Darija Stojanovic 
Do you plan to visit Valletta? If so, I must say I’m so happy for you! This charming capital city full of history and fabulous natural sights has been on my bucket list for ages now!
For this reason, I have researched extensively to find where to stay in Valletta. I must say that the best area to stay is the City Center for its enchanting architecture, history, and culture.
However, I went the extra mile and created a curated list of the best hotels (in all budget ranges!) in the city center and in 4 more areas to help you find a place that meets your budget and travel preferences.
This being said, I strongly recommend you book your stay as soon as you find a suitable hotel. Doing so will help you secure the best spot!
Let’s get started!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Can’t read till the end? No worries! The best area to stay in Valletta is the City Center. Here are the best hotels in it:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. City Center – where to stay in Valletta for the first time
- 2. St. Julian’s – best place to stay in Valletta for nightlife
- 3. Sliema – where to stay in Valletta for families
- 4. Gzira – best place to stay in Valletta for a local vibe
- 5. The Three Cities – where to stay in Valletta for seclusion
- FAQs about hotels in Valletta
- Conclusion
Here’s a map so you can visualize the best areas where to stay in Valletta:
- City Center: for first: timers
- St. Julian’s: for nightlife:
- Sliema: for families:
- Gzira: for a local vibe:
- The Three Cities: for seclusion:
1. City Center – where to stay in Valletta for the first time
In Valletta’s city center, the island’s historic charm is around every corner! It’s an ideal place for history and culture enthusiasts. You’ll be nestled in the heart of the city’s heritage, learn about its thousands of years-long history, and indulge in cultural and artistic experiences.
Most of the main sights, like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Manoel Theatre, National Museum, City Gate (ideal base for city exploration), and Valletta’s Main Square, are located in this area. You can dive into a rich tapestry of baroque architecture just by looking at the surrounding buildings, too!
Don’t miss out on Republic Street and Merchant Street, the 2 main streets of the area, as well as the stunning views of the Grand Harbor.
The historic center is a 15-minute ride from the Malta International Airport.
Discover luxury amidst ancient walls and wake up to the Grand Harbour views in this luxury hotel in Valletta. It features gigantic private gardens, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a club, an on-site restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are elegant and have a bath (vs. shower). Fabulous breakfast is available at an extra cost.
Other accommodation options in City Center
Steps away from the main attractions, it features cozy rooms, a roof terrace, a modern interior, and air-conditioning
One of the best budget hotels with a roof terrace, panoramic views, steps from the promenade, and a continental breakfast
Surrounded by iconic landmarks, this minimalist studio has plenty of natural light and a small terrace overlooking the Mediterranean sea
Things to do in City Center
- Take the original Valletta walking tour
- Explore Valletta on a segway tour
- Learn about Malta’s history in an audio-visual show
- Admire St. John’s Cathedral
- Roam the Fort St. Elmo from the inside
- Visit the National Museum of Archeology and the National War Museum
2. St. Julian’s – best place to stay in Valletta for nightlife
St. Julian’s is a great place to experience the best of the island’s nightlife. It’s the hub where all the best bars, late-night restaurants, and clubs are located. Also, you get to stay close to bustling cafés and shops where you can experience true Maltese hospitality.
I recommend The Thirsty Barber Bar for the best cocktails. As for restaurants, try the Michelin-starred Zest for the finest flavors of Asian cuisine in Malta.
The area is easily reachable by public transport and is a great base for visiting the rest of Malta. You’ll still be a stone’s throw from historic sites!
Check out the Spinola Palace in St. Julian’s, a beautiful example of baroque architecture.
This lavish hotel is your haven of elegance and luxury in St. Julian’s. It has a rooftop pool that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, spacious rooms with air conditioning, a hot tub, and is just a short walk from the central bus terminal. Children’s cots are available upon request.
Other accommodation options in St. Julian’s
Central location for convenience, spacious upscale rooms, and a 5-star spa center make this hotel an excellent value for money
Clean and modern rooms, outdoor swimming pool, great location with easy access to the area’s interesting places
Sleeps up to 5 guests, has an open-plan kitchen, and a balcony for a cozy stay
Things to do in St. Julian’s
- Rent a boat with snorkeling gear
- Go on a Gozo Tuk Tuk tour (hotel pickup)
- Take a private parasailing flight
- Go on a jet ski adventure with your better half
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Sliema – where to stay in Valletta for families
Valletta, in general, isn’t really kid-friendly, as you do most of the sightseeing on foot. Also, there are very few entertainment options for the little ones. That’s why if you’re bringing the whole family over, Sliema is the best choice.
You can get to Sliema from Valletta’s City Centre by taking a bus, taxi, or the most convenient transportation method – a ferry. The ferry ride doesn’t take more than 15 minutes and is pretty picturesque!
Think of Sliema as a tiny resort town on its own boasting beaches, something you can’t find in Valletta, Malta.
This neighborhood has many restaurants, bars, and many adorable sea-view locations. Plus, you can take the family shopping in the numerous shopping malls. Independence Gardens and the Cat Statue (map) are also popular spots for kids.
Steps from the Valletta Ferry is one of the best luxury hotels on the island, where you can enjoy a rooftop spa + infinity pool with panoramic views of the city. Rooms are opulent and spacious, featuring ultra-comfortable beds and balconies with harbor views.
