Where to Stay in Malta: 9 Best Areas & Top 2023 Hotel Picks

A 2023 guide to where to stay in Malta, featuring the best neighborhoods across Malta & Gozo with the top hotel picks for every budget.

Malta, a vibrant and dreamy European travel destination with rich history and beautiful beaches. From the bustling streets of St Julians to the far-flung corners of Gozo, each region of the island offers its own unique charm and attractions.

However, when it comes to where to stay, the options are just as varied and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a quaint bed, and breakfast in Valletta, or a cozy boutique hotel in Gozo, Malta has it all.

In this guide, I’ll give you a complete rundown of the best places to stay in Malta, including the most popular places to stay to enjoy the amazing things to do in this unique European island nation. I’ll provide a quick introduction to each neighborhood in Malta based on my own travel experience, and offer the top-rated and latest hotel deals for each area.

If You're in a Hurry: Here are the Best Hotels in Malta

With such a broad variety of accommodation types, ranging from 5-star resorts to traditional terraced boutique hotels, I'm not surprised you want a quick answer.

To save time searching, take a pick from the four options below based on location, reviews, and my personal experience. Or, read on for a detailed neighborhood breakdown with the top recommendations.

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially during the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

Where to Stay in Malta: The 9 Best Areas & Regions

Whether you're looking to explore ancient history, indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, or simply relax in the sun, these are the nine Maltese neighborhoods and tourist areas you need to check out.

1. Mellieħa Bay (Għadira), Malta Island
2. Sliema, Malta Island
3. Valletta, Malta Island
4. St Julian's, Malta Island
5. St. Pauls Bay, Bugibba, & Qawra, Malta Island
6. Three Cities, Malta Island
7. Marsaxlokk & Marsaskala, Malta Island
8. Mdina, Malta Island
9. Gozo Island

1. Mellieħa Bay (Għadira) - Best Place to Stay for Chill Beach Vibes

Mellieħa Bay is a picturesque coastal town in Għadira. This stunning location boasts crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere that is great for families and couples.

Best Hotels in Mellieħa Bay

	Option	Price
	Hotel VIU57	$$
	Lure Hotel & Spa	$$$
	DB Seabank Resort + Spa	$$$

Hotel Viu57

Situated in Mellieha Bay Hotel Viu57 is a great choice for those looking for incredible water views and a relaxing and quiet stay.

The hotel is within walking distance to a range of cafes and restaurants and a short 10-minute walk to the nearby Mellieha Bay Beach or a short drive from Golden Bay Beach. There is a continental buffet breakfast provided with views of the nearby red tower It-Torri L-Ahmar.

Hotel Viu57 offers its guests spacious well-designed rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and ocean views from the bed. Furthermore, it has its very own rooftop pool with spectacular views.

Our Lady of the Grotto, the WWII shelters, and Mellieha Cross are all nearby popular attractions that can be explored whilst staying at Hotel Viu57.

Lure Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of Mellieha Lure Hotel & Spa is a great choice for those wanting a luxury adult-only stay with access to exceptional spa treatments.

Lure Hotel & Spa boasts spacious rooms with a bright and modern design. Free wifi, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a hot tub can be found in most rooms with a balcony and views over the nearby Parish Church. There is an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals throughout the day.

An indoor and outdoor pool can be found on the rooftop with incredible views over the surrounding area of Melliehe Bay.

The hotel is a short drive from some of the best sunset locations on the island.

DB Seabank Resort & Spa

Located opposite Mellieha Bay Beach the DB Seabank Resort & Spa is the perfect place for those traveling in large groups or families.

This 4-star all-inclusive resort has everything covered from incredible grounds with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a bowling alley, a hot tub, and a sauna. Activities are run on-site each day such as water aerobics, darts, pool games, and a kids club that runs for ages 4-11.

All rooms are modernly decorated with a sea theme and atmosphere. A range of rooms are available that cater to large groups and include a fridge, wifi, tv, and air conditioning.

This is the best area to base yourself if you want to visit the best things to do in Mellieha such as Popeye Village and the incredible Coral Lagoon which is a must-see natural attraction!

2. Sliema: Great Place to Stay to Explore Malta Island

Sliema is a popular tourist town bordering St. Julians. This bustling town is situated on the seafront and boasts beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, with plenty of fun bars and top-notch restaurants nearby.

