Village or City Life in Malta: Comparing Different Lifestyles for International Residents

The Reality of the Malta Lifestyle: What No One Tells You Upfront

After more than two years in Malta, I can promise you one thing: deciding between village and city living on this tiny 316-square-kilometer island is more complex than you’d expect. While Instagram is full of sunsets in Valletta and dreams of Gozo cliffs, daily life here—involving bureaucracy, waiting for buses, and the hunt for the perfect pastizzi—looks entirely different.

I see every day how international residents sort themselves into three main categories: The “Sun Samplers,” looking for the perfect workation spot over a ten-day stay; the “Mid-Termers,” who test Malta for six months to see if it works long-term; and the “All-In Starters,” who commit for years or even decades.

What unites everyone? The big question: should I settle in one of the buzzing cities, or do I want the authentic Maltese village lifestyle? Spoiler: there’s no catch-all answer. But I can show you the real stories behind the Malta lifestyle promise.

Why Where You Live in Malta Changes Everything

Malta is tiny—at least, in theory. In practice, getting from Valletta to Gozo in rush hour can take an hour and a half. The bus from Mellieħa to Marsaxlokk? Set aside half a day. Where you live here will affect not only your quality of life, but also your social circle, what you spend, and even your health.

I noticed my whole routine changed dramatically after moving from St. Julian’s to the small village of Żejtun. Suddenly the baker knew my name, my rent was cut in half—but grabbing afterwork drinks with colleagues turned into a logistical nightmare.

The Three Malta Lifestyle Types at a Glance

Before we dive in, let me briefly outline the main ways of life here:

• Urban Professionals: Living in Sliema, St. Julians, or Valletta, often working remotely or in gaming/financial services, love the nightlife and international vibe
• Authentic Village Dwellers: Living in traditional villages like Naxxar, Żejtun, or Qormi, seeking true Maltese experience and lower costs
• Coastal Escapists: Settling in coastal towns like Marsaskala, Mellieħa, or Gozo, prioritizing nature and tranquility over city perks

Malta Village vs. City: What Does It Really Mean?

This is where it gets tricky: Malta doesn’t officially have “cities” as we’d define them in Germany. What we think of as urban—Sliema, St. Julian’s, parts of Valletta—are actually local councils with varying population densities and infrastructure.

What Counts as “Urban” in Malta

I consider an area urban if it has a high population density, international infrastructure, and a focus on tourism. These are mainly:

• Sliema: Expat headquarters, with shopping centers, restaurants, and a direct ferry to Valletta
• St. Julian’s/Paceville: The nightlife center, packed with hotels, casinos, and gaming companies
• Valletta: UNESCO World Heritage Site and the seat of government—surprisingly quiet to live in
• Msida: University town with a young, international vibe

What unites these areas: you can more or less survive without a car, services in English are standard, and there’s an established expat community.

The “Real” Malta: Village Life in the Communities

Everywhere else—64 out of Malta’s 68 local councils, in fact—I’d call village or small-town living. Here, you’ll experience Malta as the locals do:

• Traditional Villages: Żejtun, Qormi, Żabbar—strong community bonds
• Coastal Villages: Marsaskala, Birżebbuġa—local beach life
• Northern Communities: Naxxar, Mosta—more space and peace
• Gozo: The sister island—even the “urban” areas feel like villages

The Real Difference: Integration vs. Isolation

After two years here, I can tell you: the biggest difference isn’t infrastructure, it’s social dynamics. In the urban zones, you exist in an international bubble. It’s convenient—but you miss out on the “real” Malta.

In the villages, you’re automatically swept into the community—like it or not. That means: your neighbor brings you Ġbejna (traditional Maltese cheese), but also knows exactly what time you got home last night.

City Life in Malta: Sliema, St. Julian’s & Valletta Reality Check

Let’s be honest: urban living in Malta is always a compromise. You’ll get comfort and an international circle of friends, but there’s a cost—both literally and figuratively.

Sliema: The Expat Capital

Sliema is the classic choice for internationals. Why? Because it simply works—even if you don’t speak a word of Maltese and barely leave The Strand.

