The Best Places to Stay in Malta in 2026 

Planning a trip to Malta in 2026? Whether you’re looking for a boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace, a seaside town with sandy beaches, or a historic stay inside ancient city walls, this guide covers the best areas to stay, with pros, cons, and vegan-friendly tips.

Malta may be small, but the different areas feel unique. From the heart of Malta in the capital city of Valletta to the north of Malta’s beach towns, choosing the best place to stay depends on your travel style.

Valletta – Malta’s Capital & Cultural Heart

If you love historic sites, panoramic views, and being within walking distance of the main attractions, Valletta is the ideal place to stay.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malta’s capital is packed with historic buildings built by the Knights of St. John, charming narrow streets, and stunning views over the Grand Harbour. It’s compact enough that you can explore much of the entire city on foot, making it a perfect base for first-time visitors.

Don’t miss:

• Upper Barrakka Gardens (especially in the late afternoon for incredible harbour views)

• St. John’s Co-Cathedral

• A ferry crossing to the Three Cities

Why Valletta is a Great Base

• Central location with easy access to the rest of the main island

• Excellent bus connections

• Close to the ferry terminal

• Walking distance to major historic sites

• Strong dining options, including vegan-friendly restaurants

 

Pros

• Beautiful sea views and panoramic views over the harbour

• Charming boutique hotel options and smaller hotels

• Great location for a short stay

• Rich history everywhere you look

Cons

• No sandy beaches

• Can feel busy in peak season

• Harbour-view rooms often come at an extra cost

Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, and short stay travelers.

Valletta – Best for History & Vegan Spots Within Walking Distance

La Falconeria Hotel
Stylish boutique hotel in Valletta’s historic center. Walking distance to vegan-friendly cafés, market stalls with plant-based options, and restaurants that can adapt Mediterranean dishes for vegans.

The Phoenicia Malta
Luxury option with beautiful gardens and high-quality dining. While not exclusively vegan, restaurants and breakfast service include plant-based options. An easy base to explore Valletta’s growing vegan dining scene.

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta
Excellent choice near Valletta’s waterfront and city walls. A short walk to cafes, markets, and places that offer vegan meals or can customize dishes.

St. Julian’s – Lively Seafront, Beaches & Nightlife

St. Julian’s (often written St Julian) is one of the best areas to stay in Malta if you want energy, sea views, and easy access to everything. Once a small fishing village, it’s now a lively seaside town known for its waterfront promenades, nightlife, and modern hotels.

The heart of the action is around Spinola Bay and Balluta Bay, where colorful boats bob in the water and restaurants line the main street. St. George’s Bay is one of the few sandy beaches in central Malta, making this a great place for swimming during the summer months.

Why St. Julian’s is a Great Location

• Easy access to the surrounding areas

• Excellent bus routes and good transport links

• Walking distance to Sliema

• Plenty of dining options, including vegan-friendly choices

 

Accommodation Style

St. Julian’s is known for luxury hotels, rooftop pool properties, and modern apartment rentals. Many hotels offer sea views, air conditioning, outdoor pool areas, and even hot tub facilities. It’s a good option for large groups thanks to spacious rooms and contemporary developments.

Pros

• Close to sandy beaches like St. George’s Bay

• Vibrant city life and nightlife

• Great base for boat trips and water sports

• Wide range of hotel recommendations

Cons

• Busy during peak season

• Higher prices in the summer months

• Less historic charm compared to Valletta or the Three Cities

Best for: Travelers who want nightlife, modern comforts, rooftop terrace bars, and a central location near the coast.

St. Julian’s – Lively Area with Lots of Dining Options

Radisson Blu Resort, St. Julians
A popular large hotel with a restaurant offering vegan options and a breakfast buffet that includes dairy-free choices. This is convenient if you want a mix of resort amenities and plant-based meals without leaving the property.

Hyatt Regency Malta & The Westin Dragonara Resort
Both upscale hotels on the St. Julian’s waterfront. While not fully vegan, restaurants inside often feature vegan dishes, and staff can help cater to plant-based diets. Many vegan-friendly cafés and restaurants are a short walk away.