Other accommodation options in Sliema
This 4-star hotel has a rooftop swimming pool, is located on the Valletta waterfront promenade, and features stylish rooms
Compact rooms with a charm and affordable price make this one of the best budget hotels in Sliema (and beyond)
Lovely beach apartment on the 7th floor, Queen size beds, just steps from Sliema’s center
Things to do in Sliema
- Stroll down Sliema’s art-filled streets
- Go on a cruise around Malta’s harbors
- Have the best Lebanese food at BeirutBei
- Visit Malta’s prehistoric monuments
- Take a wine tour around the island
- Shop at The Point Mall, Malta’s top shopping destination
- Explore the Crystal Lagoon and other natural sights on a boat
4. Gzira – best place to stay in Valletta for a local vibe
Gzira is your go-to destination to experience the local island vibe. It’s a residential area that sits between Valletta and Sliema and has traces of commercial districts. If you’re looking for a more secluded stay but wish to remain close to where the action is, look no further than Gzira.
You can walk along the promenade or sip drinks from the numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars located all over the place.
When staying in Gzira, you can easily get to Valletta, Sliema, and any other part of Malta. This is why I highly recommend this tiny town with really original features and sights, like the Manoel Island!
Stay at Grands Suites Hotel Residence for a 4-star-rated comfort with spacious suites, an outdoor pool, free private parking, a restaurant, and a fitness center. The hotel also has a gourmet breakfast (buffet, English, or continental). Book early to get their suites with a sea view and balcony!
Other accommodation options in Gzira
Modern, compact apartments with air conditioning and a tiny terrace overlooking the city; clean rooms and responsive owners
A boutique hotel with compact rooms with free Wi-Fi, large and comfortable beds, and a complimentary breakfast
Cozy apartment ideal for a quiet stay, conveniently located within walking distance of everything; modern furniture, suitable for remote workers
Things to do in Gzira
- Visit the nearby Manoel Island
- Have a quick lunch at Munchy Moose
- Go on a full-day customizable tour around Malta
- Attend a Maltese traditional dinner and folklore show (a must!)
5. The Three Cities – where to stay in Valletta for seclusion
If you climb the Upper Barracca Gardens, you can overlook the Three Cities and their stunning fortresses. Many visitors oversee this place when choosing where to stay in Malta. Luckily, I’m here to tell you that the Three Cities is a great neighborhood to stay in if you value seclusion precisely because it’s less crowded than other places on the island.
The Three Cities include Birgu, Sanglea, and Cospicua. These cities have shaped Malta’s history, and some are even older than Valletta itself!
In Three Cities, you’ll be tucked away in quaint alleys but still remain near the capital and vibrant cafés and restaurants.
This 5-star sanctuary has lavishly decorated spacious suites with a harbor view. You can choose from suites with a terrace, sea view, or a presidential suite. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and a fabulous breakfast.
Other accommodation options in The Three Cities
Rooms with antique furnishings for the perfect historic Valletta experience; there’s an outdoor pool and a sun terrace
Neat studio with tiled floors and a fully-equipped kitchen with family rooms for kids of all ages
Charming suite with warm colors with a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and free parking on the street
Things to do in The Three Cities
- Go on a full-day tour of Malta’s natural + cultural wonders
- Get lost in the Gardjola Gardens in Senglea
- Explore Birgu, offering a blend of tradition and modernity
- Visit the Maritime Museum in Birgu
| 👑 Luxury price: | €350 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | €200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €150 |
| 📍 Best area: | City Center |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | The Phoenicia Malta |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | The Cumberland Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Grand Harbour Hotel |
FAQs about hotels in Valletta
🤨 Which part of Valletta to stay?
The historic city center is the best place to stay for first-time visitors, history buffs, and those with a larger budget. Osborne Hotel is an excellent accommodation I recommend in the historic city center.
❓ Is it better to stay in Valletta or Sliema?
It depends. Valletta is more expensive but closer to the main attractions. Sliema has cheaper accommodation. Valletta also has more luxury hotels and is ideally located for learning about local history.
🚶 Is Valletta a walkable city?
Absolutely! Walking is the only way to visit the city’s historic part, starting from the City Gate. You can enjoy contemporary comfort in a historic setting. I particularly recommend The Saint John Hotel for its excellent location.
📅 How many days are enough in Valletta?
3 days are enough when visiting Valletta to take in all the beauty and sights without flexing yourself too much.
🇲🇹 Where should I stay in Malta for the first time?
Valletta! You get to explore the island’s capital city and its beating heart. Take day trips for a more insightful experience. The Cumberland Hotel is an affordable accommodation I recommend in Valletta.
Conclusion
Dear reader, get ready to embrace the Mediterranean vibe and visit Valletta, the very heart of Malta! My main goal for this article was to share the best areas where to stay in Valletta, whether you’re coming for the history, natural sights, or nightlife.
If you’re still not sure which hotel to book, I’ll share 2 of my favorite Valletta hotels:
- The Phoenicia Malta – exceptional service, cozy rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and charming gardens make this one of the best hotels in Valletta.
- Grand Harbour Hotel – perfect location, free Wi-Fi, and continental-style breakfast, all ideal for a young explorer in town.
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of where to stay in Malta, Valletta. Remember to book your stay in advance, and don’t forget to drop a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions!
Safe travels,
Darija
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