If you are looking for where to stay in Malta look no further! Malta, a Southern European island country in the Mediterranean sea, has something for everyone with beautiful beaches, tons of historical and cultural attractions, and many events. There are so many options for Malta hotels, so planning can get overwhelming, but we are here to make the process easy for you. This small island country is one of the most beautiful to visit with so much to offer.
This archipelago is made up of five islands, two of which are uninhabited, which leaves 3 options of islands for where to stay in Malta for your visit. Malta is the largest island, Gozo the second largest, and Comino is much smaller and located in-between the two. Malta is the most visited island with the largest variety of places to stay, Gozo is known for its landscape, and on Comino you can get a real sense of isolation as it’s mostly a nature reserve.
Below, we will break down the best places to stay in Malta by area, price, and feel of the town. We will tell you the pros and cons of each area and layout the best Malta hotels. We want you to get an understanding of the unique feel and vibe each area of Malta has to offer so you can make a decision that is best for your interests. There is something for everyone and we know there will be something for you too! This breakdown will help you get a feeling for which Malta hotel and area is best for you and your trip!
Hands Down, This Is Where To Stay In Malta
Understanding the different towns of Malta
If you aren’t already familiar from your search for where to stay in Malta, Malta is made up of not just the three inhabited islands but also many cities, towns, and villages. Each town has it’s own unique atmosphere and festival for a saint. The saint’s festivals can even get a bit competitive between towns! Of course, you don’t have to spend all your time in just one but we recommend choosing 1-2 towns as your home base and day-tripping to others as you like and have time.
With Malta’s turbulent history being ruled by many different groups from the Romans to the Moors, the French to the British, and more the country is rich in historical sites and vibrant culture. The capital Valletta is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site! What activities interests you most will help you decide which towns you are most interested in. Some are closers to nature and hiking options, others sailing, diving, surfing, and snorkeling, or local events might be happening in a particular town during your visit that you want to attend. Malta accommodation might also be a consideration if you are looking for a family-friendly resort or a town with more late night clubs and bars.
If you are renting a car its more affordable when booked ahead but the island also has many buses, taxis, and the ferries to get you between islands. Be aware that you will need to drive on the left side of the road as in the UK and that some areas have parking signs for time parking zones where your parked time is limited to one hour. Parking can be more limited in the popular areas and there are narrow old roads in the city centers to navigate. You’ll want to consider the parking situation when deciding where to stay in Malta if you rent a car.
The tenth smallest and fifth most densely populated country, Malta’s people are friendly and welcoming as well as having a strong Catholic background. Their culture is heavily based around Catholicism, Arab and Italian traditions, and an appreciation for the arts. Each town has a different saint’s feast that lasts Monday-Sunday, peeking on Saturday, many of the most famous feasts happen throughout summer. During a festival that town can be the best place to stay in Malta.
Valletta is Where to Stay For History
Valletta is the capital of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage site for the massive number of historical buildings in a small area as they described it ‘one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world’. The fortress city was built in the 16th-Century in just 15 short years by the Knights of St John on the small peninsula and today is full of Baroque architecture, museums, and historic sites. Choose one of Malta hotels in Valletta if you are are a huge history buff or only visiting Malta for a short stay. However, If you are looking for where to stay in Malta to begin your trip Valletta is also a great starting point.
The art aficionado will not want to miss a trip to St John’s co-Cathedral and museum which is home to work by Caravaggio and Mattia Preti. Valletta is also home to many beautiful gardens, cute cafes and wine bars, as well as numerous restaurants. The city is quieter at night favoring dining options to late-night activities. A popular city these Malta accommodations book up quickly, so be sure to do your research as early as possible to get one of the best places to stay in Malta.
Upsides: Concentrated historic area. Baroque architecture. Hub of art and culture.
Downsides: Busy city feel and hotels are a bit pricier and sell out fast. It also isn’t as close to the beach as other towns.
Best Hotels in Valletta
Affordable: Casa Asti
Casa Asti is the best budget option in Valetta. The budget option does NOT mean its lacking in location or amenities. This hotel is right by Upper Barrakka Gardens and has air conditioning and a bar. If you are looking for where to stay in Valetta on a budget, this hotel will be a good match. The central location makes it where to stay in Malta on a budget in Valletta.
