The 14 Best Places to Live in Malta for Expats and Digital Nomads in 2026
Valletta, Mdina, Sliema, Comino, St. Julian’s (San Giljan), Mellieha, Bugibba, Victoria, Gozo, Birgu (Vittoriosa), Marsaxlokk, Rabat, Qormi and Gżira are the 14 best places to live in Malta for expats and digital nomads in 2026.
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Malta, an island in Southern Europe, is known for its beautiful beaches, slightly hot summers, and mild winters. The booming economy of Malta is highly industrialized, innovation-driven and service-based, and opportunities are plentiful if you possess the right skills.
This Pacific Prime article will introduce you to these top locations across Malta one by one. After carefully evaluating the merits of each of these places, consider your health insurance options to ensure you meet visa requirements and are covered for your life abroad.
Valletta
Valletta is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. From the majestic Manoel Theatre in the heart of Valletta, you can head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens from where you can take in the views of the Grand Harbour. If you’re looking for a different kind of city life, Valletta is your place!
St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a masterpiece of Baroque art with a simple facade but a breathtaking interior, and the entrance arch of St. Augustine Church & Priory is breathtaking. Valletta is also a great place to shop for souvenirs, such as magnets, postcards, T-shirts, and figurines.
With a variety of amenities for digital nomads, such as coworking spaces, high-speed internet, and affordable accommodation, Valletta is a paradise for digital nomads and others who are on remote working arrangements with their employer.
The vibrant city of Valletta, where cafes, restaurants, bars, and cultural venues are all within walking distances, welcomes the fortunate few with open arms!
Mdina
Known as the “Silent City” due to its lack of modern development, Mdina is a peaceful and tranquil place to be. The city is filled with narrow, winding streets, adding to a unique and interesting experience. Spending time in Mdina is like going back in time by centuries.
St. Paul’s Square is home to the Mdina Cathedral Museum, a great place to learn about the history and culture of Malta, offering a variety of exhibits and artifacts as well as guided tours.
The City Walls are another must-see in Mdina and are a great way to explore the city. The walls are well preserved and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. And how can anyone miss the Fontanella Tea Garden with its unforgettable view and setting?
You can explore the city’s hidden lanes and take in the exquisite architectural detail. What’s more, the city is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, great for experiencing the local cuisine and culture. Accommodation in Mdina is also affordable and comfortable.
Sliema
Sliema is a vibrant town with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. From open-top bus tours and historical sites to delicious food and stunning views of Valletta, Sliema has something for everyone.
Get out of bed early and take a relaxed walk along the Victorian seaside promenade and you will see why it is Sliema’s crown jewel. Moreover, Christine X Art (Artitude) Gallery has some of Malta’s top contemporary art pieces, from figural paintings to cityscapes to abstracts.
The Point Shopping Mall is a great choice for the evening, because even though there is only one kind of food available, the fashion, technology, entertainment, homeware, and many more outlets offer shopping variety for all tastes.
Plenty of job opportunities exist in Sliema for expats, including banking, financial services, insurance, telecommunications, travel, and education positions. Its low living costs, good life and air quality, fast internet, low crime, and friendly people make Sliema a choice you will not regret.
Comino
Comino is a small island situated between Malta and Gozo that is a paradise for snorkelers, divers, windsurfers, and ramblers. It is car-free and virtually uninhabited, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The main attraction of the island is the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering aquamarine water over white sand, making it very popular with day-trippers in the summer. You can get to Comino by boat tour from Malta or Gozo, and many tour operators offer day trips or tours to the Blue Lagoon.
You can also choose to take a private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo for a full day of exploration. Once there, you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, explore the Comino Caves, and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Crystal Lagoon is located a bit further south from the Blue Lagoon and is mostly rocky but it is no less a beautiful spot for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
Other attractions include Saint Mary’s Tower, which is a 16th century watchtower built by the Knights of St. John, and Saint Mary’s Battery, which is a fortification built by the British in the 19th century.