Best Hotels in Sliema

	Option	Price
	Waterfront	$$
	Land's End	$$$
	1926 Hotel & SPA	$$$

Waterfront

Does relaxing with a cocktail in your hand with views over the sea sound like your ideal vacation? Then an excellent choice for the best place to stay is the Waterfront Hotel.

Waterfront Hotel is located in the central area of Sliema and offers its guests large private air-conditioned rooms, outdoor lounging areas, hot tubs, an indoor and outdoor pool, and an on-site Regatta restaurant.

Conveniently it is positioned in a great location for those wanting to explore Valletta, Gozo, or Blue Lagoon with private day trips leaving from Sliema or a public ferry each day. The airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Land's End

This newly built hotel is another great choice when staying in Sliema. Land's End Hotel is located close to Tinge Point Foreshore walk with views overlooking the UNESCO world heritage site the city of Valletta.

It caters to both couples and families with private rooms with a TV, private bathroom, air conditioning, and balconies with sea views. A range of cafes, bars, restaurants, and the Point Shopping Mall are within walking distance from Land's End.

For those wanting to explore the best things to do in Valletta, there is a public ferry terminal that has services that run to Valletta just a short walk away.

1926 Hotel & Spa

1926 Hotel & Spa is a 4-star luxury hotel located centrally in Sliema. With easy access to the ferry terminal that runs to Gozo, and Valletta and a short distance from Sliema Beach it is a great choice.

Ultimately 1926 Hotel & Spa offers its guests an organic breakfast daily and has an on-site wellness center that includes a spa, sauna, steam room, indoor heated pool, and gym.

The rooms are beautifully designed with large beds, air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom. The surrounding grounds of the 1926 Hotel & Spa offer spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea and a rooftop infinity swimming pool.

Parking is available on-site.

3. Valletta: Accommodation In Malta's Capital

Valletta is the capital city of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning city is one of the most popular places to stay since it is conveniently located close to the Malta International Airport and sports the amazing Grand Harbour.

Where to Stay in Valletta

	Option	Price
	The Gomerino Hotel	$$$
	The Embassy Valletta Hotel	$$$
	Iniala Harbor House	$$$$

The Gomerino Hotel

Imagine lounging next to the rooftop swimming pool overlooking the Three Cities of Malta and Valletta harbor with a cocktail in your hand, this is exactly what The Gomerino Hotel has to offer.

Located in the heart of Valletta The Gomerino Hotel is a great place to stay if you're wanting to explore the incredible Three Cities and Valletta.

With its own indoor pool, gym, and sauna it is great for those wanting to get a workout before a large continental breakfast each morning.

The Gomerino Hotel features large rooms that have a TV, Airconditioning, a private bathroom, and some featuring balconies with great views.

It is a short walk from many well-known restaurants and bars and 300 m from the St John's Co-Cathedral.

The Embassy Valletta Hotel

Want to experience luxury with a view? The Embassy Valletta Hotel is a great option.

Guests can spend their days exploring the surrounding city, relaxing by the rooftop pool, or working out at the on-site gym. There are also spa treatments and facilities for those that want to indulge in ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

All rooms are equipped with large beds, air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom.

The best part about The Embassy Valletta is that it allows pets to join you on your vacation at no extra cost. It is also a great place to stay if you do not have a car.

The hotel is within walking distance from the Upper Barakka Gardens, the National Museum of Archeology, and the National War Museum which shouldn't be missed.

Iniala Harbour House

If you're a fan of boutique hotels then the Iniala Harbour House is the perfect option for a relaxing stay in Valletta.

Sitting above Valletta's stunning St Barbara Bastion this boutique hotel is known as being one of the best accommodation choices in Malta. With phenomenal views over the Grand Habour and the Three cities, it is hard to beat.

There is a range of rooms available which feature their very own equipped kitchen, large bed, balcony, TV and private bathroom. Rooms are great for couples and also cater to families.

Iniala Harbour House is located in an ideal place as it is within walking distance of many cafes, bars, and restaurants.

4. St Julian's: Where to Stay in Malta for Nightlife

St. Julian's is a town located on the northeastern coast of the island of Malta, next to Sliema. This lively town is regarded for its bustling nightlife, sandy beaches, and fun watersports activities.

