Valletta, Malta

Where to Stay

Valletta typifies luxury. With its picturesque harbour setting and striking architecture, it’s no surprise that the Maltese capital has a myriad of stunning five-star accommodation. There are also plenty of low- to medium range hotels, often offering much better value for money than their mainland Europe counterparts. Book well ahead, though, as Malta is a real tourist hotspot, and trying to book into spring and summer can prove difficult. 

In style

Few five-star hotels can match the Grand Hotel Excelsior (Great Siege Road, Floriana, +356 2125 0520  www.grandhotelexcelsior.com.mt) for sheer grandeur. Perched on the edge of the sea, it overlooks both Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island and oozes opulence. No expense has been spared, with every aspect of the hotel crafted to near perfection.

Dramatic yet stylish architecture, perfectly landscaped gardens surrounded by Valletta’s centuries-old bastion walls and a beautifully designed outdoor pool – a lake, you could say – combine to create a truly unique luxury experience.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior’s central location means that travelling to the nearby islands is relatively simple, with many offering a wide range of recreational activities. Modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities abound, with services such as Wi-fi available. Complete with spas and saunas, the hotel also offers beauty and massage treatments. 

It boasts a diverse array of restaurants – five, in fact – offering traditional Maltese cuisine, as well as international, Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Expect to pay 150 euros for a standard double and 200 euros for a deluxe.

On a budget

The Alexandra Hotel (Schreiber Street, St. Julian's, +356 2135 1151, www.alexandrahotelmalta.com) is a peaceful oasis in one of Valletta’s most thriving districts and offers outstanding value for money. A three-star hotel, it’s a four star at heart. Located on the edge of St. Julian’s vibrant city-centre, its stunning interior belies its rating.

Family run, its laid-back ambience is refreshing. What’s more, its location means nothing is too far away. The heart of St. Julians is a five-minute walk, while St. George’s beach and Siliema are both easily accessible. Rooms are comfortable, elegant and spacious with a range of facilities on offer. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are also superb – the former featuring a scrumptious menu; the latter offering delectable cocktails.

Ask the friendly staff about deep-sea diving off Malta’s majestic coastline, or bask in – or on the edge of – the Alexandra’s two large freshwater pools. Expect to pay 38 euro for a single room or 45 euro for a double.