St Julian’s vs Gozo: Where Should UK Travelers Go in July 2025?

As UK travellers look ahead to their summer escapes in July 2025, a common dilemma emerges: “Should I visit St Julian’s or Gozo in Malta?” Both destinations appear frequently in UK search trends, but they offer very different experiences. In fact, Google Trends shows rising interest in the queries “St Julian’s Malta July 2025” and “Is Gozo worth visiting from Malta?” — confirming just how divided UK visitors are when planning their Malta getaway.

So, if you're sitting on the fence, wondering whether Malta’s buzzing St Julian’s or its peaceful sister island Gozo is more your style, this guide gives you a full, up-to-date breakdown to help you decide. From search trends and cultural differences to ferry access, nightlife, safety, and even visa advice, we’ve got it covered.

St Julian’s vs Gozo: Where Should UK Travelers Go in July 2025?

What Makes St Julian’s So Popular with UK Visitors?

Known for its promenade-lined bays, sea-view restaurants, and proximity to Malta’s nightlife hub Paceville, St Julian’s is among the most searched destinations by UK travellers in July 2025, with over 41,000 monthly UK searches. It offers a seamless blend of beach leisure and urban buzz, located just 20 minutes from Malta International Airport.

UK tourists are drawn to Spinola Bay’s Instagram-worthy scenery, the calm shores of Balluta Bay, and easy access to nearby Sliema and Valletta. It's a hub for boat tours, scuba diving excursions, and harbour cruises. That said, while St Julian’s is popular among young adults, it’s not just a party town—families and solo travellers also find pockets of quiet just outside the Paceville zone.

An interesting stat: According to Malta’s tourism authority, more than 33% of UK tourists choose accommodations in St Julian’s or Sliema, thanks to their transport convenience and cosmopolitan appeal. It’s ideal for those who want action, access, and the buzz of a modern resort town.

Why Is Gozo Trending Among UK Holidaymakers?

In contrast, Gozo offers the opposite rhythm. It’s Malta’s quieter, greener, and more traditional sister island, and is now becoming one of the most searched Malta locations for UK travelers in 2025, with nearly 26,000 searches/month.

Gozo is where you'll find untouched landscapes, ancient temples older than the Pyramids (like the Ġgantija temples), sea arches, and coastal hikes. Towns like Victoria (Rabat) and Xlendi bring charm, slow-paced culture, and fewer crowds. Its beaches—like Ramla Bay—are less commercial, and its appeal lies in authenticity, not activity.

Interestingly, travel bloggers and Reddit users have been vocal about Gozo’s rising star, especially as overtourism increases on Malta’s main island. A travel contributor noted in early 2025, “Gozo feels like how Malta used to be 30 years ago — peaceful, sincere, and steeped in soul.”

Travel Experience Breakdown: What’s Right for You?

If you're travelling with kids or want nightlife at your doorstep, St Julian’s offers everything from family hotels to party spots. Ferries to Valletta, boat tours to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, and fireworks over Balluta Bay in July are easy to reach.

On the other hand, if you're seeking something more off-grid, Gozo's historic villages, farm-to-table food, and Mediterranean nature offer a distinctly different escape. It’s ideal for second-time Malta visitors, couples wanting privacy, or digital nomads staying longer.

Fun fact: Gozo’s internet speed is the fastest in the Maltese islands, and many co-working spaces have popped up there in the last year, making it surprisingly good for remote workers.

Transport: Is It Easy to Get Between Them?

Yes. UK visitors often search “How far is Gozo from St Julian’s?” or “Can I do Gozo in a day?” From St Julian’s, it takes about 50–60 minutes by car or bus to Cirkewwa ferry terminal, and the ferry to Gozo runs every 30–45 minutes. No advance booking is required for walk-ons. You can also hire a car and take it across.

If you’re split between the two, many travellers now choose a 3-night St Julian’s + 2-night Gozo combo—it’s the best of both worlds without overcommitting.

Malta Visa Requirements for Non-EU Nationals in the UK

For UK residents who hold non-EU passports (like Indian, Pakistani, Nigerian, Bangladeshi, or UAE nationals), a Schengen visa is required to enter Malta. Applying from the UK is straightforward, but you must ensure your residence permit is valid and covers your entire stay.

For expert assistance, Malta Visas UK is a trusted Schengen visa agency specializing in Malta visa services. They assist with:

• Application preparation
  
  

• Appointment scheduling
  
  

• Document checklist guidance
  
  

• Follow-up support in case of rejections or delays
  
  

Their expertise ensures non-EU UK residents can travel to Malta hassle-free and with a higher chance of approval, especially during the busy summer months.

Final Thoughts: St Julian’s or Gozo—Which Wins?

The truth is, there is no wrong choice. St Julian’s is your best bet for buzz, beaches, and nightlife—with easy ferry access to Valletta and the rest of Malta. But Gozo is perfect for quiet wanderers, nature lovers, and those craving an unplugged island vibe. For July 2025 travelers, a hybrid approach—starting in St Julian’s and ending in Gozo—offers the most balanced Malta experience.

With UK interest in Malta skyrocketing this year, and flights more affordable than ever, there's no better time to plan. Whether you choose one or both, Malta delivers unforgettable charm—with just the right touch of sun, sea, and storybook scenery.