If you want to experience pristine nature in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta will be the best destination you’ll ever dream of. Although considered by many as Europe’s smallest country, this 300 sq km archipelago is home to many hidden gems, exciting activities, and fascinating attractions. Enjoy it all in the best of weather, since this country with three UNESCO world cultural heritage sites is always sunny, even in winter! So stick with us, discover the most beautiful of Mediterranean paradise, as we unveil some of the best hotels in Malta.
Where to Stay in Malta
With a territory of only 125 sq miles, Malta is often named on the list of the top 10 smallest countries on earth. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth visiting. This sunny Mediterranean paradise is packed with dramatic cliffs, pristine seas, and a number of enchanting castles. Make sure you experience it all to the fullest, by choosing among the best hotels in Malta.
There are three main areas for tourists to stay in Malta. First, we have Sliema, the commercial capital of the country. This neighborhood offers plenty of options for dining, shopping, as well as some of the top 10 things to do in Malta. You should be able to easily find some mid to high-end hotels here.
For those looking for sandy beaches and irresistible coastlines, choose among the best hotels in Malta St Julians. Once a fishing village, this area is now transforming into a high-end tourist center. Discover the beauty of Balluta and Spinola, two scenic bays that make up this city. Any Malta travel guide would suggest putting this place on their to-do list.
Another alternative you can consider is the best hotels in Valletta Malta. The fortress capital of Malta is packed with dozens of historic churches, national museums, and ancient ruins. The Superbissima, Latin word for ‘proudest’, also has many graceful spots that are frequently included in the list of ‘20 Photos That will Make You Want to visit Malta ‘. While there aren’t many accommodation options in the area, you’ll find some a little outside the city limits.
be.HOTEL
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Looking for something modern to soak up all of Malta’s urban atmosphere? be.HOTEL will be among your best hotels in Malta St Julians. In the heart of the country’s entertainment district, this four-star accommodation offers easy access to some of the hottest spots around. Within a few meters, you’ll find St George’s Bay, one of the favorite sandy beaches of tourists in a Mediterranean paradise. For nightlife enthusiasts, vibrant corners with lively bars, charming eateries, and quirky shops are just a few steps away.
Design-wise, be.HOTEL tries to accentuate a modern aura with a thick urban style. It gives off a unique feeling that’s clearly something to be welcomed. This property consists of two main wing buildings which are around the dining establishment and shopping center. Whether you’re a business or leisure traveler, this property has something for everyone.
As for the rooms, be.HOTEL is among the best hotels in Malta which tend to focus on modern design. All are packed with tasteful amenities, carefully selected to cater to all guest’s needs, including free WiFi, plush bedding, a private bathroom, and a seating area. In total there are nearly 300 guest rooms for you to choose from, some of which are well-appointed suites. If you need a kitchenette and a wider living room, booking this type of room is highly recommended.
Apart from St George’s Bay which we mentioned earlier, the hotel is also within easy reach of some of the must-see St Julian’s sights, including Portomaso Marina, Love Monument, and Spinola Bay. All can be reached in less than a mile. Fancy shopping? Don’t miss a visit to Manwel Dimech Street, an area full of fashion boutiques that have been a mecca for hip travelers for decades.
1926 Hotel & Spa
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If you want to experience a beautiful seafront city with a natural Mediterranean charm, don’t hesitate to stay at Sliema. One of Malta’s busiest areas stretches for 10 km along the northeast coastline and is home to fascinating palaces, enchanting restaurants, and well-appointed accommodations, such as the 1926 Hotel & Spa – a four-star property that doubles as a lovely beach club.
Exuding a calm and intimate atmosphere, 1926 Hotel & Spa seems to be trying to capture the essence of Sliema, which means ‘peace’ in the local language. The property features hints of a theater, giving a grand impression that automatically lets you know that something special awaits. Only five minutes from the ferry terminal to Valletta, this excellent accommodation is the perfect gateway to your dream Mediterranean vacation. It’s also only a few hundred meters from Point Shopping Mall, the country’s largest retail center with hundreds of brand shops.
But if you’re not in the mood to go out, indulge in this aesthetic hotel won’t’ be a bad idea since 1926 Hotel & Spa itself can be considered a great destination! They have Sunny’s Lounge, a spacious area that perfect for enjoying a lovely Mediterranean summer, accompanied by a glass of wine, beer, or a classic cocktail. If you’re looking for something more filling, head to Margaux, an on-site restaurant serving menus inspired by extraordinary southern French cuisine. Oh, and don’t forget to try some of their wide selection of incredible wines. It’s absolutely fantastic and deserves two thumbs up! Overall, this property is among the best hotels in Malta that are worth considering.
