A scenic view of Sliema, Malta, from a rooftop, overlooking a bay filled with anchored boats and yachts. Modern apartment buildings and hotels with rooftop solar panels border the shoreline, with a bright blue sea and clear sky in the background.

Best Areas to Stay in Malta

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Choosing where to stay in Malta can greatly influence your experience on this beautiful Mediterranean island.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly options, or family accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a guide to the best areas to stay in Malta and Gozo, tailored to different preferences and styles.

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Just starting to plan your trip to Malta? Take a look at this guide to cover the basics and learn all the things you need to know before you go.

Il-Gżira: For Budget Travellers and Convenience

A scenic view of Sliema, Malta, from a rooftop, overlooking a bay filled with anchored boats and yachts. Modern apartment buildings and hotels with rooftop solar panels border the shoreline, with a bright blue sea and clear sky in the background. For best areas to stay in Malta.
View from my rooftop pool in Il-Gżira. The highrise buildings in the distance are Sliema and Valletta is on the top peninsula to the right.

While this might be an unusual choice, I’ve put it at the top because this is where I chose to stay.

It gave me some options that were slightly cheaper than the other popular locations, but it’s also close to everything and I could easily get to the top attractions in Malta.

We stayed at the fabulous Alavits by ST Hotels – the photo above is taken from the rooftop pool deck.

Read my full review of Alavits Hotel by ST Hotels here

Il-Gżira is the perfect option for people like me who are looking for budget-friendly accommodation without sacrificing convenience.

Located between Sliema and Valletta, this area offers easy access to both city life and the capital’s cultural landmarks.

Il-Gżira is known for its waterfront promenade with stunning views of Manoel Island and Valletta’s skyline.

It’s a quieter alternative to Sliema but still offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and affordable accommodation.

  • Luxury: 115 The Strand Hotel and Suites – A popular mid-range option offering rooms and apartments with balconies, some of which overlook the harbour. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant and easy access to bus and ferry services.
  • Mid-Range: Korzo Suites – Located in the heart of Il-Gżira, Korzo Suites offers spacious, well-furnished apartments ideal for longer stays or families. With modern interiors, fully equipped kitchens, and balconies, this mid-range option provides excellent value for travellers looking for more space while still being close to restaurants, bars, and transport links.
  • Budget: Blubay Apartments by ST Hotels – These serviced apartments offer modern, spacious units with kitchen facilities, perfect for families or long stays. Many apartments offer sea views, and there’s a communal pool to enjoy.

Pros: Affordable accommodation, great location with easy access to Valletta and Sliema, lovely waterfront views, and good dining options.
Cons: It’s more residential and quieter compared to nearby Sliema, with fewer nightlife options.

Valletta: For History and Culture Lovers

A charming street scene in Valletta, Malta, with a quaint outdoor cafe set against old stone buildings adorned with colorful wooden balconies and traditional signage.

Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is perfect for those who love history, culture, and convenience.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valletta offers a blend of baroque architecture, museums, and historic sites, such as St John’s Co-Cathedral, all within walking distance.

The city is also packed with charming restaurants, bars, and shops.

  • Luxury: The Phoenicia Malta – A five-star hotel with stunning views over the Grand Harbour, offering elegant rooms, a large infinity pool, beautiful gardens, and a highly-rated restaurant.
  • Mid-Range: Palazzo Paolina Boutique Hotel – A boutique hotel housed in a traditional Maltese building, offering modern amenities with a touch of historic charm.
  • Budget: Luciano Valletta Boutique – This budget-friendly option offers a more affordable way to stay in the heart of Valletta. It provides comfortable, simple rooms in a historic building, perfect for travellers looking to explore the city on a budget without sacrificing location.

Pros: Central location, easy access to historical sites, and vibrant nightlife.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other areas, and accommodation is often limited to boutique hotels and guesthouses.

Sliema: For Shopping and Dining Enthusiasts

A serene view of the Sliema waterfront promenade in Malta, with neatly aligned lampposts, benches, and a walking path along the coastline. Modern apartment buildings rise on the right, while a few pedestrians enjoy a stroll under the bright blue sky with the calm sea stretching into the distance.

Sliema is one of Malta’s most popular areas, especially for those who enjoy shopping, dining, and seaside strolls.

It’s home to Ta’ Kris, one of my favourite places to recommend if you want to try some traditional Maltese food during your trip.

Sliema is located just across the harbour from Valletta and is well-connected by ferry and buses.

  • Luxury: AX The Palace – A chic hotel with modern decor, a rooftop pool, and panoramic sea views, known for its excellent service and amenities.
  • Mid-Range: 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa – A stylish hotel with a spa, rooftop pool, and a beach club, offering great value for its location and facilities.
  • Budget: The Howard Hotel – A more affordable option for those on a budget, The Howard Hotel provides clean and comfortable rooms within easy walking distance of Sliema’s shopping streets, restaurants, and promenade.

Pros: Great shopping and dining options, central location with good transport links, and a lively atmosphere.
Cons: It can be busy and noisy, especially during peak seasons.

St. Julian’s: For Nightlife and Entertainment Seekers

A view of St. Julian's Bay in Malta, with vibrant blue water dotted with small boats and surrounded by modern buildings under a clear blue sky. For Malta Travel Guide

St. Julian’s, especially the Paceville area, is the nightlife capital of Malta, making it the best choice for young travellers and those looking to enjoy the island’s bars, clubs, and casinos.

