Where to stay in Malta?
Last update: 04/20/2026
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After publishing our articles on Malta, we received many requests for recommendations on where to stay in Malta. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best places to stay. As I’ve said before, Malta is an affordable European destination. Its accommodations are no exception! That’s good news, isn’t it? There are plenty of options in the Maltese archipelago, ranging from luxury hotels to friendly guesthouses.
There are some very nice settings: by the sea, near Malta’s best beaches, in Valletta (the capital), Mdina, and more. It all depends on the type of stay you’re looking for and the activities you’d like to do there. We’ve written a complete article on what to do in Malta. You’ll find all the highlights of the Maltese archipelago in it, including the islands of Gozo and Comino.
Simply put, this article is designed to help you find the best accommodations in Malta. To provide the most helpful information, I’ve drawn on my personal experience in Malta. I’ve also taken care to suggest places to stay in both lively and quiet areas to suit all budgets. When it comes to the different areas of Malta, I’ll tell you right away which districts and towns are the best places to stay.
The best places to stay in Malta
We agree, the location where you stay for your holiday in Malta is super important! It’s where you’ll spend several days and return each evening as if it were your home for a few days, weeks or more…
In Malta, it really depends on the atmosphere and the kind of stay you’re looking for: beach relaxation, lively parties, family-friendly, etc. Overall, here are the neighborhoods and cities to stay in Malta according to your wishes:
- Valletta, for a historic stay in the heart of the capital
It is often the Maltese capital that is chosen for its setting and cultural visits. Moreover, its typical streets are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to do everything on foot or by bus, the whole island is well served from Valletta. During the day, it remains very lively, but in the evening calm returns. It’s an opportunity to enjoy all the amenities: restaurants, shops, etc.
- Sliema, for seaside strolls and shopping
Right opposite Valletta, Sliema offers plenty of accommodation, making it very convenient! It feels like a lively seaside resort. Along the waterfront there’s a promenade with everything you need: cafés, shops, and more. In short, Sliema is a bit of everything—relaxation, swimming, and entertainment. Even without a rental car, it remains a great base for exploring the island of Malta.
- St. Julian’s, for the festive atmosphere
You may have already heard of it—this is the place to come if you’re in Malta to go out and party. You’ll be at the heart of the action, especially if you choose the Paceville district. Here, particularly in the high season, bars, clubs, nightclubs, and restaurants are open around the clock. It’s also the time of year when concerts and showcases by Francophone and international artists take place. If it’s the festive vibe that brings you to Malta, you won’t be disappointed. On the flip side, it’s not the most peaceful place to stay, haha.
- Mellieħa, for the beach and tranquility
Further north on Malta’s west coast, Mellieħa is quieter and family-friendly. It’s home to Mellieħa Bay, the island’s largest beach. Truly, it’s a gorgeous white-sand beach with crystal-clear water—ideal for a family holiday. As a bonus, the village of Mellieħa sits on higher ground, offering stunning views from above!
- Saint Paul’s Bay, for the atmosphere and setting
This is exactly where I chose to spend my week on Malta—and I have no regrets! Specifically, I stayed in the Xemxija area. I enjoyed a perfect blend of peace, activity, and convenience. Near my hotel there were several restaurants to try, which was super handy for dinner (some even offered views of the bay)!
- Gozo, for more authenticity
I spent five nights on Gozo and it was truly a refreshing change from Malta! It was perfect to conclude my holiday. On the island of Gozo, everything is calmer, more pristine and less touristy. It is wonderful to recharge and slow down, even though there are plenty of things to discover on the island: hidden coves, quaint villages, cliffside hikes and much more… I highly recommend taking the time to stay there. I assure you that you will not be disappointed! I would even say that it will reveal another side of the archipelago!
If you would like to learn more about where to stay in Gozo, we have written a comprehensive article on the topic.
As you can see, even though the archipelago and the main island remain small, there are still quite a few places to stay in Malta. If you know Malta a little, you will notice that almost all the places I have recommended are on the east coast. This is simply because it is the most developed area of the island in terms of roads, construction and accommodations. It will be more convenient for you!
