Holiday in Malta: Hotel or Holiday Apartment?

It’s late August, and the massive wave of tourists in Malta is finally starting to ebb. It’s still busy here, of course—summer isn't quite over yet—but the absolute peak we see in July and early August has passed. I suspect we’ve broken visitor records again this year.

All those holidaymakers need somewhere to stay, making hotels and holiday rentals a massive business here. If you’re planning your first trip to Malta, you’re probably asking yourself the same question: should I book a hotel or rent a holiday apartment?

Hotels in Malta are often part of package deals

A lot of hotel stays here are booked as part of a bundle. Tour operators offer packages that combine the hotel with flights and often English language courses. If you go down that route—as is common with package holidays—you naturally have less say in exactly which hotel you end up in.

Independent travellers have a wider selection, though it often costs a bit more. Malta really does have a hotel for everyone, from budget shared rooms to exclusive luxury resorts. Given the extras many hotels offer—vouchers for bars, casinos, activities, or all-inclusive options—I’d recommend them if you’re just looking to switch off and relax.

Renting a holiday apartment has its perks

Renting a flat comes with the usual benefits. You can cook for yourself and save a bit of cash, though you obviously miss out on the service a hotel provides.

One thing you need to know is that space is at a premium in Malta. A decent holiday apartment isn’t cheap—you should budget for at least €800 to €1,000 a week. You can sometimes find a bargain if you rent directly from locals who are letting out their own summer residences. In my experience, the value for money there is often better than with the big commercial rental agencies.

Ultimately, whether you choose a hotel or a holiday apartment depends on how you like to travel. Hotels are the standard choice here, though they get incredibly crowded in peak season. But if you value service and convenience, you’re still better off in a hotel.