Malta is very small, but where you stay can drastically affect the way you experience the island. Despite the proximity and, even, overlap of certain localities, each seems to have its own particular character. Do you enjoy the bustling activity of a cosmopolitan city or the rural calm of Mediterranean village life? Do you want to relax or do you want to party? Picking the right location is crucial.
Stay in Valletta
Contrary to popular belief, Valletta is not the usual capital that never sleeps. Nights in Valletta are close to enchanting or even haunting. Wine bars tucked away in cellars and secrets tucked away in 450-year-old buildings define Valletta. A city to be enjoyed by day, Valletta is a historical jewel and the administrative centre of the islands, taking on a cultural mood by night with theatre and cinema, but certainly no clubbing.
Stay in The Three Cities
A fabulous alternative to the expensive accommodation in Valletta while still enjoying immersion in history is a stay at one of the Three Cities across the harbour: Vittoriosa (Birgu), Cospicua (Bormla) or Senglea (Isla). The Three Cities of the Knights of Malta are surrounded by a beautiful waterfront with views of the Grand Harbour and Valletta. The local vibe also means the area is not well serviced by buses, although you can take a ferry to Valletta. The ideal spot on earth to write a book.
Stay in Sliema
While certainly retaining traditional characteristics in the core - including architecture boasting Maltese balconies - the areas around Sliema’s coast are lined with upmarket high-rise buildings overlooking the beautiful sea view. Sliema is home to several hotels, restaurants and a large shopping area. It is also home to tourist ferries and several other tourist services, all surrounded by a sea dotted with boats. That sets the picture.
Stay in St Julians
An offshoot of Sliema, St Julians developed into the island’s concentrated nightlife area. Indeed, Paceville, in St Julians, never sleeps. Except when the sun is up. St Julians is home to various nightclubs and also several English language schools. It also includes a large residential area and a number of five star hotels. The area is, therefore, ideal for English students, party revellers and business travellers.
Stay in Bugibba
A tourist resort through and through, Bugibba attracts holiday makers looking for more value for their money. Despite great efforts, including a charming esplenade, the National Aquarium, Cafe del Mar and the Kennedy Grove, the area remained more affordable than its upmarket counterpart, Sliema. Yet, Bugibba, Qawra and St Paul’s Bay have a beauty and character of their own. And the Bugibba bus terminus connects well with the rest of the island.
Stay in Mellieha
Farthest north, just before the crossing from Malta to Gozo, lies Mellieha. Mellieha boasts most of Malta’s beautiful sandy beaches, plenty of countryside, places of historic interest and a charming village core. It also includes a number of hotels and restaurants yet retains a predominantly local feeling. Mellieha is ideal for those who enjoy the simple things in life by day: beach, nature, pampering and sport, and enjoy a good sleep at night.
Stay in Gozo
Gozo attracts those looking for peace and quiet, a retreat from the rat race. Although more and more popular, Gozo still retains an authentic feeling of slow-paced Mediterranean lifestyle that is somewhat becoming less felt in many parts of Malta. If your preference is countryside, beaches and winding roads through quaint villages, just cross the water and stay in Gozo.
Where to stay
You will find accommodation in all areas of the island, particularly with the rise of Airbnb in Malta. You may choose a homestay in Marsaxlokk, a fishing village in the south, a self-catering apartment, a characteristic 400-year-old farmhouse or a boutique guesthouse in one of Malta’s central villages, such as Naxxar. Perhaps hostel life is more your thing? Why not just stay longer and try different types of accommodation and places to stay in Malta and Gozo? You could even stay in uninhabited Comino! The possibilities are endless and you’ll get a different experience with each different choice.