The best hotels and accommodation in Malta
The best hotels in Malta: for couples and families
Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with your family, Malta offers a wide range of high-end hotels to suit all types of stays. I’ve compiled a list of some of the finest options for you to choose from. Some of these hotels offer direct sea views, rooftops, and spas. I’ll leave you to discover them!
The Phoenicia Malta
This 5-star hotel is located right at the entrance to the capital and boasts a superb location. It’s situated in the middle of the gardens above the Grand Port. And that’s not all! Its facilities live up to its reputation, offering an infinity pool with a breathtaking view of the city, a spa, and more-than-comfortable rooms. The rooms are modern and well-decorated with a Mediterranean flair. To top it all off, some rooms have balconies overlooking the sea. When it comes to dining, there are plenty of options, with four restaurant-lounges. In short, if you want a luxurious stay, I recommend booking this hotel in advance!
Malta Marriott Resort & Spa
Discover this resort hotel in Saint Julian’s, right next to Balluta Bay beach! The hotel offers spacious, modern rooms with breathtaking sea views. When it comes to facilities, there’s nothing to complain about: three swimming pools (including one on the roof), a spa with a hammam, a sauna, and treatment rooms, as well as a gym. This well-established hotel is often fully booked. Especially in the summer, given the area! In addition, reviews of this hotel rave about its hearty breakfast, welcoming staff, and top-of-the-line services. Once again, this hotel is a safe choice for staying in one of the best five-star hotels in Malta.
Iniala Harbour House
Perched high above Valletta and just across from the Grand Harbor and the Three Cities, this hotel’s setting is simply stunning. This five-star establishment offers elegant suites, some of which have private pools and panoramic sea views. Every detail has been designed to provide an exclusive experience, including a warm welcome, a spa with a pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and other custom services. Best of all, it’s located in the heart of the historic center, right next to the famous Upper Barrakka Gardens! You couldn’t be better placed!
Mercure St. Julian's Malta
We’re moving slightly downmarket with this hotel, but it’s still in the luxury category. The Mercure has many assets: breathtaking sea views from the rooftop pool, modern and well-equipped rooms, and proximity to the island’s transport links and beaches. The rooms are well soundproofed, which is rather handy given the neighborhood and bustling city of Saint Julian’s. If you want a comfortable stay close to all amenities and want to party hard, you can opt for the Mercure without hesitation!
The Embassy Valletta Hotel
Located in the heart of Valletta, the Embassy Valletta Hotel offers a blend of comfort, modernity, and stunning panoramic views. For example, it has a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the golden buildings of the capital. The rooms are well-equipped and air-conditioned, which is ideal given Malta’s climate. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the city or the sea. To satisfy your taste buds, the varied breakfast buffet is served in a Mediterranean restaurant on the rooftop. There’s also an on-site gym and spa — always a pleasure! In short, this is an excellent place to stay in Valletta. It’s top-of-the-line, yet more affordable than other establishments.
If you’re still on the fence, I’ve put together a comparative table of the best hotels in Malta. It includes all the essential information (services, prices, and locations) to help you make your decision!
| Name | Location | Features | Review | Price Range | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Phoenicia Malta | Valletta | Central location, infinity pool, spa, comfortable rooms, hearty breakfast, attentive staff. | You will be charmed by the refined comfort, high-end services, and the charming setting. | €200 - €500 | Book |
| Malta Marriott Resort & Spa | St. Julian's, Balluta Bay | Seafront location, bay views, full-service spa, rooftop pool, spacious rooms, varied restaurants, attentive staff. | You will undoubtedly appreciate the room comfort, splendid bay views, and high-quality facilities. | €180 - €400 | Book |
| Iniala Harbour House | Valletta, Grand Harbour | Exceptional views, spa, indoor pool, Michelin-starred restaurant, luxurious rooms, personalized welcome, meticulous design, high-end service. | You will be won over by the hotel's refinement, quality of service, and breathtaking view of Valletta's harbor. | €400 - €900 | Book |
| Mercure St. Julian's Malta | St. Julian's | Rooftop pool, sea views, cleanliness, attentive staff, modern rooms, varied breakfast, central location, quiet, free parking. | You will be delighted by the modern comfort, warm welcome, and the ideal location for exploring on foot. | €271 - €537 | Book |
| The Embassy Valletta Hotel | Valletta | Central location, rooftop pool with views, comfortable rooms, varied breakfast, welcoming staff, spa, gym, on-site restaurant. | You'll love the panoramic view from the rooftop, the quality of service, and the perfect location for exploring the capital on foot. | €381 - €480 | Book |
Affordable hotels in Malta
To help you explore the island without spending a lot of money, here’s a selection of budget hotels in Malta. Since Malta is an affordable destination, even budget hotels offer good comfort, a convenient location, and breakfast. You’ll generally find this type of accommodation in Sliema, St. Paul’s Bay, and Valletta. Whether you’re looking for a single room or a small, family-run hotel, the important thing is to feel at home!
