Fgura vs St. Julian's
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Fgura is better for families and budget buyers seeking affordable harbour-region living, while St. Julian's suits young professionals, tourists, and nightlife lovers wanting coastal entertainment. Fgura averages among the lowest property prices in the harbour area with no tourist premium, rated 8/10 for family suitability and 7/10 for transport. St. Julian's scores 10/10 for dining and nightlife but just 4/10 for family living, with premium rents comparable to Sliema. The two towns sit roughly 6 km apart, with Fgura 15 minutes from Malta International Airport by car versus St. Julian's 25 minutes.
Fgura sits between the Three Cities and Paola, served by bus routes 2, 3, 4, and 6 from Valletta. It offers flat terrain, good parking, and modern amenities including schools and shopping. St. Julian's connects via routes 12, 13, 14, and 16, with the nearest ferry at Sliema just 5 minutes away. It hosts Malta's iGaming hub around Portomaso Marina and the Paceville entertainment district.
Fgura lacks architectural character and tourism appeal but delivers practical commuter living with a safety rating of 7/10. St. Julian's features Spinola Bay, Balluta Bay, and upscale marina living, though heavy traffic, limited parking, and weekend noise in Paceville are significant drawbacks. Its safety rating sits at 6/10.
Living in Fgura
Fgura is a compact residential town sandwiched between the Three Cities and Zabbar — a primarily residential area that grew rapidly in the post-war period as housing spread outward from the harbour. It's one of Malta's newer towns, with most development dating from the 1960s onward, which gives it a different character from the ancient harbour cities next door. The town's landmark is a striking bronze monument of Christ the King that stands at the main junction, visible from the approach roads and a reference point for anyone navigating the area. Fgura's parish church, dedicated to St. Mary, has a distinctive modernist design that stands out among Malta's predominantly baroque churches. Fgura's appeal is straightforward: affordable housing close to both the harbour area and the southern towns. Property here is modestly priced, and the location is practical — a short drive to the Three Cities, Paola, and the arterial roads heading south and north. It's a commuter town, pure and simple, with no tourist pretensions.
Highlights
- Affordable housing close to the harbour area
- Christ the King monument — local landmark
- Quick access to Three Cities and Paola
- Modernist parish church — unusual for Malta
- No tourist premium on property prices
Living in St. Julian's
St. Julian's is where Malta goes to play. By day it's a pleasant coastal town spread around Spinola Bay — one of the most photographed fishing boat harbours on the island — and Balluta Bay with its grand art nouveau houses. By night it becomes Paceville, the island's densest concentration of bars, clubs, casinos, and restaurants, drawing revellers from across Malta until the early hours. The town has a split personality that works in its favour. The Paceville side is loud, youthful, and commercial, home to international hotel chains and the Dragonara Casino. The Spinola and Balluta side is refined, with upscale restaurants housed in converted townhouses and a promenade that connects westward to Sliema. Portomaso, with its signature tower and marina, sits between the two — a luxury residential and commercial complex that symbolises the area's premium positioning. St. Julian's is the heart of Malta's iGaming and tech industries. Office buildings cluster around the Mriehel area and along the coast, making it the most convenient base for professionals working in these sectors. Property here commands some of the highest rents on the island, particularly in developments with sea views.
Highlights
- Spinola Bay — iconic fishing boat harbour lined with restaurants
- Paceville — Malta's nightlife district with dozens of bars and clubs
- Portomaso Marina and luxury tower
- Heart of Malta's iGaming industry
- Balluta Bay with its art nouveau buildings
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Fgura
Fgura comes out ahead in family, safety .
Choose St. Julian's
St. Julian's comes out ahead in dining, nightlife, transport .
Frequently Asked Questions
Available Properties
Fgura (3 listings)
Fgura House For Rent Direct From Owner
2 bedroom apartment available in Fgura
3 Bedroom Apartment in Fgura for Rent
St. Julian's (22 listings)
Fully furnished, good size 1 bedroom Apartment
St. Julian's
Spacious 2-Bedroom Seafront Apartment – St Julian's – €1700/month
