Going on holiday to Malta? See which locations and cities are the best, cheapest and most practical for accommodation in Malta.
Where to stay in Malta
The entire country of Malta is smaller in size than the usual European cities. From data and statistics, it may seem that finding a suitable location and resort in Malta may not be such a problem, but unless you want to rent a car, Malta is already big enough that it's definitely worth taking a few moments before your trip to plan where to stay.
Mellieha (beaches)
The resort of Mellieha in the north of Malta is probably the most typical beach resort on the whole island. Lined with Malta's longest and widest beaches, it has a wealth of activities and a very wide range of accommodation from the more luxurious all-inclusive resorts to smaller family-run apartments and guesthouses.
Mellieha is a typical holiday resort ideal for a beach holiday in one place. However, accommodation prices here are relatively high and rank among the above average in Malta. From Mellieha it is also the closest to the famous film village of Popeye the Sailor.
The Mellieha area also includes the Marfa Peninsula, where you will find Malta's famous Ramla Bay and Paradise Bay beaches.
St. Paul's Bay, Bugibba (beaches and resorts)
A trio of towns forming one large resort with probably the largest number of hotels, Mellieha is an ideal choice for the less discerning beach traveller.
Prices here are lower than in the more northerly resort of Mellieha, but this goes hand in hand with smaller not-so-pretty beaches and a very busy promenade full of bars and discos that may not suit everyone. On the other hand, the resorts have good bus connections to Mellieha beach in particular, as well as to Valletta and the surrounding towns.
Within St. Paul's Bay there are also the popular west coast beaches of Golden Beach
San Giljan, Sliema (nightlife)
The most famous resorts and nightlife centres of San Giljan and Sliema, which also includes the entertainment centre of Paceville, logically offer the highest density of accommodation of all kinds.
The centre of Sliema is known for the availability of relatively cheap private apartments, and even the prices of larger hotels here are lower than in quieter beach resorts elsewhere on the island.
Accommodation in Sliema or San Giljan (Saint Julians) is ideal for those who won't be hiring a car, it's here that the largest number of bus routes criss-cross the island to take you everywhere.
Valletta (sights and starting point for exploring)
Malta's capital city, Valletta, has the largest concentration of budget apartments and private accommodation, as well as expensive boutique hotels. Accommodation in Valletta is ideal for those wishing to explore the island, as it is from here that the largest number of bus routes to all corners of Malta depart.
Marsaxlokk (local town)
The popular quaint fishing town of Marsaxlokk in the south of Malta attracts visitors with its colourful houses and relaxed atmosphere of a small seaside town. Here you'll find mainly better quality smaller guesthouses, guesthouses and boutique hotels. Marsaxlokk is an ideal destination for a quiet, worry-free holiday, but accommodation prices are among the highest in Malta.
Gozo (beaches, nature and sights)
The neighbouring island of Gozo is an ideal place to spend a holiday in beautiful nature and with noticeably fewer tourists. See a detailed guide to Gozo and information about accommodation in Gozo.
Accommodation prices in Malta
Malta boasts all types of accommodation from cheap multi-bed hostels to luxury beachfront all-inclusive resorts. Prices for all types of accommodation vary considerably according to the time of year and season. While the low season (October to May) is one of the cheapest seaside destinations in Malta.
- Classic 3* hotels with good ratings - 60 eur to 80 eur
- Cheaper guesthouses - 35 eur to 50 eur
View accommodation prices in Malta
By contrast, in the main summer season (July and August, partly June and September) prices rise several times. Moreover, due to Malta's smaller size, hotels often sell out months in advance for the summer. If you want to find cheaper accommodation in the summer, don't hesitate to do so six months in advance, ideally booking with a free cancellation policy and check booking portals over time to see if a cheaper or better hotel becomes available.
- Classic 3-star hotels with good ratings - 70 eur to 130 eur
- Cheaper guesthouses and guesthouses - 50 eur to 100 eur
- All-inclusive resorts right by the beach - 120 eur to 250 eur