In this blog post, I will give you some great information on Where to stay in Malta first time and without a car, as well as the best areas to stay in Malta for first-timers (with a map and video) and the best hotels in Malta for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed).
Despite its small size, the island nation of Malta has three inhabited islands, each very different from the other:
- Malta itself, is the biggest island that offers spectacular historical sights and beautiful beaches, and the lovely countryside characteristic of the Mediterranean islands.
- Gozo and Comino islands, quieter islands where often the best thing to do is to just chill out in a shady spot and watch the world go by. These are perfect for a low-key restorative holiday.
The island’s best beaches are in the Northern part. The most popular beach resorts are St. Paul’s Bay and nearby Mellieha. While St. Paul’s Bay has a livelier atmosphere, Mellieha has more a quieter and more laid-back setting.
Where to stay in Malta for the first time?
The best areas to stay in Malta for first-timers are Valletta, Sliema and Gzira, St Julians Bay & Paceville, Mellieħa, St Paul‘s Bay, Gozo, and Marsaskala. Each area offers its own unique charm and attractions, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences for a memorable stay in Malta.
Valletta is overall the best area for first-time visitors because it has a central location, with many tourist amenities. Staying here allows you to be located within walking distance to many famous tourist attractions, shops, restaurants, and wine bars.
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Malta without a car, look into Valletta because it is the transport hub of island. With its well-connected public transportation by bus and ferry, you can easy travel to other parts of Malta.
If you travel to Malta as a family, you might choose to stay in one of the areas with a good tourist infrastructure like St. Paul’s Bay. These places have plenty of activities and feature larger hotels and resorts with plenty for the kids to do.
Where did I stay in Malta?
When I first visited Malta, I had a pleasant stay for 5 nights at the Embassy Valletta Hotel. It had a great location right in the heart of Valletta, convenient for visiting all the areas of interest including Upper Barrakka Gardens and Valletta Waterfront. It also offers clean, spacious rooms and an amazing rooftop.
| 💖 Best Area for first-timers: | Valletta |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Grand Hotel Excelsior |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | The Embassy Valletta Hotel |
| 💰 Best budget hotel: | Osborne Hotel |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Malta:
How to get around Malta without a car as a tourist?
It is possible to get around in Malta without a car. Malta is a small island nation with a well-developed public transportation system, making it relatively easy to travel without a car.
Here are some options for getting around Malta without a car:
Public Buses:
Malta has an extensive public bus network that covers most of the island. The buses are a cost-effective way to travel between towns and villages.
The main bus terminal is in Valletta, and you can plan your routes and check schedules online.
Ferries:
Malta has a few ferry services that connect the main island of Malta to some of the smaller islands, such as Gozo and Comino. These ferries are a scenic and efficient way to explore the archipelago.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
Taxis are readily available in Malta, and you can also use ride-sharing services like Bolt and eCabs. While taxis can be more expensive than public transportation, they offer the convenience of door-to-door service.
Bicycles:
Malta has been making efforts to become more bike-friendly, and you can rent bicycles to explore certain areas of the island. Be aware that some roads may be challenging for cyclists due to hilly terrain and traffic.
Walking:
In many towns and cities, especially in the historical areas, walking is a great way to explore. Malta has a rich history and many narrow, charming streets to discover on foot.
Water Taxis:
In some coastal areas, you can use water taxis to reach nearby destinations. For example, you can take a water taxi to visit the Three Cities from Valletta.
Hop-On Hop-Off Buses:
Tourist-friendly hop-on-hop-off buses operate in Malta, offering guided tours with stops at major attractions. While these are primarily designed for tourists, they can be a convenient way to explore the island.
It’s important to note that Malta’s road infrastructure can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons, so using public transportation or alternative modes of transportation can be a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to get around.
Additionally, parking can be challenging in some areas, so not having a car can save you the hassle of finding parking spaces.
Best areas to stay in Malta for first-time tourists are:
1. Valletta
Valletta is the best overal area to stay in Malta for first-time travelers due to its prime location and its excellent connection to public transportation. If you stay here, you will be located within easy access to tourist attractions, with a vibrant nightlife, many shops, restaurants, and wine bars.
Valletta is Malta’s capital city and is located on the central east coast of the island. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural attractions with many dating back the 16th century.