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: The British Suites
The British Suites is one of the best mid-range affordable Malta hotels in Valetta. Many other affordable hotels are further out of the city and sites but The British Suites right by the water. It comes with wifi, AC, breakfast, and daily housekeeping, as well as having an on-site restaurant. The best part? The modern hotel is themed in blue and neutrals inside and has room options with balconies with beautiful views. What more can you ask for when choosing where to stay in Valetta?
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Luxury: Grand Hotel Excelsior
Grand Hotel Excelsior is where to stay for the views! Just outside the entrance to Valetta, this is a seafront hotel with harbor views and a private beach. This upscale hotel also comes with free parking, outdoor and indoor pools, a spa, and a gym. For Malta accommodations, you really can’t go wrong with the view and setting for the price!
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Grand Hotel Excelsior
The Three Cities are Where to Stay For Maritime History
The Three Cities (Cottonera), made up of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla), and Bormla (Cospicua), are the fortified ancient and historic cities where the Great Siege was fought in the 16th-century across the harbor from Valletta. Birgu was made the capital of Malta until Valletta was built because of its significant position on the Grand Harbor. The Three Cities are where to stay in Malta if you are looking for historical cities that are more off the beaten path and less busy than the capital while still being nearby.
For a taste of maritime history visit the local museum with exhibits from ancient to more recent times or visit the war museum and it’s World War II exhibit to learn about Maltas part. On the 10th of August each year the feast of St. Lawerance is celebrated with festive decorations all over the city, bands, processions, and fireworks. The cities are also full of fine dining, wine bars, and boutique hotels.
Upsides: Less visited and more authentic experience in a very historical area.
Downsides: On the other side of Valetta so it is further from Silema and St Julian’s if you plan on visiting.
Best Hotels in The Three Cities
Affordable: Casa Birmula Hotel
Casa Birmula Hotel is an affordable budget option in Cospicua with an ocean view. You are steps away from the ferry to Valetta. This hotel has all the amenities you could wish for with a rooftop pool and sun terrace, on-site bar, and more. This is where to stay in Malta for homey vibes with great amenities.
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Mid-Range: Julesy’s BnB
Julesy’s BnB is one of the loveliest of Malta accommodations with beautiful natural lighting and spacious modern rooms in a building from 1895. It may not have an ocean view but its charm and distance to Birgu can’t be beaten. They also have an excellent breakfast and a terrace to enjoy during your stay.
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Luxury: Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour
Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour is one of the best places to stay in Malta for a rooftop with a view! Both a waterfront property and right next to the fortified walls you can see it all from the rooftop pool. The rooms have a sense of happy calm in a modern style. Suites are available with private terraces as well.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour
Gozo is Where to Stay For Nature
Gozo, the second-largest inhabited island of Malta, is where to stay in Malta to get away from the crowds, have a truer experience of local life, and get closer to the landscape. It is also home to the Ggantija (neolithic) temples which are among the world’s oldest free-standing structures. There are many seaside resorts and beaches to visit although not much of a nightlife. The flow of life here is at a slower less stressful pace and one more connected to the environment and culture.
The island is very walkable but also has a public bus system or a car can be rented. Known for its carnival many locals and tourists alike will travel to Gozo to experience the unique event. Gozo is one of the best places to stay in Malta for an active outdoor trip with hiking, diving, swimming, fishing, boating, and more as common activities. It is often considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean many water sporting activities are popular with visitors. Even the less active will enjoy the peaceful environment, rural hills, and astonishing coastline while you kick back and relax away from the stress of modern life.
Upsides: Less crowded, a more genuine local experience, beautiful untouched landscapes, beaches, great diving area.
Downsides: Very rural area, no real nightlife.
Best Hotels in Gozo
Affordable: The View Living
The View Living is a wonderful budget-friendly of Malta accommodations and is touted for the phenomenal view of the valley. The hotel has an outdoor pool with a view of the valley and offers a continental or buffet breakfast. With both bicycle rental service and car rental service getting around is a breeze. If you are looking for where to stay in Malta on a budget, this is a fantastic choice!
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Mid-Range: DGolden Valley Boutique & Breakfast
DGolden Valley Boutique & Breakfast is the perfect mid-range hotel choice, with three small pools open 24/7 to enjoy, rooms all that include a terrace or balcony, and a shared kitchen, grill, and dining area if you’d like to eat in. If you don’t feel like cooking the B&B has a popular breakfast and is a 15-minute walk from the local bars and restaurants. One of the best places to stay in Malta for the amenities and values, this is your top choice.