The Upsides:

• Everything’s walkable: supermarkets, restaurants, pharmacies, banks
• Direct ferry to Valletta (6 minutes, every 30 minutes)
• English is the language of business—even handymen and doctors
• Well-developed expat networks and international schools
• Good bus connections—even if not always reliable

The Realities:

• Rents from €800–1,500 for 1–2 rooms (as of 2024)
• Tourists everywhere: summer strolls can be impossible
• Parking is scarce and costly (€50–100/month)
• Many buildings are old, poorly insulated
• You live in an international bubble—“Maltese” experience limited

I know Anna, a remote project manager who chose Sliema on purpose. Her reason: “I’d rather pay higher rent than spend two hours on the bus every day.” Smart—if you can afford it.

St. Julian’s/Paceville: Between Business and Party

St. Julian’s is a tale of two cities: on the business side, you’ll find gaming companies; on the Paceville side, it’s the island’s nightlife hotspot. An interesting mix, but definitely not for everyone.

Who will like it here:

• Gaming/iGaming professionals (many offices are walkable)
• Young professionals aged 25–35 who value nightlife
• Short-term residents seeking maximum flexibility

The Downsides:

• Noise until 4am, especially weekends
• Even higher rents than Sliema (€900–1,800)
• Summer overcrowding
• Very little local culture, very touristy atmosphere

Valletta: UNESCO Charm with Practical Challenges

Living in Valletta is like filtering your life through an Instagram lens—gorgeous, but sometimes impractical. The capital offers stunning architecture and rich culture, but day-to-day living can be tricky.

The Magic of Valletta:

• World Heritage atmosphere—you live in a living museum
• Everything is close—Valletta is tiny, all walkable
• Cultural center: theaters, museums, events right on your doorstep
• Less touristy than you’d expect (except on cruise ship days)
• Major bus hub for the island

The Practical Downsides:

• Limited housing options, often small, old apartments
• Steep stairs everywhere—not accessible
• Parking virtually non-existent
• Limited shopping (just one small supermarket)
• Rents start at €700, often lacking modern amenities

Msida: The Insider Tip for Young Professionals

Msida is often overlooked but especially attractive for graduates and young professionals. University of Malta keeps the vibe international and prices more reasonable.

Village Life in Malta: Authentic Everyday Moments in the Communities

The true Malta isn’t found in the expat hotspots, but in the traditional communities. Here, youll see how Maltese people really live—with all the pros and cons.

Traditional Inland Villages: My Żejtun Experience

Only after moving to Żejtun did I fully understand what maltese community means. This village of 11,000 feels central, but it’s its own little world.

What surprises me every day:

• The baker asks about my family—even though I’m German
• Neighbors drop by with pastizzi, unasked
• During the local festa, I’m automatically included
• Handymen speak English—with patience and humor
• My rent is €400, instead of €1,000 in Sliema

The daily challenges:

• Bus to Valletta: 45 minutes vs. 15 minutes by ferry
• Restaurants often close by 9pm
• Spontaneous plans often fail because of bus schedules
• The dating pool shrinks dramatically
• Amazon deliveries take longer—or don’t arrive at all

Coastal Villages: The Best of Both Worlds?

Marsaskala, Birżebbuġa, and St. Paul’s Bay combine local life with tourist infrastructure. An appealing mix, but with its own pitfalls.

Marsaskala: My Pick for Coastal Authenticity

This fishing village has kept its original charm, even though it’s just 30 minutes by bus from Valletta. I spend weekends here and love it every time.

• Real fishing boats in the harbor, not just for show
• Local restaurants with fair prices (€15–20 for a main dish)
• Relaxed beach bars—none of Sliema’s crowds
• Rent 30–40% cheaper than Sliema
• Small, tight-knit English-speaking expat community

St. Paul’s Bay: Tourist-Local Mix With Issues

This is where things get complicated. St. Paul’s Bay offers beach proximity and lower rents, but reality is mixed:

• Seasonal chaos: packed in summer, empty in winter
• Split in two: tourist zone vs. local neighborhoods
• Buses unreliable, especially off-season
• Rents vary by distance to the sea (€500–1,200)

Gozo: The Island-Within-an-Island Experience

Gozo is a story unto itself. Just 30 minutes by ferry from Malta, but a whole different world. I know several Germans who’ve made the leap—with mixed results.

