Where To Stay in Malta – Best Areas + Hotels for Every Type of Traveller in 2026

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

Where to Stay in Malta – My Experience

During my stay in Malta, I based myself in St Julian’s at Hilton Malta and I couldn’t have picked a better location. The hotel sits right on the waterfront with incredible sea views and easy access to restaurants, cafés and some of the island’s most popular attractions.

What I loved most about Malta was how different each area felt. Valletta is packed with history and culture, Sliema feels more modern and shopping-focused, St Julian’s has a lively atmosphere and places like Mellieħa and Gozo offer a much slower pace of life.

If you’re visiting Malta for the first time, I’d personally recommend either Valletta or St Julian’s depending on the type of holiday you’re looking for. But there are several other areas worth considering too. Here’s a quick overview of where to stay in Malta and the hotels I would recommend for each area.

Area	Recommended Hotel
Valletta – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for First-Time Visitors	The Embassy Valletta
St Julian’s – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Nightlife & Restaurants	Hilton Malta
Sliema – One of the Best Areas to Stay in Malta for Shopping & Dining	Barceló Fortina Malta
St Paul’s Bay – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Beaches & Boat Trips	INNSiDE by Meliá Bugibba
Mellieħa – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Sandy Beaches	Radisson Blu Resort & Spas
Gozo – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for a Relaxing Escape	Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
Mdina & Rabat – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for History Lovers	Verdala Wellness Hotel AX Privilege

Valletta – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting Malta for the first time, Valletta is one of the best places you can choose to stay.

As Malta’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valletta is packed with history, culture and some of the most beautiful architecture you’ll find anywhere in Europe. The city itself is relatively small which means you can explore most of it on foot, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character.

One of the things I loved most about Valletta was simply walking around without any real plan. Every street seems to lead to another viewpoint, historic building or hidden café. The colourful balconies, honey-coloured limestone buildings and views across the Grand Harbour make it one of the most photogenic parts of Malta.

Valletta is also one of the most convenient places to stay if sightseeing is high on your priority list. Many of Malta’s most famous attractions are located within the city itself including St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Grand Master’s Palace. You’ll also find plenty of museums, boutique shops and independent restaurants within walking distance of most hotels.

Another advantage of staying in Valletta is how well connected it is to the rest of the island. Ferries regularly run to Sliema and the Three Cities, whilst the main bus terminal makes it easy to reach places such as Mdina, St Julian’s and Mellieħa without needing to hire a car.

If you’re looking for beaches and resort-style facilities, Valletta probably wouldn’t be my first choice. However, if it’s your first time in Malta and you want to be surrounded by history whilst having easy access to restaurants, attractions and transport links, Valletta is hard to beat.

St Julian’s – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Nightlife, Restaurants & Waterfront Hotels

If you’re looking for somewhere that combines luxury hotels, waterfront restaurants and a lively atmosphere, St Julian’s is one of the best areas to stay in Malta.

This is actually where I stayed during my trip to Malta and I really think it’s one of the easiest places to base yourself, especially if it’s your first time visiting the island. I stayed at Hilton Malta and loved being able to walk straight out onto the waterfront each morning, with restaurants, cafés and beautiful sea views all within a few minutes of the hotel.

St Julian’s is probably best known for Spinola Bay, which is one of the prettiest parts of the area. You’ll find colourful Maltese fishing boats floating in the harbour surrounded by restaurants and bars overlooking the water. You can easily spend an entire evening moving between dinner, drinks and a sunset walk along the promenade.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in St Julian’s is its location. Valletta is only around 15 minutes away by taxi (or around 25 minutes on the bus), Sliema is within walking distance and you’re still well connected to the rest of the island if you’re planning day trips to places like Mdina, Mellieħa or Gozo.

Compared to Valletta, St Julian’s feels much more modern. You’ll find larger hotels, rooftop bars, beach clubs and plenty of international restaurants alongside traditional Maltese dining spots. There always seems to be something happening here, which is why it’s become one of Malta’s most popular areas for visitors.

If you’re interested in nightlife, you’ll also find Paceville here which is Malta’s main nightlife district. Whilst it’s not necessarily the reason I’d recommend staying in St Julian’s, it’s worth knowing that everything from cocktail bars to late-night clubs is right on your doorstep if that’s something you’re looking for.

Sliema – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Shopping, Dining & Seafront Walks

If you’re wondering where to stay in Malta and want somewhere that feels lively without being overly touristy, Sliema is one of the best areas to consider.

It’s located directly across the water from Valletta and is known for its long seafront promenade, shopping streets and huge choice of restaurants and cafés. It feels slightly more relaxed than neighbouring St Julian’s but still has plenty going on throughout the day and evening.