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Luxury: Botanica B&B
Botanica B&B is a luxury B&B option in Gozo that offers all the modern conveniences in a renovated sandstone home with an old-timey feel. Just a five-minute walk downtown the location is quiet but also convenient for any try of island visit. For where to stay in Malta with a good breakfast, outdoor pool, homey feel, but still close to town Botanica B&B is a perfect choice.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via DGolden Valley Boutique and Breakfast
Sliema is Where to Stay For Location
Sliema has a great amount of affordable Malta hotels. Located on the east coast of Malta, across the harbor from Valetta, near St Julian’s and Gzira, Sliema is a popular tourist stay. The peninsula is surrounded by rock beaches (solid rock, not made up of small rocks) most of which are open to the public so you can swim your heart out but might not enjoy relaxing on the rock so much as a sandy beach. A resort town with a large shopping area many restaurants and pubs, Sliema may not has as much history as some of the other towns but it does have an 18th-century polygonal Fort Tigne and the 17th-century St Julian’s Tower.
As one of the more popular places for where to stay in Malta the town caters to tourists and doesn’t feel as authentic an experience culturally as some of the other options. Sliema is a great choice for its central location to do other day trips and popular with runners for its seaside walking areas. We wouldn’t recommend renting a car if you’re staying in Sliema as parking is very limited and traffic pretty heavy during the day.
Upsides: More affordable area with lots of seafront property and access to boat trips to visit Valetta, Gozo, and Comino.
Downsides: It is a very popular destination and caters to tourists and has less authentic Maltese culture. Parking is difficult.
Best Hotels in Sliema
Affordable: Corner Hostel
When choosing a budget-friendly hotel in Sliema, don’t be afraid to sacrifice the sea view for the affordability of the location. While Corner Hostel doesn’t have a sea view it is only 650 feet from Sliema Beach and a 6-minute walk to Balluta Bay. The hotel offers a communal kitchen, BBQ facilities, library, and free wi-fi. Rooms include private bathrooms with dormitory stays include shared bathrooms. This is one of the best places to stay in malta with amazing pricing on a budget.
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: Sliema Marina Hotel
If you’re not willing to give up that ocean view but still looking for an affordable option then Sliema Marina Hotel is a great consideration for Malta accommodations. The hotel is right on Sliema’s seafront with quick access to the ferry to Valetta. You can also catch some sun on the terrace and hydrotherapy pool or enjoy a rooftop breakfast while at the hotel. If you are looking for where to stay in Malta with a great location but reasonable prices this is a great choice.
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Luxury: Cozy Rooms Hotel
Cozy Rooms Hotel is one of Malta hotels with a modern style in a renovated older building for large comfortable rooms. It’s within walking distance of the shopping mall and Tower Road as well as the bus and ferry. It has family room options and each room includes air conditioning and a refrigerator. Some rooms even have a patio with a garden view.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Sliema Marina Hotel
Gzira is Where to Stay For Quiet Beauty
Island in the Maltese language is Gzira, the city Gzira is not an island but is so named for the island in its harbor, Manoel. Manoel Island has a long history including as the location for a hospital in 1634 to stop those coming off ships struck by the plague and cholera from gaining the mainland, in World War II the fort was used as a naval base for the British, and today the island is an informal sanctuary for ducks and other waterfowl that relies on volunteers and donations. The island fort and sanctuary can be visited by boat and Gzira is home to a yacht marina as well.
Manoel Island may be a popular destination when in Gzira but it is not the only reason Gzira is one of the best places to stay in Malta. A walk along the promenade will take you along the seaside from Gzira all the way to Sliema and St. Julian’s with gorgeous views along the way. Gzira is where to stay in Malta for a relaxing visit with affordable quiet nights, pretty waterfronts, and while remaining close to Sliema but much less congested.
Upsides: More affordable area with lots of seafront property, close to Sliema, less congested if renting a car.
Downsides: It is further from the center of things if you are looking to be in the middle of the action.
Best Hotels in Gzira
Affordable: Lotus Guest House & SPA Malta
Lotus Guest House & SPA Malta is the perfect budget choice that still has a wide variety of Malta accommodations. They offer a fitness center, free WiFi, breakfast, and a garden to relax in. The airport is a short 3 miles away and the price can’t be beat!
