The Best Places to Live in Malta for Expats

As an expat moving to Malta, finding the perfect place to call home is all about discovering the spots that best match your lifestyle and preferences. This guide simplifies your search for the best places to live in Malta, providing clear insights into the unique character of each area. From the culturally rich capital to serene island retreats, we’ll help you pinpoint your ideal Maltese home without overwhelming you with details.

Malta offers a variety of vibrant and tranquil locations for expats. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling nightlife of Sliema and St. Julian’s, the historical charm of The Three Cities, or the serene beauty of Gozo, there’s a place for everyone. Each area has its own appeal, catering to different tastes and lifestyles.

For those seeking a blend of affordability and cultural richness, living in Valletta is an excellent choice. If beachside living and a mix of local and expat communities are more your style, Mellieha and St Paul’s Bay are perfect options, especially if you are looking to work. Meanwhile, areas like Marsaxlokk and Mdina offer a slower pace and an authentic feel, where traditional Maltese lifestyle and history become part of everyday life.

Allow this guide to help you discover the perfect place to live in Malta for your new adventure. If you need a removal service from the UK to Malta, be sure to contact Simpsons International Removals. With many years of experience and extensive knowledge of Malta, we are here to assist you.

1. Exploring Malta’s Expat Hotspots

Malta beckons with its beautiful beaches, Mediterranean charm, and a climate that rivals the best of beach holiday destinations. But where to stay in Malta? That depends on what you’re seeking.

For those drawn to the energy of a thriving nightlife and the convenience of modern amenities, the northern and coastal areas of Sliema and St. Julian’s are a hub of expat activity, albeit at a higher price tag.

Imagine living where every evening promises the excitement of a vibrant nightlife and, every day, the comfort of familiar modernities.

Yet, if your soul yearns for the picturesque former fishing village vibe or a taste of the authentic Maltese lifestyle, then look to the south. Marsaxlokk, with its legendary Sunday fish market, offers expats living in Malta a flavour of local tradition and a slower pace of life. Madliena, nestled between the busy locales, serves as the perfect balance, offering tranquil residential areas within arm’s reach of Malta’s pulsating heart.

2. Valletta – Malta’s Capital Charm

Valletta, the fortified city, is a testament to Malta’s rich history and is the essence of Malta’s capital charm. Living in Malta’s capital city is a daily journey through time, with stunning architecture and cultural events at every turn.

But don’t let the grandeur deceive you; Valletta is a European capital that won’t drain your wallet. Its affordable accommodation makes it a wise choice for expats who wish to experience the opulence of historical Europe without its usual costs.

Ease of movement is key in any modern city, and Valletta triumphs here too. The well-connected public transport system, including buses, taxis, and ferries, means you’re never far from where you need to be.

Add to this the allure of cosy cafes, great restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife, and it’s no wonder that expats are drawn to the lifestyle here. It’s a great benefit of deciding to relocate to

3. Sliema and St Julian’s – The Serene Life

But what if the serene Mediterranean Sea is calling your name? Then Sliema and St Julian’s might be your haven.

Expats here are treated to a lifestyle that balances the thrill of a thriving nightlife in the heart of St Julian’s with the tranquillity of stunning sea views along the promenade.

The area’s sandy beaches and luxury hotels offer a beach holiday experience year-round, with the summer months bringing in a truly electric buzz.

Living in these seaside towns on the main island means embracing the bustling village life, where beautiful country meets beautiful beaches. From spacious rooms in modern developments to charming townhouses that echo the island’s history, the accommodation options are as diverse as they are appealing. And with public transport connecting you to the rest of the island, you might find that owning a car is more of a choice than a necessity.

4. Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua – Embrace History

If your heart beats for history, then The Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—will capture your imagination. Here, the past is not a distant concept but a living, breathing part of everyday life.

The Three Cities is a celebration of Malta’s historical soul, offering a strong sense of community through cultural events like:

• the timeless Easter processions
• historical reenactments
• traditional festivals
• guided tours of historical sites

The real charm lies in the blend of old and new. Expats can find beautifully restored homes that offer a window to the rich history, all the while providing comforts like private terraces with sea views or underfloor heating. And with the scenic ferry services, these walled cities are not just historical havens but also gateways to the rest of the island, including the stunning Grand Harbour.

5. Gozo – Malta’s Sister Island Sanctuary

For those seeking a quieter alternative, the small island charm of Gozo awaits. As Malta’s sister island, Gozo represents a sanctuary of peace, with its rolling hills and neolithic temples offering respite from the hustle of mainland Europe.

It’s the perfect retreat for expats living who wish to immerse themselves in a calmer, more authentic way of life.

The cost of living here is a breath of fresh air, with affordable options that do not compromise on the Mediterranean experience. Imagine renting a furnished apartment with ample space for less than you might pay for a cramped room elsewhere. And with a tight-knit community of around 34,000 inhabitants, Gozo feels more like a family than a place to stay in Malta.

6. Mellieha – For Beach Lovers and Families

Families and beach holiday aficionados, look no further than Mellieha. Here, the largest sandy beach on the island, Mellieha Bay, offers a slice of paradise that’s just perfect for building sandcastles or soaking up the sun. The area combines the allure of a seaside town with the soul of a traditional Maltese village, allowing expats to experience the best of both worlds.

The village’s charm extends to its celebrations, with the feast on the 8th of September lighting up the skies and hearts with its festive fireworks. And for those days when island wanderlust strikes, the Ċirkewwa ferry is just a short drive away, ready to whisk you away to Gozo or Comino for an adventure.

7. St Paul’s Bay – A Blend of Local and Expat Worlds

St Paul’s Bay offers:

• A perfect melting pot of local and expat cultures
• A picturesque former fishing village turned modern city
• Diverse culture and stunning sea views
• Affordable accommodation options, from boutique hotels to private apartments
• Beautiful beaches and the tranquil Mediterranean sea, all within walking distance

The accommodation choices cater to different needs, whether it’s a hotel with a rooftop pool for those lazy summer days or a beachfront apartment for the ultimate Golden Bay experience. And with the bustling village life and vibrant nightlife of St Julian, just a short ferry ride away, you’re never too far from the action.

8. Mdina – The Silent City Retreat

Step into Mdina, and you step into silence. Known as ‘The Silent City’, Mdina offers a retreat from the world’s noise, with its winding streets and historical ambience speaking volumes to those who seek serenity. The accommodation here, while limited, is an experience, placing you in the heart of a walled city that has stood the test of time.

And when you wish to explore beyond the city’s quietude, the surrounding areas like Rabat are just a ride away, offering more bustling atmospheres and attractions. Mdina is not just a place to live in Malta; it’s a sanctuary for the soul.

Are you looking to relocate to Malta from the UK?

As we’ve explored Malta’s diverse locales, each with its unique flavour and charm, it’s evident that this beautiful country offers a wealth of experiences to suit any expat’s dreams. Whether you’re drawn to the urban sophistication of Valletta, the seaside serenity of Mellieha, or the rustic nature of Gozo, Malta’s shores are ready to welcome you home.

At Simpsons International Removals, we specialise in making your move from the UK to Malta seamless and stress-free. Our comprehensive door-to-door service includes everything from professional packing to customs clearance and delivery, catering to both small moves and full household removals with part load and full container shipping options.

Ready to embark on your Maltese adventure? Get an online quote today or visit our European Removals to Malta guide for more information. Let Simpsons International Removals handle the logistics so you can focus on settling into your new home in this Mediterranean paradise.