Where to Stay In Malta: Best Hotels & Areas (Without a Car)

Can I still call Malta a hidden gem? Yes, even though everyone has heard of it, it still doesn't get big crowds like Spain or Greece.

Malta is its own nation in the Mediterranean Sea; it has a population of about 450,000 and is made up of three tiny islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

This blog post will focus on where to stay in Malta, so we won't go into detail about the other two islands.

Malta has plenty of different towns and areas that are all worth visiting and exploring. To make it a little easier for you to decide where to stay in Malta, I have gathered some of my favorite towns and hotels.

The best towns to stay in Malta

Valletta – Valletta, Malta's capital, is located on the east coast of the Island. It's a UNESCO world heritage site filled with narrow cobblestoned streets, colorful architecture, and plenty of historical sites.

Sliema – Sliema is a town right next to Valletta and close to St. Julian’s. It’s known for its sandy beaches, seaside promenade, and big shopping centers.

St Paul's Bay – St Paul’s Bay is located in the north of Malta, and it's known for its lovely beaches and serene atmosphere. It's a great place to relax with your family!

Three Cities – The Three Cities are located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. This area is the most picturesque on the island and is filled with historical buildings, great restaurants, and cozy wine bars.

Mellieha – Mellieha is a small town in the northwest of Malta and is home to some of Malta's best resorts. It also boasts the best beaches on the island.

Gozo – Gozo is the second-largest island in Malta, and it offers stunning scenery and beaches and is a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle.

1. Where to stay in Malta for the first time & sightseeing without a car: Valletta

Valletta is the perfect place to use as a base when you're visiting the island. With its rich history and narrow, car-free streets, Valletta will give you a taste of what Malta has to offer, and it is so easy to get around by bus or taxi if needed.

Especially if you are here for the first time, I recommend staying in Malta's capital and soaking in the rich culture and delicious food the city has to offer!

Best area for:

• First timers

• Weekend trips

• Couples

Things to see & do in Valletta

I could spend days and days wandering around Valletta and admiring its impressive monuments, beautiful churches, and museums.

Valletta might be Europe's smallest capital city, but it sure packs a punch! Check out the Barrakka Gardens, marvel at the painted ceilings in St. John's Cathedral, and don't forget to visit the Grand Master's Palace.

Best hotels to stay in Valletta

($$$) Palais Le Brun

Palais Le Brun is one of my favorite boutique hotels in the city. This luxury hotel is located right in the city center and offers a rooftop pool and a suite with a hot tub.

Check availability & best rates

($$) La Falconeria Hotel

The Falconeria Hotel is a great mid-range hotel for those looking to explore Valletta without breaking the bank. Located in the center of the city, it boasts beautiful views of the Grand Harbour.

Check availability & best rates

($) Palazzo Rosaria Boutique Hotel

For anyone looking for something more affordable, Palazzo Rosaria Boutique Hotel is a great choice. It offers spacious rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom.

Check availability & best rates

2. Where to stay in Malta for shopping, eating & great base: Sliema

If you want a modern experience rather than a historic one like in Valletta, then Sliema is the perfect place to stay. It's within walking distance to Valletta and the Three Cities via the seafront promenade or by ferry.

In Sliema, you'll be surrounded by shopping streets and nightclubs instead of museums and historical buildings.

I really enjoyed my stay in Sliema because of the amazing resorts and restaurants there. Moreover, it's conveniently located close to the historical center of Valletta, which makes it easy to visit museums and churches whenever you want.

Best area for:

• Shopping

• Nightlife

• Central location

Things to see & do in Sliema

Sliema is the perfect place for those who want to combine sightseeing with shopping and nightlife. Stroll down its main street, Tower Road, and you will find plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes. The seafront promenade is also a great spot to take in some views of Valletta across the bay.

One of my favorite things to do in Sliema is visit Fond Ghadir Beach. There, you'll find some man-made pools carved out of the rocks along the coastline, complete with ladders for an easy and refreshing dip in the seawater!

Best hotels to stay in Sliema

($$$) AX The Palace

The Palace is a luxury hotel located in the center of Sliema, and it's a great place to stay if you want to experience the city in style. It offers a rooftop swimming pool with a spa and breathtaking views of the coast.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Waterfront

The Waterfront is a great mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and attentive service. It's in a perfect location, close to some of the best beaches, and it also features an outdoor pool.

Check availability & best rates

($) 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa

The 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa is a great budget option for those looking to stay in Sliema. Located right by the waterfront, it offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and access to a wellness center.

Check availability & best rates

3. Where to stay in Malta for families & best resorts: St Paul’s Bay

St. Paul's Bay consists of the two towns of Bugibba and Qawra, located in the north of Malta. It is a great place to stay if you are looking for family-friendly resorts. Its wide sandy beaches and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with young children.