St. Julian's is a popular destination for young couples and groups who are looking for a fun-filled Maltese vacation.

Best Accommodation Picks for St. Julian's Bay

	Option	Price
	Inhawi Boutique Hostel	$$
	Hyatt Regency	$$$
	The Westin Dragonara Resort	$$$$

Inhawi Boutique Hostel

Want to see Malta on a budget? The Inhawi Boutique Hostel is a great place for a base in order to save money and have a great time.

Inhawi Boutique Hostel is located just 300 m from Balluta Bay Beach. It offers its guests a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor seating and terrace area, Thursday night BBQ events, and an outdoor swimming pool with lounge chairs.

Female, male, and mixed dorms are available with free wifi, air-conditioning, and a continental breakfast.

Restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets are all within walking distance of the hostel.

Hyatt Regency

If you want to stay at a luxury 5-star hotel in St. Julian's Bay, look no further than Hyatt Regency Malta.

Hyatt Regency Malta offers elegant rooms and suites while staying here. Each room boasts air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and depending on your room, a balcony with views over the Mediterranean Sea.

Featuring four restaurants and four bars, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with gorgeous views over the river. Guests can spend their days relaxing by the indoor or outdoor swimming pools, booking a wellness massage, or keeping up their fitness regime in the on-site fitness center.

Not only are the luxurious decor and amenities enough reason to stay at this hotel, but it also offers its own child-minding services, has watersports available on-site, and boasts bars with happy hour each day.

The hotel is 200 m from St George's Bay and 700 m from the well-known Dragonara Casino.

The Westin Dragonara Resort

Wondering where to stay in Malta for beaches? The Westin Dragonara Resort Malta is a great pick for those wanting a resort that offers everything you need without having to leave.

Located in St Julian's The Westin Dragonara Resort Malta boasts two private beaches, a gym facility with a personal trainer, relaxation services, 2 outdoor swimming pools, and an indoor swimming pool. Its high-quality services ensure all guests feel welcomed and have an opportunity to completely relax.

The Westin Dragonara Resort Malta offers many different types of rooms which cater to groups, couples, and families. There is an outdoor play area for children and child-minding services available.

From most areas of the resort, the sea can be viewed. There is public transport within walking distance and the Westin Dragonara Casino is just a short 300 m away.

5. St. Paul's Bay, Bugibba, & Qawra: Malta's Coastal Tourist Hub

St. Paul's Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra are three adjacent towns on Malta's northern coast. These towns are mostly tourist regions, offering a unique and varied experience for visitors.

St. Paul's Bay is a charming fishing village that presents a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with beautiful beaches. Bugibba, to the south, is slightly more upbeat and popular for its nightlife, Mediterranean restaurants, and entertainment options.

Qawra, situated between St. Paul's Bay and Bugibba, is a more family-friendly neighborhood, with shallow waters and plenty of safe swimming areas for kids.

Best Hotels In St. Paul's Bay

	Option	Price
	Mayflower Hotel	$$$
	Seaview Hotel	$$$
	db San Antonio Hotel + Spa (All Inclusive)	$$$$

Mayflower Hotel

Mayflower Hotel is a great pick for those looking for a quiet stay out of the hustle and bustle of the main cities of Malta. Located in St Paul's Bay the hotel is in a great location with the Maltese National Aquarium and Malta Classic Car Collection showroom all within walking distance.

Boasting minimalistic private rooms with air conditioning, a TV, wifi, and a large private bathroom it is perfect for families or groups. The rooftop outdoor swimming pool is nothing short of perfect with views over the surrounding areas and the Mediterranean Sea.

For those wanting to work off the Maltese meals, there is a fitness facility on-site or if relaxation is your style there is a spa and massage treatments available.

Seaview Hotel

Looking for the perfect adult-only hotel to wind down and relax? Look no further than the Seaview Hotel.

With views over St Pauls Islands and a rooftop outdoor swimming pool, the Seaview Hotel is one that shouldn't be missed. Bugibba Perched Beach is a short 5-minute walk from the property and it is also close to Malta's well-known Chocolate factory.

It has everything one would need on-site, boasting a gym facility, sauna, steam room, and wellness packages to help unwind and relax.

The private rooms are all beautifully decorated and each have a mini bar, air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom with spectacular views over the sea or city.

