learning how to swim. Though it is a bit of a drive from Sliema, it is worth the trip for the soft sand.
Rules and Heavy Fines
You must be careful about the rules. Dogs are not allowed on most public swimming beaches between May 1st and September 30th. This rule is very strict. Local councils enforce it to keep the water clean for humans. If you take your dog to a non-designated beach during these months, the fines are huge. A first offense can cost you between €232 and €4,658. If you get caught again, the fine can go up to €11,646.
Therefore, always stay in the designated areas. Your dog must stay on a leash while you are on the rocks or the path. They can only be off the leash when they are actually in the water. Also, you must carry waste bags and clean up immediately. These rules keep the beaches open for everyone.
Walking the Promenade and Parks
One of my favorite Sliema malta tips is to spend your mornings on the promenade. It is a long coastal strip that connects Sliema to St. Julian’s. You will see many locals walking their dogs here.
Independence Garden is a beautiful spot along this walk. It covers 2.7 acres and is full of greenery and paths. It is a peaceful place of refuge in a busy city. Interestingly, it is also a place for cat lovers. Many local cats live there in handmade shelters. On top of that, there is a children’s playground and plenty of shaded benches. Ġnien George Bonello Dupuis is another nearby park that covers 1.2 acres. Both are great for a quiet stroll when the sun is not too high.
Shopping at The Point Mall
I was surprised to find that the biggest mall in Malta is pet-friendly. The Point in Sliema welcomes dogs with open arms. It is fully air-conditioned, which is a lifesaver on hot days. Many people take their dogs there for “self-care Sundays”.
The staff at the shops are very friendly. They often greet dogs with smiles and pats on the head. Additionally, the eateries in the mall are happy to provide a doggy bowl of water. It is a great place for your dog to meet other people and pets in a safe environment. Just make sure your dog is well-behaved and comfortable with crowds.
Dining Out with Your Dog
Sliema and the nearby Gzira area are full of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants. Malta is generally very welcoming to pets in dining areas. Here are some of my top recommendations:
- The Black Sheep (Sliema): This is a great restaurant and bar on the Strand. They serve water to dogs right away. My dog even got a plate of bacon once. However, it can get noisy at night, so the daytime is better for sensitive pups.
- The Brew Grill & Brewery (Sliema): This place is in the heart of the Strand and is a leading craft beer bar. It is very dog-friendly.
- Marrobbio (Sliema): This restaurant offers a “Real Italian” experience with pizza and pasta.
- Mint Café (Sliema): A local favorite for a quick bite with your dog on the terrace.
- The Smokehouse (Gzira): Located just a short walk from Sliema, this spot is perfect for a weekend drink. Dogs are welcome inside or outside.
- NAAR Restobar (St. Julians): This is perhaps the most dog-friendly place on the island. It is a short walk from the Sliema border. They have a special Doggie Menu with homemade treats in flavors like peanut butter or meat. You can buy three treats for just €1. They always bring a water bowl without you having to ask.
Similarly, many other spots like Two Buoys, Suzie Q, and Briju in the area are happy to have you and your best bud join the table.
Getting Around Sliema
Malta is small, but getting around with a dog takes some thought. Public buses are a bit tricky. Officially, dogs are only allowed if they are in suitable containers or carriers and held on your lap. Large dogs are usually not permitted on buses unless they are guide dogs.
Fortunately, the ferries are much better. The Valletta Ferry Services allow dogs for free if they are leashed or in a bag. A return trip from Sliema to Valletta costs about €3.80. It is a fast and beautiful way to travel across the harbor. The Upper Barrakka Lift in Valletta is also free for dogs.
If you want to visit the sister island, the Gozo Fast Ferry also allows pets. For the most freedom, I recommend a rental car. It makes reaching the remote beaches like Imgiebah Bay much easier. Just check with the rental company about their pet policy first.
Staying Safe in the Heat
The sun in Malta is no joke. Summer temperatures can be brutal. Dog Friendly Travel in Sliema, Malta requires you to be very careful about the heat.
First of all, use the 5-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. I saw many people using a travel sling or paw protection balm to keep their pups safe.
Always look for shade. Most terraces have umbrellas, but the midday sun is still strong. I recommend walking your dog very early in the morning or late in the evening. Also, bring a portable water bottle and a cooling vest if you have one. If your dog starts panting heavily or drooling, move to a cool area and put water on their belly immediately.
Health and Local Dangers
You should also be aware of the sea life. Malta’s clear waters are home to sea urchins and jellyfish. Sea urchin spines can be very painful if they get stuck in a paw. If your dog gets hurt, use tweezers to remove visible spines and clean the wound with fresh water.
