Wondering where to stay in Malta and Gozo?
In this post, I recommend the best areas for families and couples, and those who want to enjoy the island’s nightlife, history, and beaches.
I also share my top suggestions for places to stay, including guesthouses, apartments, and hotels.
Let’s dive right in!
Note: This is not a sponsored post. I was not paid or compensated by any of the places featured in this Malta accommodation guide. As a local, I share my personal recommendations on the best hotels in Malta and Gozo.
Valletta
Valletta is a treasure trove of beautiful buildings, from Baroque palaces and churches to cosy piazzas and an impressive fort. In fact, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Brimming with history, Valletta is the best place to stay in Malta if you want to learn more about the country and its rich past.
It’s also a hub of culture and art, and you’ll find many cafes and wine bars where you can enjoy a nice drink and just watch the world go by.
Where to stay in Valletta
Carmelita
Carmelita is a group of stylish apartments in the heart of Valletta, run by a local couple.
Housed in a Neo-Classical townhouse, each unit comes with a sofa and seating area, a kitchenette and dining area, and a private bathroom.
Casa Asti
This family-run guesthouse is perfect for couples. Casa Asti is a 400-year-old building, located in one of the most picturesque streets in Valletta.
Rooms are really cosy, and the entire place has a warm and friendly ambiance.
Ursulino
This boutique hotel is run by a Valletta local, and it’s housed in an elegant townhouse with a mix of modern and traditional features.
Its roof terrace offers unobstructed views of the Grand Harbour and Valletta skyline.
Valletta is the best place to stay in Malta if:
- You love history, art, and culture.
- You’re not planning to rent a car – you can get a bus to anywhere from Valletta.
Birgu
Situated on the Grand Harbour, Birgu is an old fortified city that boasts a wealth of historic sites.
Must-see buildings include the Inquisitor’s Palace, Fort St. Angelo, and the Sicolo Norman House, which is believed to be the oldest standing house in Malta.
If you want to get a taste of local culture, Birgu is one of the best places to stay in Malta. You can walk through the city’s colourful alleys, mingle with the locals at the square, and enjoy romantic meals along the waterfront.
Where to stay in Birgu
Palazzo Bettina
Palazzo Bettina is one of the best hotels in Malta if you’re looking for a unique experience.
Housed in a 17th-century palazzo, this boutique hotel has 13 beautifully furnished rooms and a rooftop area with a jacuzzi, pool, and stunning views over the harbour.
No. 17 Birgu
Want to stay in a traditional Maltese townhouse in the heart of Birgu?
No.17 is a cosy guesthouse that combines traditional architecture with modern, minimalist decor. Rooms come with a private bathroom and free wifi.
Casa Cara
Casa Cara is a gorgeous, traditional house with a spacious roof terrace that offers amazing city views.
The bedrooms are super cosy and come with a bathtub, kitchenette, and seating area. Free wifi is included.
Birgu is the best place to stay in Malta if:
• You’re planning a romantic getaway.
• You want to explore local history.
Sliema
Sliema is a seaside town on the east coast of Malta. Its streets are lined with a mixture of traditional houses and modern apartments.
There are a few good swimming spots in Sliema, plus several shops, cafes, lidos, and restaurants. From the ferry terminal, you can enjoy panoramic views of Valletta and take a boat trip to Comino.
Where to stay in Sliema
Ta’ Tereza
This gorgeous guesthouse is located in the heart of Sliema, close to the ferry terminal, Tigne shopping centre, and Exiles Beach. It has sleek, modern bedrooms, and offers a shared lounge, private parking, and a garden.
City Dacha
City Dacha is a quirky guesthouse, located close to Balluta Bay and the popular Manual Dimech Street.
Rooms are equipped with a microwave and fridge. You’ll also have your own little living room and balcony.
House of Pomegranates
This Sliema guesthouse boasts a clean and modern look, with beautiful rooms, a shared kitchen, and a cosy back garden. It is located close to Qui-Si-Sana Beach and other popular swimming areas.
Sliema is the best place to stay in Malta if:
- You don’t mind busy places.
- You just want to chill and enjoy the sun.
Mosta
Mosta is a typical Maltese town with picturesque streets and alleys. It’s also home to an impressive basilica and several historic chapels.
The town is bustling with activity during the day, and there are several nice cafes where you can enjoy a hearty lunch and delicious cakes.
Where to stay in Mosta
Apartment 81
This beautiful guesthouse is located right in the heart of Mosta. The bedrooms are spacious and air-conditioned, with free wifi and super clean bathrooms.