It ticks all the boxes for a relaxing adult stay.

DB San Antonio Hotel & Spa

DB San Antonio Hotel & Spa ticks all the boxes for the best all-inclusive resort in St Paul's Bay.

Featuring an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, spa facility, hot tub, fitness facility, live performances, and kids club it's everything one would need for a relaxing holiday.

There is a buffet breakfast to enjoy before exploring the surrounding areas or private sandy beaches. The local bus stop is within walking distance and the Malta Aquarium is a short 800 m away which is perfect for a day trip.

Parking is available at the hotel.

6. Three Cities: Great Accommodation Pick For History & Culture

Malta's Three Cities of Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua are located on the eastern side of the Grand Harbour opposite Valletta and are one of the most architecturally stunning neighborhoods in Malta.

Staying in Malta's Three Cities is a unique and authentic experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations above. Here, you'll discover a wide range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels with gorgeous baroque architecture to traditional guesthouses overlooking the harbor.

Best Accommodation Picks for The Three Cities

	Option	Price
	Casa Cara	$$
	BOCO Boutique Hotel	$$$
	Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour	$$$$

Casa Cara

If apartment-style accommodation sounds like your ideal choice then Casa Cara is a great option.

Offering its guests a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, microwave, coffee machine, kettle, toaster, and stovetop that is perfect for those wanting to cook their own meals.

This is a great choice for those traveling in a large group or families as there are multiple bedrooms and a pull-out sofa.

It is a short 700 m walk to Fort Sant Angelo and 650 m from Reinella Bay Beach to cool down and enjoy the sea.

BOCO Boutique Hotel

BOCO Boutique Hotel welcomes guests who'd like to experience the traditional Maltese way of life with a host who is passionate about sharing his knowledge of art and the surrounding areas.

The hotel has 6 beautifully designed rooms showcasing art painted by the host Tony Busuttil. The private rooms feature large comfortable beds, wifi, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and some with sea views and a private patio.

The boutique hotel is situated in a quiet street within the Three Cities. It is within walking distance from the Immaculate Conception Church and the Bormla waterfront.

A range of restaurants and cafes can be found near the hotel.

Cugo Gran Macina

For those looking for a 5-star luxury stay within the Three Cities go no further than the Cugo Gran Macina hotel.

Boasting incredible views over the harbor and super yachts from its rooftop swimming pool it tops the chart for the best stay in the Three Cities.

Suites are available with multiple rooms and this makes it a great choice for those traveling as a family or in a large group. Some specific rooms offer a terrace and large seating area.

It is a great choice for those wanting to explore Fort Sant Angelo or enjoy a small traditional Maltese boat trip around the harbor.

7. Marsaxlokk & Marsaskala, The Most Colorful Neighborhoods in Malta

Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala are two picturesque towns located on the southeastern coast of Malta. Both fishing towns are known for their beautiful harbors, traditional fishing boats, and stunning sea views.

These neighborhoods offer visitors a unique and authentic experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations.

Best Accommodation in Marsaxlokk & Marsaskala

	Option	Price
	Port View Guest House	$$
	Dun Gorg Guest House	$$
	The Sea-Bank Villa Apartments	$$$

Port View Guest House

Looking for a reasonably priced accommodation choice located in a quiet sleepy fishing town? Port View Guest House is a great choice.

Sitting just 20 m from the seafront in the quiet village of Marsaxlokk the family-run Port View Guest House offers its guests comfortable beds, free wifi, a TV, and a private bathroom. Conveniently there is a large rooftop seating area with great views over the surrounding area.

The guest house is a 3 km walk or bike ride from the must-see St Peters Pools which is a perfect location for a hot summer day to cool down.

Dun Gorg Guest House

Looking for an upscaled sleep in a great location on a quiet street? Dun Gorg Guest House shouldn't be missed.

Featuring some of the best views of the surrounding area from their top-floor breakfast patio it is easy to see why this boasts fabulous reviews.

The guest house showcases beautifully furnished rooms with a range of choices for families and larger groups. All rooms are equipped with comfortable large beds, free wifi, a fridge, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms.

A public bus stop can be found 5 minutes walk from the property.

The Sea-Bank Villa Apartments

Located in the heart of Marsaskala, The Sea-Bank Villa apartment is another great choice for those wanting to relax in a quiet area.

