Where to stay in Malta

Where not to book by accident

• Paceville, in St Julian's, is the nightlife district and is extremely loud until very late.
• Booking sites describe it as "St Julian's" without distinguishing, and people arrive expecting a seaside town.
• Sliema is calmer, Valletta quieter still, and the Three Cities across the harbour quietest of all.

The season

• July and August are very hot - regularly over 35 C with no relief at night - and the island fills.
• May, June, September and October are the best months by a wide margin.
• Winter is mild, cheap and windy, and a good time for the historical sights.

Practicalities

• A nightly eco-contribution (tourist tax) applies per person, capped per stay.
• Gozo is a different pace entirely and is worth staying on rather than day-tripping.
• Air conditioning is essential in summer - confirm the listing has it.