What is the best area to stay in Valletta?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023
Valletta, the tiny capital of Malta, is a city full of history that is worth the visit no matter the time of year. In the year 1980, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site as one of the densest historical areas in the world. With its natural ports and views of the Mediterranean Sea, you have the perfect destination to get lost in for the weekend.
The best area to stay in Valletta is the historic centre. The centre of Valletta houses its most important attractions; St John's Co-Cathedral, a jewel of Baroque architecture, the Upper Bank Gardens and the National Museum of Archeology, located in one of the most beautiful buildings of the capital. From the centre also leave the ferries for another one of the must visit in Malta, the three cities (Cospicua, Senglea and Vittoriosa).
The main streets of the historic centre are Merchant Street and Republic Street, this is where you can find a wide offering of restaurants and shops. The only two disadvantages of staying in the centre of Valletta is that it can be busy in the summer and that taxis are not able to get to the hotel door.
Situated on the other side of the bay, north of Valletta, we find the beautiful coastal town of Sliema. Sliema has a wider range of hotels than Valletta and is famous for its promenade - The Ferries - where you can enjoy a wide range of bars and restaurants, as well as the spectacular sea views.
Just north of Sliema is the town of St. Julian's, one of the favourite destinations for tourists visiting Malta, and a good choice for accommodation near Valletta. With a wider selection of hotels than Valletta, St. Julian’s is a favourite beach destination for young people, as are Balluta and St George's. In addition to that, there’s great nightlife in the Princeville district.
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