Where to stay in Malta without a car (2024)
Top Picks, Hotel Recommendations & Information on Public Transport
Are you looking for the best place to stay in Malta without a car?
I stayed in the village of In-Naxxar, close to Mdina, during my last visit and I did not have a rental car.
A fantastic hotel (Chapel 5 Boutique Suites B&B), but not the best location if you are depending on public transport and want to explore as much as possible on individual day trips.
If you’re planning your holidays in Malta without a car, I recommend staying in Valletta. Alternatively, you should consider Sliema, St. Julians or St. Pauls Bay, depending on how you want to spend your vacation.
Read on for details about the recommended areas. I’ll explain why I suggest these specific places to stay in Malta without a car and provide hotel recommendations that are easily accessible by public transportation.
Best place to stay in Malta without a car
Where to stay in Malta without a car depends on the type of vacation you are planning, your general interests and the length of your stay.
Here you will find a brief overview of which place is best for whom and why.
| City/Region | Best Suited For | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Valletta | Sightseers, History, art and culture enthusiasts | Pedestrian-friendly layout, numerous cultural and historic sites, excellent public transport links |
| Sliema | Shoppers, Foodies, and leisure travelers | Vibrant shopping district, lots of dining options, scenic promenade with easy ferry access to Valletta |
| St. Julian’s | Nightlife & Party People, Younger travelers | Hub for entertainment and nightlife, beachside restaurants, and bars, good bus connections |
| St. Paul’s Bay | Families, activity-seeker | Family-friendly beaches, lots of water activities, near lovely natural spots |
Where to stay in Malta without a car
I would like to point out that it is certainly possible to get around Malta without a car. Anyhow I recommend a rental car for this island if you intend to visit as many possible of Maltas most beautiful places.
This is different when exploring Malta’s little sister, where in my opinion, no rental is necessary to see all of what beautiful Gozo has to offer.
1. Valletta
For my first visit in Malta without a car, I chose to stay in Valletta: Best choice ever and my absolute recommendation if you do not want to have a car for your holidays.
The capital city is not only the administrative heart, but also rich of historical and cultural sights, with public transport access to every corner of the island.
That makes Valletta perfect for a first visit, a short stay and for everyone like me, who is not too much into beaches but more into exploring as much as possible in a limited time frame.
Easy Airport Access
Valletta’s close proximity to Malta International Airport (only about 10km / 6mi away) is a big plus for the car-free traveler. The commute from the airport is a breeze with regular buses, taxis, and shuttle services taking you to the city center in no time.
Public Transport Hub
Valletta is the focal point of Malta’s public transport network, with buses heading to all corners of the island. The city acts as a gateway to the entire island.
The big bus terminal connects you with the sandy beaches in the north, such as Golden Bay, the picturesque villages in the south like Marsaxlokk (famous for its fish market), and everything in-between.
From the Grand harbor you have ferry connections to Gozo, to the tree cities and neighboring coastal towns as well as tours departing to the Blue Lagoon on Comino.
Cultural Hotspot
A stroll through the streets of Valletta is like walking through a living museum, rich in history and art.
At the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral, alongside many different museums and galleries, such as my favorite:
The National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo, which not only tells the story of Malta’s storied past, but also offers great views of the impressive, buzzling harbour.
Valletta is a veritable showcase of sights for the eager visitor. Stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens for breathtaking views, explore the halls of Casa Rocca Piccola or soak up the grandeur of the Grand Harbour.
Don’t forget to visit the historic Three Cities across the water, each with its own stories and architectural wonders.
⭐⭐⭐
Casa Lapira
✅Quit location in the historic old town
✅10 walking minutes to ferry and bus
✅Affordable
2. Sliema
Ideal for shoppers and leisure travelers, Sliema offers excellent connectivity and amenities without needing a car.
Seaside Promenade
Sliema’s promenade offers spectacular views across the water to Valletta and is ideal for leisurely strolls or enjoying a sunset. The area is dotted with cafés and gelato stands, providing a perfect seaside experience.
Shop and Dine in Style
The heart of shopping in Malta, Sliema offers everything from high-street brands to unique local boutiques. A wide variety of dining options ensures that everyone finds something to enjoy, from quick bites to elaborate meals overlooking the sea.
Excellent Accommodations
With a range of accommodations from luxury hotel, over boutique hotel to cozy guest house, Sliema appeals to all budgets. Many are near shopping centers, restaurants, and transport links, making it a convenient choice for travelers without a rental car.
Public Transport Accessibility
Sliema is well-connected by Malta’s public transport system, with frequent bus services linking it to Valletta and other major tourist spots. The Sliema Ferry also offers regular services to Valletta, providing a scenic route across the harbor.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amery House
✅Quit location, 100m from Promenade
✅Fantastic breakfast included
✅Bus station close by
3. St. Julian’s
St. Julian’s is the perfect choice for young travelers, nightlife & party people seeking vibrant evenings and well-connected accommodations.