Grand Harbour Hotel
As expected, we’re heading to the capital with the Grand Harbour Hotel! As its name suggests, the hotel offers superb views of the harbor and the Three Cities. Its location is perfect for exploring the city on foot or by bus. This simple yet charming hotel has comfortable, air-conditioned rooms. Some rooms even have balconies overlooking the sea. Plus, the rooftop terrace is great for admiring sunsets. In short, this is an affordable gem in the heart of Valletta.
Sensi Hotel
The Sensi Hotel is located in Marsaskala, a coastal town 10 kilometers from the Maltese capital. If you’re looking for a simple yet comfortable vacation, you’ve come to the right place! Here, you’ll find functional, air-conditioned rooms with a view of either the sea or the pool, depending on your preference. When it comes to activities, you’ll never be bored. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, as well as several restaurants, including a good pizzeria. Just a few meters from the hotel is the Sensi Lido, where you can enjoy water sports or simply rent a deck chair on the beach for a relaxing day. This family-run hotel in Malta is ideal for enjoying the climate and discovering the island’s must-sees.
Ambassador Hotel
We’ve arrived at the place I chose to stay while on the island of Malta! It’s in Saint Paul’s Bay, which I think is the best place to stay in Malta. Honestly, it has everything: a swimming pool with a terrace, comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a breakfast room. I really appreciated the warmth and friendliness of the staff. You could ask them for advice at any time, and the atmosphere was nice. It made you feel at home. The room was simple yet comfortable, and I slept really well after all my days of climbing. It had a small balcony overlooking Saint Paul’s Bay—the view was superb! My only comment is that the decor is a bit old-fashioned, but that’s a minor detail.
In terms of practicality, if you have a rental car, you can park in the white-lined spaces right in front of the hotel. There’s always room! Frankly, when I left for Gozo, I initially wanted to stay a little longer. Overall, I highly recommend this small, family-run hotel! One more thing: the breakfast is copious and well worth it!
Primera Hotel
Located right next to Buġibba Beach, where I took my first dive in Malta, the Primera Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a successful vacation on the main island! This three-star establishment prioritizes conviviality above all else. The rooms are air-conditioned, and some have a partial sea view. By “small view,” I mean that it is not panoramic, but you can still see the sea. For a panoramic view, head up to the rooftop terrace with the pool.
As for location, you’ll be close to bars, restaurants, and transportation. Honestly, Saint Paul’s Bay is a nice town, somewhere between tranquil and lively. I find that it has a family atmosphere. In conclusion, the Primera Hotel is a great option for a carefree stay with your feet literally in the water.
Lady Todd
Back to Sliema with the Lady Todd! To give you an idea of its location, it’s very close to the sea, ferries to Valletta, and amenities and transportation. The modern hotel has spacious, clean rooms with balconies overlooking the city. Positive reviews often mention the place’s tranquility, cleanliness, and friendly staff. On top of all this, the hotel offers a bar, a terrace, and a 24-hour reception. Without getting ahead of myself, I’d say the Lady Todd strikes a great balance between comfort and simplicity. Quite simply, it offers excellent value for money. It’s a good deal not to be missed!