The town lies in a stunning setting, occupying a long peninsula of land surrounded on three sides by the clear waters in the Mediterranean. It’s built on peninsula between two deep harbours, Marsamxett Harbor and Grand Harbor. Valletta is named after its founder, Jean Parisot de la Valette, and was built by the Knights of the Order of St. John.
The number of historical sites to see in Valletta is truly impressive. The relatively ordinary exterior of St John’s Co-Cathedral belies the delights of the Baroque interior. This ancient church features fabulously ornate ceiling frescoes, marbled floors, and ancient tombs. The nearby Cathedral Museum contains works by Caravaggio.
Other notable buildings include the National Library, Fort St. Elmo, Grand Master’s Palace, which was once the home of the Knights of Malta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which is a great park with fabulous waterfront views across the Grand Harbour over to the Three Cities.
Valletta also has several museums, including The National Museum of Archaeology, The National War Museum, The Malta Experience, and the traditional art museum MUŻA. Spazju Kreattiv (the Centre for Creativity) in St James Cavalier is a cool place for art lovers.
The National Museum of Archaeology provides a wide range of artifacts that date back to the Neolithic period and Phoenician periods including Venus of Malta from Hagar Qim Temples, Bronze Age daggers from Tarxien Temples, Sleeping Lady from Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, as well as Horus and Anubis pendan.
In addition to historical attractions, Valletta is filled with restaurants, cafes, wine bars, and traditional Maltese food establishments offering a wide range of cuisines and the local nightlife, including live music and performances.
Valletta’s waterfront area provides a picturesque setting for leisurely walks. The promenade offers stunning views of the harbor, and you can take a relaxing stroll along the water’s edge, or visit the beautiful Siege Bell Memorial.
Valletta serves as a transportation hub for the rest of Malta, making it an ideal base for those traveling without a car. You can easily access buses and ferries to explore other parts of the island. The main bus terminal is located just outside the city gate, providing convenient access to various destinations across Malta.
Valletta is a departure point for ferries to Sicily, Sliema, and The Three Cities. From here, you can take a ferry to Marsaxlokk, Blue Grotto, fortified Mdina, Dingli Cliffs, and Haġar Qim Temples.
To reach the capital city from its international aiport, you can take a private taxi or shared shuttle bus. The area is compact, you can easily explore by foot. If you travel with a car, it’s a bit hard to find a parking!
The most popular accommodations in Valletta are boutique hotels, luxury 4-star to 5-star resorts, and rental apartments. There are not many accommodations for backpackers and budget travelers. Valletta can get crowded during summer (June–August), be sure to book well in advance in the high season!
Stay in Valletta if this is your first visit; you want lots of sightseeing; you travel without a car; you want great restaurants and wine bars; you love shopping; you want easy access to public transport.
Best places to stay in Malta in Valletta for first-timers:
- luxury ($$$): Grand Hotel Excelsior
- mid-range ($$): The Embassy Valletta Hotel
- budget ($): Osborne Hotel
See more:
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- How Much Does a Trip to Europe Cost?
- How to Spend 10 Days in Europe
2. Sliema
Located to the north of Valletta, Sliema is a modern town and popular tourist resort. It is more as a residential suburb of the main city than an independent town. It is Malta’s commercial capital, and perhaps the most developed part of Malta.
Sliema along with Valletta are both best places to stay in Malta. Sliema is less touristy and quieter than Valletta. Sliema is closer to the nightlife hub of Malta in Paceville and St Julian’s. So, if you are couples, or those are looking for a quieter, closer to nightlife hub, and a large selection of shops selling international goods, Sliema is your kind of place to stay.
Sliema area is located right beside the Mediterranean and has a lovely seaside promenade walkway full of little restaurants, bars, and cafes with fantastic sea views. It’s is really a great place for a couple’s getaway to Malta. There are small rocky beaches and Roman Baths here that are excellent for swimming.
Some of the interesting sights to see in Sliema are:
- the Independence Garden,
- the Saint Julian’s Tower, asmall watchtower
- the Fort Tigné, the former British military barracks.
- The Point complex and The Plaza Shopping Centre, good spots for shopping.