St. Julian’s (San Giljan)
St. Julian’s is a popular vacation spot on the coast of Malta that offers a variety of activities and attractions. It is known for its thriving nightlife, luxurious hotels, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs in the Paceville area, where lots of visitors and expats hang out in the evening.
You can explore historical sites such as Spinola Palace, built in 1688, and the Old Parish Church. There are also plenty of beaches and bays to explore, such as Spinola Bay, Balluta Bay Beach, and St. Julian’s Bay.
Are you the adventurous type? If yes, there is the Divewise Center where divers can explore shipwrecks. Additionally, the casino is modern and has the largest floor of all casinos in Malta.
Needless to say, in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Julian’s, job opportunities abound, including positions in digital design, luxury retail, hospitality, and more.
Mellieha
Located in a rural and quiet part of Malta, Mellieha is a popular summer resort for locals and tourists alike. It is home to some of the world’s finest beaches, with plenty of activities, sports, and top-notch accommodations for travelers and expats.
Don’t forget to visit Popeye Village! More than 40 years after it was used as the set for the 1980 film Popeye, it is still one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions. This little village with the characters’ homes, shops, and municipal buildings will no doubt bring back your childhood memories.
Selmun Palace, also known as Selmun Tower, is a villa on the Selmun Peninsula in Mellieha built in the 18th century. During the Maltese rebellion against the French, the villa was a naval hospital of the British. This example of Baroque architecture is now a Grade 1 national monument of Malta.
Bugibba
Bugibba is a village on the northern coast of the main island of Malta and is part of a cluster of villages including Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay. It has a seaside promenade stretching from Salina Bay to St. Paul’s Bay, offering stunning views of the open sea many expats find mesmerizing.
There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore, as well as a variety of beaches and water activities. You can take a boat trip to St. Paul’s Island; explore the Salina salt pans; or take part in a variety of other activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing.
Victoria
Victoria is a great choice if you are after a unique and vibrant culture. The city is home to a number of historical sites such as the Citadel, St. George’s Basilica, and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
There are also a variety of activities and attractions, including full-day private tours of Gozo Island. Victoria is also home to a number of delicious local restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to sample local cuisine.
With its lush countryside, stunning beaches, and picturesque views, Victoria is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Malta. The city is home to a number of cultural events and festivals, such as the Victoria International Arts Festival, which takes place every summer.
Gozo
Gozo is known to provide a tranquil haven for a tempo and scene change. It has a unique charm that is immediately apparent: it’s greener, more rural, and smaller, with life’s rhythms dictated by the seasons, fishing, and agriculture. In Gozo, you can leave the world behind.
With a population of only around 41,000 inhabitants, Gozo is a much quieter place to be compared to the bigger island of Malta.
Here, you can discover the hidden valleys and creeks and wander through the narrow old-town roads to admire traditional Maltese architecture and local life.
The island is rich in historic locations such as the Ġgantija temples, which, along with the other Megalithic Temples of Malta, are amongst the world’s oldest free-standing structures.
Birgu (Vittoriosa)
Birgu, one of the historic Three Cities, welcomes you with its charming narrow streets and centuries-old fortifications. Its rich maritime heritage is evident as you wander past ancient landmarks and traditional Maltese architecture.
Explore the Inquisitor’s Palace, a testament to the city’s storied past, and lose yourself in the winding alleyways that tell tales of bygone eras. In the evening, the waterfront comes alive with a mix of modern cafes and cultural hubs, inviting expats and digital nomads alike.
The gentle rhythm of daily life in Birgu offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary conveniences, ensuring that every visit feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is a picturesque fishing village that bursts with character and vibrant daily life. Its harbor, dotted with colorful luzzu boats, provides a stunning backdrop to the daily bustle of a working fishing community.
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the harbor, where the fresh sea breeze and the lively fish market set the tone for a relaxed day. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at a waterfront restaurant, immersing yourself in the local traditions that have been passed down through generations.
The serene surroundings and the warm, welcoming community make Marsaxlokk an ideal retreat for those seeking a perfect balance between work and leisure.
