Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean ocean, and it is known for its beautiful architecture. It has influences from previous ruling nations such as the Romans, French, British, Moors, and the Knights of Saint John. This island country is an exciting place to visit, and there are lots of fun things to do in Malta once you’re there.
The climate is hot and dry in the summer with cool short winters, making it a fantastic option for digital nomads and expats. English is widely spoken, allowing a comfortable transition when visiting or relocating.
The island country is small and has only 51 cities, but all of them are great options to visit, which can be confusing when planning to go to Malta. We have narrowed the list down to the top 10 cities which we would recommend for expats, digital nomads, and tourists.
Read more: Interested in visiting another popular European island? Take a trip to another Mediterranean jewel with a fun-filled itinerary for Sardinia.
Best Places to Live in Malta for…
- Expats: Valletta
- History Lovers: Mdina
- Shoppers: Sliema
- Groups: St. Julian’s (San Giljan)
- Beach Lovers: Mellieha
- Families: Bugibba
Top 10 Places to Live in Malta
1. Valletta
Best Place to Visit for Expats
Cost of Living: $$
Valletta is the capital of Malta and a UNESCO-listed city known for its rich history dating back to the 1500s. It is one of the smallest capitals in Europe. There are lots of museums, royal palaces, and churches to see, showcasing the most beautiful architecture.
Tip: Visit the Barrakka Gardens, a public garden in Valletta with beautifully kept gardens.
Who Would Like to Live There: History lovers, expats, digital nomads.
Pros:
- Beautiful historic architecture
- Great weather.
- High living standards
Cons:
- Densely populated
- No nightlife
- Inadequate public transport systems
2. Mdina
Best Place for History Lovers
Cost of Living: $$
Known as the “silent” city since there are no cars, Mdina offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can walk around and see the beautiful medieval architecture. A true delight for those interested in ancient civilizations and who love to get some low-key cardio in while they’re at it.
Tip: Visit the Mdina citadel, a popular historic location.
Who Would Like to Live There: History lovers
Pros:
- No cars, so there is no traffic
- Peaceful
- Beautiful medieval architecture
Cons:
- Lots of tourists
- Public transport is not on time
- Not many activities
3. Sliema
Best Place for Luxury
Cost of Living: $
Sliema is a resort destination with a long promenade that is perfect for walks and sightseeing. There are no beaches, but the destination has other qualities that make it a great place. It is known as a commercial hub in Malta, offering various amenities and shopping options ideal for a session of retail therapy.
Tip: Visit the Plaza shopping center for an exclusive shopping experience with stores of various international brands available to delight shoppers.
Who Would Like to Live There: Shoppers, digital nomads, expats.
Pros:
- Availability of unique shops
- Great variety of bars and pubs
- Beautiful historic buildings and sites
Cons:
- Traffic congestions
- Densely populated
- No beaches
4. St. Julian’s (San Giljan)
Best Place to Live for Groups
Cost of Living: $$
A seaside town known for its beaches and party atmosphere, it is a perfect destination for groups. It is also a wildly popular expat destination where many people have moved and now call their permanent home.
Tip: Visit Paceville, a popular party district known for its vibrant nightlife.
Who Would Like to Live There: Groups, party lovers, digital nomads.
Pros:
- Vibrant nightlife
- Great hotels
- Fun water sports activities
Cons:
- Overcrowding
- Lots of trash
- Loud noises due to nightlife
5. Mellieha
Best Places to Visit for Beach Lovers
Cost of Living: $$
A resort village for tourists with beautiful beaches and nature. The town is at the top of a hill, allowing for picturesque views over the area.
It is the perfect place to have a beach day, relax in the sun, and let your troubles melt away.
Tip: Visit Mellieha Bay, the longest beach in Malta.
Who Would Like to Live There: Beach lovers, expats, digital nomads.
Pros:
- Nicest beach in Malta
- Beautiful countryside views
- Laid-back destination
Cons:
- An hour’s drive from the airport
- Not much nightlife
- Steep hills all over
6. Bugibba
Best Place for Families
Cost of Living: $
Bugibba is a small town near the coast in the Northern regions of Malta. It also has rich historical architecture
The town offers lots of amenities like hotels, restaurants, and museums. There are also lots of family friendly activities in the town, making it perfect for a family vacation.
Tip: Take the kids to the Malta National Aquarium for a memorable marine life experience.
Who Would Like to Live There: Families, Digital Nomads.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced
- Great hotel and resort options
- Close to public transport routes
Cons:
- Beaches are not the best
- Difficult to find a parking spot
- Busy atmosphere
7. Qawra
Best Place to Visit for Solo Travelers
Cost of Living: $
Qawra is a quiet seaside village in the northern parts of Malta. The town and Bugibba blend into each other, creating a similar experience to the latter. Just like most parts of Malta, Qawra is blessed with historical architecture.
Tip: Go snorkeling at Ta Fra Ben beach and enjoy the beauty of the coral reefs.
Who Would Like to Live There: Solo Travelers, Digital nomads.
Pros:
- Vibrant nightlife
- Quieter than other parts
- Intersects with Bugibba
Cons:
- Not as interesting as other places
- Beaches are rocky
- Limited parking space
8. Marsaxlokk
Best Place for Foodies.
Cost of Living: $
A fishing town well known for its colorful boats that create a beautiful sight when having drinks in the harbor. The small town of 4,000 residents has some of the best fish on the island and is definitely the place to get some fresh seafood.
Tip: Visit the market on Sunday for the catch of the day.
Who Would Like to Live There: Foodies, expats, digital nomads.
Pros:
- Nice open-air markets
- Great food, especially fish
- Small local population
Cons:
- Sundays are busy and overcrowded
- Summers can be hot
- Plastic pollution in water
9. Victoria (Rabat)
Best Place for History Lovers
Cost of Living: $$
Victoria is a town sitting in the center of Gozo, an island that forms part of Malta. It is known as a citadel from medieval times and the capital of Gozo. It features various historical sights and architecture from medieval times.
Tip: Visit the Gozo cathedral to experience a breathtaking 17th-century location with beautiful paintings and infrastructure.
Who Would Like to Live There: Solo Travelers, Digital nomads.
Pros:
- Beautiful historical infrastructure
- Safe
- Slow pace
Cons:
- No beaches
- Not part of the main island
- Not much else to do
10. Birgu (Vittoriosa)
Best Place for Explorers
Cost of Living: $$
Birgu is the oldest of The Three Cities, which refers to a part of Malta with three fortified cities built around the Grand Harbour.
An ancient town with over 3,000 permanent residents. The town is a quiet one known for its rich architecture and history. It’s truly a history lover’s delight.
Tip: Take a walk and explore Fort St. Angelo. It is Birgu’s most popular attraction and an interesting glimpse into history.
Who Would Like to Live There: History lovers
Pros:
- Rich history to explore
- Quieter than other towns
- Nice restaurants and hotels
Cons:
- Not much to do
- Overcrowded
- Pollution