To help you further, here’s a comparison table of affordable hotels in Malta. You’ll find all the information you need to make a decision!
| Name | Location | Features | Review | Price Range | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Harbour Hotel | Valletta | Central location, harbour view, sunny terrace, clean rooms, breakfast included, free parking. | You will be charmed by the breathtaking harbour view of Valletta, the warm welcome, and the prime location. | €186 - €196 | Book |
| Sensi Hotel | Marsaskala | Location near the beach, outdoor pool, on-site restaurants, good value for money, air-conditioned rooms, free parking. | You will appreciate the proximity to the beach and sea, the relaxed atmosphere, convenient services, and good value for money. | €161 - €281 | Book |
| Ambassador Hotel | Saint Paul’s Bay | Sea view, outdoor pool, buffet breakfast, welcoming staff, proximity to the beach, air-conditioned rooms, good value for money. | You will love the tranquility of the establishment, the panoramic view of the bay, and the warm welcome of the staff. | €185 - €292 (from 2 nights) | Book |
| Primera Hotel | Saint Paul’s Bay | Sea view, rooftop pool, proximity to the beach and transport, warm staff, great central location, nearby restaurants. | You will enjoy the view from the terrace, the friendliness of the staff, and easy access to all amenities on foot. | €91 - €186 | Book |
| Lady Todd | Sliema | Central location, spacious room, good breakfast, air conditioning, pleasant balcony, peaceful setting. | You will be delighted by the comfort of the rooms, the warm welcome of the staff, and the proximity to transport and shops. | €110 - €132 | Book |
Self-Catering Vacation Homes and Apartments in Malta
If traveling at your own pace and enjoying complete independence is important to you, consider renting a vacation home or apartment. I think it’s a great way to experience Malta with complete peace and freedom. I like that these types of accommodations make you feel at home during your stay. It’s a great feeling!
I’ll let you explore the selection of apartments and vacation homes I’ve put together for you!
Seafront apartment Terrace, lounger & Panoramic ocean views
As the name suggests, these apartments face the sea and offer a breathtaking view of Ghadira Bay. We offer several types of apartments for four to six people. All of them overlook the sea and are well-equipped. They have full kitchens, air conditioning, and terraces for enjoying breakfast or the sunset.
As an added bonus, the beach is just a 10-minute walk away, and all amenities and restaurants are close by. In short, no matter which apartment you choose, you’ll feel right at home by the sea.
Dar il-Hena
This time, we’re heading to southern Malta. You’ll see that it’s a tranquil area. In the village of Żurrieq, you’ll find a vacation home that blends old-world charm with modern comfort. It’s made entirely of stone, with traditional walls and ancient vaults. It’s a truly picturesque Maltese setting. In terms of location, you’ll be very close to the sea and the airport, which is pretty convenient.
As for the house itself, it’s spacious with two bedrooms, a large living room, a modern kitchen, and a superb terrace. It has everything you need for a successful vacation with family or friends!
Holiday - Malta Balluta Beach
This modern, comfortable apartment is located right between Sliema and Saint Julian’s! If you want to be in the heart of the action, this is the place for you! Even better, you won’t be in a noisy neighborhood. The 55-square-meter apartment is designed to accommodate two people. Honestly, you won’t feel cramped! Inside, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen, a cozy living room, and air conditioning.
As for the location, you’ll be close to the beach, restaurants, cafés, and public transportation. The accommodation is simple yet well-appointed—you’ll feel right at home! Pets are welcome—just ask! As you can see, the property’s main asset is its location. If that’s what you’re looking for, go for it!
MCC Suites Valletta
The MCC Suites Valletta is a beautiful apartment located in the heart of the Maltese capital. You’ll be close to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Manoel Theatre, and Fort Saint Elme. You can easily visit the entire city on foot! Although it’s only 30 m², it’s well laid out, so it’s more than enough. You’ll have a fully equipped kitchen, a sitting area, a comfortable bedroom, and a private bathroom.
The little extras: modern décor with authentic Maltese touches. This cozy apartment is ideal for enjoying Valletta and the island by public transportation.
Cast Apartments
The Cast Apartments are beautiful, modern apartments located close to Sliema and just opposite Valletta in Il-Gżira. There are apartments for two to four people. They’re all functional, and above all, they’re a good value (always a plus)! They’re also air-conditioned, and some have balconies.