While Sliema has a scattering of budget accommodation, B&Bs, and apartments more exclusive and expensive, the majority of the hotels and resorts here cater to a mid-range higher-end budget. This is quite an affluent residential area, so you will also find some high-class restaurants and bars in this classy and sophisticated part of Malta.
Sliema has a ferry terminal that provides a convenient service across the harbor to Valletta, running every half hour during the daytime. You will reach the capital Valletta within 10 minutes by ferry.
You can also easily visit attractions like Gozo island, Comino island, Mdina, Riviera Beach, Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples archeological sites by public transport.
Stay in Sliema if you want to stay close to the central shopping area of the island; you travel as a couple; you want a good range of tourist-friendly with fine and casual dining restaurants, bars, and facilities; you want to stay in a wealthy, largely residential area.
Best Places to stay in Malta in Sliema for first-time visitors:
- luxury ($$$): AX The Palace
- mid-range ($$): 1926 Hotel & SPA
- budget ($): Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
3. St Julian’s Bay
St. Julian’s or San Giljan is another suburb of Malta’s central urban area surrounding the capital of Valletta. St Julians is slight to the north of Valletta, a former small fishing village, and it is a very tourist-oriented town.
Popular points of interest in the area of St. Julian’s are:
- Paceville, the center of nightlife and clubbing in Malta with lots of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.
- the Portomaso Tower, the tallest building in Malta, at 98 meters.
- the Love Monument
- the 17th century Spinola Palace, venue of the traditional summer Festa in August.
- The Lapsi Church, originally built by the Knights of St John in circa 1560,
- the St Julian’s Parish Church, modern church that has the views of Balluta bay, built in neo-gothic style, and is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
St Julians is also an excellent place to arrange trips, tours, and activities all over the island since there are plenty of travel agencies here. If you are looking for a place to stay with excellent tourist facilities, with lots of good dining, drinking, and entertainment, St. Julian’s is a perfect choice.
St. Julian’s is also the nightlife center of Malta and its night scene is popular with visitors and locals alike. Don’t miss out on some of the best clubs, bars in the area such as Saddles, The Thirsty Barber, Native Bar, Havana 808, and Sky Club.
St Julian’s lies on the coast just north of Valletta, and even though it doesn’t boast the wealth of historical buildings of its larger neighbor, there are some beautiful views to be had along the waterfront promenade.
St. Julian’s is one of Malta’s best destinations in Malta for young adults. This east coast town always has lots going on because it is very well developed for tourism. It is a great place to book active and adventure activities, and St. Julien’s is also an excellent jumping-off point to explore the rest of the island.
Here you will find many luxurious hotels, predominantly in the mid-range category, although there is a good choice at all price ranges. If you have a car, make sure the hotel offers private parking as public parking is limited here.
Stay in St Julian’s Bay if you’re looking for malta’s best nightlife, you want plenty of tourist facilities, you want accommodation for all budgets, you are traveling as a group.
Best places to stay in Malta in St Julian’s:
- luxury ($$$): Hilton Malta
- mid-range ($$): be.HOTEL
- budget ($): Holiday Inn Express – Malta, an IHG Hotel
4. St. Paul’s Bay, Qawra, Bugibba
St. Paul’s Bay a popular tourists destination on the Northern shore of Malta. It consists of several smaller towns, including Bugibba, Qawra, and Xemxija, and is known for its beautiful beaches.
St. Paul’s Bay is a larger and more tranquil area compared to Sliema. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is popular among families and those looking for a quieter stay.
St. Paul’s Bay is well-connected to other parts of Malta, making it convenient for exploring the island. You can easily access nearby towns and attractions, such as Mdina, the old capital city, and the vibrant nightlife hub of St. Julian’s.
The area is very well prepared for international tourists with a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets travelers, mostly budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels, and no luxury resorts.
There are some excellent sandy and rocky beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. The bay itself offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.
Ghadira Bay is one of Malta’s most popular beaches, can easily be reached from St Paul’s Bay. You can try a variety of watersports here as well as just soaking up the rays on the sands.
There are also Qawra Point Beach (Ta Fra Ben Beach), an artificial sandy, rocky and pebbly beach at Buġibba Perched Beach, Bajja tax-Xama, Bajja ta’ l-Għażżenin, and Fekruna Beach.
