Welcome to Malta, the sparkling gem of the Mediterranean! This sun-kissed island has a vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re into ancient ruins, sandy beaches, or lively nightlife, Malta has something for everyone. Get ready to wander through the charming streets of Valletta, soak up the buzz in St. Julian’s, explore the historic beauty of Vittoriosa, and more.

In this blog, I’ll take you through the best areas to visit and the coolest hotels to stay in—because where you stay can make or break your trip! Let’s dive into Malta’s magic and find your perfect paradise getaway!

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Valletta

Welcome to Valletta—Malta’s tiny but mighty capital! This city is where old-school charm meets modern vibes, packed with cool boutique hotels, stylish guesthouses, and luxe apartments. Plus, you’re always just a short walk from epic history, buzzing restaurants, and insane waterfront views.

While you’re here, don’t miss the jaw-dropping St. John’s Co-Cathedral, stroll down the lively Strait Street, and hit up the Upper Barrakka Gardens for some unreal Grand Harbour views. Valletta is where history, culture, and good vibes collide—get ready to fall in love!

Valletta is a good base to explore from. Credit: ZGPhotography (Adobe)

Where To Stay In Valletta

House Of W: This pretty 4-star apartment hotel has everything you need for an ultimate stay. The location is on a quieter street near the University of Malta, and offers city views and, in some rooms, a terrace. Within 1000 yards, you’ll find many attractions like the Triton Fountain, making the House Of W the ideal place to stay.

Moon Stone: This 4-star apartment is also near the House of W and offers a stunning interior and exterior place to stay. You can find a fully equipped kitchen and sun terrace as well inside Moon Stone. It’s also more budget-friendly, making it a great place for solo travellers.

The Embassy Valletta: This lovely 4-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a more upscale, Instragrammable vibe. The Embassy Valletta boasts a rooftop infinity pool, boujee rooms, and delivers great service. The staff are friendly and it’s in a great location in Valletta with plenty of attractions nearby.

Who & What Is Valletta Best For?

Valletta is perfect for culture lovers, history buffs, and city explorers who love a mix of old and new! This tiny but vibrant capital is packed with grand architecture, cute cafes, epic harbour views, and buzzing nightlife.

Whether you’re wandering through historic streets, checking out museums, or sipping cocktails by the water, Valletta has that perfect balance of culture and fun. If you love walkable cities with plenty to see, do, and eat—this is the spot for you!

St. Julian’s

Ready for some seaside fun? St. Julian’s is the place to be! Known for its buzzing nightlife, scenic waterfront promenade, and vibrant energy, this coastal town has accommodations for every taste and budget. From luxurious beachfront hotels to budget-friendly hostels and stylish self-catering apartments, you’ll find the perfect stay.

Spend your days lounging on the sandy shores of St. George’s Bay and wandering through the lively Paceville district before enjoying an epic night out. Whether you’re up for dancing till dawn, sipping cocktails by the sea, or just soaking in Malta’s vibrant energy, St. Julian’s has got you covered!

St. Julian's Malta. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Balluta Bay in St. Julian's, Everything travel, explore this European beauty.

St. Juians is popular among those who particularly enjoy some nightlife. Credit: Nejdetduzen (Adobe)

Where To Stay In St. Julian’s

Hugo’s Boutique Hotel: This 4-star adults only hotel is a stunning stay with gorgeous rooms and luxury vibes, with some rooms featuring jaccuzi’s. Hugo’s Boutique Hotel has burger bar, pub, and nighclub all within the facility! It’s a great choice for those looking to be right in the action of St.Julian’s.

Corinthia St. George’s Bay Hotel: Corinthia St. George’s Bay in St. Julian’s is a 5-star dream, complete with an on-site spa and five stunning pools. This hotel knows how to impress, offering paradise vibes with epic views that might just tempt you to stay in all day! But if you’re up for exploring, the HOHO bus stops right outside—so no excuses, adventure awaits!

The Westin Dragonara Resort: For a more premium and upscale 5-star stay, The Westin Dragonara Resort offers unreal vibes and views. It has an exculusive beach area, great food and bar services and entertainment options (for both adults and kids). It’s a great choice if you’re looking for the ultimate taste of paradise in Malta!

Hotel Highlight

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H Hotel & Spa is in an unbeatable location—right across from the shopping center, just a stone’s throw from the beach, and with nightlife on its doorstep. The rooms were boujee, featuring sleek black and gold interiors, and some even come with a jacuzzi. Plus, there’s a spa downstairs, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant. Talk about a vibe – I really enjoyed this stay!

Who & What Is St. Julian’s Best For?

St. Julian’s is the ultimate hotspot for party lovers, beachgoers, solo travellers and social butterflies! If you’re all about buzzing nightlife, beachfront chill vibes, and endless dining options, this is the place to be.

With clubs, bars, and rooftop lounges lighting up Paceville every night, plus gorgeous bays for daytime relaxing, St. Julian’s is perfect for travellers who love a mix of fun and sun.

Vittoriosa (Birgu)

Step into Vittoriosa and feel like you’ve jumped straight into a medieval fairytale! This charming town is packed with history, stunning waterfront views, and Insta-worthy old streets. Stay in a boutique hotel or a cosy guesthouse tucked inside ancient city walls, where every morning starts with a killer view of the Grand Harbour.

Explore the Malta Maritime Museum, wander the narrow streets of the historic Collachio Quarter, and soak up those old-world vibes. Vittoriosa has a magic that’s hard to explain—you just have to experience it for yourself!

Vittoriosa is one of my favourite cities in Malta; it’s just pretty!

