Where to Stay in Malta
Malta can be so different depending on where you stay. I learned this by moving around the island over the last four years.
I spent my first year in Gzira and the next three years in Gudja (central Malta), before settling down in Kalkara.
I’ve lived in all three (the urban, the “far-off” and the historic) types of Malta and wrote this blog to help you find the area that makes sense for your holiday, workation or semester.
Expat areas Gzira & Sliema
Living in Gzira means your favourite morning coffee place is next door and you’re basically living metres away from a waterfront.
Most jobs are around here (at least the iGaming and fintech ones). And the uni isn’t far (in Msida).
Socialising is easy. Ta’ Xbiex (a few minutes from Gzira) has many bars that organise after-work drinks.
Of course supermarkets aren’t far. You have Lidl and Wellbee’s in Sliema and a couple of Daves or Convenience Stores every few blocks. Also, bus connections are pretty good here and you have the Sliema to Valletta ferry.
I recently wrote a blog on finding affordable flats in this area: Working remotely in Malta: Gzira & Sliema
Gzira Waterfront at sunset
Three Cities and Kalkara
This is where I live now. The Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, Bormla) and the neighbouring village of Kalkara are so different to Gzira and Sliema!
They’re kind of preserved in their historic state, especially when it comes to architecture. The Planning Authority (for construction permits) kept a little more discipline and (thank God) did not allow ugly skyscraper to be built here.
You have many restaurants by the sea and the entire flair is sort of maritime. Lots of boats, but also super yachts are anchored here.
If you want to find out more about the Three Cities, here are some of our shots.
Northern Malta
In the North you have Mellieha Bay (Malta’s longest sandy beach) which feels a bit like a summer beach resort all year long.
But there is also an old town further uphill. I usually spend my time at the coffee places and restaurants near the main church.
In the North you also have Mgarr, a rural village surrounded by fields and strawberry farms :-)
From here you can quickly get to beautiful beaches like Golden Bay or Gnejna Bay.
I would recommend the North only if you come for a short holiday. Not if you’re here for a semester at uni or if you start a job that is based in the Gzira/Sliema areas. It is just too far off and you would loose time in traffic.
Gnejna Bay at sunset
Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk
In the South you generally choose between two main spots for your stay: Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk.
Marsaskala has a long promenade which is perfect for morning runs or evening walks. And two minutes by car you have the beautiful St. Thomas Bay.
Here, people go for their swim or rent a Kayak. And then have dinner at one of the seaside restaurants (e.g. Zion).
Marsaskala townhouse
Traditional luzzu in Marsaskala
Marsaxlokk has a different character. The waterfront is a real harbour which is still being used intensely by the fishers and their (not so small) boats.
If you are looking for the best (authentic!) fish restaurants, then this is the place. You basically have dinner by the water and the fish was caught in the morning.
Same as for the North: The South is a good choice if you come for a short holiday. If you stay long-term it may be a little far off from the places you need to commute to (e.g. the office or uni).
St. Julian’s
Miami vibes in Paceville, St. Julian’s
Now let’s talk about St. Julian’s ;-) If you love clubs and bars and luxury hotels, then this might be your place. Beware it can be loud and traffic-heavy though.
I would only recommend it if you come for a party holiday!
In the end, there is no "best" area. It all depends on your taste and how much culture, nature, architecture or party you want to experience on the island…
Author: Bjorn
Updated on 18/9/2026