Waterfront
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While Waterfront isn’t the most exciting name for a hotel, this four-star property actually offers one of the greatest stay experiences in all of Malta. It is one of the best hotels in Valletta Malta worth considering, showing off the beautiful silhouette of the picturesque capital. From its balconies and terraces, you can admire the surprising views of Sliema Creek and Manoel Island. If you’re a traveler craving a temporary home with spectacular surroundings while on a Mediterranean archipelago, this will be one of your prime choices.
Offering a bright year-round setting, the Waterfront Hotel comes with enchanting guest rooms. All are packed with thoughtful amenities, such as air conditioning and an en suite bathroom. Have a perfect stay in Malta, as you admire the scenic landscape of the ocean while enjoying some light refreshment from the provided minibar. Enjoy hours of quality entertainment through the flat-screen TV, placed right in front of the snug bed for the best viewing angle. Leave without worrying about valuables, since the hotel also features in-room safes. And just like other best hotels in Malta, high-speed wireless internet access is also available throughout the property.
A hearty breakfast with continental or full English / Irish menus in the lobby area will be a great way to start your day. You can also order vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes if you wish. Meanwhile, snacks are available at the bar and dinner can be enjoyed at Regatta Restaurant, an on-site dining venue that serves several Mediterranean specialties to indulge your palate.
AX Seashells Resort
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Lying on a comfortable bed while enjoying the beautiful view of the sunrise. Soak up the charm of a Mediterranean paradise accompanied by a warm cup of coffee. These are just pieces of the many memorable experiences you’ll get when staying at the AX Seashell Resort. This four-star property offers unobstructed views of Qawra, a popular swimming zone in northern Malta. It’s also close to Cafe del Mar, one of the country’s best party epicenter. For those traveling with family, a few minutes from here is the Malta National Aquarium, a top destination that has something for everyone.
Rejuvenate yourself in the stylish AX Seashell Resort guest rooms, as all are packed with thoughtful essentials. You’ll get air conditioning, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. In case you need anything, room service is only a call away, just like most of the best hotels in Malta. As morning approaches, start your day with a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant Coral Cove. For something lighter, head over to the lounge bar and enjoy some of the best local cocktails in all of Qawra.
If you’re not sure where to go, the resort staff will be ready to help with some great recommendations on what to see and eat around here. We highly recommend dropping by Mdina, the former capital of Malta which is only 15 minutes’ drive away. Amaze yourself with dozens of baroque and medieval architecture in this ancient walled city. For those with a great interest in cultural and historical heritage, this place should be featured on the to-do list.
Azur Hotel by ST Hotels
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Being in the center of all the action in the capital is great, especially if you’re a first-time visitor to Malta. However, not everyone is comfortable with the hustle and bustle of Sliema. If that’s your main concern, consider staying at Azur Hotel by ST Hotels. This three-star property sits in Il Gzira, a centrally located town just slightly outside the capital, but only a few minutes’ drive to a number of nightclubs, great swimming spots, and quirky restaurants.
This three-star property also knows how to serve its guests. Once you step into the lobby, you’ll be greeted by honest and warm smiles from the local staff. They’ll quickly help you with luggage storage. After a relatively quick check-in process, you’ll be escorted to one of the comfortable guest rooms at the Azur Hotel. All come with day-to-day basics, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a mini-fridge, a hairdryer, and a work desk. In case you need to look neat for some special occasion, the hotel also provides ironing facilities and a wardrobe.
Like most of the best hotels in Malta, Azur Hotel boasts a prime location. In a few minutes, you should be able to reach some of the must-see sights of Malta. Beautiful beaches such as Balluta Bay, Rock, and Qui-Si-Sana are especially recommended to visit. You can also walk along Bisazza Street, one of the major landmark locations in Sliema. You’ll find the thoroughfare crammed with tourists almost every day of the week. Most tend to shop at the famous The Plaza and you should too!
Grand Hotel Excelsior
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Discover all of Malta’s artistic treasures, culture, attractions, and architectural gems, as the Grand Hotel Excelsior is located just off the entrance to Valletta, an area long designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage site. Within minutes you should be able to admire magical places like the Auberge de Castille, Casa Rocca Piccola, and Valletta Waterfront. It’s also only three miles away from Malta International Airport and for your convenience, the hotel provides a free shuttle service. Sweet!
Get for yourself a memorable stay, as the guest rooms at the Grand Hotel Excelsior are all thoughtfully decorated. It tries to combine classic and modern styles, creating a warm vibe that’s so inviting. Sleep well, thanks to the air conditioning that ensures you get the best temperatures while on the Mediterranean islands. Enjoy some amusement from the flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Sit back and relax, admire the beautiful landscape of the ocean on your private balcony or terrace. Stay connected to the world online, as Excelsior also provides free WiFi, just like most of the best hotels in Malta.