Places To Stay In Vittoriosa

Palazzo Consiglia: This 4-star Instagrammable, boutique type hotel offers pretty UNREAL rooms and vibes and is located nearby St. George’s Square and Valletta Food Market. Palazzo Consiglia is a great stay with friendly staff making this space a top choice.

IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina Malta: This 4-star hotel boasts a swimming pool terrace with epic views of churches and landscapes. It’s stunning! You’ll find pretty rooms and a la carte menu, the ultimate boujee vibes. IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina is the ideal place for holiday-makers wanting peaceful vibes and views. It’s also near the popular HOHO sightseeing bus tour, making it super convenient.

Rosselli AX Privilege: For an upscale 5-star stay, the Rosselli AX Privilege offers a stunning stay with prestious vibes and services. You’ll be able to treat yourself to spas and massages, and enjoy the pool and views. If you’re looking to spoil yourself, this a great hotel choice.

Who & What Is Vittoriosa Best For?

Vittoriosa (or Birgu) is a dream for history lovers, culture seekers, mum-and-daughters getaways, and anyone who loves old-town charm! This ancient city is packed with medieval forts, picturesque narrow streets, and a laid-back waterfront vibe.

Perfect for a relaxed escape away from the tourist crowds, Vittoriosa offers stylish cafes and restaurants along the marina—ideal for sunset drinks with a view. If you’re all about history, charm, and good vibes, this hidden gem is calling your name!

Sliema

Get ready to soak up the best of Sliema! This lively spot mixes city vibes with seaside charm, offering cool hotels, cute guesthouses, and everything in between. Shop ’til you drop in chic boutiques, chill in trendy cafes, or take a leisurely stroll along the gorgeous waterfront promenade.

When you’re not exploring, hit up Exiles Beach for some sun or wander along Sliema’s Tower Road for stunning views. Sliema is the perfect blend of style and chill, and great for them family vibes also – you’re gonna love it!

Places to stay in Malta - add to your travel itinerary - sliema offers great areas and hotels to stay in.

Sliema is a favourite location to stay among many visitors. Credit: Karina Movsesyan (Adobe)

Places To Stay In Sliema

Palazzo Violetta Boutique Hotel: This gorgeous 4-star boutique hotel is a real gem! Some studios offer split levels with a mezzanine sleeping area and kitchenettes. Palazzo Violetta Boutique Hotel also features an outdoor pool with a terrace and bikes for hire. It’s the perfect cosy spot for those seeking a more peaceful stay in Sliema.

1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa: Indulge in this stunning 4-star hotel, which features a wellness centre, gourmet cuisine, and oozes luxury. Nearby are stunning beaches and attractions. 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa is an ideal place for those seeking tranquillity while still being close to amenities in Sliema.

AX The Palace: Fancy a 5-star boujee stay? The AX The Palace offers a gorgeous stay with spacious, clean rooms and top-notch spa services. You’ll find friendly staff, delicious food and upscale vibes here. It’s also a great location with plenty of attractions nearby.

Who & What Is Sliema Best For?

Sliema is the perfect spot for travellers who love a mix of city buzz and seaside chill. It’s great for young adventurers, digital nomads, families, and shopaholics who enjoy trendy cafes, waterfront strolls, and easy access to nightlife.

Sliema is a great choice to base yourself. If you love a good blend of culture, convenience, and stunning coastal views, Sliema is your go-to in Malta!

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Mdina

Step into a real-life fairy tale in Mdina, Malta’s magical ‘Silent City.’ This ancient walled town feels like a movie set, with its cobbled streets, grand palaces, and old-world charm. Wander through medieval alleys, check out the stunning Mdina Cathedral, and soak up epic countryside views from the Bastions.

By night, the city glows with a mysterious, peaceful vibe—perfect for a unique stay away from the crowds. If you’re into history, charm, and pure vibes, Mdina is your spot!

The Silent City – medieval walled city of Mdina. Credit: McCarthys_PhotoWorks (Adobe)

Places To Stay In Mdina

The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux: This chic 5-star boutique hotel dazzles with seventeen lavish rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views. It also features an outdoor swimming pool and gym. Nearby, you’ll find St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Museum of Natural History. The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux is great for those looking for a retreat with scenic views—think of the content!

The Heritage Boutique Accommodation: This stunning 4-star hotel, housed in a historic building, offers quirky rooms with balconies in some of them. The Heritage Boutique Hotel is super cute and within walking distance of Roman Villa and shops and restaurants. It’s a is a great hotel for solo travellers too.

La Tour Hassan Palace: Step into luxury at Hotel La Tour Hassan Palace, a stunning gem. Enjoy elegant rooms with modern comforts, a gorgeous outdoor pool, and a top-tier wellness center. Dine at three gourmet restaurants, sip champagne at the chic Piano Bar, or dance the night away in the VIP lounge. Pure indulgence awaits – go treat yourself!

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Who & What Is Mdina Best For?

Mdina is perfect for history lovers, solo travellers, romantics, and anyone who loves a fairytale vibe! This ancient walled city in Malta is all about winding streets, stunning views, and a magical atmosphere—especially at night when it’s beautifully lit up.

If you’re into culture, photography, or just want to escape the crowds and step back in time, Mdina is a must-visit. So, will Mdina be the destination to base yourself at?

That’s A Wrap!

No matter your vibe, Malta has the perfect stay for you! Whether it’s Valletta’s historic charm, St. Julian’s nightlife, Vittoriosa’s old-world elegance, Sliema’s seafront energy, or Mdina’s fairytale streets, each spot offers something special. So, pick your base, soak up the Mediterranean magic, and get ready for an unforgettable trip! Go live your best YES!

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