One of the things I love most about Sliema is how walkable it is. The waterfront stretches for miles and you can easily spend an afternoon strolling along the promenade, stopping for lunch overlooking the sea and watching the ferries come and go between Sliema and Valletta. It’s one of those areas where you don’t necessarily need a long itinerary because simply exploring the neighbourhood is part of the experience.

If shopping is high on your priority list, Sliema is probably the best place to stay in Malta. You’ll find everything from international brands and department stores to smaller boutiques dotted throughout the area. The Point Shopping Mall is also located here which is Malta’s largest shopping centre.

Sliema is also one of the most convenient bases on the island. Regular ferries run directly across to Valletta in under 10 minutes, whilst buses connect you to the rest of Malta. If you’re planning to spend a few days sightseeing but still want plenty of restaurants and amenities close to your hotel, Sliema gives you the best of both worlds.

The dining scene is another reason people choose to stay here. There are so many restaurants lining the waterfront that you’ll never struggle to find somewhere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, traditional Maltese dishes or international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options within walking distance.

St Paul’s Bay – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Beaches, Boat Trips & Value for Money

If you’re looking for where to stay in Malta and want a good mix of beaches, boat trips and affordable accommodation, St Paul’s Bay is definitely worth considering.

It’s located on the north coast of Malta and is one of the island’s largest resort areas, with it being particularly popular with visitors who want easy access to the sea. The area includes Bugibba and Qawra, which you’ll often hear mentioned alongside St Paul’s Bay, and together they offer plenty of hotels, restaurants and waterfront activities.

One of the biggest reasons people choose to stay here is because of its location. Many of Malta’s most popular boat tours depart from this part of the island, including trips to Comino, the Blue Lagoon and Gozo. If you’ve got a boat trip on your Malta itinerary, staying in St Paul’s Bay can make your mornings much easier.

You’ll find long seafront promenades, waterfront restaurants and plenty of places to sit with a drink overlooking the water. Whilst it doesn’t have the historic charm of Valletta, it offers a much more laid-back holiday feel.

Another reason I think St Paul’s Bay is one of the best places to stay in Malta is because it tends to offer better value for money. Hotel prices are often lower than Valletta or St Julian’s, which means you can usually get more for your budget whether that’s a larger room, sea view or access to resort facilities.

The area is also close to some of Malta’s best swimming spots. Whilst many of Malta’s beaches are rocky rather than sandy, you’ll find plenty of places to swim, snorkel and spend the day by the water. It’s also a convenient base if you’re planning to visit nearby Mellieħa and some of the island’s larger sandy beaches.

Mellieħa – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for Sandy Beaches

If your idea of the perfect holiday involves beach days, sea views and a slightly slower pace of life, Mellieħa is one of the best places to stay in Malta.

It’s located in the far north of the island and is home to some of Malta’s most beautiful sandy beaches, including Għadira Bay which is the largest sandy beach in Malta. Whilst much of Malta’s coastline is rocky, Mellieħa offers the long stretches of sand that many people are looking for when planning a Mediterranean beach holiday.

One of the things I love about Mellieħa is that it feels completely different to places like Valletta and St Julian’s. Instead of busy streets and waterfront restaurants, you’ll find rolling hills, quieter roads and incredible views across the coastline. It feels much more relaxed and is a great option if you’re looking to switch off for a few days.

The area is also perfectly positioned for visiting some of Malta’s most popular attractions. Ferries to Gozo and Comino depart from nearby Ċirkewwa, making it easy to visit the Blue Lagoon or spend a day exploring Malta’s sister island. If those destinations are already on your itinerary, staying in Mellieħa can save a lot of travel time.

Despite its quieter atmosphere, there are still plenty of restaurants, cafés and shops in the area. Mellieħa village sits on a hill overlooking the bay and offers some of the best views on the island.

The one thing I would say is that the area is more spread out than Valletta or Sliema, so I do think hiring a car can be helpful if you’re planning to explore a lot of Malta. That said, if your main priority is spending time by the sea and taking a few boat trips during your stay, you can easily enjoy Mellieħa without one.

Gozo – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for a Relaxing Escape

If you’re looking for where to stay in Malta and want something that feels quieter, more traditional and slightly removed from the busier tourist areas, Gozo is an excellent choice.

Gozo is Malta’s sister island and is located just a short ferry ride from the northern tip of Malta. Whilst it’s often visited as a day trip, I actually think it’s worth staying here for at least a few nights if you have the time. The atmosphere is completely different to the main island and it feels much slower, calmer and less developed.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Gozo is the landscape. You’ll find rolling countryside, small villages and some of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Maltese Islands. It feels much more rural than Malta itself and is perfect if you enjoy nature, scenic drives and getting away from busy tourist hotspots.

