The best hotels in Malta, by Time Out travel experts

Iniala Harbour House is not a subtle hotel. It’s built around one clear idea: stick guests right on the edge of Valletta’s bastions and let the Grand Harbour do the heavy lifting. The result is something pretty special. The hotel spans a row of restored townhouses facing the water, with the roof handed over to ION Harbour, Malta’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant. That alone tells you the level it’s playing at.

When it opened in 2020, Iniala reset the bar for luxury on the islands, even parking a private Riva yacht out front to underline the point. It’s an address for people who like their hotels to make an entrance, but it also works for families wanting space and privacy. You’re near the tip of the Valletta peninsula, close enough to wine bars for a quick nightcap, but far enough along St Barbara Bastion that the city noise fades away.

There are 24 rooms and residences spread across four buildings, though Harbour House is the one to aim for. Suites are expansive, with leather accents, skyline murals and bathrooms designed around deep tubs facing the harbour. Several design studios handled the interiors, so each space has its own personality. Many rooms come with traditional wooden balconies and all the right five-star extras, including a private butler. Facilities are very compact: there’s a small indoor pool, sauna and spa, plus a quiet gym across the road. The real draw, though, is ION Harbour, where a 13-course tasting menu showcases local produce with some seriously memorable dishes.

Time Out tip: Take a water taxi to the Three Cities – the dgħajsa from the quay is cheap, quick and far more atmospheric than a car ride.

Address: 11 St. Barbara Bastion, Valletta, VLT 1961, Malta.

Price: Starting from €350 per night

Closest transport: Malta International Airport is a 20-minute drive away

A fifteen-minute ferry ride south of Valletta, inside the fortified walls of Senglea, you’ll find Cugó Gran Macina, a 21-suite boutique hotel carved into the limestone of a 16th-century fortress. Built in 1554 by the Knights of Saint John, the bastion has lived several lives, from naval defence post to Admiralty HQ and political headquarters, before reopening in 2018 as a design-led five-star stay after 40,000 hours of restoration.

It’s now part of the Design Hotels collection and still evolving, with plans to turn the hand-dug WWII air-raid shelters beneath the building into a subterranean spa. For now, the appeal is the setting: you’re a short walk from Birgu’s marina and a ten-minute stroll from the ferry back to Valletta, but the atmosphere is quieter, slower and refreshingly low on tourist crowds.

As a suite-only hotel, space is generous across the board. Most rooms face the Grand Harbour and come in unusual shapes thanks to the building’s past as a naval crane platform. Interiors by Maltese studio DAAA HAUS mix original vaulted ceilings with steel, marble, oak and lava stone, softened by Italian sofas and wool rugs. Some rooms have limited windows, though, and you can’t guarantee a specific suite when booking. As for food, it comes courtesy of The Little Bastion, serving Mediterranean-ish breakfasts and seafood-heavy dinners.

Time Out tip: There’s no full spa here yet, but in-room treatments are available.

Address: Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour Triq il-31 ta' Marzu Senglea, ISL 1040, Malta

Price per night: Fluctuates depending on season;  suites range from approximately €218 to over €345 per night

Closest transport: Malta International Airport is a fifteen-minute drive away

Where is it? Floriana

If you prefer your accommodation to be positively dripping in style and sophistication, look no further. Evoking the old-school glamour of the early 20th century, The Phoenicia Malta welcomes you with an Art Deco entrance, live piano music in the lobby, and fresh Mediterranean interiors, like something straight out of a dream. Designed by William Binnie, it was Malta’s first 5-star hotel and remains every bit as opulent today as it did in the 1930s. The Phoenicia didn’t get off to the best start, as World War II had done serious damage to the building before the first guest was able to check in. However, the hotel finally opened to serious fanfare in 1947, with the late Queen Elizabeth II famously dancing in the hotel as a newlywed in 1949. The rest, as they say, is history.

The 132 blue-and-white guestrooms and suites feature dashes of pink to evoke the spirit of spring in the area, complemented by the flourishing seven acres of garden that add to the relaxing atmosphere. The rooms feature all the mod cons that one expects in the 21st century, while the suites are just about as grand as you’re going to get in Floriana. At the Phoenicia, a good night’s sleep is all but guaranteed.

Set just outside the ancient city walls, the Phoenicia features an outdoor infinity pool overlooking the harbour, the perfect way to round off a day of relaxation and recuperation in the onsite spa. A broad range of treatments is available, covering everything from signature massages to manicures, pedicures, waxing, and more, all in a gorgeous setting that enhances the sense of serenity. The on-site restaurant is well worth stopping by, as it serves a combination of elevated Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Time Out tip: The 110-minute massage is well worth the €205 outlay. Prepare to feel like a brand new you.

Address: The Mall FRN1478, Floriana

Price: £602 per night based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Valletta bus station is a 5-minute walk away

Where is it? Ħal Għaxaq

If you’re after the side of Malta that doesn’t make it into the guidebooks, this place is for you. Palazzo Castagna is a step into centuries of rural Maltese life in a rarely visited southern village, a gorgeous way to unwind and enjoy what a vacation is meant to be. After all, a boutique hotel stay in a tiny south Maltese village is supposed to be sleepy, right?

The building was constructed in 1755 and was long held by the Castagna family (hence the name), and has been expertly restored by a husband-and-wife team with hospitality in their blood. The original stonework allows history to breathe, and the leafy courtyard boasts no shortage of quirky touches that shimmer with character. In many ways, it's like being invited into a centuries-old family home.

All 26 rooms in the hotel are modern and spacious, and the suites come complete with a large outdoor terrace and sun loungers, the ideal spot for a morning coffee or a sunlit cocktail in complete seclusion. And yes, there is a hot tub. Bathrooms are generous and have his-and-hers sinks, while the beds are as comfortable as any you’ll find in Malta.

And then we come to the rooftop pool, a sumptuous spot with views over the main square beneath the village church. When the sun is setting, there is no better place to be, particularly if you consider yourself an oenophile. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask the sommelier any questions you might have, if you can drag your attention away from the sunset. The hotel serves an excellent buffet breakfast in a gorgeous setting, one where the room is almost as stunning as the food. If all that wasn’t enough, Palazzo Castagna offers the opportunity to swim in an underground World War II bomb shelter.

Time Out tip: The village is pronounced “Hal ash-a,” which might save you some trouble when hailing that taxi.

Address: 56 Santa Marija, Ħal Għaxaq GXQ 1741

Price: £120 per night based on two people sharing (breakfast included)

Closest transport: Hareb bus stop

Where is it: St Julian’s

The Malta Marriott feels less like a typical chain hotel and more like a carefully designed seaside mini-resort, and much of that is down to a pricey refurb. The hotel is bright, modern, and packed with amenities, all in a thoughtfully separated space that is perfect for families, business travellers, and couples. There’s always something happening, and it never feels cramped. Located on Balluta Bay, the hotel is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The 301 rooms range from sea-view doubles to spacious family suites, each with a clean, uncomplicated style that gets the important details right. The design focuses on warm browns and soft beiges with bright white linen and comfy sofa areas for lounging, while the showers are among the largest you’ll ever come across.

The food might be the highlight of a stay at the Malta Marriott. There are plenty of restaurants in the surrounding area that make it easy to overlook Atrio (the hotel’s terrace restaurant), but don’t make that mistake. Portions are generous, and the flavours flying out of the kitchen are spectacular. The kitchen utilises high-quality ingredients, with an emphasis on local produce, to maintain a seasonal energy in the menu, ensuring gastronomic excellence. And yes, all of this might just be an understatement. The breakfast more than holds up its end of the bargain.

There is a 24/7 gym with personal trainers on hand, and the Myoka Lotus spa feels like a mini-escape to Thailand, complete with wooden bridges, cascading water, and soothing music. Finding the sweet spot between laid-back island vibes and the upscale feel of a big-name resort isn’t easy, but the Malta Marriott manages it, offering plenty for families while still keeping grown-up spaces for those after a more refined stay.

Time Out tip: The rooms are well soundproofed, but light sleepers may prefer a rear-facing option during summer weekends, when nearby beach clubs are in full swing.

Address: 39 Main Street, Balluta Bay, St. Julian's, STJ 1017

Price per night: £210 per night on a bed & breakfast basis

Closest transport: Malta International Airport is a 20-25-minute drive away.

Where is it? Mdina

Saying that this is Mdina’s most luxurious hotel might not mean much once you discover that there are only a handful of options to choose from. Nevertheless, this five-star retreat oozes refined sophistication that makes it stand head and shoulders above the rest. Set in a restored 17th-century palazzo (built for the noble Moscati Parisio family), it provides panoramic views from its hilltop location next to the fortified city’s bastion. All 17 rooms of The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux are decorated with antique furniture, artworks, fine fabrics and marble bathrooms, features that pay homage to its regal beginnings and allow the hotel to retain a true sense of grandeur in the heart of the fortified city.

The standard rooms are anything but standard, and while they tick the required boxes (comfortable beds, mini-bar, well-stocked bathrooms), the luxurious atmosphere allows them to stand above expectations. It almost goes without saying that the presidential suite is a world of its own, a vast residence that is worthy of its moniker. Between the two, there is a range of accommodations, from deluxe rooms to executive suites, all as opulent as the last. You won’t struggle to sleep well here.

Haute cuisine can be enjoyed at the on-site de Mondion restaurant, although that doesn’t even begin to tell the story. The panoramic views from the terrace make every bite just that little bit more delicious, and you’ll struggle to find a more romantic spot for dinner. Of course, the food doesn’t need any assistance; we’re talking one Michelin Star here. The wine list more than holds up its end of the bargain. For something a little less formal, Trattoria AD1530 is a charming eatery serving pizza, pasta, salad, grills, and more.

Time Out tip: The standard rooms are delightful, so save a euro or two for dinner at de Mondion, a must if you are travelling with your significant other.

Address: Misrah Il Kunsill Mdina, MDN 1050

Price: £270 per night, based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Is-Saqqajja bus stop

Where is it? Attard

If you’re hoping to count the president of Malta as a neighbour on your holiday, this is the place for you. The Corinthia Palace Malta is the dictionary definition of TLC, a place to unwind and appreciate the little things in life while enjoying some serious luxury. This high shine hotel is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside – and you might leave feeling the same way. A study in how to do upper-crust style with restraint, this place lives up to its ‘palace’ name with cool, neutral interiors, a pool to die for, and lots of lovely, natural light. In short, it is Maltese luxury at its very best.

The rooms offer ample space, complete with sizable bathrooms featuring all the modern conveniences we’ve come to expect. Guests also get complimentary access to the spa and gym, meaning you don’t need to miss out on any of the Corinthia Palace’s magic. It’s also family-friendly, offering plenty of opportunities for the older members of the party to enjoy some relaxing time – we’re already mentally booking our spa sessions.

The rooms are fantastic, the health facilities are tremendous, but the food at the Corinthia Palace is truly exceptional. There are four on-site restaurants, all offering the kind of mega-fresh, healthy yet decadent meals designed to nurture and delight. Francesco Mazzei’s Secret Garden is al fresco dining at its best, and the Veuve Clicquot Lounge serves some of the best cocktails on the island. Mazzei features once more in the original dining room, while Bahia might be the best of the lot, a Michelin Star restaurant that sits at the top table of Maltese fine dining. Yum doesn’t even begin to cover it.

Time Out tip: A romantic dinner at Bahia is a must, whether you are staying at the Corinthia Palace or not.

Address: De Paule Avenue, San Anton BZN 9023

Price: £221 per night based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Strickland bus stop

Where is it? Gozo

Part of a small group of boutique hotels on Gozo and Malta, this mid-range hotel is situated in a smart, traditional building in the quiet village square of Nadur, adjacent to the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul. The name is apt, and there is a quaint quality to this charming place that adds another layer of character to an already sparkling setting. The views of the church are reason enough to stay, an 18th-century stunner that might lay claim to being the most beautiful church on the island. Good luck pulling yourself away from those vistas.

The interiors combine minimalist design with local authenticity, so expect to find 12 simple rooms with wooden floors, solid colours, and plenty of space to settle into. Everything from simple comfort rooms to superior rooms is available, and some of the latter even come with private hot tubs. If you need convincing of the delights of a private hot tub, this might not be the holiday for you. Some of the more expensive rooms have terraces with sea and countryside views, a constant reminder of how beautiful Gozo is (the sunrises are spectacular).

The on-site restaurant, called the Fat Rabbit, is a nice spot for dinner, thanks to its menu of local delicacies, including stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), one of Malta’s national dishes. The menu of local and Mediterranean dishes almost always hits the spot, while the Del Capo pizzeria serves up some of the best pies in Malta. To recap, you’ve got spectacular church and island views, a private hot tub, comfortable beds, traditional dishes, and unbeatable pizza. Go and book this place already. Special offers and packages are frequently available, so be sure to check the website and social media for updates. You might just get lucky.

Time Out tip: The superior rooms are well worth considering for the magic of the hot tub alone. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Address: 13th December Street, Nadur, NDR 1111

Price: £98 per night based on two people sharing (breakfast included)

Closest transport: Nadur bus stop

Where is it? Valletta

This charming boutique hotel is tucked away on a quiet street in Valletta, opposite the Carmelite Church. One of the most sought-after places to stay in Malta, Casa Ellul boasts nine luxury rooms styled out in neutral tones and decorated with patterned floor tiles and framed art along the walls. The hotel prides itself as a place where “design is in every detail, and detail is in every design,” and it is difficult to argue with such things. All rooms feature spacious marble bathrooms (spacious might be an understatement), while some have traditional wooden balconies (galleriji), and three have private terraces with close-up views of the church dome.

The building’s exact date of construction isn’t known, but it is most likely dated to the early 19th century, around 1830, a time when more subtle architectural styles were being embraced, with a tendency to focus on light rather than ostentatious design. That mentality gave Valletta many buildings that toe the line between practicality and design, with Casa Ellul standing head and shoulders above the rest. That magic continues once you enter the property, and you can’t go wrong with any of the suites available. You’ll need to pay serious money for the privilege, but it is well worth the expense.

The icing on the cake is the upscale on-site restaurant, a beautiful space that serves fine dining cuisine in an informal setting (relatively speaking). Chef Steve Scicluna is at the helm, utilising his Michelin Star experience to craft a fascinating menu of dishes that change according to the available produce. Everything is fresh, from the ingredients to the cooking techniques, and the final product is almost too picturesque to eat. Still, you’ll struggle to stop once you start.

Time Out tip: Some suites are only accessible via stairs, so be sure to request rooms with elevator access if required.

Address: 81 Old Theatre Street, Il-Belt Valletta 1429

Price: £272 per night based on two people sharing (breakfast included)

Closest transport: Mandragg bus stop

Where is it? Valletta

Open since spring 2017, the Coleridge is a tasteful boutique offering housed in a carefully restored 17th-century Valletta townhouse. The hotel's focus was to create a sense of calm in a city that can be surprisingly chaotic, and the Coleridge hits every note. The six guest suites vary in size (and dramatically in price), starting with the Erskine and ending with Hatley. All are individually furnished in elegant, muted tones, with decor that seamlessly blends contemporary (cutting-edge bathrooms), Baroque (gilt-framed paintings), local (Maltese floor tiles), and international (much of the furniture) elements. Two rooms have balconies overlooking Old Bakery Street.

There is a homely quality to the hotel, which contrasts with its mysterious past. The building dates back to an unknown point in the 17th century and has had many illustrious neighbours over the years. In fact, the hotel takes its moniker from the famed British poet of the same name, the author of “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”, who also wrote extensively about his experiences in Malta. As you may notice, all of the rooms at the Coleridge are named after works by the great man. When you stay at the Coleridge, you are staying in a space filled with the whispers of history.

The Coleridge is all about calm, but it is also increasingly about sustainability. There is an eco-conscious approach to almost everything that takes place within the hotel's walls, from the choice of paint used to the restoration of the woodwork, the collection of rainwater, the use of eco-friendly cleaning materials, and the special pillows that come with eco-certificates. Only breakfast is served here (in a basement room, no less), but the hotel’s central Valletta location means there are dozens of restaurants on your doorstep.

Time Out tip: You can’t go wrong with any of the suites, but there’s something about the romance of the Christabel that really gets the heart stirring.

Address: 89, VLT1456, 92 Old Bakery Street, Il-Belt Valletta

Price: £240 per night based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Kristofru bus stop

Where is it? Senglea

If you’re struggling to decide whether to stay in a 5-star hotel or a more cosy boutique option, Cugo Gran Macina offers the best of both worlds. Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour is a relatively new design hotel situated in a 16th-century fort in Senglea, on Malta’s southeastern coast, somewhat at odds with the mass of historical hotels here but an integral part of the island’s accommodation scene nonetheless.

That isn’t to say there isn’t history at the Cugo Gran Macina; quite the opposite, in fact. The impressive building, all high vaulted ceilings and brave grandeur, has five centuries of stories to tell, but these tales are told in whispers in some of the most stylish rooms in Malta. Interiors are designed by the Maltese/Italian firm Daaa Haus, which combines soothing earth tones, natural materials, Scandinavian textiles, and bespoke Italian furniture to create a luxurious feel. Marina and Grand Harbour panoramas can be enjoyed from each of the spacious 21 suites, while the large rooftop offers additional views. Did we mention there is an exclusive pool on the rooftop? We didn’t? Well, there’s an exclusive pool on the rooftop, and it is every bit as magnificent as you might assume. The roof can be rented for private events if you’ve got the finances and ambition.

The Little Bastion is the hotel’s restaurant, and it is a real feast for the senses. Delicious dishes that reflect Malta’s rich and storied history are served in an intimate setting, making it the perfect place to experience local culinary traditions. The à la carte breakfast is served in the same room, and there are few better ways to start the day in the gorgeous Città Invicta. The hotel’s excellent wellness facilities are the cherry on top.

Time Out tip: If you’ve got the budget, staying in the hotel’s Fortress Suite is a beautiful experience.

Address: Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour Triq il-31 ta' Marzu Senglea, ISL 1040

Price: £349 per night based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Reduntor bus stop

Where is it? St Julian’s

Flashy St Julian’s is a prime spot for chain hotels, so Juliani stands out with its family-run offering. The decor of the 47 rooms isn’t hugely original, but it’s comfortable and Mediterranean in feel, with flashes of turquoise and deep blue that nod to the traditional fishing boats bobbing in Spinola Bay below. Sometimes, simple is the way to go. Every room features high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, coffee and tea facilities, a hairdryer, and a minibar. The beds are comfortable, and the showers are fantastic. What more could you want? The standard rooms can be a little on the small side, but the sea view rooms are magnificent.

Hungry? You’re in luck. Zest offers award-winning Michelin Plate dining, a delightful eatery voted Malta’s number one Asian restaurant. The menu features a superb selection of Nikkei dishes, blending the exquisite flavours of Japan and Peru. If you need further evidence of the positives of globalisation, dig into some Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine in a gorgeous Maltese hotel, and consider yourself a believer. For something a little more informal, Cafe Juliani has been referred to as “one of Malta’s best-kept secrets,” a place to enjoy a cup of coffee or something a little stronger alongside healthy dishes and a productive atmosphere.

There's also a small rooftop pool with harbour views, which is a lovely spot for a swim and a sundowner. If you feel like you need a little relaxation and recuperation, the Spa Royale wellness centre is a tremendous place to unwind with a professional massage or some quiet time in the sauna, and the gym is fully equipped for all your weightlifting needs. Hotel Juliani is a place that covers all the bases for your trip to Malta, from comfortable rooms to delicious food, via wellness, fitness, and everything else.

Time Out tip: The view is one of this 5-star hotel’s USPs, so be sure to request a room with a front view when you book.

Address: 25 St George's Road, St Julians STJ 3208

Price: £158 per night based on two people sharing

Closest transport: Spinola bus stop