Budget pick: Hotel Valentina – A smaller, budget-friendly hotel in St. Julian’s, close to casual vegan options, health cafes, and nightlife.

Sliema – Stylish Seafront & Central Convenience

Just next door to St. Julian’s, Sliema is a slightly calmer but equally convenient option. It’s one of the best locations if you want a central location with strong public transport connections and a more relaxed city vibe.

Sliema stretches along the coast with a long promenade perfect for sunset walks. While it doesn’t have sandy beaches, it offers easy access to swimming spots and panoramic views across the water toward Valletta.

Why Sliema is a Good Choice

• Ferry crossing to Valletta from the ferry terminal

• Excellent bus connections across the main island

• Short walk to St. Julian’s

• Great transport hub for exploring different parts of Malta

Accommodation Style

Sliema offers a mix of boutique hotel stays, smaller hotels, guest house options, and modern apartment rentals. Many properties feature rooftop terrace areas, outdoor swimming pool facilities, and sea views. It’s a great option for a short stay or as a perfect base for exploring the entire city and beyond.

Pros

• Central location with easy access to Valletta

• Great place for shopping and dining options

• Good option for travelers without a car

• Less hectic than St. Julian’s but still lively

Cons

• No sandy beaches

• Can feel commercial in some areas

• Limited historic sites compared to Malta’s capital

Best for: Visitors who want a central base with excellent public transport, waterfront views, and a balance between city life and relaxation.

Gżira – Central Base with Easy Access to Vegan Dining

Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
Budget-friendly stay in vibrant Gżira, within walking distance of the promenade and cafes. Gżira has become a hot spot for vegan eateries, including casual restaurants with hearty bowls, creative mains, and plant-based comfort food — perfect for lunch or dinner after exploring the waterfront and nearby Sliema.

115 The Strand Hotel by NEU Collective
An affordable option right on the Gżira seafront. Rooms offer easy walkable access to vegan cafes and smoothie bars. With Sliema just across the way, you’re also close to health-focused cafes and juice bars.

Grands Suites and Hotel

This is where we stayed and loved that each room has a kitchen which made the week stay much easier. We were also within a short walking distance to Balance Bowl and Ayu. The swimming pool and spa treatments made it extra special. We highly recommend staying here.

Sliema – Stylish Waterfront & Vegan Eats Nearby

Waterfront Hotel
A comfortable, mid-range hotel overlooking the Sliema promenade. Rooms have views over the bay, and you’re steps from vegan-friendly cafés, juice bars, and health-food spots.

Nearby vegan-friendly food includes smoothie bars, plant-based bowls, salads, and casual restaurants that clearly label vegan options. Most traditional restaurants can accommodate vegan requests.

Mellieħa – Beaches & Relaxed Northern Malta

Located in the north of Malta, Mellieħa is a small town known for some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. If your idea of the perfect place includes sandy beaches and a slower pace, this is a great option.

Highlights include Mellieħa Bay (Malta’s largest sandy beach), Golden Bay, and Għajn Tuffieħa.

Why It’s a Great Option

• Short drive to the ferry port for Gozo

• Ideal location for boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

• Good base for water sports and coastal walks

 

Pros

• Beautiful beaches and scenic surrounding areas

• More spacious rooms in resort-style properties

• Outdoor pool and outdoor swimming pool options

• Panoramic views from hilltop accommodations

Cons

• Further from Malta’s capital

• Fewer bus connections late at night

• Not ideal for a short stay if you want to focus on historic sites

Best for: Families, beach lovers, and slower travel.

Mellieħa (Sandy Beaches & Northern Malta)

Luxury: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands
One of the best hotels in the north of Malta with direct access to Golden Bay. Offers sea views, spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a large outdoor swimming pool — perfect for a beach-focused stay.

Mid-Range: Solana Hotel & Spa
Located in the heart of Mellieħa town with a rooftop pool and modern amenities. A great base within walking distance of the main street and bus connections.

Budget: Luna Holiday Complex
A good option for families or travelers wanting a modern apartment setup. Close to Mellieħa Bay and ideal for self-catering.