Gozo is also home to some incredible attractions including the Citadel in Victoria, Ramla Bay and the Sanap Cliffs. The island is small enough that you can explore multiple areas in a single day, especially if you hire a car. I would definitely recommend renting one whilst you’re here as public transport can take longer between attractions.

One of the reasons people fall in love with Gozo is because it still feels authentically Maltese. You’ll find traditional restaurants, quieter beaches and villages that haven’t changed much over the years. Even during peak summer months, it never feels as busy as areas like St Julian’s or Sliema.

Mdina & Rabat – The Best Area to Stay in Malta for History Lovers

If you’re looking for somewhere completely different from the coastal towns, I’d definitely consider staying in Mdina or neighbouring Rabat.

Often referred to as the Silent City, Mdina was Malta’s original capital and is one of the most atmospheric places on the island. The moment you walk through the city gates, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Think narrow cobbled streets, honey-coloured buildings, quiet courtyards and incredible viewpoints overlooking the Maltese countryside.

Unlike Valletta or St Julian’s, there are very few cars inside the city walls, so it’s somewhere you can simply walk around without any real plan. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or evening once the day trippers have left and the streets become almost empty.

Just outside the city walls is Rabat, which has a much more local feel. Here you’ll find traditional restaurants, cafés, bakeries and attractions like St Paul’s Catacombs. Staying in Rabat gives you a few more accommodation options while still being just a couple of minutes’ walk from Mdina.

The biggest advantage of staying here is the atmosphere. If your ideal holiday involves exploring historic streets, discovering hidden cafés and experiencing a quieter side of Malta, this is one of the best places to stay. It’s also well connected by bus, making it easy to visit Valletta, Sliema and the rest of the island.

That said, if you’re looking for beaches, nightlife or resort hotels, this probably isn’t the best base. Mdina is much more about slowing down and soaking up Malta’s history than spending your days by the sea.

FAQs About Where To Stay in Malta

What is the best area to stay in Malta for first-time visitors?

If it’s your first time visiting Malta, I would recommend staying in either Valletta or St Julian’s.

Valletta is ideal if you want to be surrounded by history, beautiful architecture and some of the island’s most famous attractions. Everything is within walking distance and it feels incredibly unique compared to other European capitals.

St Julian’s is a better option if you want a mix of restaurants, nightlife, waterfront views and easy access to other parts of the island. It’s also where I stayed during my trip to Malta and I found it to be a really convenient base.

Is Valletta or St Julian’s better?

It really depends on the type of trip you’re planning. Valletta is better for history, sightseeing, museums and boutique hotels. The atmosphere feels more cultural and traditional.

St Julian’s is better if you want restaurants, bars, nightlife and larger resort-style hotels. It tends to feel more modern and lively, especially during the evenings.

If you’re visiting Malta for the first time and want a balance of sightseeing and relaxation, I personally think St Julian’s is the easier option.

Which part of Malta has the best beaches?

If beaches are your priority, I’d recommend staying in Mellieħa. The area is home to Għadira Bay which is Malta’s largest sandy beach and one of the most popular places for swimming on the island. St Paul’s Bay is another good option if you want easy access to the sea, boat trips and waterfront hotels.

Is Malta expensive?

Compared to many other Mediterranean destinations, Malta offers pretty good value for money. Accommodation prices vary depending on the season and area, but you’ll generally find that hotels in St Paul’s Bay and Mellieħa are more affordable than those in Valletta or St Julian’s.

Restaurant prices are also reasonable, especially if you eat at local restaurants rather than tourist-focused spots in the busiest areas.

How many days do you need in Malta?

I would recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days in Malta. This gives you enough time to explore Valletta, visit Mdina, take a day trip to Gozo, spend time at the Blue Lagoon and still enjoy some downtime by the pool or beach. If you want to explore both Malta and Gozo properly, 7 days is ideal.

Is Malta a good destination for a girls trip?

10000%. Malta has a really good mix of beaches, boat trips, beach clubs, rooftop bars, luxury hotels and beautiful towns to explore. Areas like St Julian’s and Sliema work particularly well for girls trips because you have plenty of restaurants, nightlife and waterfront hotels within walking distance.

You can easily combine sightseeing during the day with beach clubs, sunset drinks and boat trips. It’s also where I went on my hen and had that perfect balance of relaxation, as well as exploring what the island had to offer!

I hope this guide on where to stay in Malta was useful and helps with your planning! Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Malta blog posts and guides below.

Check out my other Malta guides here:

• The Best Things to do in Malta 2026
• The Ultimate Malta Travel Guide 2026 (+ 4 day Itinerary)