Planning a trip to Malta's captivating capital? Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has transformed from an accommodation desert into a hub of stylish places to stay. With its narrow, stepped streets and glowing limestone facades, this smallest capital city in the world offers incredible wanderability between towering bastion walls and azure sea.
From Luxury Palazzos to Boutique Charm
The city's historic houses and palazzi, originally built by the Knights of St John Hospitaller, have been beautifully converted into accommodation ranging from grand colonial hotels to intimate B&Bs. While Valletta's popularity has driven prices upward, particularly during peak season, winter visits offer more affordable options. Everything within the city walls remains within walking distance, making it perfect for a city break or as a base for exploring Malta.
The Independent's Top Valletta Hotel Picks for 2025
The Phoenicia Malta represents colonial grandeur at its finest. Located just outside the city walls, this Art Deco gem features spacious gardens, pools, and impeccable service. Imagine Princess Elizabeth dancing with Philip in the ballroom – history comes alive here. Rooms start from £273 per night.
Casa Rocca Piccola offers a unique opportunity to stay in Valletta's last still-lived-in palazzo. This 16th-century house museum, home to a modern Knight of Malta, features extraordinary historical artefacts and spacious B&B rooms. The courtyard garden includes a WWII shelter and a resident parrot.
Palazzo Consiglia cleverly incorporates hotel facilities into its 13-room boutique setup. The original courtyard features a retractable roof, while the centuries-old chapel serves as the breakfast room. Rooms start from £214, with particularly friendly staff creating a welcoming atmosphere.
SU29 brings personality and humour to Valletta accommodation with eight completely different rooms. From the classic room with its traditional gallarija balcony to the Fitness Suite complete with punchbag, this hotel offers unique character just around the corner from Upper Barrakka Gardens. Prices begin at £120 per night.
Domus Zamitello, a 17th-century Knights' palazzo, offers butler service and a prime roof terrace overlooking Valletta's main thoroughfare and the striking modern parliament building. Still owned by the family that received it in 1805, rooms feature traditional decor with cream, green, and gold colour schemes from £184.
Exceptional Dining and Luxury Views
Rosselli Hotel stands out for food lovers, housing the Michelin-starred Under Grain restaurant overseen by a Maltese head chef. The smart boutique hotel includes a bright covered courtyard, roof terrace, and plunge pool, with rooms starting from £209.
Saint John Hotel provides a more affordable alternative to Rosselli, sharing the same front desk and quality breakfast at lower prices. Contemporary rooms feature mock-industrial design touches, with rates from £153 per night.
Iniala offers unparalleled luxury and spectacular Grand Harbour views from Barbara Bastion. This ultra-designer boutique hotel features contemporary art and houses ION by Simon Rogan, Malta's only two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Prepare for premium prices from £336 per night.
66 Saint Paul combines 17th-century palazzo architecture with contemporary design, featuring a retractable roof over the original limestone courtyard. The roof terrace offers harbour views and a plunge pool, with 24/7 reception and personal service from £132.
The Coleridge provides an intimate house-like experience with just five individually characterful suites. Combining Maltese limestone with designer murals and antique furniture, this converted townhouse offers traditional gallariji balconies and particularly friendly service from £175.
These hotel recommendations come from The Independent's expert travel writers who have personally visited and evaluated each property for location, facilities, service, and overall experience, ensuring exceptional stays for all types of travellers to Malta's delightful capital.
