Where to Stay in Malta – Best Areas and Hotel Recommendations

Malta holds a special place in our hearts because we had the opportunity to spend around six months there and get to know much of the island’s character and diversity. It is one of those places we could return to countless times and still have an amazing time.

For many first-time visitors, choosing where to stay in Malta can be difficult. Although the country is small, it is very densely populated, and your choice of accommodation can have a major impact on your experience. In this guide, we will share our advice on where to stay in Malta, together with hotel recommendations and useful information about each of the areas we suggest.

Before we begin, there is one important thing to clarify: Malta is exceptionally densely populated and built-up, and much of the island can appear to be one large urban area. That is not entirely the case, however. As you explore Malta, you may barely notice when you cross from one town into another. We have selected three distinct places to stay in Malta. Although they are close to one another, each has a very different atmosphere and character. We used Booking.com for making our hotel selection.

If you are planning a trip to Malta, do not miss our detailed Malta travel guide, which includes ideas for attractions,top sights, transport and beaches .

Sliema – the perfect choice for peace and convenience

In our opinion, Sliema offers the widest variety of accommodation options at reasonable prices. It is located directly across from Valletta.

The town is an ideal base if you are looking for a balance between modern conveniences and easy access to the rest of the island. Sliema is also a great choice for families and anyone who wants a quieter setting without giving up variety. Its attractive seafront promenade is perfect for walking, jogging or enjoying views across the Mediterranean towards Valletta. Along the promenade, you will find cafés, restaurants, swimming spots and benches where you can relax by the water.

The town is well connected by public transport. Ferries to Valletta leave every 30 minutes from Sliema Ferries, and the journey takes only 5-10 minutes. It is also much more pleasant than taking the bus. Bus routes connect Sliema with the rest of the island, and stops are available throughout the town.

Here are some accommodation recommendations in Booking.com :

Valletta – the cultural heart of the island

Malta’s capital, Valletta, is one of the most popular places to stay. Some of Malta’s most iconic attractions are located here, but the choice of hotels and holiday apartments is more limited, and accommodation tends to be in the higher price range.

Even if you do not stay in Valletta, it is an essential stop on any trip to Malta. From Sliema, you can get there either by bus or by a short ferry ride.

Here are some accommodation recommendations in Booking.com :

St. Julian’s – bars and nightlife

Another popular place to stay is St. Julian’s, especially if you are looking for nightlife and plenty of bars.

St. Julian’s is Malta’s liveliest entertainment hub, located along the coast just north of Sliema. It is a cosmopolitan town known for its vibrant nightlife, numerous restaurants, bars and casinos.

The St. George’s Bay area has a small sandy beach and modern hotels, while the seafront promenade connects the different parts of the area with a pleasant walk along the coast.

Here are some accommodation recommendations in Booking.com:

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