This Northern part of the island has fewer historical sites, and the activities here are more beach holiday-oriented. One notable place of interest to visitors is Malta’s National Aquarium, a diverting place to check out some aquatic life.
If you are fortunate enough to stay in St. Paul’s Bay around the end of July, you may be able to experience the fun of a traditional Maltese village feast or festa. This annual event features parades, fireworks, and the whole area come alive at this time.
This area has a stunning promenade, and some of the attractions are Malta Classic Car Museum, the parish church- dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, the 16th-century fort Wignacourt Tower, the Salina Nature Reserve, Għadira Nature Reserve, Għajn Tuffieħa, and Ras il-Qammieħ viewpoint.
It’s worth mentioning that St. Paul’s Bay can become quite busy during the peak tourist season, especially in July and August. If you prefer a more relaxed and quieter atmosphere, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as spring or autumn.
Stay in St. Paul’s Bay if you’re traveling with family; good mid-range hotels accommodation, you want a beach resort close to some pretty beaches, you want good restaurants and bars.
Best places to stay in St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra:
- mid-range ($$): Dolmen Hotel Malta
- mid-range ($$): Seaview Hotel – Adults Only 16 Plus
- budget ($): Mayflower Hotel Malta
5. Mellieha
Mellieha along with St. Paul’s Bay are some of the best bases in Northern Malta for stunning beaches. While Mellieha is a better base if you prefer a quieter atmosphere with a historical touch, St. Paul’s Bay is a better base if you enjoy a livelier vibe and don’t mind a rocky shoreline.
It is a small town, located on the top of the hill overlooking Malta’s biggest sandy beach. It’s just a 5-10 minutes drive to Ċirkewwa where you can catch ferries to Comino and Gozo island.
Mellieha Bay (also known as Ghadira Bay) features an attractive sandy beach and is the location of many mainly mid-range beachfront hotels and resorts, holiday complexes, and self-catering apartments. The Blue Flag beach is a great place for swimming for families with young children and plenty water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, water-skiing.
So many beaches are nearby and easy to reach like Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa, Paradise Bay, Slugs Bay, Imġiebaħ Bay, Anchor Bay Dive Site, White Tower Bay, and Armier and Little Armier Bay.
Other than the beaches, there is little in the way of local sights here, but one point of interest is Popeye Village, which is located nearby. This place was the setting of the 1980 movie of the same name and is a great place to bring children.
Mellieha is home to the 19th-century Baroque building with traditional Maltese stone the Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory (Parish Square), In September you can take part in a lively festival the Mellieħa Feast (Il-Viorja) which features marching bands and fireworks honoring Our Lady of Victories.
Nearby, you can check out the five paintings by Giuseppe Calì, the famous Maltese artist; visit The War Shelter and the Tunnara Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
The Red Tower (St. Agatha’s Tower) is a watchtower along the coastline, was built in 1649. The small watchtower overlooking Armier Bay, White Tower was built in 1658; The Għajn Tuffieħa Tower was built in 1637, to protect Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa (Riviera bay).
The Ghadira Natural Reserve and Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park are natural reserves in the area. For an interesting day trip, you can visit the Foresta 2000 Riserva & Koperattiva Rurali Manikata.
The town is relatively remote from Valletta and the rest of the island, although Malta has a good local bus service. If you plan to travel by bus, it is worth investigating this special 7-Day pass that allows unlimited travel on Maltese public transport.
Stay in Mellieha if you want to be close to Malta’s best beaches: Golden Bay Beach, you want self-catering or apartment accommodation., you are traveling with family or as a group.
Best places to stay in Malta in Mellieha for first-time tourists:
- luxury ($$$): Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands
- mid-range ($$): Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa
- budget ($): Shamrock Flats
6. Rabat and Mdina
Rabat and Mdina are neighboring areas of central-western Malta with an outstanding collection of historical sites of interest.
Mdina, known as The Silent City, was the capital of Malta from prehistory until medieval times. This splendid walled city is a fabulous place to visit and wander around, exploring all of the ancient palazzos or small palaces.
This part of Malta has been inhabited since the 8th century BC, and Mdina was a significant Roman settlement. It was only in more recent times that the focus of Maltese power and administration moved eastwards to Valletta.