Why Gozo fascinates:

• Pristine nature and crystal-clear water
• Extremely low cost of living (rents from €300)
• Genuine quiet—you can still hear birdsong
• Strong expat community, especially Brits and Germans
• Slow living at its best

Gozo Realities:

• Dependent on the ferry: get stranded in a storm
• Limited medical facilities
• Job options mainly remote or tied to tourism
• Social life mostly within small expat circles
• Shopping choices are very limited

Hidden Gems: Naxxar, Żabbar, and Qormi

These are my secret tips for anyone who wants to experience real Malta without giving up comfort.

Naxxar offers rural calm and good transport. Many Maltese families move here from Valletta “for more green.” Rents are fair (€450–700) and buses to Sliema are fairly reliable.

Qormi calls itself the “City of Bread”—and the bakeries here really are the island’s best. Centrally located, everything is easily reached, and prices are unbeatable.

Żabbar is a great spot for families or anyone looking for peace and quiet. Traditional, but not backward—and well connected to the rest of the island.

Practical Differences: Costs, Infrastructure, and Daily Life

Now for the real details. After more than two years, here are the real numbers and practical differences you need to know.

Cost of Living—Direct Comparison

The difference between city and village living is even bigger than you might expect. Here are my personal figures:

Note: these figures are my 2024 experience. Inflation hit Malta hard—prices were 20–30% lower two years ago.

Infrastructure & Services—What Works Where?

Service quality varies hugely depending on location. Here’s my honest take:

Internet and Digital Services:

• Urban: Fiber available, 200+ Mbps standard, several providers
• Village: Often only DSL, 30–50 Mbps, GO Malta monopoly
• Gozo: Unreliable, outages in bad weather

Healthcare:

• Sliema/St. Julian’s: Private clinics, English-speaking doctors, short distances
• Valletta/Msida: Mater Dei Hospital (public) walkable—but long waits
• Villages: Local clinics, but for specialists you’ll go to town
• Gozo: Basic care okay, emergencies mean a ferry to Malta

Shopping:

• Urban: Supermarkets, pharmacies, international products
• Village: Small shops, limited choice, early closing times
• Gozo: Grocery shopping is an expedition

Transport: Your Daily Battle or Your Everyday Luxury?

Getting around will fundamentally affect your quality of life here. The unvarnished truth:

Public Transport (Buses):

Maltas bus system is… challenging. I always double Google Maps’ suggested time.

• From Sliema: Direct buses everywhere, every 10–15 minutes
• From Valletta: Main hub for all routes, but often crowded
• From villages: 1–2 buses per hour, often with transfers
• To Gozo: Bus + ferry + bus = at least 90 minutes

Car: Necessity or Luxury?

After two years without a car, I can say: in Sliema/Valletta, you don’t need one. Anywhere else, it’s tough.

• Purchase: Used cars from €3,000, but quality varies
• Insurance: €400–800/year, depending on age and type
• Parking: €50–100/month in the city, free in most villages
• Fuel: about €1.40/liter (2024)

Social Life and Getting Connected

The social side is radically different between city and village:

Urban areas:

• International expat groups on Facebook, Meetup etc.
• Bars and restaurants as meeting points
• Easy but surface-level contacts
• High turnover—many people stay only briefly

Villages:

• It takes months to settle in—but then, it’s genuine
• Church community as social hub (even if you’re not religious)
• Local associations: soccer, band clubs, festa organizers
• Neighborhood help is a given

My tip: In Sliema, you’ll make friends fast—though the relationships are often shallow. In village life, it takes longer, but the connections go deeper.

Which Malta Lifestyle Fits You Best?

After hundreds of conversations with international residents, I’ve noticed some clear patterns. Let me help you pinpoint what suits you best.

The Quick-Start Urbanite: Sliema/St. Julian’s Is Your Thing

You fit here if:

• You plan to stay only 1–2 years
• Your total living budget is over €1,500/month
• You work remotely or in gaming/finance
• Spontaneity matters more than saving money
• You value international contacts over Maltese culture
• Nightlife and restaurants matter to you
• You’d rather not have a car

Your typical day: Coffee at Dolce Vita Café, mid-day call from a St. Julian’s coworking space, afterwork drinks with other expats, dinner-hopping along The Strand.