Sleeping up to 14 people these apartments are the perfect choice for large groups of families. Offering a fully equipped kitchen and living areas there is enough room for everyone. The bedrooms have their own private bathrooms, TV, and air-conditioning.

There is an outdoor swimming pool with views over the surrounding sea. And lounge chairs for those wanting to lay out under the heat of the sun.

It is a short walk to St Tomas Bay Beach and the markets in the center of town on a weekend.

8. Mdina: Stay in the Old Historic Capital of Malta

Mdina is a fortified city located in the center of Malta and is also known as the "silent city" due to its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. This is a great place to stay in Malta for honeymooners and couples looking for a romantic holiday.

It is a popular destination for visitors who are interested in history, architecture, and culture. The narrow streets and alleyways of the city are lined with traditional buildings and ancient landmarks, such as the Mdina Cathedral and the Palazzo Falzon.

Best Hotels in Mdina

	Option	Price
	Point De Vue Guesthouse	$$
	MYN	$$
	The Xara Palace	$$$

Point De Vue Guesthouse

Just a short 100 m from the old town walls and the Main Gate sits Point De Vue Guesthouse.

The property boasts impeccable views over the surrounding grass fields and historic buildings. The bedrooms are large and come with a TV, shower, bathroom, Wifi, and air conditioning. Another great feature is it has its own children's playground on site.

There is a delicious breakfast that is served each morning. A range of cafes and restaurants are within walking distance from the property. There is a public bus stop located close by and it is a 10-minute walk to St Paul's Catacombs.

MYN

This pet-friendly guesthouse is the perfect choice for those bringing their furry friends along on their stay.

MYN is located on a quiet street in the town of Rabat just 900m from the walls of Mdina. There is a range of surrounding cafes and restaurants that serve delicious food.

The beautifully decorated rooms feature a safe, TV, closet, bathroom, and fridge. A continental breakfast is served each morning for guests.

The natural history museum is a short 500 m walk from MYN.

The Xara Palace

Situated in a stunning 17th-century palace within the walls of Mdina within the silent city The Xara Palace is a romantic choice for couples.

This 5-star boutique hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, outdoor spa, and spectacular views over the surrounding countryside and sea.

There are 17 beautifully restored rooms, each with a large king bed, air conditioning, TV, and a private bathroom. Some even have their own balconies which makes it the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine.

The property is located 100 m from St Pauls Cathedral.

9. Gozo: Stay on Malta's Sister Island

Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago and is known for its tranquil natural beauty, historic landmarks, and classic lifestyle. Staying on Gozo is particularly appealing to those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy Malta's unique landscapes.

Best Hotels on Gozo Island, Malta

	Option	Price
	Quaint Boutique Hotel	$$
	Viewpoint Boutique Living	$$$
	Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz	$$$$

Quaint Boutique Hotel

One of the top picks when staying in Gozo is the Quaint Boutique Hotel. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

Ultimately the boutique hotel offers rooms with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a TV, wifi, and a kettle. Some rooms have a large hot tub available with views through a large glass window over the surrounding town.

There is an excellent restaurant downstairs with delicious food. Public parking is available in the square outside the hotel or within the surrounding streets.

Viewpoint Boutique Living

Still, wondering where to stay on Gozo? This family-run boutique hotel ticks all the boxes for incredible places to stay on the island of Gozo. Viewpoint Boutique Living dates back 300 years and is located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea.

The location is ideal for couples or singles wanting to get away from the cities with easy access to the surrounding beaches and historical treasures such as the Citadella.

Each day there is a continental buffet breakfast which can be enjoyed with a view over the swimming pool. The hotel rooms offer free wifi, large beds, air-conditioning, a wardrobe, and a private bathroom.

The area is very popular for riding, snorkeling, walking and hiking, and even a trip to Wied Il-Għasri Beach.

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

For travelers preferring a modern and luxurious 5-star hotel, the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is your best choice on Gozo. Located in San Lawrenz on a huge tropical oasis with multiple outdoor swimming pools and palm trees.

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz offers its guests luxury rooms suitable for couples, families, and large groups with disability access. There is a steam room, tennis court, children's pool, spa and wellness center, and an indoor pool.

There is a restaurant and bar located on site and some rooms provide guests with a kitchen. It has everything that is necessary for an incredible stay.