Beyond the nightlife, St. Julian’s also offers luxury hotels, beautiful views, and waterfront dining.

  • Luxury: Hilton Malta – A five-star resort with a private beach club, multiple pools, spa facilities, and several restaurants, offering luxury and comfort.
  • Mid-Range: The Londoner Hotel St. Julian’s – A stylish and comfortable hotel located just a short walk from St. Julian’s lively entertainment district.
  • Budget: Follow the Sun Boutique Hostel – A trendy hostel with a pool, sea views, and modern amenities, providing a budget-friendly option close to all the action.

Pros: Vibrant nightlife, wide range of restaurants, and luxury amenities.
Cons: Can be noisy, especially at night, and crowded during the summer.

Mellieha: For Families and Beach Lovers

A stunning aerial view of Mellieha Bay in Malta, showcasing the expansive shoreline with clear turquoise waters gently meeting the sandy beach. The beach is dotted with sunbathers, and the coastal road runs alongside it, leading towards the distant hillside town under a bright, partly cloudy sky.

Mellieha is located in the north of Malta and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches.

It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing holiday, with easy access to some of Malta’s best beaches, like Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay.

It’s also close to one of the best things to do with kids – visiting Popeye Village.

  • Luxury: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands – A luxury resort located on a stunning beach, with spacious rooms, a spa, multiple pools, and activities for kids.
  • Mid-Range: Luna Holiday Complex – An apartment-style hotel with self-catering facilities, ideal for families looking for flexibility.
  • Budget: Hotel VIU57 – A stylish and affordable hotel offering modern, comfortable rooms with fantastic views over Mellieha and within walking distance of the beach

Pros: Close to the best beaches, family-friendly environment, and quieter atmosphere.
Cons: Further from main attractions and nightlife, so travel time can be longer.

Gozo: For Tranquility and Authentic Experiences

A picturesque view of terraced fields on the island of Gozo, Malta, with vibrant green grass and patches of yellow wildflowers. In the background, a small village with traditional stone buildings and a church sits atop a hill under a clear blue sky.

Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and experience a slower pace of life.

It’s known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages.

Gozo is ideal for nature lovers, divers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz – A five-star hotel offering a tranquil spa experience, luxurious rooms, and beautiful views of the Gozitan countryside.
  • Mid-Range: The Segond Hotel – Located in the picturesque Xlendi area, this hotel offers comfortable, well-appointed rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning bay views.
  • Budget: Santa Martha Hostel – A friendly, budget-friendly option in Victoria with simple rooms and a communal atmosphere, ideal for solo travellers or groups.

Pros: Quiet, scenic, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and diving.
Cons: Less nightlife fewer shopping options, and the need to take a ferry to the main island for certain attractions.

Mdina and Rabat: For History Buffs and Peace Seekers

A colourful street in Rabat, Malta, decorated with large, ornate flags and banners for a local festival. Traditional Maltese houses with brightly painted balconies line the narrow street as a few pedestrians walk under a clear blue sky.

Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” and the neighbouring town of Rabat offer a unique and quiet experience, ideal for history lovers.

Staying here feels like stepping back in time, with narrow streets, medieval architecture, and panoramic views over the island.

  • Luxury: The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux – A luxurious boutique hotel set in a 17th-century palace within Mdina’s walls, offering exquisite rooms, fine dining, and an exclusive feel.
  • Mid-Range: Point de Vue Guesthouse – Located just outside Mdina, this guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
  • Budget: Maple Farm Bed and Breakfast – A small, family-run B&B in Rabat, offering a warm welcome, simple rooms, and a great breakfast.

Pros: Quiet, historical charm, and a great base for exploring Malta’s cultural heritage.
Cons: Limited nightlife and dining options; most attractions require a short drive or bus ride.

Conclusion:

Malta and Gozo offer diverse accommodation options that cater to all tastes and budgets.

Whether you prefer the historical charm of Valletta, the lively nightlife of St. Julian’s, the family-friendly beaches of Mellieha, the tranquillity of Gozo, or the historical allure of Mdina, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.

Understanding what each area offers will help you choose the right base for your Maltese adventure, ensuring you make the most of your time on these beautiful islands.

TRAVEL PLANNING ESSENTIALS

Flights – Book direct with the airline, always.

Book accommodation – My go to is Booking.com

Hire a rental car – DiscoverCars.com is where I search many car rental companies in one place

Get travel insurance – I use CoverMore for my insurance.

Pick up an eSIM – My eSIM of choice is Airalo

Book activities, tours & attractions – I use a few different websites for this. Viator, Get Your Guide and Klook are my first options.

Stay safe with a VPN – I use NordVPN to keep me safe online

Manage your money – I use Wise and ING (Australia) for my travel accounts.

Josie Kelsh

Josie will help you to plan your next trip filled with bucket list experiences balanced with budget travel. She discovered travel in her late thirties, but since then has travelled extensively, visiting more than 60 countries and taking an adult gap year. She is now based in Australia and loves sharing all she has learned about travelling on a budget but with the added comforts a Gen Xer requires.