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Mid-Range: Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
Azur Hotel by ST Hotels is a fantastic modern hotel and while it doesn’t have a pool you are welcome, including with your booking here, to visit their sister hotel 50 m away and use their pool! Breakfast is included and on-site there is a restaurant, fitness center, bar, and shared lounge as well as a tour desk and luggage storage to help during your visit.
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Luxury: Island Guesthouse
Island Guesthouse has a balcony for every guest and includes breakfast. For a taste of the outdoors without leaving your room, and at times even a view of the harbor, Island Guesthouse is where to stay in Malta.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
Saint Julian’s Bay is Where to Stay For Nightlife
Saint Julian’s Bay is one of the best places to stay in Malta and one of the most popular, especially with young couples and singles. This area grew from an underdeveloped town into a tourist location with luxurious hotels and trendy night clubs of today. The clubs are open late as are many of the bars plus there’s tons of restaurant options many of which are located in the Paceville area.
Those looking for a daytime adventure can walk the seafront promenade from St Julian’s through Sliema, Gzira, and more until you hit Valetta. This is a wonderful area to stay in if you are spending 5 days in Malta or longer because you have a really relaxed feel to your stay!
The town is also home to the tallest building in Malta, Portomaso Tower, a LOVE monument by the water, and Spinola Palace which was built in 1688 for public entertainment and began the development of St Julian’s. Hop on a romantic boat trip, explore the typical Maltese houses and art nouveau style buildings, or head over to the bay for a swim. Saint Julian’s Bay is where to stay in Malta for many for a reason, it has all this to offer and more.
Upsides: Huge variety of trendy nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and luxurious hotels.
Downsides: There isn’t as much history or culture to be found in this town, the beaches are also manmade and not the top choices.
Best Hotels in Saint Julian’s Bay
Affordable: Spinola Hotel
Spinola Hotel is a fantastic budget choice. The beach is a 5-minute walk away, it is right near Spinola Bay, and it is a short 5-minute walk to the Paceville area as well. Amenities include free WiFi, a restaurant, bar, air-conditioning and daily breakfast.
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: be.HOTEL
be.HOTEL is one of the best mid-range Malta accommodations with its rooftop terrace overlooking the bay with a panoramic pool. The beach is just a few hundred feet away and the hotel is home to a large number of shops, a bowling alley, and several restaurants. Breakfast is included as is free WiFi.
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Luxury: Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay
Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay is swimming in luxury, pardon the pun, there are 5 swimming pools set on sea view terraces and an on-site spa! There is a daily buffet breakfast and are 11 other restaurants on site. The hotel even offers free scheduled shuttle rides to Sliema, Valletta, and the golf club.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay
Saint Paul’s Bay is Where to Stay For Families
Saint Paul is believed to have shipwrecked on Malta, based on a biblical story, and brought Christianity to the island. Saint Paul’s Bay is named so because of this story and celebrates it’s Saint’s festival in July. A quiet village with a healthy amount of tourist attractions and Malta accommodations, Saint Paul’s Bay is a good destination for families looking for resorts outside the busy cities. The villages and towns that make up Saint Paul’s Bay is where to stay in Malta for anyone looking for a quiet vacation that is still centrally located for visiting other parts of the country.
Saint Paul’s Bay is home to the oldest surviving tower in malta, Wignacourt Tower, the first of six water towers built by the Knights in 1610. Xemxija is also home to one of the few nature reserves on the island is-Simar which is open to the public on Sundays. The same area can be visited for a stroll along the bay and a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants. The area is also home to a water polo club.
Upsides: Quiet area that’s great for families located close to the other islands if you want to do day trips.
Downsides: The area doesn’t have many late-night options and is a bit far from the capital.
Best Hotels in Saint Paul’s Bay
Affordable: Sunflower Hotel
All the rooms at the Sunflower Hotel have a balcony and private bathroom. The hotel also has a rooftop pool and terrace as well as an indoor so you can swim no matter the weather! The terrace even has a children’s pool and views of the ocean. The hotel is also home to a restaurant and 24-hour bar so you can always grab a drink and relax.