The location is perfect for exploring the island of Malta! You’ll be in the heart of a lively, yet quiet, neighborhood with easy access to the island’s transportation network. Pets are welcome here, too! In short, these apartments tick a lot of boxes!
Here’s a table with all the essential information about these vacation homes and apartments. It will help you find what you’re looking for!
| Name | Location | Features | Review | Price Range | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seafront apartment Terrace, lounger & Panoramic ocean views | Mellieħa | Panoramic sea view, private terrace, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, tranquility, warm welcome, free parking, beach access. | You will be captivated by the exceptional sea view, the tranquility of the setting, and the quality of the hospitality. | €1,077 (from 3 nights) | Book |
| Dar il-Hena | Żurrieq | Warm hospitality, stone house, spacious accommodation, well-equipped, cleanliness, tranquility, proximity to airport, free parking. | You will appreciate the authentic character of the house, its modern comfort, and the attentive hospitality of the host. | €92 - €102 | Book |
| Holiday - Malta Balluta Beach | Sliema | Central location, close to the beach, well-equipped kitchen, welcoming staff, pet-friendly, air conditioning, lively neighbourhood. | You will appreciate the ideal location just steps from the beach, the equipped kitchen, and the warm welcome in a lively neighbourhood. | €201 - €205 | Book |
| MCC Suites Valletta | Valletta | Central location, peaceful, well-equipped, air conditioning, full kitchen, nice decor, pet-friendly. | You will be delighted by the peaceful setting in the historic heart, the quality of the amenities, and the warm atmosphere. | €345 | Book |
| Cast Apartments | Il-Gżira | Central location, rooftop pool, welcoming staff, air conditioning, pet-friendly, well-equipped apartments, close to the harbour, good value for money. | You will be charmed by the rooftop pool, the comfort of the apartments, and the proximity to transport and the lively seafront. | €62 - €83 | Book |
Guesthouses and youth hostels in Malta offer an authentic experience.
If a friendly, local atmosphere is your top priority, guesthouses and youth hostels are great options! They often provide opportunities to meet other travelers or chat with locals, who are usually happy to offer valuable advice. Moreover, this type of accommodation is usually less expensive than hotels.
BB De Rohan
The BB De Rohan is a superb guesthouse located in the heart of the village of Żebbuġ. It is very close to the Malta Airport and Mdina, also known as the Silent City. Mdina. Its location is ideal for exploring the island while enjoying the peace and authenticity of a Maltese village. The house offers well-decorated rooms that are, above all, comfortable. Some rooms even have balconies or outdoor Jacuzzis (a real bonus!).
Truth be told, this guesthouse has it all: an outdoor pool, a lounge with a pool table, and friendly hosts. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed!
Corner Hostel
The Corner Hostel is a hostel set in a renovated house just 200 meters from the beach and bus stops in Sliema. It’s the perfect home base for enjoying the atmospheres of Saint Julian’s and Valletta. Choose from private rooms or dormitories with fans. Some rooms have private bathrooms.
Communal areas include a shared kitchen, a sunny terrace, and a welcoming atmosphere. They’re the perfect place to meet other travelers. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a small group, the Corner Hostel is a simple, affordable, yet comfortable place to stay.
Granny's Inn Hostel
Here’s another youth hostel in Sliema! Here, you’re just a five-minute walk from the sea. This time, there are only mixed and women-only dormitories. The communal areas include a clean kitchen for preparing your own meals, two well-appointed terraces, a living room with a TV, and yoga classes on the roof. If you’re looking for simple, affordable accommodations, this hostel is perfect! It’s an ideal place to stay on the island of Malta, with good reviews!
That’s it, we’ve covered all the accommodation options in Malta. I hope this has given you a better idea of where to stay in Malta.
To help you even further in planning your trip, I recommend reading our article on the best times to visit Malta. But, as I mentioned, you should bear in mind that accommodation prices can double in high season. Food for thought!
See you soon for more guides on Malta!
Written by Laura CALLES
Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to explore the beautiful Maltese archipelago and share all the beauty of its islands with you. A little piece of paradise not to be missed!
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