Although Malta is a small island, localities differ from one another.
While Malta is a tiny island, slow-moving traffic during peak hours, reliance on private cars, and vast differences between one area of the island and another make it necessary to think deeply about what you want from your new hometown. Here’s a guideline of what to expect from different parts of Malta.
SLIEMA AND ST JULIAN’S
The natural choice for most expats. These two towns have a large expat community, an exciting social life, and are close to many businesses and places of work. However, they’re the most expensive addresses in Malta, and if you’re looking for a quiet place to settle down, they’re probably not it.
VALLETTA
The capital city of Malta has undergone a renaissance in recent years, and it is now one of the most exciting places to be. All buses end their journey in Valletta, so public transport to and from here is excellent. However, be prepared to pay – it’s not cheap. The neighbouring suburb of Floriana may have more reasonably priced options.
CENTRAL TOWNS SUCH AS BIRKIRKARA, ATTARD AND MOSTA
These towns are located in the middle of the island and have good transport links to most other towns and villages in the island. Prices are moderate, and they are mostly residential, perfect for raising a family.
BUĠIBBA AND MELLIEĦA
Plenty of expats – particularly from the UK – live in these towns. Since both of them can be considered resort towns, it’s worth noting that they get particularly hectic in summer with the influx of tourists, but are much quieter throughout the rest of the year.
SOUTHERN AREAS SUCH AS MARSAXLOKK, MARSASCALA AND THE THREE CITIES
The southern part of the island is worth considering if you’d like to live in a charming, traditional village or town. Having your own transport becomes essential in this case, and learning at least a few words and phrases in Maltese will endear you to the local, close-knit community.
GOZO
Quiet, peaceful and with plenty of green spaces which Malta is sorely missing, the island of Gozo is accessible via a ferry that leaves Ċirkewwa every 45mins. Since the commute may be tiring to do every day, it’s perfect for retirees, people who are planning to work from home, as well as holiday residence.
This feature was first carried in the Guide Me spring/summer 2023 edition.