St. Paul’s Bay – Affordable Seaside Base

St. Paul’s Bay is one of the largest towns in Malta and offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere. It’s often a good option for travelers looking for value accommodation with good transport links.

The area includes Bugibba and Qawra, with a long promenade, sea views, and easy bus routes into Valletta.

Why St. Paul’s Bay is a Good Choice

• More affordable hotel recommendations

• Good bus stop access and strong public transport connections

• Short drive to northern beaches

 

Pros

• Good option for longer stays

• Outdoor pool hotels are available

• Close to the salt pans and coastal walks

• Less hectic than St. Julian’s

Cons

• Fewer historic buildings compared to Valletta

• Not as picturesque as other parts of Malta

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, longer stays, and those wanting a relaxed seaside town feel.

St. Paul’s Bay (Affordable Seaside Base)

Mid-Range Resort: AX ODYCY Hotel
Modern, family-friendly hotel with outdoor pool areas and sea views. A great option for longer stays with strong facilities and good transport links.

Mid-Range / Boutique: Gillieru Harbour Hotel
Located right on the promenade with harbour views. Comfortable and well-positioned within walking distance of restaurants and bus routes.

Budget: ibis Styles St. Paul’s Bay Malta
A reliable and affordable option offering modern rooms, air conditioning, and easy access to the seafront.

The Three Cities – Authentic & Historic Charm

Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua) offer a rich history without the same crowds as the capital.

With narrow streets, historic buildings, and impressive city walls, this area feels like stepping back in time. It’s a perfect base if you want authenticity and a quieter atmosphere.

Why The Three Cities Make a Perfect Base

• Walking distance to ferry connections to Valletta

• Beautiful sea views across the harbour

• Deep connection to the Knights of St. John

 

Pros

• Peaceful and atmospheric

• Great location for photography

• Charming guest house and boutique hotel stays

Cons

• Smaller hotels and limited luxury options

• Fewer nightlife and dining choices

Best for: Couples, history lovers, repeat visitors.

The Three Cities (Historic Charm & Harbour Views)

Luxury / Boutique: IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina (Birgu)
A beautifully restored historic building with elegant interiors and harbour views. A perfect place if you want character, comfort, and walking distance to the marina and ferry connections.

Mid-Range: No18 (Cospicua)
Stylish and intimate with a rooftop terrace and hot tub. A great base for exploring the narrow streets and historic buildings of the Three Cities.

Budget: Senglea Suites (Senglea)
Simple but charming suites in a fantastic location. A good choice if you want authenticity and sea views without paying luxury prices.

Gozo – A Slower, Greener Escape

If you have extra time, staying in Gozo is a great idea. Malta’s smaller sister island offers a completely different atmosphere. It’s quieter, greener, and more rural. It’s an ideal place if you want to escape city life and experience a small town or small fishing village setting.

Gozo is known for its dramatic coastline, historic sites, and relaxed pace. The island’s capital, Victoria (also called Rabat), sits at the heart of Gozo and is home to the impressive Citadel.

Why Gozo is a Great Base

• Perfect base for hiking and coastal walks

• Beautiful beaches like Ramla Bay

• Great place for boat trips and swimming spots

• Charming farmhouses and boutique hotel options

 

Pros

• Peaceful and less crowded, even in peak season

• Authentic local feel

• Panoramic views and countryside scenery

• Ideal location for a longer, slower stay

Cons

• Requires a ferry crossing from the main island

• Fewer luxury hotels

• Public transport is more limited than on Malta

Best for: Couples, nature lovers, return visitors, and anyone wanting a perfect place to unwind.

Gozo (Slower Pace, Nature & Coastal Scenery)

Luxury: Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
A peaceful five-star resort surrounded by countryside in San Lawrenz. Expect large outdoor swimming pools, spa facilities, spacious rooms, and a tranquil atmosphere. Ideal if you want a relaxing escape with resort-style comfort.

Mid-Range: Grand Hotel Gozo
Located near the ferry terminal in Mġarr, this is a great base with sea views and easy access to both Malta and Gozo’s main attractions. Comfortable rooms, rooftop terrace views, and good value for the location.

