Malta is a tiny island sitting in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. But don’t let its size fool you. This little country has so much history, beaches and culture to show you.
It’s also a place that means a lot to our family. My in-laws are from Malta, so we’ve been lucky enough to visit many times. Every trip reminds us why we keep coming back.
Malta is full of small villages, beautiful beaches, ancient history (did you know Malta is in the Bible?) and delicious food.
But here’s the tricky part, even though Malta is small, it can be a bit hard to plan if you don’t have a car because the villages are spread out.
So if you’re wondering where to stay in Malta without a car, you’re not alone. You want somewhere walkable, with buses, beaches, restaurants and family friendly things to do.
The good news is there are places to stay where you can totally enjoy Malta without renting a car.
These are our top 3 picks for the best places to stay in Malta without a car based on ease, location and overall experience.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I may receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.
1. Mellieha: Our Top Pick for Where to Stay in Malta Without a Car
If you want the best beaches, views and a relaxed village feel, Mellieha is our number one recommendation.
Mellieha sits on a hill in the north of Malta. At the top, you’ll find a charming town square with a beautiful church. From here, the views of the Mediterranean are beautiful.
Below the village is Ghadira Bay, the largest sandy beach in Malta. It has soft sand and shallow water which is perfect for families.
This is why Mellieha is one of the best answers to where to stay in Malta without a car.
How to Get to Mellieha From the Airport
There are four ways to get from Malta International Airport to Mellieha.
1. Private Shuttle (Best Option for Families)
This is the easiest option, especially with kids and luggage.
You book and prepay in advance and they meet you right at the airport. Also because its a private transfer, there are no stops, just direct to your hotel!
Expect to pay around $55 one way for up to 4 people.
2. Shared Shuttle
This is cheaper than the private shuttle but slower because you’ll share the bus with other travellers. Someone greets you at the airport and shows you where to go.
Cost is about $12 per person.
For a family of four, that’s $48. At that point, the private shuttle often makes more sense.
3. Taxi
Taxis wait right outside the airport so no booking is needed. It’s about a 40-minute drive and the cost is usually $50–$60.
4. Public Bus
This is the cheapest option, but also the slowest. It takes about one hour. But the good news is it’s just one bus, no transfers.
If you’re arriving with kids and luggage, I don’t recommend this option on arrival day.
Where to Stay in Mellieha
Mellieha has two main areas to stay: the village on the hill or right by the beach. Both work well without a car.
Best Hotels in Mellieha Village
Solana Hotel & Spa
A family favourite.
• Rooftop pool with amazing views
• Restaurant on site
• Shuttle to the beach
• Two-bedroom suites for families
Pergola Hotel & Spa
This one is very similar to Solana.
• Rooftop pool
• Restaurant
• Beach shuttle
• Family-friendly rooms
Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa
This one has a more modern feel.
Two outdoor pools
• One rooftop pool
• Incredible views
• Great dining options
Best Beachfront Hotels in Mellieha
If you want to walk straight onto the sand, Mellieha has great options.
db Seabank Resort + Spa
This resort is all-inclusive luxury.
• Located right on Ghadira Bay
• Multiple pools
• Several restaurants with all meals included
• Kids club, playground, games room
You could stay here your entire trip and never need a car.
Ramla Bay Resort
Located on Ramla Bay.
• Beachfront location
• Sunbeds and umbrellas included
• Pool and kids club
• On-site restaurants
It’s quieter and more isolated, but buses run frequently.
What to Do in Mellieha With Kids
There’s a lot to do here, even without a car.
Hit the Beach
Ghadira Bay is the biggest sandy beach in Malta. Ramla Bay and Armier Bay are smaller but also beautiful.
Many hotels offer a free beach shuttle but you can also walk down from the village in about 25 minutes, take the bus or a taxi.
Visit Popeye Village
Have you heard of the famous Popeye movie? It was filmed here right in Malta and they have turned the set into a theme park! The original set is now cute houses and activities.
More recently, they have added an inflatable water park in summer.
Your best bet is to take a taxi which is about an 8 minute ride from Mellieha. Buses do not take you all the way.
Explore the WWII Shelters
This interesting experience is a must-see. Walk through 500 metres of underground tunnels that were dug during World War II.