Nightlife Hub
Known for its vibrant nightlife, St. Julian’s is home to numerous nightclubs, bars, and pubs, making it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy Malta’s social scene.
Beachfront Relaxation
St. George’s Bay is perfect for a day at the beach, with its well-equipped facilities and waterfront establishments offering food and drinks.
Culinary Delights for Foodies
St. Julian’s is a culinary hotspot with a range of dining options from traditional Maltese to international cuisines, all showcasing fresh, local ingredients.
Public Transport Accessibility
St. Julian’s offers excellent bus connections that make traveling easy and convenient. Buses run regularly to major attractions and transport hubs, including direct routes to Valletta and Sliema.
⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Scirocco St Julian’s
✅Quit location in the town center
✅Bus station close by
✅Bike rental and seasonal outdoor pool
4. St. Paul’s Bay
Ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat, St. Paul’s Bay offers a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to Malta’s natural attractions.
Due to its frequent bus and boat connections, I would choose St. Paul’s Bay after Valletta for a place to stay in Malta without a car.
Family-Friendly Beaches
Known for its calm waters and leisurely atmosphere, St. Paul’s Bay offers a safe and enjoyable beach experience for families and those seeking a quieter holiday.
Adventure and Recreation
The area is perfect for water sports, exploring Malta’s nearby natural highlights and also offers attractions like the Malta National Aquarium. Nearby boat services provide tours of Malta’s stunning coastline, to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon.
Relaxed Atmosphere
Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of St. Paul’s Bay, with its scenic walks and local dining, offering a glimpse into the traditional Maltese way of life.
Public Transport Accessibility
St. Paul’s Bay, located in the north of Malta, is serviced by a network of buses that provide easy access to Malta’s major towns and attractions located in the north and central island areas. It is one of the main ports for excursions to the famous Blue Lagoon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Park Lane Boutique Aparthotel
✅Roof terrace w/ pool & panorama view
✅Opposite bus station Bugibba
✅Good value for money
How to get around Malta by public transport
Getting around Malta without a car is generally easy, thanks to the island’s good public transportation system.
The island has a good bus network connecting Valletta with major towns, beaches, and attractions. Malta Public Transport provides regular service across the island.
My experience using the buses in Malta: Bus connections are generally good on paper but they are not very reliable. During my week relying on the island busses, I did not experiened one bus that was on time (mostely around 15min late). Additionally the buses were always packed and sometimes even passed stations without stopping as there was no space left for additional travelers.
My tip: If you are traveling by bus in Malta and Gozo for a week, you should definitely buy the Explore Card. For 7 days of unlimited bus travel, you only pay €21.00 per person for both islands. Since I traveled by bus every day, the Tallinja Explore Card quickly paid itself off. Info: Any Malta Gozo ferry service is not included.
FAQ’s
Can I get around Malta without a car?
Yes, you can get around Malta without a car. The island has a good public bus system that reaches most towns and attractions. Additionally, services like taxis and ride-sharing are readily available.
Which part of Malta is best to stay in?
In my opinion, Valletta is the best area to stay in Malta, especially for convenient access to public transport and nearby sights. Its central location makes it easy to explore the rest of the island, and you’ll find plenty of historical and cultural attractions right on your doorstep.
Is it better to stay in Valletta or Sliema?
Valletta is best for history and easy access to major sites, while Sliema offers a modern atmosphere with great shopping, dining, and nightlife. Choose based on your preference for cultural depth or a lively urban experience.
Is there Uber in Malta?
No, Uber is not available in Malta. However, you can use alternatives like Bolt and local taxi services for convenient transportation around the island.
Where to stay in Malta without a car for couples?
For couples visiting Malta without a car, staying in Valletta is an excellent choice. It’s a romantic and historic city with easy access to public transport, allowing you to explore the rest of the island conveniently.
Where to stay in Malta without a car for first time visitors?
For first-time visitors to Malta without a car, staying in Valletta is highly recommended. It’s the capital city, centrally located with excellent public transportation links, making it easy to explore other parts of the island.
Conclusion
Malta offers a variety of locations and destinations that cater to different preferences and needs when traveling and exploring the island without a car.
Whether you choose the historic capital city of Valletta, the bustling streets of Sliema, the vibrant nightlife of St. Julian’s or the family-friendly atmosphere of St. Paul’s Bay, each area offers its own character and convenient transportation options.
Remember to consider your Malta itinerary, travel goals and the type of vacation you desire when choosing your base to ensure a memorable and hassle-free stay.
