Most Luxurious Part of Malta: Top Areas and Updates for 2026

Malta is one of the EU’s gems, with many luxurious spots that offer a touch of culture, opulence, rich history, and more. There are three main Islands and many other islets in Malta. As we enter 2026, Malta’s tourism sector continues to thrive, building on the record-breaking 3.56 million visitors in 2024 and over 3.79 million in 2025, according to the National Statistics Office.

Projections for 2026 suggest exceeding 4 million tourists, driven by new luxury developments, enhanced connectivity, and its recognition as a top destination by outlets like Vogue. This growth underscores Malta’s appeal as a Mediterranean haven, blending ancient heritage with contemporary luxury. With sustainable tourism initiatives and new high-end openings, Malta remains a prime spot for discerning travelers seeking exclusivity and elegance.

Malta is open to everyone, including investors, entrepreneurs, tourists, and so on. The environment or country is very easy to understand how things are done. The standard of living is high, and there are low taxes, pristine beaches, museums, etc. Here is a list of what makes the luxurious part of Malta;

St Julian’s

The two neighbouring towns that make up St Julian’s, the best place to stay in Malta, are Mdina and Rabat. If you want to find out about ancient memories of the island, then visit Mdina and Rabat. There are also fine restaurants, cool nightlife, chic boutiques, luxurious residences, and waterfront cafes to visit. This place is indeed a place with luxury living.

Make sure to enjoy yourself while touring St Julian’s. In 2026, St Julian’s has solidified its status as Malta’s premier luxury hub, with the Hilton Malta undergoing recent renovations to include state-of-the-art spa facilities and infinity pools overlooking Spinola Bay. The area’s nightlife has evolved with exclusive rooftop bars like those at the Malta Marriott Resort & Spa, offering panoramic views and signature cocktails.

High-net-worth individuals are drawn to upscale residences in Paceville, where property values have risen 15% since 2024 due to demand for sea-view penthouses. For foodies, Michelin-starred restaurants such as Noni and Bahia provide innovative Mediterranean fusion cuisine, emphasizing local ingredients like Gozitan cheese and fresh seafood. St Julian’s also hosts luxury events, including yacht shows and fashion weeks, making it a year-round destination for opulent experiences. Whether strolling along the promenade or indulging in private boat charters, St Julian’s epitomizes modern Maltese luxury.

Sliema

Sliema is just a stone’s throw from St. Julian’s. This place is for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle. You get a clear view of the Mediterranean Sea, penthouses, designer apartments, bars, clubs, shopping centres, and many luxury places to visit in Sliema. The nightlife is sweet, comfortable, and sophisticated. By 2026, Sliema has enhanced its allure with new boutique developments, including eco-friendly designer apartments featuring smart home technology and private terraces.

The Tigné Point area boasts high-end shopping at The Point, Malta’s largest mall, with brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton expanding their presence. Waterfront dining has elevated, with venues like Piccolo Padre offering al fresco meals with stunning Valletta views. Sliema’s promenade, stretching over 5km, is ideal for leisurely walks or cycling, now complemented by electric scooter rentals for a touch of convenience. For wellness enthusiasts, luxury spas at hotels like the AX The Palace provide treatments using Maltese honey and olive oil.

The area’s connectivity has improved with faster ferry services to Valletta, reducing travel time to under 10 minutes, perfect for day trips. Sliema’s blend of urban sophistication and seaside serenity continues to attract international buyers, with real estate reports showing a 20% increase in luxury property transactions in 2025.

Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Valletta has many things and places to enjoy, like the culture, foods, drinks, art galleries, skylines, boutique hotels, and luxury residents . All these things and places make it a better and more captivating place to visit. However, there are various things to do and places to go in Valletta when you visit, like the beautiful Hastings garden, Lascaris War Rooms, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and many more. In 2026, Valletta shines brighter with new additions like the Romègas Hotel, a 500-year-old palazzo transformed into a luxury retreat with a rooftop pool and Michelin-guided dining.

The MICAS (Malta International Contemporary Art Space), which opened in 2025, features rotating exhibits from global artists, drawing culture aficionados. Boutique hotels such as Iniala Harbour House offer bespoke suites with harbor views and private butlers. The city’s baroque architecture, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its Caravaggio masterpieces, pairs seamlessly with modern luxuries like electric carriage tours. Food scenes have evolved, with De Mondion at The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux earning accolades for its fine dining. Valletta’s compact size—walkable in an hour—makes it ideal for immersive experiences, from sunset cruises to exclusive opera nights at the Manoel Theatre, Europe’s third-oldest working theater.

