Malta’s beautiful capital city makes for a perfect mini-break: it’s rich in history, with two harbours, wonderful Baroque architecture, and plenty of churches and museums to explore. The warmth of the climate is matched by the warmth of the hospitality extended by its friendly residents, and there’s a host of excellent restaurants in which to enjoy delicious Maltese cuisine, including some first-class fish and seafood. Best of all, since the walled city measures a mere 0.24 square miles, all this is within walking distance of your hotel.
So, where to stay?
The city offers endless elegant boutique hotels, each with their own character and quirky surprises. Many of the magnificent buildings have their baroque architecture still intact, and lean heavily in on historical atmosphere, while others have interiors which have been restored and updated to the point of being entirely of-the-moment.
High-design aesthetics are combined with luxe comforts like high-tech, modern bathrooms, designer furniture and espresso machines. Rooftop pools abound, while soothing spas provide ample opportunity for relaxation. Full of historical character, and with views out over the city’s rooftops, the harbour or its narrow streets, the hotels of Valletta promise to deliver an experience you won’t soon forget.
If you’re looking for a resort experience, you cannot beat the stunning Phoenicia Malta, set beside Triton’s Fountain at the gateway to the fortified city. Grandeur, elegance, opulence and a calm, restful ambience; this iconic hotel has it all, combining luxury with style, and a standard of service that’s way above the norm.
Bedrooms are bright and understated; the best come with balconies and city or Grand Harbour views, whilst rooms looking out towards Floriana feel rooted in the hustle and bustle of the city.
Follow a relaxing morning in the Deep Nature Spa with afternoon tea in the restored Palm Court lounge. Come evening, enjoy a cocktail or two in the Club Bar before heading to one of the city's restaurants, all minutes away.
If you are after a hotel which is a little more personalised and characterful, book a stay at Palazzo Consiglia. This hotel is a wonderful example of the elegant boutique townhouses Valletta is renowned for. It is set on the edge of the Old Town, with its maze of narrow, palazzo-laden streets, so expect little or no traffic, some quirky shops and lively bars.
The 13 beautifully appointed bedrooms have a modern feel, whilst remaining sympathetic to the integrity of the original construction of this historical building. Luxuriate in the basement spa or make a splash in the rooftop pool, before heading out to dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
ION - The Harbour - Michelin Star
If it’s a restaurant with a view you’re after then head to this stylish spot on the 4th floor of the Iniala Harbour House hotel, whose terrace has a stunning vista over the Grand Harbour. The classically trained kitchen offers plenty of locally sourced fish and seafood alongside dishes like rack of suckling pig with boudin noir and lardo. The wine list offers plenty of depth, with an interesting selection by the glass.
Noni - Michelin Star
Titled after the nickname of chef-owner Jonathan Brincat, Michelin-Starred Noni offers two different dining spaces: a calm ground floor and a livelier stone-walled cellar. Fresh, great quality seasonal ingredients are showcased in eye-catching, well-balanced dishes which bring an original, modern approach to traditional Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine.
Under Grain - Michelin Star
Grain Street’s elegant, Michelin-Starred older sister is found in the basement of the Rosselli Hotel, and features a vaulted stone ceiling and dark, moody décor, with quirky, sewing-related details inspired by the street’s former tailor shops. Cooking focuses on classic Mediterranean dishes, which come with clear, well-balanced flavours and a creative, modern edge.
Grain Street - Bib Gourmand
This smart, brightly decorated restaurant serves snacks and charcuterie, pasta, regional meats, locally caught fish and tasty, old-school desserts. Dishes are designed for sharing and cooking is generous yet refined, with Mediterranean flavours and discreet touches of originality. Attentive, friendly service from staff who are proud to share their knowledge adds to the experience.
Rubino - Bib Gourmand
Unashamedly traditional Maltese fare is served alongside Italian dishes at this heartwarming, historic bistro, which is set on a narrow road in the Old Town. It’s a deservedly busy spot, which is personally and proudly run, and timeless classics like fenek moqli or gurbell al cartoccioare are authentically presented, great value and full of flavour.
59 Republic
Set in a great location on St George’s Palace Square, overlooking the historic Grandmaster’s Palace; alternatively head down the steep, narrow stone steps to a table in the cosy, vaulted basement. Hearty, generous dishes are masculine in style and full of flavour: try the smoked duck risotto, the baked lobster or the signature beef Wellington.
Aaron´s Kitchen
This welcoming bistro is located down a small side street in the historic heart of the city and is frequented by locals and tourists alike. Good quality ingredients are used in traditional Maltese dishes like aljotta or stuffat tal-fenek, as well as Mediterranean dishes with Italian leanings, such as tagliatelle frutti di mare or veal chop with pistachio pesto, parmesan crust and creamed mushrooms.
Aki
Admire the gold sculpture at the entrance by local artist Austin Camilleri before choosing a cocktail from the bespoke menu. The vibe is stylish and every table has a view of the chefs in action in the open kitchen, so settle in and enjoy carefully prepared, Asian-inspired dishes like beef tataki, miso cod, soft shell crab futomaki or a nigiri platter to share.
Guzé
This charmingly rustic cellar bistro features a carefully balanced menu which offers both tradition and modernity in a mix of Maltese and Mediterranean dishes. Local produce is used to create generous, flavourful plates like wild boar pappardelle with truffle cream or lamb rump and sweetbreads with minted string beans. Friendly and attentive service completes the picture.
The Harbour Club
This unusually set, intimate restaurant – which offers delightful views over the Grand Harbour – was originally built in the 18C as an ice house. Like the restaurant itself, the ambitious, modern menu offers something a little different, since each of the well-presented, creative dishes has a story behind it. The house pasta is a must-order.