Compared to Valletta and its surrounding towns, St. Paul's Bay is a much quieter place to visit. Even though it is no longer just a small fishing village, many locals still live and vacation here, giving one a more genuine and authentic experience when strolling through the town.

Best area for:

• Families

• Resort vacation

• Relaxation

Things to see & do in St Paul's Bay

For those on a resort vacation, I suggest making the most of the fantastic spas, pools, and restaurants the incredible hotels in the area offer.

Alternatively, if you're after something more adventurous, consider taking a boat trip from St. Paul's Bay. A catamaran will take you to various beaches and bays, including the Blue Lagoon, which is fun for the whole family. Or go out for some scuba diving; depending on your level of experience, you'll be able to dive into some of the most famous sights in the world.

Best hotels to stay in St Paul’s Bay

($$$) Salini Resort

The Salini Resort is the best place to stay in Malta for families. It offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, outdoor pools, a heated indoor pool, and a tennis court.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Dolmen Hotel Malta

The Dolmen Hotel Malta is a great mid-range choice for a family vacation. It offers spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, and a private beach with sunbeds.

Check availability & best rates

($) Hotel Santana

For those looking for something that won't break the bank, I recommend Hotel Santana. It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi in public areas. Plus, it's just within walking distance of the beach!

Check availability & best rates

4. Where to stay in Malta for a cultural getaway: Three Cities

The Three Cities, named Cospicua, Birgu, and Senglea, are fascinating fortified cities located beside Valletta.

I was amazed by the incredible architectural designs and structures preserved in these cities, which made me feel like I had traveled back in time. These cities were founded by knights in 1530 and are steeped in rich history, boasting numerous churches, forts, and museums.

I highly recommend spending at least a day exploring these cities before leaving Malta.

Best area for:

• Weekend trips

• Culture trips

• Backpacking

Things to see & do in the Three Cities

There are plenty of historical attractions to explore in the Three Cities. The Maritime Museum, Fort St Angelo, and the Fortifications of Senglea are just some of the many sights you can visit. Additionally, there are plenty of tiny and winding backstreets in Birgu filled with shops great for buying amazing handmade souvenirs!

The easiest way to get to the three cities is by ferry from the Grand Harbour in Valletta, which is also a great way to get breathtaking views of Valletta and the Three Cities.

Best hotels to stay in the Three Cities

($$$) Senglea Suites

A truly amazing place to stay in the Three Cities is Senglea Suites. It's one of the best boutique hotels with modern and spacious rooms and a large rooftop terrace overlooking the picturesque city of Senglea.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Palazzino Birgu

The Palazzino Birgu is a cozy little spot and my favorite place to stay in Birgu. It is a family-run bed and breakfast located right in the heart of Birgu, with comfortable rooms and helpful hosts.

Check availability & best rates

($) Casa Cara

Casa Cara is a great, affordable hotel located in Senglea. It offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Plus, it's within walking distance of St. Michael Bastion!

Check availability & best rates

5. Where to stay in Malta for nightlife & backpackers: St Julian's Bay & Paceville

St. Julian's, also known as San Ġiljan locally is situated on the northern coast of Malta. It used to be a small town where fishermen lived; however, it has changed drastically in the past 20 years into a more modern party town.

Paceville is located in the heart of St. Julian's and is known as Malta's center for nightlife and clubbing. Although it has only around 14,000 residents, it is a popular destination for locals because of the many restaurants, bars, and clubs in the area. So, if you're here for the nightlife, you definitely have to check out Paceville!

Best area for:

• Nightlife
• A younger crowd

Things to see & do in

I'm assuming you came to St. Julian's for the nightlife, so I'd be happy to recommend my top bar choices to kick off your night in Malta!

If you're in Paceville and looking for a chill spot with drinks, Chalice Bay & Lounge is a great choice. They have a wide selection of cocktails, spirits, beers, and wines – one of my favorites is the Thirsty Barber, which has delicious drinks and a cool Prohibition-era design.

And if you're feeling fancy, you can't go wrong with Hugo's Terrace – the view and wine selection are both top-notch!

Best hotels to stay in St Julian's Bay

($$$) AC Hotel by Marriott

If you're looking to experience Malta's nightlife, the best place to stay is AC Hotel by Marriott in St Julian's Bay. It offers stylish and modern rooms within walking distance of some of the most popular bars and clubs in Malta.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Hugo's Boutique Hotel

For those looking for a mid-range option, Hugo's Boutique Hotel is a great choice. It offers spacious suites with a private hot tub and even a rooftop pool.

Check availability & best rates

($) Mercure St. Julian's Malta

Mercure St. Julian's Malta is a great budget option offering clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and easy access to Paceville.

Check availability & best rates

6. Where to stay in Malta for beaches: Mellieha

Mellieha is a beach resort town located on the northern coast of Malta. It is known for its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, making it the perfect place to stay if you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday.

