Where to Stay: Sliema vs Valletta vs St. Paul's
“Choosing your base is crucial. Choose wrong, and you'll spend your holiday in traffic.”
Malta looks small, but location matters. Here is the breakdown.
1. Sliema & St. Julian's (The Hub)
Vibe: Busy, modern, lots of bars, restaurants, and shopping.
Best for: People who want action, nightlife, and good transport links (ferry to Valletta).
Cons: Concrete jungle, noisy, no sandy beaches.
2. Valletta (The Romance)
Vibe: History, wine bars, boutique hotels.
Best for: Couples, culture lovers, luxury.
Cons: Expensive. Can be quiet late at night.
3. St. Paul's Bay / Bugibba (The Budget)
Vibe: Tourist resort, British pubs, English breakfasts.
Best for: Families on a budget.
Cons: Far from Valletta (1 hour by bus), architecture is ugly.
4. Mellieha (The Beach)
Vibe: Relaxed, hilltop village near the sand.
Best for: Beach bums and families.
Cons: You need a car (it's hilly), far from everything else.