Planning a vacation to Malta is an exciting experience, filled with visions of stunning beaches, historic sites, and Mediterranean charm. One of the most important things you’ll have to do, though, is pick the right hotel for your stay. Choosing the right hotel for your Maltese holiday can make all the difference, whether you’re looking for luxury, family-friendly features or closeness to popular tourist spots.
1. Determine Your Travel Style and Needs
Before diving into specific hotels, it’s essential to assess your travel style and needs. Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or with family and friends? Do you prioritize luxury and relaxation, or are you more of an adventurous traveler who plans to spend minimal time at the hotel? Figuring out what you want will help you cut down your options.
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, boutique hotels with personalized services and intimate settings may be ideal. On the other hand, families might prefer hotels with larger rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and proximity to attractions suitable for children.
2. Location is Key
There are a lot of different scenery and environments in Malta, so picking a hotel in the right place is important for getting the most out of your trip. Whether you want to be in the heart of Malta’s vibrant cities or prefer a quieter coastal setting, the island has options for everyone.
- Valletta: Valletta is the capital city of Malta. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has a lot of history, museums, theatres, and big buildings. Staying in Valletta puts you in the middle of cultural landmarks and allows easy access to other parts of the island.
- Sliema and St. Julian’s: These areas are known for their nightlife, shopping, and lively waterfront promenade. If you want to be close to restaurants, bars, and entertainment, this is the place for you.
- Gozo: For travelers seeking peace and tranquility, the island of Gozo offers a more relaxed vibe with fewer crowds. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those looking for rural charm.
- Mellieha: For beach lovers, staying near Mellieha Bay, one of Malta’s largest sandy beaches, might be the best choice. It’s a great location for families and water sports enthusiasts.
3. Consider the Hotel Amenities
When choosing a hotel, it’s important to consider what amenities are most important to you. Malta has a lot of different kinds of hotels, from fancy resorts to cute little inns. Here are some key amenities to consider:
- Rooftop Pools: A popular feature in Malta, especially for hotels in busier areas, is the rooftop pool. If you’re visiting in the summer months, this can be a refreshing way to relax after a day of sightseeing. The be.KINI Rooftop Pool, for example, offers a stunning place to unwind with panoramic views of the city.
- On-site Restaurants: Many hotels in Malta feature on-site dining options for convenience. If you prefer to have meals close by, this is a factor to keep in mind. However, if you’re excited to explore Malta’s culinary scene, being close to local restaurants might be more important.
- Spa and Wellness Services: If relaxation is a priority, check if the hotel offers spa services, including massages, facials, and saunas. This can make your stay feel more luxurious and pampering.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: For families traveling with children, hotels that offer kid-friendly activities, play areas, and even babysitting services can be a great advantage.
- Business Facilities: If you’re combining work and play, look for hotels that offer business services, meeting rooms, or strong Wi-Fi connectivity to ensure you can stay connected.
4. Read Guest Reviews
One of the most reliable ways to assess whether a hotel meets your needs is by reading guest reviews. Websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google Reviews are great resources for honest feedback from previous guests. Pay attention to recent reviews, as hotels can change over time with new management or renovations. Focus on comments that align with your priorities, whether it’s cleanliness, customer service, or proximity to key attractions.
But don’t just trust the number of stars. Dig deeper into the details. A hotel with a high rating might not necessarily be ideal for your preferences if previous guests complain about issues that matter to you, such as noise levels, dated rooms, or a lack of amenities.
5. Set a Budget
It’s important to set a reasonable price before you look for a hotel in Malta. There are many types of places to stay on the island, from cheap guesthouses to high-end resorts. Understanding how much you are willing to spend will help narrow your options.
If you’re on a tighter budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to June or September to October), when prices are lower, but the weather is still pleasant. Many hotels offer special deals or discounts during these periods, which can make a luxury stay more affordable.
For those looking for luxury, Malta’s five-star hotels offer exceptional services, including private pools, personal concierges, and premium dining experiences. On the other hand, boutique hotels and guesthouses often provide a more personalized, intimate stay at a fraction of the cost.
6. Understand Proximity to Attractions
Malta is a small island, but traffic and transportation can impact your daily activities. If you want to minimize time spent traveling, consider staying in a hotel that’s close to the attractions you plan to visit. For example, if exploring Malta’s historical sites is a priority, staying in Valletta or nearby is ideal.
Even though Malta’s public transportation works well if you’d rather explore at your own pace, staying in a hotel that lets you rent cars or has parking can be very helpful. Also, find out if the hotel offers shuttle services to the airport or famous tourist spots.
7. Check the Hotel’s COVID-19 Policies
In the current global climate, it’s important to check a hotel’s COVID-19 policies before booking. Many hotels in Malta have adapted to new health and safety guidelines, offering enhanced cleaning protocols, contactless check-ins, and flexible booking policies. If health and safety are a concern, prioritize hotels with clear and transparent information on their website regarding their measures.
Additionally, flexible booking policies are crucial in case of sudden changes to travel restrictions. Look for hotels that offer free cancellation or the option to modify your reservation without penalties.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hotel for your Maltese vacation can enhance your entire experience. You can find the right place to stay by thinking about how you like to travel, your budget, the amenities you want, and where you want to stay. Whether you opt for a luxury resort with a rooftop pool or a cozy boutique hotel in the heart of the city, Malta offers something for every type of traveler. Remember to prioritize what matters most to you—be it proximity to attractions or relaxation by the be.KINI Rooftop Pool, or family-friendly amenities, and enjoy your unforgettable stay in Malta.