There is a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as other communal facilities, including a washing machine.
Fusion Homestay Accommodation
This guesthouse is packed with character!
The rooms have a kitchenette, a dining area and a private bathroom – some even come with their own seating area and patio. This place also has free wifi and a quiet garden.
Cinematique
As the name suggests, Cinematique is a B&B with a cinematic theme. It has a sleek, modern design.
Rooms come with a seating area and a flat-screen TV. You’ll also have a private bathroom, a fridge, and minibar.
Julina Boutique Living
This boutique hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway.
The place has a lush Baroque-style decor, and provides air-conditioned rooms with a desk, minibar, a flat-screen TV, and more. There’s also a sun terrace and a shared lounge.
Mosta is the best place to stay in Malta if:
• You want to stay in a traditional town.
• You’re looking for a central location with frequent buses.
Rabat
Rabat is a traditional town in the heart of Malta. It’s home to several archaeological sites, including St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Roman Villa. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the medieval city of Mdina.
In the evening, you can enjoy dinner at one of the many cosy restaurants in the area. You could also go for a romantic stroll through the quiet alleys of Mdina.
Where to stay in Rabat
Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse
This gorgeous guesthouse has a stylish look that blends the modern with the old. Each room is uniquely decorated and has its own balcony.
The roof offers beautiful views of Rabat and Mdina. There’s also a hot tub – perfect for those chilly winter days!
Maleth Inn
Maleth Inn is a typical Maltese townhouse that has been turned into a charming B&B with an eclectic mix of furnishings.
The rooms are air-conditioned and come with a fully-equipped kitchenette. Wifi is also available.
Adelphi Boutique Hotel
This boutique-style hotel is located in a pretty, quiet street. Rooms are spacious and modern, with windows that look out onto the picturesque Rabat streets.
The on-premise restaurant serves traditional Maltese food and pizza cooked in a wood stone oven.
Point de Vue
A family-friendly guesthouse, Point de Vue has bright, spacious rooms with free wifi. Some of the rooms overlook the Maltese countryside.
There’s a restaurant and children’s playground on site.
Rabat is the best place to stay in Malta if:
- You want to mingle with the locals.
- You’re looking for an authentic experience.
St. Paul’s Bay
The tourist resort of St. Paul’s Bay is one of the largest towns in Malta. This peninsula is dotted with hotels, bars, and restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of swimming zones in the area.
St. Paul’s Bay is a fairly modern place, so you won’t find many historical sites here.
However, it’s a great place to stay if you want to explore the north of Malta. It’s just a short drive away from the beautiful sandy beaches of Mgarr, Mellieha, and Ghajn Tuffieha.
Where to stay in St. Paul’s Bay
LA 88 Boutique
This modern guesthouse is located in a quiet residential area, a short walk away from the seafront. Rooms come with a seating area, a private bathroom, air conditioning, and free Wifi.
Casa Ricca
Casa Ricca is a family-run guesthouse. The building is a restored palazzino, and it’s situated a couple of minutes away from the seafront.
There’s a bar, a lounge, and a cosy garden, and every room is beautifully decorated.
Gillieru Harbour Hotel
This hotel is located in a quaint area, surrounded by restaurants and a lovely little chapel. It overlooks the sea and it’s situated next to a small harbor with traditional boats.
The hotel has a pool, as well as a restaurant that specializes in seafood.
St. Paul’s Bay is the best place to stay in Malta if:
• You’re travelling with family.
• You’re a beach lover and just want to chill by the sea.
Marsaxlokk
This quaint seaside town in the south of Malta is perfect for seafood lovers.
There are many restaurants along the promenade that serve delicious meals. You can also buy fresh seafood from the weekly Sunday market.
Marsaxlokk Bay is dotted with colourful boats. There also some nice swimming areas in the vicinity, including the white rocky beach of Xrobb l-Għaġin.
Where to stay in Marsaxlokk
Fisherman’s Cove Guesthouse
This guesthouse comes with nice, simple rooms. Some units have balconies with views of the bay.
There is also an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace. Breakfast is varied and abundant.
Port View Guesthouse
Port View has bright, spacious rooms with air-conditioning. The guesthouse also has a lovely terrace where you can enjoy sweeping views of Marsaxlokk Bay. Free wifi is also available.
The Quayside Apartments
These self-catering apartments are housed in a 19th-century building with traditional features.