Budget / Boutique: Cornucopia Hotel (Xagħra)
A charming farmhouse-style boutique hotel with rustic character and outdoor pool facilities. Close to Ramla Bay and local restaurants, making it a good option for a relaxed and affordable stay.

How to Get Around Malta

Malta’s main island is compact, and getting around is relatively straightforward.

Public Transport

Malta’s public transport system relies primarily on buses. Valletta is the transport hub, making it a great base if you plan to rely on bus routes. Buses are affordable and connect most major areas, though they can be crowded during the summer months. When we visited recently, we bought a 12-trip card that was 19€ and could be shared between people that you are traveling with.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a great idea if you want to explore different areas at your own pace, especially Mellieħa, Golden Bay, and smaller villages. However, parking in central areas and historic sites can be challenging. Whenever we rent a car in Europe, we always use Discover Cars.

Ferries & Boat Trips

There are ferry crossings between Valletta and the Three Cities, as well as ferries to Gozo. Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon are extremely popular during peak season.

Best Time to Visit Malta in 2026

April to June

The best overall time to visit. Warm weather without peak season crowds. Perfect for exploring historic sites and outdoor activities.

July to August (Peak Season)

Ideal for beach lovers and water sports. Expect higher prices and more crowded public transport.

September to October

A great option if you want warm sea temperatures but fewer crowds. Still ideal for beautiful beaches and boat trips.

Winter (February-March)

Don’t discount a winter escape to Malta as it’s typically much warmer than most of the European continent. We went in February for a week, and while the weather wasn’t perfect, it was much sunnier and drier than where we live in Portugal during that time. And the flights and accommodations were very affordable.

 

Vegan-Friendly Malta: What to Expect

Malta has become increasingly vegan-friendly in recent years. Valletta and St. Julian’s offer the widest range of plant-based dining options, while most restaurants across the island are willing to adapt dishes.

Boutique hotel kitchens are often more accommodating with dietary requests than large luxury hotels, and many properties now clearly label plant-based dishes.

If you’re staying in a modern apartment, self-catering is easy thanks to well-stocked supermarkets throughout the main island. The most vegan-friendly grocery store is Lidl and Wellbees. You can also find some vegan snacks at Holland & Barrett (my favorite place to stock up on supplements).

Where to Eat Vegan in Malta

Balance Bowl – fully vegan restaurant in Gżira with creative plant-based bowls and mains. We ate here several times and enjoyed it, plus the people who work there are so kind and friendly.

La Vida – they had many delicious vegan options, Latin American tapas style
WOM – Word of Mouth – good brunch with vegan possibilities (check menu).

Evergreen Gelateria – this place was incredible. It’s 100% vegan and made with soy milk so the gelato is extra creamy.
AYU – flexible options, often plant-based/veg friendly. We devoured the ratatouille here. They have many vegan options including dessert.

Surfside – we absolutely loved the vegan pesto pasta dish here along with the views.

Other Notable Vegan-Friendly Spots (Worth Visiting)

BRUVV – creative café with some vegan/plant-based options in Balzan.
Ġugar Hangout & BAR – tasty wraps/salads in Valletta (many vegan-friendly choices). We had the most delicious vegan ftira here.
Focacceria Dal Pani – 1 vegan sandwich option (delicious!) & focaccia in Valletta. We ate here and then enjoyed vegan ice cream from Evergreen, just a 2 minute walk from each other.

Quick Guide: Best Location by Travel Style

• First-time visitors: Valletta

• Nightlife & luxury hotels: St. Julian’s

• Sandy beaches & water sports: Mellieħa

• Budget-friendly base: St. Paul’s Bay

• Quiet historic charm: The Three Cities

FAQ About Malta: Everything You Need to Know

Here’s a handy guide for first-time visitors (or returning travelers) to Malta, covering practical tips, travel advice, and top attractions.

1. What is the best time to visit Malta?

The best time is April–June or September–October. During these months, the weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and tourist crowds are smaller. July and August are hot and busy, ideal only if you want gorgeous beaches and nightlife.

2. How do I get to Malta?

Malta has many direct flights from Europe, and you’ll land on the main island at Malta International Airport, close to Valletta.

3. What are the official languages?

English and Maltese are the official languages. English is widely spoken everywhere, including restaurants, public buses, and historical sites.