They’re right in the village, about a 3 minute walk from the main square on a stairway between the streets, Misraħ il-Parroċċa and Triq Il-Marfa.
Take a Ferry to Gozo or Comino
The ferries that take you to the 2 other smaller Maltese islands leave right from Mellieha. Both islands are great day trip options.
One takes you to Gozo, where you will find cobblestone streets, a fortified city, beaches and lots of shops and restaurants.
The other island is Comino, a tiny and mostly uninhabited island which is famous for its blue lagoon, named after its blue waters. A great place for a day of swimming or a snorkelling tour.
Full Day Trip to Gozo, including ferry, tour guide, lunch and hotel pickup/dropoff
2. St. Paul’s Bay: Another Great Place to Stay in Malta Without a Car
St. Paul’s Bay is lively, fun and very family-friendly. You’ll find beaches, restaurants, shops and attractions all within walking distance.
How to Get to St. Paul’s Bay
Transportation options are the same as Mellieha.
• Taxi or private shuttle: 30 minutes (Book your private shuttle here)
• Public bus: about one hour
Where to Stay in St. Paul’s Bay
DoubleTree by Hilton Malta
Located right on Bugibba Beach.
• Indoor and outdoor pools
• Breakfast included
• Comfortable and reliable choice
AX ODYCY Hotel
Perfect for families who love all inclusive resorts.
• Water park
• Kids club
• Multiple dining options
• Walking distance to everything
For Rest Aparthotel
A budget-friendly option.
• Small kitchen
• Close to beach and restaurants
• Great value for families
What to Do in St. Paul’s Bay With Kids
Malta National Aquarium
A hit with all ages. You’ll find sharks, tropical fish, live feedings and expert talks
Pjazza San Pawl Playground
Right beside the aquarium. An underwater-themed playground with ocean views. A great break for kids.
The Beach
Bugibba Perch Beach is perfect for cooling off.
Bugibba Water Park
A splash pad right on the promenade where kids can run around, grab ice cream. There are also restaurants nearby.
Quattro Water Park
An inflatable water park in the sea during summer. Great for older kids.
3. Valletta: Best for City Lovers Without a Car
Valletta feels very different from Mellieha and St. Paul’s Bay.
It’s the capital city of Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major cruise port.
If you love cities, history and walkability, this may be where to stay in Malta without a car for you.
How to Get to Valletta From the Airport
• Taxi or shuttle: 15–20 minutes (Book shuttle here)
• Public bus: direct route available
This is the easiest town to reach by bus as it is non stop.
Where to Stay in Valletta
Palais Le Brun
Luxury in the heart of the city.
• Rooftop pool
• Breakfast included
• Premium location
Avalon Boutique Hotel
More affordable but still central.
• Breakfast included
• Airport shuttle available
• Walkable to attractions
Preluna Hotel (Sliema)
Technically in Sliema, not Valletta. But consider staying here for easier access to the rest of the island as Valletta takes longer to get in and out of. Preluna Hotel offers:
• Long seaside promenade
• Easier beach access
• Close to the ferry terminal to Valletta
Great if you want a city vibe but closer to beaches.
What to Do in Valletta
Walk the Fortified City
You enter the city over a bridge and through massive walls. The architecture is stunning.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
The gardens are free to enter and offer amazing views. Don’t miss the cannon firing daily at 12 and 4.
Fort St. Elmo
This fort right along the waters edge in Valletta is an awesome place to learn about the history of Malta. This fort helped them during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. We were actually quite blown away by the history.
Did you know Malta was the most heavily bombed country in WW11 and they still stand to tell the story!
Malta Fun Train
A 30-minute ride through the city, hitting all the sites. Perfect for the whole family.
Malta 5D Show
History comes alive with moving seats, sound, and special effects. This 5D movie is both fun and educational.
Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Malta Without a Car
You don’t need a car to enjoy Malta.
If you want beaches and a relaxed vibe, choose Mellieha.
If you want family fun and convenience, choose St. Paul’s Bay.
If you love culture and cities, choose Valletta.
Don’t worry what area you choose, public transport is affordable and readily available. There are also options for taxis and private tours to take you where you need to go.
Trust me, once you visit Malta, you’ll want to come back too.
You may also like:
Pingback: 9 Fun Things to do in Malta with Kids - Travel Itineraries with Kids-Family of 4 Adventures