Late 50's couple heading to Malta in mid-October for a 5-day stay before joining a Med cruise. Wondering if anyone has stayed in Malta and can provide some insight into where to stay (or avoid!) and what to do. Currently debating between Valletta and Sliema for accommodation - both locations have pros/cons, but am leaning towards Sliema. Looking for an upscale hotel (preferably with a pool) with good, local dining options nearby. Also, looking for any 'must do' while on Malta. Will definitely take in Valletta/UNESCO sites as well as local museums/galleries but are there other 'must do's' while on Malta? Thank you!
Posted by
Halifax, NS
342 posts
Malta is fabulous.
I don’t know what your budget is, but the Hotel Phoenicia is very well located.
I also recommend a jeep tour in Gozo.
The village of Marsaxlokk is absolutely gorgeous.
St. Paul’s Shipwreck church is also amazing.
Valletta is gorgeous just to walk around.
Posted by
OP
Victoria BC Canada
4 posts
Thank you KB (Halifax NS) for the recommendations. Just had a look at the hotel (looks great!) but unfortunately my dates are not available. Will definitely check out the tour recommendations you've listed. Thanks again.
Posted by
5567 posts
I gravitated to Valletta for the old world look, but for your hotel preferences, Sliema might be better.
The one thing we missed that I really regretted was the Hypogeum, which requires advance booking.
Aside from the temples, I thought Rabat was interesting--liked the mosaic and catacombs.
I recall the Malta tourism website being very good: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/
Be sure to check for events happening in October: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/events-in-malta-and-gozo/?startD=2024-10-01&endD=2024-10-31/
Posted by
Germany
669 posts
Book the Hypogeum early--if it isn't already too late.
We actually stayed a few days on a boat (the Cutty Jean), and while it doesn't sound like staying on the boat is your speed, he does offer side excursions that might suit you (snorkelling through the smuggler's cave!). We were also there in mid-October.
Most of the hotels and restaurants were in Sliema, and frankly, that was the place I would avoid. I really liked Birgu, but we stayed in an AirBnB that was in an old building in Valletta. It was definitely a good choice for us. Obviously no pool, though.
Check when their Notte Bianca festival is; that is something worth exploring!