For your culinary desires, Excelsior boasts no less than three restaurants and five bars. All of them feature the picturesque landscape of the Mediterranean ocean. Taste some of the best seafood and vegetarian treats you can find in this European gem while being lulled by the spectacular surroundings. Don’t leave your exercise routine, as the hotel also has a fully-equipped fitness center. Fancy a leisure swim? Make your way to the hotel’s outdoor pool. Take a dip in the enchanting palette-shaped pool, flanked by lush greenery and the vast ocean.
Solana Hotel & Spa
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With more than 150 luxurious rooms and an excellent standard, Solana Hotel & Spa will be your ideal oasis while in Malta. Indulge in first-class facilities, which include an indoor pool. It’s heated, so you can still have all the fun, even if the weather is bad. If it’s sunny outside, make your way to the hotel’s rooftop pool, which boasts magnificent views of the ocean and Malta’s sister islands. Once you’re done with your leisure swim, move over to the poolside bar. Get yourself a classic cocktail and enjoy it while admiring Mellieha’s staggering sunsets.
Get yourself a quality night’s rest, as Solana Hotel & Spa is away from the hustle and bustle yet conveniently located in the downtown area. All guest rooms here are decorated in a modern-contemporary style and are filled with tasteful amenities. Get rid of all the fatigue after the tedious hours of traveling, by lying comfortably on their plush bedding. Refresh yourself with some irresistible selections in the minibar. If you don’t mind spending a little more, we highly recommend booking a Luxury Suite. It features a large terrace and windows, where you can enjoy lots of sunlight and truly experience a unique Maltese holiday.
Not much different from most of the best hotels in Malta, Solana Hotel & Spa also sits in a strategic location, close to several recommended destinations. The enchanting Ghadira Bay is just over a mile away. Meanwhile, for those traveling with family, a visit to Popeye Village would be great. This fishing village gets its name from its days as the set of the 1980 musical ‘Popeye’. It’s now one of Malta’s major tourist attractions and is filled with a number of colorful fun activities for all ages.
Alexandra Hotel
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25 years of servicing the needs of Maltese tourists impeccably, the Alexandra Hotel definitely deserves its reputation as one of the finest mid-tier hotels in the entire archipelago. It sits proudly in St Jullian, one of the prime locations for a perfect Mediterranean getaway. Find dozens of restaurants, bars, and clubs in the Paceville area just a few steps from here. Admire the breathtaking views of Spinola Bay, which can be found within 450 meters. Fancy a game of blackjack or poker? Eight minutes from here’s Dragonara Casino. Who knows, you might even leave Malta as a millionaire!
Get some unforgettable hours of rest, as the guest rooms at the Alexandra Hotel are all spacious and bright. Have a relaxing moment on their private balconies that feature the scenic landscapes of the Mediterranean ocean. Need to stay productive during the holidays? Find yourself working in comfort at the hotel’s dedicated work station. Apart from that, you also get basic things like an en-suite bathroom, refrigerator, satellite TV, and in-room safe. Wifi is also available free of charge throughout the property, a standard for most of the best hotels in Malta St Julians.
There’s nothing better than spending an afternoon enjoying some light refreshment. So we highly recommend stopping by Park Lane, an on-site bar with a relaxing atmosphere. Soak up the friendly vibe by the pool, with your favorite beverage in hand. If there’s still plenty of sunshine, consider reclining comfortably on one of the lounger chairs. Let yourself relax for a moment in the embrace of Malta’s indulgent summer sun.
Dolmen Hotel Malta
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Set on the enchanting headland of Qawra, Dolmen Hotel Malta promises a great experience and a joy to remember. This four-star property boasts gorgeous ocean views and a prime location. It’s only a short walk to the family-friendly Malta National Aquarium and the famous Bugibba Square. Meanwhile, within a few minutes, you should be able to discover the enchanting St Julians and Valletta, the center of all the action on this Mediterranean archipelago.
Feel the pleasure of resting in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, as Dolmen Hotel Mata boasts no less than 400 beautiful guest rooms and deluxe suites. Each of them is graced with sumptuous residential-style furniture. It’s hard not to be happy when you stay here, especially with the sliding glass doors that offer a stunning panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea, St Paul’s Bay, or Neolithic Temples. Make yourself right at home with day-to-day basics such as a flat-screen satellite TV, refrigerator, microwave, and minibar. And just like most of the best hotels in Malta, you can expect free WiFi access in all areas.
A dining experience at the Dolmen Hotel Mata is definitely not to be missed. This lavish accommodation offers plenty of options for great food and drink. The freshest seafood can be savored at Batubulan Sunset Grill, a beachfront-style dining venue. For a full buffet breakfast, make your way to Menhir Restaurant, an unpretentious place with a lovely atmosphere. Prefer something more American? Satisfy your appetite with some brilliant meat-based dishes from Carvv Steakhouse. Enjoy local interpretations of authentic American cuisine, in a charming bistro-like setting.
