9 best hotels in Malta (2024 guide)
Malta is packed with centuries of history, mixing Baroque architecture, ancient temples, and a hint of North African charm. There are so many different areas to stay on the island and with so many options it can be hard to find the best hotels in Malta.
Malta’s compact size also makes it easy to hop between neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique vibe, culture, and range of activities.
In our guide, we’ll cover the best areas to stay, what to look for in local hotels, and some of Malta’s top hotel picks to make your trip even better.
What are the best areas to stay in Malta?
Valletta: Malta’s Historic Heart
Valletta is the island’s bustling capital and ideal for anyone wanting to be close to the sights and activity of Malta. Known for its cobbled streets and Baroque buildings, Valletta is home to iconic sights like the Upper Barrakka Gardens, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Grand Master’s Palace.
Staying here means you’re just a short walk from Malta’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s also an excellent base for boat trips around the harbour, or day trips across the island.
Highlights: Easy access to historical landmarks, boat trips, boutique shops, and a buzzing nightlife.
Drawbacks: Valletta can be crowded during peak seasons, and some accommodations lack parking.
St. Julian’s: The Trendy Coastal Spot
St. Julian’s is Malta’s nightlife hub, known for its relaxed yet vibrant vibe. Located near the coast, it’s perfect for younger travellers and those who love beach views, rooftop pools, and a lively dining scene.
Areas like Spinola Bay offer a more laid-back vibe, while Paceville is packed with bars and clubs, perfect for those looking to explore Malta’s social scene.
Highlights: Close to beaches, rooftop pools, and fitness centres, along with a mix of luxury and mid-range hotels.
Drawbacks: Parts of St. Julian’s, particularly Paceville, can be noisy, especially at night.
Mellieħa: Beachside Bliss in the North
If you prefer sandy shores and quieter surroundings, Mellieħa is the ideal location.
This area is home to Malta’s best beaches, including the famed Golden Bay. The laid-back village atmosphere, coupled with stunning views and convenient access to Gozo, makes it perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Highlights: Beautiful sandy beaches, direct access to Gozo and Comino, stunning sea views.
Drawbacks: It’s further from Valletta, so expect longer travel times for city visits.
Sliema: The Coastal Retreat with City Connections
Sliema offers a mix of residential and touristic charm. With easy access to Valletta by ferry and a stunning seaside promenade, it’s a convenient area with a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Sliema’s hotels often feature amenities like rooftop pools, spas, and fitness centres, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for both comfort and accessibility.
Highlights: Proximity to Valletta, seaside promenades, and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Drawbacks: As a popular area, some parts of Sliema can be pricey, especially during the summer.
Check out our full guide to visiting Malta
Gozo: The Tranquil Island Getaway
If you’re seeking a more laid-back escape, Gozo is a perfect choice. Known as Malta’s sister island, Gozo has a slower pace, with picturesque rural landscapes, ancient temples, and pristine beaches. The main town, Victoria, features historical sites like the Citadel, while villages like Xlendi and Marsalforn offer beachfront relaxation and some of Malta’s best diving spots.
Gozo is a fantastic base for travellers interested in scenic hikes, swimming in hidden coves, and experiencing Malta’s rural charm away from the hustle and bustle of Valletta and St. Julian’s.
Highlights: Stunning landscapes, excellent diving spots, ancient temples, a relaxed atmosphere.
Drawbacks: Less nightlife and fewer high-end hotels, making it better suited to those seeking a quiet retreat
Birgu (Vittoriosa): History and Waterfront Charm
Just across the harbour from Valletta, Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa) is part of the historic “Three Cities” and offers a charming mix of history and waterfront appeal. It’s one of Malta’s oldest towns and has beautifully preserved streets with classic architecture.
Birgu’s fortifications, museums, and marina make it ideal for those who want a quieter, more intimate base. The area is perfect for strolls along the waterfront and dining at harbourside cafes with stunning views of the Grand Harbour.
Highlights: Rich history, waterfront cafes, close proximity to Valletta, and a peaceful vibe.
Drawbacks: Fewer hotel options and limited nightlife compared to other areas, but ideal for a relaxed and historic experience
What to Look for in Local Hotels
Malta’s hotels come with various unique features that make a stay here extra special. Here are some tips to consider:
Location: Staying near key attractions makes it easy to explore on foot, especially if you’re in Valletta or Sliema. But, Malta is a small island so getting to destinations across the island is generally easy, regardless of where you stay.
Amenities: Malta’s top hotels often feature outdoor pools, indoor pools, and spa facilities. Many luxury hotels offer plunge pools, rooftop terraces, or fitness centres, creating a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. Malta gets hot in the high season, so access to a pool can be perfect!