Example persona: Anna, 29, remote project manager from Berlin. Three months’ workation, €2,000/month budget, wants to get the most out of Malta.

The Authentic Experience Seeker: Traditional Villages

You belong here if:

• You plan to stay min. 6 months or several years
• Sticking to a budget matters
• You want a truly Maltese cultural experience
• You’re looking for community and deeper connections
• You’re willing to adapt and have patience
• You’re fine with a car (or well-organized with transport)
• You value authenticity and peace over pure comfort

Your typical day: Breakfast at the local bakery (they know you by now), work from home, lunch pastizzi from the family snack bar, evening walks through village streets, weekends at the local festa.

Example persona: Luca, 34, UX designer from Italy. Planning a 1–2 year trial, working remote, wants to really get to know Malta and save money.

The Balanced Coastal Dweller: Coastal Villages as a Middle Ground

This might be for you if:

• You want both sea and community
• Your planned stay is 6 months to 2 years
• You’re flexible with seasonal ups and downs
• Your budget is €1,200–1,800/month
• You love the outdoors
• You’re okay with compromise on infrastructure

Your typical day: Morning jog along the coast, work from a café with a sea view, lunch swimming, evenings at the beach bar with a mix of locals and expats.

The Slow Living Enthusiast: Gozo or Remote Villages

Gozo is for you if:

• You work fully remote or are retired
• Quiet and nature are top priorities
• You can live with limited infrastructure
• Your budget is very tight (under €1,000/month)
• You’re independent and well-organized
• A small expat scene is enough
• You plan to stay at least a year

Decision Help: My 4-Week Test

Unsure? Try my proven system:

1. Week 1–2: Live in Sliema/St. Julian’s—sample the urban side
2. Week 3: Test a traditional village (my tip: Żejtun or Naxxar)
3. Week 4: If possible, try a coastal village or even Gozo

After four weeks, you’ll know what you love. I’ve seen this with several friends—results are often surprising.

The Most Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Mistake #1: Underestimating transport headaches

Many Germans underestimate just how tough daily commuting can get. Try a day without a car from your dream location—and not only when the weather’s nice.

Mistake #2: Overestimating your adaptability

You think you want “authentic” Malta, but after two weeks with no English-speaking doctors or international supermarkets, you long to return to Sliema? Be honest with yourself first.

Mistake #3: Only seeing the sunny side

Instagram doesn’t show you the 45-minute bus ride to the nearest Ikea, or the frustration when the only village shop closes at 6pm.

My Honest Recommendations After 2+ Years in Malta

Two years in Malta taught me: there’s no one perfect place—but there is a place that fits your current life stage. Here are my plain-talking recommendations for different situations.

For Your First Malta Stay (1–3 Months)

My clear advice: start in Sliema or Msida

Even if you plan to settle in a village later—keep your first stay simple. There’s already enough on your plate with paperwork, opening a bank account, and getting your bearings. Sliema has all the infrastructure you need for a smooth start.

Why not go straight to a village?

• You don’t know any local contacts yet
• Dealing with authorities is simpler from the city
• You’ll need international connections for tips and advice
• You’ll want a retreat if Malta gets overwhelming at first

For Longer-Term Stays (6–24 Months)

Now it’s personal. My recommendations by type:

Remote workers with healthy incomes:

• #1: Marsaskala—coastal town with a community
• #2: Naxxar—quiet, yet well connected
• Hidden gem: Lija—upmarket, very safe

Budget-conscious digital nomads:

• #1: Żejtun—my personal-tip
• #2: Qormi—central & affordable
• Adventurous?: Gozo (but only with a car!)

Young professionals (Gaming/Finance):

• #1: Gżira—between Sliema and Valletta
• #2: Msida—university vibe, affordable
• Party type: St. Julian’s (but find a retreat afterward!)