In Mdina, you also have the Natural History Museum, the Magisterial Palace, the Carmelite Church and Priory, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum on Villegaignon Street.
Rabat (Victoria) is a nearby town just to the west of Medina. This town is also rich in history, and beautiful ancient buildings are to be found all over. In particular, for such a small town, there are a huge number of old churches, including the Church of The Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the Church of St. Catherine, The Church of The Blessed Virgin, and The Augustinian Priory.
Don’t forget to check out the Citadel, The Grand Basilica, 18th century -Independence Square, Villa Rundle, Casa Bernard, The Folklore Museum, the Old Prison, the Wignacourt Museum, Saint Dominic’s Convent, and Gozo Cathedral.
As long as you don’t have claustrophobia, then you really should check out St. Paul’s Catacombs. These are a labyrinth of underground corridors and rooms that were constructed as an ancient Roman underground cemetery complex.
And if you fancy a change from all of the historical sites, then you can visit Wildlife Park Malta, the island’s only zoo.
The majority of the accommodation in this area is in small boutique guest houses and apartments, especially if you want to stay close to the historical center.
Stay in Rabat and Mdina if you want to explore ancient Maltese historical sites, you don’t need to stay beside the sea, you like boutique-style hotels in ancient buildings, you want to sample the local way of life.
Best Places To Stay In Malta in Mdina And Rabat:
- Luxury ($$$): The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux
- Mid-range ($$): Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse
- Budget ($): Point de vue
7. Three Cities: Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea
Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua are known as The Three Cities. Birgu also has the name Vittoriosa, but since the Maltese still call it Birgu, you probably should as well. Senglea is also known as L’Isla, Cospicua is also known as Bormla.
Birgu has a lovely waterfront location that lies just a few hundred meters across the water across the Grand harbor from Valletta. This is a central and convenient place to stay, and Birgu is an excellent choice for people who want to explore all of the ancient sites of Valletta but stay a little bit outside the busy center.
Since Malta is so extraordinarily well endowed with historical buildings, you will find plenty of history to explore in Birgu. The most striking place to visit is Fort San Angelo, a grand white-walled fortification located right at the tip of a peninsula jutting into the Grand Harbor.
You also have the love Couvre Porte, The Parish Church, Notre Dame Gate, the Malta Maritime Museum, and the Inquisitor’s Palace which is a museum now.
If you like boutique-style accommodation, you will be delighted with some of the places to stay in Birgu. There are a number of small apartment and guest house rentals scattered around the maze of central streets. Most of the accommodation here is in the mid-range category.
Stay in Three Cities: Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea if you want to be a little way away from the busy center of Valletta, you like unique boutique-style accommodation in old buildings, you want a good selection of mid-range accommodation, you want to explore the cafes and eateries of the ancient city.
Best Places To Stay In Malta In The Three Cities:
- luxury ($$$): Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour
- mid-range ($$): BOCO Boutique Hotel
- budget ($): Nelli’s B&B
8. Birżebbuġa
Birzebbuga is a seaside town at the southern tip of Malta. This place is popular with Maltese domestic tourists and is an interesting place to visit if you want to stay away from the more conventional international tourist spots.
There are fewer historic sites here than elsewhere on the island, although an exception is Ghar Dalam(Dark Cave), a local cave that was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period. There are also the remains of a bronze-age settlement at nearby Borg in-Nadur. Ghar Hasan is also an interesting cave to visit.
Birzebugga has some nice guesthouses and smaller hotels. The nearest beach is the attractive but difficult to pronounce Wied Ix-Xaqqa, and then there is another good beach at the aptly named Pretty Bay. The area of coast that surrounds Birzebbuga is a quieter part of the island-dotted with a fishing village.
Stay in South-East Coast and Birżebbuġa if you want a holiday where the locals do, you want apartment-style accommodation, you want to avoid the tourist crowds, you want to explore the South Coast of Malta.
Best places to stay in Malta in Birżebbuġa:
FIND BEST HOTELS IN BIRZEBBUGA9. Gozo Island
Gozo is the northernmost of the three inhabited Islands that comprise Malta. It’s is a short ferry ride from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta. If you want to sample a traditional laid-back Mediterranean island atmosphere, this island is a great choice.