There are plenty of veterinary clinics in and around Sliema if you need help. Dr. Trevor’s Veterinary Clinic is located right in Sliema. Other nearby clinics include Vetmedic Pharmacy in Gzira and Animal Aid in Msida. It is a good idea to save these numbers in your phone before you start your trip.
Sliema or Valletta?
When deciding between Sliema or Valletta, think about your dog’s needs. Valletta is a beautiful historic fortress. It has many stairs and narrow streets. Sliema travel, on the contrary, is more about the wide promenade and easy access to rocky shores. Sliema feels more like a residential area where dogs are part of daily life. I found the “Sliema front” to be the best place for a relaxing holiday with a pet. You get the best of both worlds: great shopping and dining, plus plenty of space to walk.
Statistical Summary of Dog Travel
| Category | Detail | Data Point |
| Official Dog Beaches | Total count in Malta & Gozo | 16 beaches |
| Beach Fines | First offense range | €232 – €4,658 |
| Beach Fines | Repeat offense maximum | €11,646 |
| Public Parks | Independence Garden size | 2.7 acres |
| Ferry Cost | Sliema to Valletta (Return) | €3.80 |
| Airline Fee | KM Malta Airlines pet fee | €70 |
| Water Refill | Water point machine cost | €0.20 per liter |
| Treatment Window | Tapeworm (Echinococcus) timing | 24 – 120 hours before arrival |
| Notification | Online form deadline | 3 working days before arrival |
FAQ
Is it easy to get around Malta from Sliema?
Yes, Sliema is a central hub with excellent connections. You can easily reach the capital, Valletta, via a short ferry ride or use the extensive bus network to reach other parts of the island.
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Malta?
Dogs are only allowed on 16 designated dog-friendly beaches. They are strictly prohibited from most public swimming beaches and all Blue Flag or sandy beaches (except Imġiebaħ Bay) between May 1st and September 30th, with fines up to €233 for violations.
Is Sliema, Malta worth visiting?
Sliema is considered one of Malta’s most versatile cities, offering a mix of seaside relaxation, historical areas, and major shopping destinations like The Point. It features a popular promenade for walking and a wide variety of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants.
Should we stay in Valletta or Sliema?
The choice depends on your preference: Sliema is a popular residential area with many shops, cafes, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Valletta is the historic capital and a major transport hub, but it may be more crowded.
What is the cheapest way to get around Malta?
The cheapest way to travel is by combining bus transport and ferry services. For example, a return ferry between Sliema and Valletta is approximately €3.80, and certain bus routes combined with ferry crossings can significantly reduce travel costs.
What beach is the most dog friendly?
Imġiebaħ Bay in Selmun is highly recommended as it is the only official sandy dog-friendly beach in Malta and features shallow, calm water. In Sliema, Tigné Point and Qui-Si-Sana are the official designated spots.
Where to avoid staying in Malta?
While not an “avoid” list, Gzira is suggested for those who want to stay central while avoiding heavy tourist crowds. For day trips, the Crystal Lagoon is recommended to be skipped during summer due to extreme heat and lack of shade for pets.
How to travel to Malta with a dog?
You must have a valid EU Pet Passport, a microchip, and a rabies vaccination. Additionally, dogs require a tapeworm treatment administered 24 to 120 hours before arrival and an online pre-notification form submitted at least three working days in advance for a veterinary inspection upon arrival.
Is Sliema Malta expensive to eat out?
Malta has a range of prices; while it is not considered cheap, you can find affordable options like pizza slices for under €2 or complete fast-food meals for around €7.
What to do in Sliema at night?
Sliema has several bars and restaurants open late, such as The Black Sheep, which serves guests until 2 or 3 AM. Evening walks along the air-conditioned mall at The Point or the promenade are also popular.
Is Sliema walkable?
Yes, Sliema is very walkable, featuring a long coastal promenade and parks like Independence Gardens that are suitable for strolling.
Concluding words
Traveling to Sliema with a dog is a rewarding experience that requires careful preparation, including securing an EU Pet Passport and meeting specific health requirements. Visitors can enjoy official dog-friendly beaches like Tigné Point and Qui-Si-Sana, or walk through the pet-welcoming Independence Gardens.
The area boasts numerous pet-friendly establishments, from the high-end shopping at The Point to local favorites like The Black Sheep and Mint Café. By following local leash laws and seasonal beach restrictions, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable island adventure with your pet.