4. How do I get around Malta?

• Public buses: Affordable and cover most of the island, including the main towns and bus stops near beaches.

• Rental car: The best way to explore hidden coves, megalithic temples, and the entire island at your own pace. Drive on the left side of the road.

• Ferries: Connect Valletta to the Three Cities, Sliema, and Gozo (from the ferry terminal at Ċirkewwa).

5. Do I need a SIM card?

Yes, buying a local SIM card beforehand or in Valletta is convenient for navigation (Google Maps) and staying connected.

6. What are the top historical sites?

• Valletta: City walls, Upper Barrakka Gardens, St. John’s Co-Cathedral

• The Three Cities: Fort St. Angelo and waterfront towns like Birgu

• Megalithic temples: Ħaġar Qim, Tarxien Temples, older than the Egyptian pyramids

• Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum: Underground prehistoric burial site (booking required)

History buffs will find Malta a great place to explore thousands of years of civilization.

7. What are the best natural attractions?

• Blue Grotto: Stunning sea caves accessible by boat trip

• Blue Lagoon (Comino Island): Crystal lagoon with turquoise water

• St. Peter’s Pool: Natural swimming spot

• Sandy beaches: Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, Ramla Bay in Gozo

8. Are there theme parks or unique attractions?

• Popeye Village: Filming location turned theme park with colorful sets

• Salt pans in Gozo: Historic coastal feature great for photos

• Scenic harbors: Spinola Bay, St. Paul’s Bay, for relaxed strolling

9. How long should I spend in Malta?

A full week itinerary is ideal to explore the main island, Gozo, and Comino. A shorter trip can still cover Valletta, the Three Cities, Blue Grotto, and some beaches.

10. What are the best places to stay?

• Valletta: For historic sites, walking distance attractions, and city vibes

• St. Paul’s Bay: For beaches and relaxed evenings

• Sliema & Spinola Bay: For restaurants, nightlife, and easy ferry access to Valletta

11. Is Malta kid-friendly?

Yes! Attractions like Popeye Village, boat rides, sandy beaches, and small towns like Mdina offer family-friendly activities.

12. What should I pack?

• Light clothing and sun protection for beaches

• Walking shoes for historic sites and narrow streets

• Swimwear for the Blue Lagoon, beaches, and St. Peter’s Pool

• A light jacket for late afternoons or windy coastal spots

13. How can I avoid crowds?

• Visit Blue Lagoon or Blue Grotto early in the morning

• Explore Three Cities instead of only Valletta

• Take guided tours to historical sites outside peak hours

 

14. Do I need a guided tour?

Not necessary, but guided tours can enhance your visit to historical sites, temples, and lesser-known hidden spots. Some come with a small fee, but the insight is worth it.

15. What makes Malta unique?

Malta is a tiny island with an entire week’s worth of history, beaches, and natural beauty. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to crystal lagoons, narrow streets, and gorgeous beaches, the island offers a little bit of everything in a compact, easy-to-explore destination.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Malta

There is no single best location in Malta, as it truly depends on your priorities.

If you want to be in the heart of Malta with easy access to historic sites, choose Valletta.
Mellieħa is a great place to stay, if sandy beaches and sea views are your focus, 
If you prefer modern comforts and lively city life, St. Julian’s may be your ideal location.

Malta’s compact size, rich history, and beautiful coastline make it easy to create the perfect base, no matter which of these best areas you choose in 2026. For our recent visit, we were happy with our stay in Gzira, right next to Sliema. We were able to walk everywhere or take a bus to further locations. Enjoy this beautiful, historic island!

related post: the ultimate one week itinerary for malta

Affiliate Links (thank you for supporting our blog!)

This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
We would be thrilled if you would use our Affiliate links attached here. If you buy something using our links, we receive a small commission. This helps us to continue creating amazing content on the blog for free. Thank you so much!
AFFILIATE LINKS – CLICK HERE

THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:

1. Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
2. Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
3. North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
4. Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
5. Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
6. OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
7. DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars, and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
8. iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
9. NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
10. Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
11. For fun activities in each city, check out Viator and their recommendations.
12. Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
13. Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities