Dayna Camilleri Clarke

​​Boutique hotels have been popping up around Malta’s historic capital of Valletta in recent years, returning dilapidated palazzos to their Baroque glory. If you’re looking for independent, design-led spots to rest your head, there’s a wealth of places to choose from. That does mean that sometimes trips err on the more expensive side, but you can also discover Asti Malta for mid-range stays and Gozo if you’re confined to a budget. For old-school grandeur, check out Mdina, the former capital which is now referred to as the ‘silent city’ for its nighttime calm. Conversely, the waterfront town of St Julian’s is unrestrained with its flashy local entertainment. Get a deeper look at the best hotels in Malta with our ultimate guide to them all here. 🛏️ RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in Malta Who makes the cut? Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world – new openings, old classics and everything in between – to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have been selected by experts based on their amenities, features, pricing and more. By the way, this article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 📍 The best things to do in Malta

You might expect a boutique hotel stay in a tiny, quiet southern Maltese village to be a bit sleepy, but that is precisely the point. With barely a shop or restaurant in sight, Palazzo Castagna lets you truly switch off and make the space feel like your own. Expect soaring ceilings, elegant rooms and plenty of personal touches – and an experience that feels more like staying in a centuries-old home than a hotel.  Why stay at Palazzo Castagna? If you’re after the side of Malta that doesn’t make it into the guidebooks, this place is for you. Palazzo Castagna lets you step straight into centuries of Maltese life in rural Ħal Għaxaq. That’s pronounced ‘Hal ash-a’ – remember that when you’re ordering a taxi.  Built in 1755 and long held by the Castagna family, the palazzo has now been lovingly restored by husband-and-wife team Rudolph and Alison Spiteri Sacco. History remains in its original stonework and period features, while the renovated space feels thoroughly inviting. A bright, leafy internal courtyard features former animal drinking troughs cleverly converted into plant pots, and an original, centuries-old wall with an emblem crest dating back to the Knights of Malta era. Head upstairs to the rooftop pool, which offers views over the main square beneath the imposing Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary, the village’s centrepiece which comes alive for dinners, processions and the highly-anticipated February carnival.  What are the rooms like at Palazzo Castagna Malta? We

The Malta Marriott feels less like a typical chain hotel and more like a carefully designed seaside mini-resort. Fresh from a €40 million refurb, it’s bright, modern, and packed with amenities without ever feeling cramped. Multiple pools, a spa, and thoughtfully separated spaces mean families, business travellers, and couples can all find their own groove here.  The grand open-plan reception immediately impresses. I loved the local Mdina glass accents catching the light as you walk in, as well as the intricate floral arrangements throughout the hotel. Service is always attentive and polished, making you feel genuinely welcomed. Plus the activities on offer here are seemingly never ending, from towel-folding workshops to themed evenings. Why stay at the Malta Marriot Resort & Spa? Right on Balluta Bay, the Malta Marriott is ideally located for a bit of life without being in the thick of busier neighbouring areas like St Julians. Hop-on-hop-off buses stop right outside, making it easy to explore the rest of the island. The hotel itself is modern, light, and fuss-free, with plenty of space to unwind after a day of sightseeing. It works equally well for business travellers, families, or couples seeking a quieter pace. Adults-only areas, like the gorgeous panoramic sundeck on level 12, complete with a heated pool, add an extra touch of serenity. We stayed during a near-capacity period, but it never felt crowded – each segment has its own space. What are the rooms like at Malta Mar

It’s a bold claim, but no other hotel in Malta can match the history and prestige of The Phoenicia Hotel in Valletta. Since opening in 1933, this grand landmark has been the setting for everything from glittering state visits to star-studded stays, earning its place as one of the island’s defining hotels. Even the late Queen Elizabeth had a soft spot for it. Steps from Valletta’s imposing city gates and the newly spruced-up Triton Fountain, from every angle, The Phoenicia Malta absolutely nails the fine line between old-world glamour and modern-day comfort – it certainly wears its history proudly, but nothing about this place feels stuffy. Why stay at The Phoenicia Malta? The hotel’s seven-acre gardens are a real showstopper, perfectly manicured and stretching all the way down to the Bastion infinity pool, surrounded by sepia-toned limestone fortifications that have stood watch over Valletta for centuries. Back inside the main building, the Mediterranean vibe will follow you all the way up to the rooms, with colourful bursts of fresh local flowers and hand-painted Maltese tiles.  From the moment you see the Phoenicia’s massive golden Art Deco revolving door, it’s pure big arrival energy. Red carpet rolled out, doorman ready, luggage in hand, and that instant feeling you’re somewhere special. Best bit? You’re just a few minutes’ walk from Valletta’s top attractions, from St John’s Cathedral to the city’s bustling waterfront.  What are the rooms like at The Phoenicia Malta? Roo