They’re located right on the seafront, and close to the Marsaxlokk parish church. Each room comes with a kitchenette and bathroom.
Marsaxlokk is the best place to stay in Malta if:
• You’re a seafood lover!
• You want to experience local culture.
Gozo
If you’re planning a trip to Gozo, I recommend spending at least two days on the island. You can hike along the coast, explore sleepy villages, visit ancient sites like Ggantija Temples, and much more.
Gozo is the perfect location if you want some peace and quiet. The island is mostly rural, and has a very laidback vibe.
Where to stay in Gozo
39 St. George
Situated in Victoria, this B&B in Gozo has very traditional features, including bare stone walls and beamed ceilings.
It offers nice views of the city and free wifi. Some rooms comes with a seating area and balcony.
Provicario
Provicario is one of the best places to stay in Gozo for an authentic experience. This B&B is housed in an old building in the heart of Victoria.
Rooms are beautifully decorated and come with air-conditioning and free wifi. There’s also a terrace, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Cittadella, an ancient fortress in Victoria.
Bliss Boutique Living
If you want to spoil yourself, look no further than this boutique B&B in Xaghra.
It’s situated in a quiet location, and comes with an outdoor swimming pool and terrace. Rooms are beautiful decorated, with air conditioning and free wifi.
Soleil B&B
Looking for an adults only accommodation in Gozo?
Soleil B&B in Gharb might be perfect for you. It’s peaceful and romantic, and comes with a bar and terrace. Some of the rooms have a patio and/or a balcony with sea views.
Gizimina Farmhouse B&B
This renovated farmhouse in Xaghra (close to to Ramla Bay) is cosy and welcoming. Some of the rooms have balconies overlooking the sea.
The hosts serve delicious homemade cakes and bread, which you can enjoy in the shared lounge or by the outdoor pool.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure where to stay in Malta? Let’s answer some questions you might have.
Where should I stay in Malta for the first time?
If you’re visiting Malta for the first time, you want to base yourself in a place that has frequent buses to popular attractions.
Bugibba (or St. Paul’s Bay) is a good choice, especially if you want to visit the beautiful beaches in the north of the island.
Where is the best place to base yourself in Malta?
If you’re visiting Malta for the sea, then you might want to base yourself in Bugibba or Sliema. These towns have a large stretch of coastline, and they’re also home to beautiful hotels with pools and spas.
If you want to travel around the island, I highly recommend staying somewhere more central, like Mosta or Rabat.
If you’re planning to travel by bus, Valletta would be the ideal base for you.
Is it better to stay in Valletta or Sliema?
If you’re interested in history and culture, then Valletta might be the best place to stay in Malta. There are plenty of attractions in the city, and you can get a bus to almost anywhere in Malta.
In the evening, the city is transformed into a magical place, with live music and colourful bars. However, you might be unable to find affordable accommodation in Valletta.
Meanwhile, Sliema is a great base for anyone who wants to spend long days by the sea. The streets of this bustling town are lined with shops and cafes.
Additionally, it’s right next to St. Julian’s, so it’s perfect for those who are visiting Malta for the nightlife.
Is it better to stay in Valletta or St. Julians?
If you love partying, then St. Julian’s is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Malta. This town is home to Paceville, the island’s nightlife hub. Moreover, you’ll find plenty of affordable accommodation in St. Julian’s.
Valletta is best suited for culture vultures and history lovers. However, you don’t have a lot of options when it comes to accommodation – it’s mainly boutique hotels and luxury apartments.
What are the best places in Malta for couples?
If you’re planning a romantic vacation in Malta, consider staying in a quaint village like Rabat.
Another great place for couples is Birgu. This old city is simply magical, with quiet alleys and beautiful views over the Grand Harbour.
Where to stay in Malta (a recap)
In this Malta accommodation guide, we looked at some of the best areas on the island. Here’s a quick recap:
- Where to stay for the nightlife: Sliema or St. Julian’s
- Where to stay for the beaches: St. Paul’s Bay or Mellieha
- Best places for history buffs: Valletta or Birgu
- Best places for couples: Rabat or Birgu
- Best places for families: St. Paul’s Bay or Sliema
- Where to stay in Malta without a car: Mosta, Valletta, or St. Paul’s Bay
If you have any questions about this Malta accommodation guide, feel free to leave a comment or drop me a line!
One Response
Thanks, u’re really helpful. It s so nice to find peeps who know what they are talking about.
MERCI
Danny.