You won’t find as many historical destinations on Gozo as you do in Malta, but the Ggantija Temples are an intriguing exception. These large limestone structures date back to around 3,000 bc.
You also have plenty of cultural attractions such as Victoria – a fortified medieval city, the most important archaeological site of the Maltese Islands – Marsalforn, Grandiose Baroque churches, Inland Sea, The Citadel, and the Azure Window.
Gozo is very popular with backpackers, and the island’s accommodation offers a good selection of budget guesthouses and hostels. Gozo is also popular with older travelers who appreciate its slow-paced and relaxed atmosphere.
The majority of Gozo’s accommodation, restaurants, bars, and tourist facilities are located in Gozo Town in the island’s center. But the island features many smaller villages and little beachside destinations such as Ramla Beach, Xlendi, and Mgarr.
Since Gozo is mostly a farming Island, you will find some excellent local produce on offer in the local shops and restaurants. Local delicacies include sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and of course the local wines. You can tour a local vineyard and sample their produce too, which is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Stay in Gozo Island if you want a quieter destination than Malta; you want cheaper than in Malta; you are a couple seeking romantic tranquility; you’re looking for the pretty countryside and lovely beaches; you plan to take boat tours.
Best places to stay in Malta in Gozo Island:
- Luxury ($$$): Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
- Mid-range ($$): DGolden Valley Boutique
- Budget ($): Quaint Hotel Xewkija
10. Il-Gżira and Msida
Some tourists prefer to make their base away from the main tourist areas to get a better flavor of the life of locals. If that is you, then Il-Griza and Msida, which are primarily residential districts, maybe just be what you are looking for?
They are working towns, middle-class overall, next to Sliema. If you want budget accommodation, this is a place to investigate in Malta. As a result, backpackers head here first with hostels readily available. The bus service links these towns to both Sliema/St. Julian’s and the capital, Valletta.
Msida is a harbor town, the former old fishing village in East Malta. Today it’s a lively student town with an increasing student population of the University of Malta and the Junior College.
Gzira is a modern town neighboring Msida, with things to do like Manuel Island, Gzira Harbour, Duck Village, Fort Manuel (was featured in Game of Thrones Tour), and take a ride at Luna Park if you visit the island between May and July.
There is a medieval fortress here while the marina is regularly filled with sailing boats cruising the immediate area and the Mediterranean as a whole. The church overlooking the harbor makes a beautiful photograph.
Stay in Il-Gzira and Msida if You are looking for budget accommodation, Observing the lives of locals is important to you, You want to be close to a marina.
Best places to stay in Malta in Msida:
- budget ($): Corner Townhouse 1Km from University
- budget ($): Black Gold Private Room
11. Marsaskala
While Marsaskala still has a working fishing fleet, tourism has changed it from just a small fishing village. The boats head out from the harbor early in the morning and their catch is sold from the quayside on their return. Fish is recommended when it comes to dinnertime.
Its location on two bays, Marsaskala and St. Thomas result in two promenades to enjoy. Accommodation is simple and clean, more rooms to let and guest houses than hotels. The result is that it is popular with backpackers and those looking for budget accommodation in general.
There are three nightclubs as well as popular bars and restaurants so visitors and the local population of around 15,000 are not short of night-time options. By day, there is the fortress of the Knights of St. John to admire as the main landmark.
Marsaskala is also home to some towers. The eighteen-meter high St Thomas Tower was built by Grand Master Wignacourt for guarding the bay and storing weapons. Mamo Tower was privately built in 1657 by the Mamo family. Tal-Buttar Tower is also privately owned, a national monument contains a watermill and the well-known De Redin Tower at Zonqor point.
Zonqor Battery is set on the southern end of St Thomas Bay while Briconet Redoubt, marvelously preserved near Marsaskala’s parish church and used as a police station.
Other attractions are San Gaetan Chapel, St Anthony Chapel, and The Three Crosses monument, which was built in 1615 to indicate the confines between Żabbar and Żejtun.
Marsaskala is very well-connect with the capital Valletta with daily buses and direct buses to Malta International Airport within 30 minutes.
Stay in Marsaskala if you want a quiet seaside holiday on the east coast of Malta; Simple accommodation is all you need, you are a budget travelers; You want to enjoy fresh fish from the Mediterranean.