Urban Valley Resort & Spa
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Urban Valley Resort & Spa is a piece of paradise in the middle of the island. It’s only a stone’s throw away from the beautiful scenery of the Wied Ghollieqa Nature Reserve. Get yourself a short break from a busy life in a soothing setting. Refresh your body and mind at the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by lush greenery. Once you’ve finished your leisure bathing session, make your way to TRI Bistro. Have a tasty lunch in the dazzling valley atmosphere or cool off with some amazing signature cocktails.
As for the rooms, the accommodation at Urban Valley Resort & Spa also deserves praise. The atmosphere feels natural, thanks to the parquet floor. A few hints of turquoise tone, represented by the designer chair, bed scarf, and cushions, create a soothing vibe that’s so inviting. All feel synonymous with the presence of thoughtful amenities such as a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea maker, private bathroom, and minibar. Plan your day itinerary smoothly, as free WiFi is also available, just like most of the best hotels in Malta.
Exploring around is highly recommended, as there’s so much to see around here. If the hotel’s gorgeous gardens or greenhouses aren’t enough to entertain you, a 15-minute drive from here’s Valletta, the capital of Malta which is also home to some of the top attractions such as the stunning National Museum of Archeology, the historical Grand Master’s Palace and the fascinating Parliament Building. . But if you’re short on time, we highly recommend the Highlights of Valletta Walking Tour. On this two-hour trip, you’ll be accompanied by a charismatic guide to experience some of Valletta’s best spots and attractions, including the dashing Fort St Elmo.
Osborne Hotel
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If you want to truly embrace Malta’s cultural heritage, the Osborne Hotel will make a great base for your vacation in the archipelago. This three-star property boasts a favorable location, right in the heart of Valletta. The capital has long been known as a dynamic commercial and cultural center, as well as being recognized as a UNESCO world cultural heritage site. Find the dazzling beauty in each alley and experience some of the greatest splendors on the sidestreet.
Get yourself the ultimate stay experience at this deluxe accommodation, as Osborne’s knowledgeable and friendly staff will escort you to your spacious and modern room. Once inside, you’ll find a comfortable space with air conditioning, complete with day-to-day stuff such as satellite TV, minibar, and coffee/tea maker. After you’ve finished tidy up in the private bathroom, make your way to the hotel’s cozy bar. Enjoy some great cocktails in a warm and friendly setting. If it’s breakfast time, you can get a rich buffet of international and local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Prefer something different? They also serve vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes here.
Republic Street, the main tourist street filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and several important attractions, can be found within 350 meters. Get yourself a chance to see the incredible views of Malta from above at the Barrakka Lift, about 500 meters from here. Dive straight into Malta’s commercial and entertainment center, as the ferry port for Sliema is only a five-minute walk away.
Recommended Bars/Restaurants in Malta:
- Waterbiscuit – If you happen to stay at the Intercontinental Hotel, then you’re in luck. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the best dining experiences in Malta, as this dining venue comes with a soothing atmosphere and some of the most refined Mediterranean dishes. One of the highlights is the sea bream with squid-ink puree and wild fennel. Oh, and don’t forget their first-class wine selection. It’s definitely worth a try.
- Tarragon – Combining ocean views and elaborate Mediterranean cuisine, this dining venue is one of the best places to spend an afternoon in Triq il-Knisja. Satisfy your appetite with brilliant menus such as prawns confit millefoglie and Tarragon’s signature beef strudel. Their wine collection is also worthy of praise, which includes several Maltese and Gozitan variations.
- Diar il-Binet – You know you’re in for something special when you realize that this restaurant occupies a historic farmhouse in Dingli Village. Taste their delicious home-made fried rabbit and pie. Top it with modest desserts such as the date and anisette tart. Cooking classes are also available if you are interested, check out their official page for more info.
Recommended Activities in Malta:
- Malta’s 3 Cities Tour & Wine Tasting – Discover some of Malta’s best aspects in the cities of Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa. Learn better about local maritime and military history. Stop by the wine cellar on Marsa. Sample some of the archipelago’s finest bread and cheeses on this fascinating half-day tour.
- Valletta: 3-Hour Walking Tour – Immerse yourself in the elegant atmosphere of the capital of Malta. Explore the narrow streets and uncover interesting historical stories from the days of the Knights of St John. Admire the extraordinary Renzo Piano architecture and enjoy the unmissable view of the Siege Bell Memorial.
- Prehistoric Temples of Malta Tour – Get an interesting overview of what life was like in Malta, three thousand years BC. Find yourself strolling between the fascinating ancient temple complexes of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travel back in time, and discover the megalithic charm of the Mediterranean archipelago.