If you just want to go on a beach vacation or need some days of rest after exploring Valletta and the Three Cities, then this is your spot!

Best area for:

• Couples

• Honeymoons

• Beach vacation

Things to see & do in Mellieha

Staying in Mellieha is a full-on beach vacation. I'm talking white sand beaches, boat tours, and scuba diving!

In Mellieha, there are various boat trips that you can choose from. I personally enjoyed the day trip to Gozo, but you can also find similar boat trips to the Blue Lagoon. These trips take you around the entire island, which also includes the Blue Lagoon. Additionally, I highly recommend Orange Shark Divers for scuba diving. As a PADI-certified dive school, they offer many different courses and diving options, including the P31 shipwreck.

Best hotels to stay in Mellieha

($$$) db Seabank Resort + Spa All Inclusive

The renowned Seabank Resort is an excellent option for those looking for a luxurious and all-inclusive holiday experience. Boasting over 300 rooms, it offers everything from a relaxing spa to restaurants, bars, pools, and even its own private beach.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Lure Hotel & Spa

The luxurious, adults-only Lure Hotel & Spa is a great 4-star option for couples. It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, an outdoor pool and spa area, as well as a hot tub with a view of the town.

Check availability & best rates

($) Pergola Hotel & Spa

Finally, if you're looking for budget accommodation in Mellieha, the Pergola Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice. It offers spacious rooms with private balconies and views of the Mediterranean Sea. Plus, there's a children's play area in case you're staying with your family!

Check availability & best rates

7. Best quiet places to stay in Malta: Gozo

I knew I said I wouldn't get into detail about the other islands, but since I had the luck to explore Gozo for a couple of days, I might as well tell you a bit about it. The beautiful island of Gozo is Malta's quiet neighbor and is the perfect destination for those looking for some peace and solitude away from the hustle and bustle of Valletta.

Gozo, known as Malta's little sister, is covered in rolling hills and packed with stunning cathedrals and ancient temples. If the hustle and bustle of Valletta are too much for you, but you don't want to miss out on a cultural experience, then I suggest you just quickly pop over to Gozo!

Best area for:

• Culture trip

• Seclusion

• Solitude

Things to see & do in Gozo

Gozo is famous for its ancient temples, churches, and cathedrals. The Ġgantija Temples are perhaps the most famous attraction in Gozo, but there's plenty more to explore here as well.

I highly recommend taking a tour of the Azure Window and visiting some of the many grottoes around the island!

When I was in Gozo, I really enjoyed visiting the Ta'Pinu Basilica, which I believe is such a unique place to go. The basilica is situated in a very remote area, surrounded by hills with a beautiful view of the sea in the background. The mosaics and statues on the esplanade, along with the scenic landscape, make it the perfect location for taking photos.

Best hotels to stay in Gozo

($$$) Hotel Ta' Cenc & Spa

This secluded 5-star hotel is one of the best places to stay, as it is located at the highest point of the island. The rooms are luxurious and modern, and there is even an impressive outdoor pool and tennis court.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Grand Hotel Gozo

The Grand Hotel Gozo is an excellent 4-star option with a great location. It's close to the ferry port, and its rooms offer great views from private balconies.

Check availability & best rates

($) The Segond Hotel

If you're looking for more affordable hotels in Gozo, then I recommend The Segond Hotel. It offers comfortable private rooms and various amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.

Check availability & best rates

Where to stay in Malta – Frequently Asked Questions

📍 What is the best place to stay in Malta?

It really depends on what kind of experience you want for your stay in Malta. If you're looking for a more cultural experience, then I suggest Valletta or the Three Cities. For a beach vacation, Mellieha is the best area to stay in Malta.

📅 How many days do I need to see Malta?

It depends on how much you want to see when you're visiting Malta. I usually recommend at least a week for your stay in Malta, as there is plenty to explore on the main island and its surrounding islands!

☀️ What are the best months to visit Malta?

Malta has a typical Mediterranean climate. The best time to visit for warm weather is from June to September. However, for those on a budget, May and October can also show you a good time!

🚗 Do I need a car in Malta to get around?

In my opinion, if you plan to stay in the Valletta area, you can easily explore plenty of towns and beaches by using public transportation. However, if you wish to visit more secluded towns or beaches and explore more of the island, then renting a car definitely makes sense!

🏖️ Where are the best beaches in Malta?

There are so many great beaches on Malta that you might think it is hard to make a choice, but Mellieha definitely takes the cake! The white sand beaches and crystal-clear water are simply unbeatable.

Where to stay in Malta – Final Words

Malta is not just a typical European island for lazy resort vacations. It is actually full of history, culture, and delicious food.

So, if you love exploring new cultures and learning about the past, then Malta should be your next travel destination. With its beautiful beaches and rich culture, it's easily one of the best islands in Europe. Hopefully, my guide has helped you narrow down your options and decide where to stay in Malta.