Best places to stay in Malta in Marsaskala:
- budget ($): TJ Boutique
- budget ($): Sunrise Creek
- budget ($): Cerviola Hotel
12. Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk on the south coast of Malta still retains the charm of a traditional Maltese fishing village. This is very much authentic Malta even today although it does attract tourists. Fishing remains more important to the local economy although tourists do add to the demand for the catch.
There are two markets each week while the seafood restaurants attract day-trippers as well as those living or staying in Marsaxlokk. Walk along the seafront and enjoy the colours, some provided by the fishing fleet.
You will not find quality hotels in Marsaxlokk but there are rooms and guest houses for accommodation so budget travellers are attracted. They find a natural environment worth exploring with St. Peter’s Pool and the Blue Lagoon in Curries both worth visiting.
Marsaxlokk is the perfect place to visit for quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of busy towns. You have attractions like the 1897 Marsaxlokk church is dedicated to the Madonna of Pompeii. If you visit the village in May, August, and October, you will take part in the annual religious celebration of the village.
Fort St Lucian was built in 1610, to protect Marsaxlokk Bay against Turkish attacks in order of the Order of Saint John. Other attractions are Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park, Marsaxlokk markets, Fort Tas-Silġ, and Marsaxlokk Harbour.
Stay in Marsaxlokk if You are a budget traveler; you want to stay in a traditional fishing village; You enjoy good seafood.
Best places to stay in Malta in Marsaxlokk:
- mid-range ($$): South Wind Guesthouse
- budget ($): Fisherman’s Cove Guesthouse
- budget ($): Dun Gorg Guest House
13. Comino Island
If even Gozo is too busy for you, then you may find what you’re looking for on a tiny, almost uninhabited, Comino island. It is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
The island only has one place to stay, the appropriately named Camino Hotel, which is a decent mid-range establishment. Outside of the tourist season, the island has a permanent population in the single figures.
Most tourists visit the island on day trips, and a large area of Comino is a designated nature reserve. Perhaps the most visited tourist spot on the island is a beautiful lagoon on the island’s northwest coast, almost entirely encircled by rocky cliffs. This natural swimming pool is known as Blue Lagoon; it is a stunning sight and a lovely place to spend some time.
To get to Blue Lagoon, there is a 15-minute ferry ride from Mgarr on the island of Gozo, and a 30-minute ferry ride from the port of Marfa or Cirkewwa on Malta island.
Camino Island has one Dive center at the hotel. There are several excellent diving and snorkeling spots not far offshore. The waters off Comino are especially clear, and there are several beaches, including Blue Lagoon Beach, Santa Maria Bay, and Crystal Lagoon.
And tiny Comino has an even smaller uninhabited neighbor called Cominotto. This attractive island lies off the West Coast of Comino and has an attractive sandy beach.
Where should I stay in Malta for the first time?
Valletta is the best overall area for first-timers due its proximity to popular attractions and its excellent connection to public transportation. Staying here allows you to be located within easy access to top sights, shops, restaurants, and wine bars.
What are the best areas to stay in Malta?
Valletta, Sliema, St Julians Bay, Mellieħa, St Paul‘s Bay, Gozo, and Marsaskala are some of the best areas to stay in Malta for tourists because they are the most popular and safe neighborhoods that offer a variety of experiences and amenities.
Where to stay in Malta without a car?
Valletta is the best overall area without a car because it’s the transport hub of the island, making it an ideal base to explore the rest of Malta by public transportation. It’s also a compact and walkable area, you can easily explore on foot.
Where to stay in Malta for families with kids?
Saint Paul’s Bay, Mellieha, St. Julian’s, Sliema, Marsascala, and Valletta are some of the best areas to stay in Malta for families. Each with its own unique features and attractions, so consider your specific preferences and interests to choose the right location.
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In conclusion, Valletta, Sliema and Gzira, St Julians Bay/ Paceville, Mellieħa, St Paul‘s Bay, Gozo, and Marsaskala are the best places to stay in Malta for tourists and first-time travelers. They are the most popular tourist destinations in Malta with plenty of things to and see for all visitors.
This guide should have given you all of the information you need to plan where to stay in Malta and find the best areas to stay in this lovely island. All you need to do now is pick a time and destination that best suits your requirements and start planning your trip. Have a great stay!