Where to stay in Malta
Whatever you’re looking for in a holiday to Malta, you’re sure to find it in one of Malta’s many holiday resorts. Take a look at our recommendations for where to stay on your holiday to Malta from Manchester Airport.
Best for families:
If a sandy beach is a must for your family holiday, then head for Mellieha Bay. This area on the north coast of Malta boast the island’s longest, sandiest beach - a rarity in Malta where most of the coast is on the rocky side. The beach at Mellieha also slopes gently into the sea, meaning the shallow water is ideal for paddling. For older kids you’ll find watersports including jet skiing, diving, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
If your little ones are happiest around the pool, then consider a holiday in Qawra or Buggiba. These family-orientated resorts located either side of a peninsula in the north of Malta offer a range of family-friendly hotels, along with a seaside promenade, a man-made beach and great bus connections to the rest of the island, if you can tear yourself away from your sun lounger.
On the tiny island of Gozo, just a 20 minute ferry trip from the northern tip of Malta, you’ll find Marsalforn, another perfect resort for families with children. One of the most popular places to stay on Gozo, Marsalforn offers a sheltered sandy beach, rocks for sunbathing and a charming working harbour where you’ll see traditional Maltese fishing boats.
Best for couples:
Couples looking for a low-key, sunny beach break will also enjoy Mellieha, which is a resort of two halves; above the sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling, you’ll find a traditional Maltese village with beautiful churches, relaxed nightlife and stunning countryside and clifftop walks.
Couples looking for a more lively, cosmopolitan break with a dash of history and culture should consider staying in Sliema. Boasting stunning sunset views of Malta’s historic capital Valletta, Sliema has a wealth of stylish restaurants, shops and bars, along with easy access to many of Malta’s top attractions. Don’t miss a boat cruise around the Grand Harbour or a trip to the “silent city” of Mdina - both of which featured as locations in Game of Thrones.
For the perfect romantic holiday or even honeymoon in Malta, book a room at one of the historic, boutique hotels springing up across the island. Alternatively, indulge yourself at one of Malta’s five star spa hotels, many of which are located in the buzzing resort of St Julian’s, allowing you and your partner to combine relaxation with great nightlife.
Best for nightlife:
For those looking to party into the early hours and sleep it off in the sun, the best place to go in Malta for nightlife is without doubt the Paceville area of St Julian’s. The streets around Paceville Piazza are packed with bars, clubs, casinos and restaurants; whichever one you choose, you’re sure to have a great night. For a night out with a difference, try one of the boat parties - some of which end with a moonlight swim off Comino.
For the last three years, Annie Mac’s music festival Lost & Found has brought some of the biggest names in music to Malta. For 2018 the lineup includes Jamie xx, Diplo and Four Tet across a packed weekend in early May.
Best for winter sun:
Long after northern Europe has cooled down, Malta is still balmy. The sea stays warm enough for swimming in October and even into early November. The coldest months are January and February, when the thermometer dips to an average high of 16 degrees - still significantly warmer than the UK! While you may need a jacket in the evenings, you’ll still be able to enjoy much of what Malta has to offer, even in the winter months. Resorts like Sliema, Buggiba and Qawra are open all year round, catering for winter-sun-seekers and holidaymakers enjoying an extended stay in Malta to avoid the worst of the UK winter.
Holiday resorts in Malta:
- Buggiba
- Mellieha
- Paradise Bay
- Golden Bay
- Qawra
- San Anton
- Sliema
- St George’s Bay
- St Julian’s
- Paceville
- St Pauls Bay
- Valletta
- Marsalforn
- Xlendi