Booking Tips: Malta’s peak season runs from May to September. Booking in advance can help secure the best rates, particularly if you’re eyeing popular options in Valletta or St. Julian’s.
What are the best budget hotels in Malta?
LABRANDA Riviera Hotel & Spa (Mellieħa)
The LABRANDA offers a peaceful getaway with breathtaking sea views. The hotel features a mix of spacious rooms and suites, many with private balconies that overlook the Mediterranean.
There’s indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, and a luxurious spa to unwind. And, from April 2025, its adults only.
Why it stands out: The hotel’s location right on the coast, combined with its excellent wellness facilities and proximity to popular beaches, makes it an ideal budget option for those seeking both relaxation and adventure
1926 Hotel & Spa (Sliema)
This stylish boutique hotel is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to both shopping and cultural sites. It features spacious, contemporary rooms, and a full range of wellness services including a spa and indoor pool.
Why it stands out: Its contemporary design, wellness facilities, and excellent location make it a solid mid-range choice for those seeking both relaxation and easy access to Valletta
See why the 1926 Hotel & Spa is so great
The Preluna Hotel & Spa (Sliema)
The Preluna is a great budget-friendly option with beautiful sea views and plenty of amenities. It’s just a short walk from the promenade, cafes, and restaurants of Sliema, offering both an indoor pool and outdoor swimming pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms are comfortable, and the hotel also provides a fitness centre and spa, which adds a bit of luxury without the price tag.
Why it stands out: Its convenient location in Sliema, combined with a full range of facilities like a rooftop bar and spa, offers exceptional value for money
Check out The Preluna Hotel on Booking.com
Check out our full guide to visiting Malta
What are the best mid-range hotels in Malta?
Malta Marriott Resort & Spa (St. Julian’s)
This stylish hotel offers a relaxing escape with a prime location just steps from the beach. The rooms are luxurious yet affordable, and there’s a rooftop pool and an excellent spa. With a fitness centre, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy access to St. Julian’s lively dining and nightlife scene, it’s ideal for if you’re looking for both relaxation and adventure.
Why it stands out: The combination of an ideal location near the beach, modern amenities like a rooftop pool and spa, and excellent service makes it a fantastic mid-range option for those looking for both comfort and convenience
See the Malta Marriott on Booking.com
Osborne Hotel (Valletta)
A charming boutique hotel located right in the heart of Valletta, the Osborne Hotel offers a comfortable stay with a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. The hotel’s roof terrace provides panoramic views of the city and the Grand Harbour, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Its central location is ideal for exploring the historical heart of Malta.
Why it stands out: The hotel’s fantastic location in Valletta, along with its affordable rates and panoramic rooftop views, makes it an excellent choice if you want to stay in the capital without breaking the bank
Check out the Osbourne Hotel on Booking.com
The Victoria Hotel (Sliema)
The Victoria offers a blend of traditional and contemporary design, providing a great location just a short walk from Sliema’s promenade and shopping areas.
Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the island, and its rooftop pool provides stunning views of the coast and Valletta in the distance.
Why it stands out: The combination of modern amenities, including a fitness centre and spa, alongside its prime location in Sliema, provides a comfortable and stylish stay at a reasonable price
See the Victoria Hotel on Booking.com
What are the best luxury hotels in Malta?
The Phoenicia Malta (Valletta)
Located just outside the city walls of Valletta, The Phoenicia is a historic beauty that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. With elegant rooms featuring antique furniture, high ceilings, and stunning views over the Grand Harbour, it’s the perfect base for exploring Malta’s capital.
The hotel also boasts a lush garden, an outdoor pool, and a fine dining restaurant.
Why it stands out: The Phoenicia combines its historic charm with modern luxury and exceptional service, making it one of Valletta’s top hotels for those seeking elegance and convenience
See photos of The Phoenicia and book on Booking.com
Hilton Malta (St. Julian’s)
The Hilton Malta offers world-class service and luxurious accommodations. With spacious rooms featuring sea views, the hotel boasts multiple outdoor and indoor pools, a fully equipped fitness centre, and a luxury spa.
The property is just a short walk from St. Julian’s nightlife and dining options, while also providing a serene retreat in its beautifully landscaped grounds.
Why it stands out: Its ideal location near both the beach and St. Julian’s vibrant nightlife, coupled with a wide range of luxury facilities like multiple pools and a spa.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Golden Sands (Mellieħa)
The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of Golden Bay. This 5-star resort boasts spacious rooms with private balconies, many overlooking the beach and Mediterranean Sea. The resort also provides easy access to the beach, making it a top choice for those who want a combination of relaxation and outdoor activities.
Why it stands out: Its beachfront location, exceptional spa services, and range of facilities.
See the Radisson Blu on Booking.com
