Where to stay in Malta for couples

If you’re looking for inspiration on where to stay in Malta for couples, I’ve got you covered.

Where you stay in Malta can totally influence the tone of your trip. Do you want a summer beach escape or a city break exploring all the island’s best historical sites? Both are totally possible, but knowing your preferences will help you to choose the best accommodation for your preferences.

Luckily, couples are well catered for. With Valletta and Mdina generally offering smaller, boutique hotels properties that fit with the traditional architecture, you’ll find double rooms in plentiful supply for all budgets. Go further out and you’ll widen the range even further, with more spacious family options, including summer villas you could luxuriate in for two weeks.

In this article, I’ll focus on where to stay in Malta for couples, based on my personal experience. For even more tips, check out my full 4 day Malta itinerary.

Quick disclaimer – many of the hotel photos are taken from official sources and are not my own.

Best areas to stay in Malta for couples

Valletta | For atmosphere and easy public transport

In my opinion, Valletta is one of best areas to stay in Malta for couples all year round.

With Malta being so small, you can easily access the island’s beaches via public transport then head back to the city for sightseeing, dinner and drinks of an evening – all in walking distance from wherever you choose to stay. It’s also by far the best spot to stay in during winter / shoulder season, where some of the other resort areas are quieter or have less to offer.

However, the only downside is if you’re planning to rent a car in Malta. The parking in Valletta can be really tricky so, unless you stay on the outskirts at a property that offers parking, I’d recommend considering this as a factor.

If you’re looking for a picturesque and romantic old town setting, Valletta would be my top choice.

Sliema | For seafront walks and convenience

The main difference between Valletta vs Sliema for couples is whether you want a traditional or modern feel.

Sliema definitely has more of a resort-like feel with a promenade boasting excellent views of Valletta. Plus you can take the ferry over in just 10 minutes, meaning you aren’t totally out of reach of the island’s capital.

We found Sliema a little built up for our tastes but it’s still a good, central option for your trip to Malta.

St Julian’s | For lively summer evenings

Now we didn’t make it to St Julian’s but from what I’ve read, it comes alive in the summer. Lots of people highly recommend the nightlife in St Julian’s and your bag is high energy, it’s definitely a spot to consider.

Parking in St Julian’s and St Paul’s Bay is a little easier than built up city areas, making these great spots to consider if you’re hiring a car for your trip to Malta.

Mdina & Rabat | For luxury and seclusion

If you’re looking for some of the most romantic places to stay in Malta, Mdina is the complete opposite of energy in a really unique way. Tiny and historic, the streets are utterly beautiful and some of the understated boutique hotels in the area are just the same.

However, if you’re going to choose Mdina, I’d recommend spending a night or two in a fairytale getaway there, then move to one of the livelier hubs. This will save you getting itchy feet as there aren’t a huge amount of places to eat, drink and see in Mdina once you’ve pounded the streets for an hour or two.

Mellieħa | For families and beaches

If you’re visiting Malta in the summer to flop, swim and sunbathe, the town of Mellieħa is a great laid-back option for families. It’s best known for Ghadira Bay, the largest sandy beach in Malta which, while busy in the summer, is a must-visit for that classic beach experience.

Best hotels in Malta for couples

Now that you’ve hopefully pinpointed the best area to stay in Malta for your taste, let’s dive into some of the best Malta hotels for couples on all budgets!

To see my recommendations at a glance, I’ve pinned them all to this handy map:

Luxury places to stay in Malta

Everywhere you look is like a postcard in Malta so if you’re looking for luxury or a touch of something special to match, these options are perfect for a more elevated experience.

Valletta | Domus Zamittello

If you like a historic edge to your living quarters, Domus Zamittello is an amazing choice. Located right as you enter Valletta’s city gates, the hotel is a beautifully restored 17th century palazzo with sensitively furnished rooms and breakfasts cooked to order.

Valletta | The Phoenicia Malta

Part of The Leading Hotels of the World, The Phoenicia Malta is one of the most luxurious hotels on the island. Its common areas are the standout spaces here, with an incredible infinity pool overlooking the harbour, spa, Palm Court Lounge and two restaurants. If you’re the type of person who wants everything on site at your convenience, somewhere like this is a great option.

Sliema | 1926 Les Bains Private Spa Suites

For 5* comfort on Sliema’s waterfront, 1926 Les Bains Private Spa Suites is an absolutely stunning hotel with everything couples could want when staying in Malta. From the romantic, modern restaurant, to the rooftop swimming pool and private beach, you couldn’t possibly be bored!

Affordable places to stay in Malta

Luckily, if you’re wondering where to stay in Malta for couples on a budget, there are some real gems to be found – especially if you visit off season like we did.

We never spend a huge amount on accommodation, but choose well-designed spaces for their location and amenities: here are my top picks!

Valletta | 136 Old Bakery

On our trip to Malta, we stayed at 136 Old Bakery, a stunning apartment in the heart of Valletta. It’s stylish, with a spacious living and dining area, well-equipped kitchen and double bedroom.

While it was in easy walking distance of all the city’s main attractions, it was far enough from the pubs and bars to be quiet in the evenings – the ideal combination for us.

Valletta | 19 Rooms

The owners of 136 Old Bakery also run the beautifully designed boutique hotel, 19 Rooms. We used their luggage storage facilities, as it’s just a couple of minutes walk from the apartment we stayed in, but it looked gorgeous from the common areas we saw.

If you’re in the market for a more traditional hotel experience including breakfast, check it out!

Valletta | The Embassy Valletta Hotel

Located just around the corner from Republic Square, The Embassy Valletta Hotel is a 4* hotel with a rooftop pool, tasty restaurant and beautifully designed rooms.

We very nearly chose to stay here but as we visited in January, we figured it was too chilly for the pool! However, if we’d have stayed in Malta in the warmer months, it would have been our top choice.

San Anton | Corinthia Palace Malta

Corinthia Palace Malta is a total escape in the heart of Malta. By going central, it’s a quieter area sure, but you get the benefit from it with the facilities; spacious rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, beautifully landscaped gardens and the Athanaeum Spa. The free shuttle to Valletta runs regularly too, making it easy to explore the island.

Depending on when you travel, it can also be reasonably priced for such a beautiful 5* hotel – I saw prices for just over £100 per night when searching!

Mdina | Ta’ Nina Boutique

In the heart of Malta’s silent city, Ta’ Nina Boutique boasts recently renovated rooms with a sun terrace and daily continental breakfast. Rooms come with either a balcony or terrace, guaranteeing fresh air or gorgeous views – your choice!

Summary | Where to stay in Malta for couples

As you can see by just the small few options I’ve included here, Malta is absolutely full of beautiful places to stay for couples on a romantic summer escape or winter city break alike.

The season, method of transport and your personal taste can definitely influence the best option to choose. However, the joy of staying on a tiny island is that no matter where you’re based, it’s easy to find excellent things to do within a short drive, taxi or bus ride.

I hope this guide has helped you to pinpoint the best place to stay in Malta – have an amazing trip!

Laura x