Central Castello

Attard, Balzan, and Lija are villages that make up Central Malta. There are nice villages where you can stay to get to know Central Castello. It offers a serene environment, delicious cuisine, a rich history, hotels, restaurants, wine bars, and lots more. Central Castello is a place to visit for luxury in Malta. Updated for 2026, Central Castello has seen a surge in prestige with the opening of Casa Bonavita in Attard, an 18th-century palazzo turned luxury hotel by The Rug Company founders, surrounded by fragrant gardens and offering personalized wellness retreats.

The area’s historic villas, like Villa Bologna with its pottery workshops, provide cultural depth. Fine dining at spots like The Villa in Balzan highlights seasonal Maltese produce, while wine bars in Lija feature tastings from local vineyards like Meridiana. Serenity is key here, with low tourist crowds allowing for private garden tours and cooking classes. Infrastructure upgrades, including better public transport links, make it accessible yet exclusive. Central Castello’s charm lies in its balance of tranquility and sophistication, appealing to those seeking a refined escape from busier coastal areas.

The Three Cities

Birgu, Isla, and Bormla are like neighbourhoods. You can explore these cities on foot. Staying in a hotel or waterfront and visiting the museum and others are part of the luxurious experience. Although it may not have the best amenities and plenty of tourist attractions, you can enjoy the historic culture, cuisines, panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, streets, and quiet atmosphere. Visitors are allowed anytime and any day. In 2026, The Three Cities have embraced luxury yachting, with Vittoriosa’s marina hosting superyachts and offering private charters through Grand Harbour.

Boutique stays like Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour provide restored 16th-century accommodations with infinity pools. Cultural highlights include the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu, now with interactive exhibits on Knights of St. John history. Dining has upscale options, such as Tal-Petut with its farm-to-table approach. The area’s cobbled streets and fortifications offer photogenic walks, enhanced by e-bike rentals. Despite fewer crowds, it’s gaining popularity for its authentic vibe, with 2025 visitor numbers up 12%, per NSO data.

In Malta, there are so many activities that you can do to enjoy your visit or stay. Read on to find out interesting things to do in Malta. To find the best rental properties in these locations, Sunscape Properties will be happy to help.

Best Things To Do In Malta

To make sure you enjoy and don’t miss out on anything in Malta, here are things to do;

Stroll through Valletta

Valletta remains the capital city of Malta. You can walk through the streets of Valletta on foot to get the best view of the city. The buildings are historic, and the best place to find history is the National Museum of Archeology. Make sure to explore this beautiful city. In 2026, enhance your stroll with guided audio tours via apps, highlighting hidden gems like the Auberge de Castille.

Visit the Beach

The beaches in the three Islands are spectacular. The water is clean for swimming, and divers and sailors are easy to find there. Ramla L-Hamra beach is a unique place to visit. The best time to visit the beaches is April to October. For luxury, opt for private beach clubs at Golden Bay, now featuring cabanas and butler service at Radisson Blu Resort & Spa.

Swim At The Blue Lagoon

The most popular place in Malta is the Blue Lagoon. The turquoise water makes it very attractive, too. The best time to visit this Blue Lagoon is either early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds so you can enjoy paddling in the water and stunning caves. In 2026, eco-friendly boat tours limit crowds, preserving the site’s beauty.

Visit the Silent City of Mdina

Mdina is called the Silent City. It was the country’s capital before it was later moved to Birgu and now to Valletta. It was a home for many wealthy people. However, it should be a place to visit to explore and know more. Today, Mdina offers luxury horse-drawn carriage rides and fine dining at Medina Restaurant.

Luxury Experiences in Malta 2026

Beyond the classics, 2026 brings elevated adventures. Indulge in helicopter tours over the archipelago, landing at private vineyards for tastings. Spa retreats at The Phoenicia Malta incorporate ancient Roman-inspired therapies. For adrenaline, dive sites like the Blue Hole in Gozo now feature luxury liveaboards. Fine dining peaks with multi-course meals at Under Grain, paired with Maltese wines. Explore Gozo’s salt pans via e-bike, followed by picnics with local cheeses. Yacht charters from St Julian’s marina allow island-hopping in style. Cultural immersions include private access to Hypogeum temples. Sustainable luxury is trending, with eco-lodges in rural areas offering stargazing and farm stays.

Conclusion

Malta has a lot to offer when it comes to luxury. Just follow the guide on where and what to do to enjoy your visit. Finally, reach out Shortzzz for the best shortlet apartments in Malta. In 2026, with new hotels and record tourism, Malta’s luxurious parts blend history and modernity for unforgettable escapes.

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Disclaimer: This article offers general information on luxury destinations in Malta. Travel plans should consider current advisories, and we do not endorse specific services. Consult official sources for updates. NetworkUstad is not liable for any decisions based on this content.