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: Pebbles Resort
Pebbles Resort is a modern resort that also has an outdoor and indoor pool! The rooms have desks, private bathrooms, and free WiFi throughout. The restaurant and bar are popular with guests and a Full English/Irish breakfast is offered.
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Luxury: Dolmen Hotel Malta
Dolmen Hotel Malta has a whooping six pools, a spa with hot tub and sauna, as well as a fitness center… and a private beach! It doesn’t get more luxurious than this with an all inclusive option that includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner as well as unlimited house wine, beer, and soft drinks. The Hotel has four restaurants, themed bars, and a casino. Don’t forget to check with the front desk if you want to rent bikes, boats, jet skis, or take diving lessons.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Dolmen Hotel Malta
Mellieha is Where to Stay For the Beach
If you are looking for the beautiful Mediterranian beaches then look no further! Mellieha is where to stay in Malta for you in that case and if you want to make day trips to Gozo and Comino as the ferry is a short 5-10 minute ride away. One of the northernmost villages in Malta, the area is home to the famous bay also referred to as Ghadira with its shallow crystal clear water it is perfect for all ages. Mellieha is also a village built on a hill with panoramic views of nearby valleys. There are miles of coastal walks with cliff and sea views as well as different places to visit like the Air Raid Shelter, Popeye Village an entertainment park, and fishing museum.
Mellieha is one of the best places to stay in Malta for a relaxing vacation on the beach away from some of the crowds and the hustle and bustle. Visit St. Agatha’s Tower, also referred to as the Red Tower, for amazing views of Gozo and Mosta, The White Tower over Armier Bay, or GHajn Tuffieha Tower over Gnejna Bay. Anyone interested in bird watching should stop by Ghadira Nature Reserve to see the various species of migrating birds.
Upsides: Quiet area that has beautiful beaches and is close to the ferries to Comino and Gozo.
Downsides: It is on a hill so expect uphill walks. It’s easier to get around if you rent a car. The area doesn’t have many late-night options and is a bit far from the capital.
Best Hotels in Mellieha
Affordable: Solana Hotel & Spa
Solana Hotel & Spa is a modern hotel with free WiFi, a 10-minute walk to Mellieha Bay, and a rooftop terrace with pool. There is also an indoor pool and each studio room includes a small kitchenette. On-site there are several restaurants and snack bars and evenings offer live entertainment.
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: Ramla Bay Resort
Ramla Bay Resort is the perfect mid-range option that’s right on the seafront and overlooks Comino and Gozo islands. The property has a private beach, gardens, and five pools! 3 pools outside and 2 pools inside. Basic accommodations include free WiFi, air conditioning, private bathroom, and most rooms have a balcony and sea view. Breakfast is also included and studios/apartments have a kitchen or kitchenette. Grab this option for Malta hotels and you may never want to leave!
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Luxury: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa is right on Malta’s Golden Bay and includes a swimming pool, lagoon pool, and children’s pool as well as a private beach and spa. The rooms are modern and each includes a balcony with countryside or seaside views. There are several onsite restaurants and bars.
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Photo Credit: Booking.com via Ramla Bay Resort
Rabat and Mdina is Where to Stay For a Less Crowded Visit
This southwestern area of Malta is more popular for day trips than overnight stays which makes it where to stay in Malta if you’re trying to avoid all the crowds and check out some history and the countryside. Mdina was the capital of Malta until 1530 when the knights arrived and retains much of its original medieval era architecture. It is tentatively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site so if you are looking for history but not the crowds of Valletta the Malta accommodations of Mdina and Rabat are perfect for you.
Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is a small town on one of Malta’s highest hills that’s surrounded by tall bastion fortifications and the scenic town of Rabat. Rabat has one of the few forested areas of Malta and is a good place for exploring the countryside. For romantic and peaceful evenings after the day-trippers leave this is one of the best places to stay in Malta.
Upsides: More popular with day-trippers than to stay so it’s a quiet area especially at night. Close to the Malta countryside but also full of history.
Downsides: It is a hilly area so expect to walk uphill. The area is doesn’t have much in the way of a night-life and is a bit further from the beaches.
Best Hotels in Rabat and Mdina
Luxury: Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa
Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a gym, and is located next to the Botanical Gardens. Each room has a private balcony and modern furnishings. There is a free shuttle to St. Julian’s so you can enjoy the nightlife if you wish.
Check Rates: Booking.com
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