Rabat
Nestled just outside the ancient walls of Mdina, Rabat offers a fascinating mix of history and modern comforts. The town is home to intriguing historical sites, including the renowned St. Paul’s Catacombs.
During the day, the rich historical tapestry of Rabat unfolds before you as you wander through its storied streets. In the evening, the town transforms, with local eateries and traditional Maltese bakeries offering a taste of authentic cuisine.
Rabat’s blend of historical intrigue and a tight-knit community provides expats with a unique perspective on local culture, all while ensuring a comfortable and affordable lifestyle.
Qormi
Qormi is a town that perfectly encapsulates the heart of Maltese culture. Often referred to as the “City of Bread,” its traditional bakeries fill the streets with the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods. This scent mingles with the lively chatter at the town’s bustling markets.
Annual festivals and local events celebrate Qormi’s deep-rooted traditions, creating a festive atmosphere that is both warm and welcoming. The community’s genuine spirit shines through in every interaction, making it easy to feel at home.
For expats, Qormi offers an authentic slice of Maltese life, where modern amenities meet time-honored customs in a harmonious blend.
Gżira
Gżira is a vibrant coastal town that strikes an ideal balance between urban convenience and seaside serenity. Located just a short walk from both Valletta and Sliema, it provides expats and digital nomads with easy access to the best of both worlds.
The town boasts a dynamic atmosphere with trendy cafes, art galleries, and ample green spaces that invite you to relax and unwind. By day, modern coworking spaces cater to professionals, while by evening, the seaside offers breathtaking views as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Gżira’s blend of modern living and cultural charm make it a highly attractive destination, ensuring that every moment spent here is both productive and inspiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a visa for digital nomads who want to live in Malta?
The Nomad Residence Permit is open to individuals who would normally require a visa to travel to Malta. The permit is issued for one year and can be renewed. This visa provides applicants with the opportunity to work remotely for any employer registered outside Malta for up to one year.
Is English commonly spoken in Malta?
English is commonly spoken in Malta, as it is one of the two official languages of the country. English is a medium of instruction in schools and is understood by a sizable portion of the population.
Who is entitled to free healthcare in Malta?
EU citizens who are permanently residing in Malta are entitled to free healthcare from public hospitals and clinics as long as they have the E121 form. If you’re self-employed or living in Malta on a residence permit, you should secure private health insurance.
How long will it take to become a naturalized citizen of Malta?
Applicants must have lived in Malta with a residence permit for at least seven years before they can apply for citizenship by naturalization. You’ll also need the signatures of two sponsors who are not your relatives to confirm your application.
Conclusion
Malta is a beautiful EU country with a rich history and culture. Job opportunities are also abundant in a variety of industries, such as tech, finance, and hospitality; and, with English as Malta’s official language, finding a suitable job is attainable.
Before you make the move, don’t forget to secure comprehensive international health insurance solutions for yourself and your loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you will be covered no matter what health issue comes up is priceless!
With more than 25 years’ experience in insurance, we have the expertise and insight to tailor a health insurance plan that is just right for your needs and budget. So contact us today for unbiased advice or a FREE plan comparison! Your health is in good hands with Pacific Prime.
If you have enjoyed reading this article, make sure to also read our article on expat living in Hungary. The central European country offers a good standard of living, a healthy environment, plenty of job opportunities, and a low cost of living to boot.
Since joining Pacific Prime, Martin has become even more aware of the gap between the true value of insurance products and most people’s appreciation of it, and developed a passion for demystifying and simplifying matters, so that more people get the protection they need at a cost they can easily afford.
In his free time, Martin attends concerts of various genres, and plays the violin with piano accompaniment he pre-recorded himself or played live by his niece.
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What are some tips for navigating the local healthcare system in Malta as an expat?
To navigate Malta’s healthcare system as an expat, start by understanding the difference between public and private healthcare. While public healthcare is high-quality and free for EU citizens with the appropriate documentation (like an E121 form), non-EU expats typically need private health insurance for full access to care. Securing comprehensive international health insurance ensures you’re covered for all scenarios—contact Pacific Prime for tailored advice and plan comparisons. Get in touch here.
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