For Long-Term or Permanent Residents (2+ Years or More)

Now it’s about quality of life, not just convenience:

Families with children:

• Top pick: Attard—school hub with parks
• Alternative: Balzan—quiet, family-friendly, good schools
• Budget option: Żabbar—traditional but child-friendly

Affluent retirees:

• Luxury pick: Mdina—historic, exclusive
• Seaside dream: Mellieħa—sand, sea, peace
• Tax-saver: Gozo—lowest cost of living

Entrepreneurs and high-net-worth:

• Business hub: Ta Xbiex—marina, prestige
• Lifestyle pick: Sliema Premium—the very best
• Investment tip: Valletta—capital appreciation guaranteed

My Top 3 Surprises After 2 Years

Surprise #1: Valletta is more relaxed than expected

I thought Valletta would be touristy. Wrong! The residential streets are peaceful, the community is mixed, and culturally it’s unbeatable. The flat search, however, can be tough.

Surprise #2: Gozo works better than I thought

With a car and good internet, Gozo is much more liveable than I imagined. The expat community is small, but tightly connected. But: it’s not for everyone—definitely test first.

Surprise #3: Neighborly help in villages is real

I was skeptical about Maltese hospitality. Wrongly so! In Żejtun I now know more neighbors than I ever did in 10 years in Berlin.

My Insider Tip for 2024: Malta’s Undervalued Middle

While everyone flocks to Sliema or dreamy villages, many overlook the “boring” towns like Birkirkara, Santa Venera, or Ħamrun. These places offer:

• Cheap rents despite central location
• Authentic Maltese atmosphere—without isolation
• Very good bus connections
• Local infrastructure without tourist prices
• Real neighborhood communities

If I had to choose again, knowing what I do now, I’d probably go for Birkirkara. Central, authentic, practical—but forget the sea view and Instagram factor.

Final Thoughts: Malta is What You Make of It

After two years, I assure you: every place in Malta can work—if it fits your lifestyle. The biggest disappointments I see come from people who pick a place that “looks good on paper” but doesn’t suit them in reality.

Malta’s too small to make big mistakes, but big enough for all kinds of lifestyles. Give yourself time, try out different areas, and trust your instincts—not just practical arguments.

And remember: you can always move. Malta is tiny—even the “biggest” relocation adds just 30 minutes to your commute. But choosing right from the start saves you a lot of stress and money.

Frequently Asked Questions

As an EU citizen, can I live anywhere in Malta without hassle?

Yes, as an EU citizen you’re legally allowed to live anywhere on the island. The real differences are in the availability of rental properties for foreigners, and occasional language barriers in more traditional communities.

How much cheaper is life in Maltese villages—really?

Savings are significant: rent is 40–60% lower, restaurants 30–50% cheaper, daily groceries 20–30% less. All told, expect to save €500–800/month compared to Sliema living.

Is a car really mandatory in the villages?

Not strictly, but highly recommended. Bus service exists but is unreliable and time-consuming. Without a car, budget an extra 1–2 hours daily for getting around.

How good is internet outside the main cities?

Most villages get 30–50 Mbps DSL, and newer areas may have fiber. Gozo is more problematic with frequent outages. For remote work, it’s generally fine; for streaming/gaming, it can be borderline.

Are there any hidden costs to village life?

Mainly transportation: taxi rides (€15–25 per trip), increased reliance on a car, and you may need to pay extra for specialist tradespeople to come to you (€20–50 surcharge). Still, it’s usually cheaper than city life overall.

How difficult is it to integrate into Maltese village communities?

Usually 3–6 months if you participate in village life. Church events, local bars, and festa preparations are the best entry points. Basic Maltese helps, but isn’t essential.

Are there cultural differences across Malta’s regions?

Definitely. The north is more touristy and international, the south is traditional and family-focused, and Gozo is unique, with strong local pride. Each region has its own festa traditions and social structures.

How does healthcare compare between city and village?

Cities offer private clinics, English-speaking doctors, and short wait times. Villages have local clinics but you’ll travel to town for specialists. Emergencies are well covered everywhere.

Can non-Catholics take part in village life?

Absolutely! Most activities are cultural, not religious. Festa celebrations, band clubs, and sports clubs are all open to everyone. Respect for local traditions is appreciated, but you’re not expected to be actively religious.

When’s the best season to move within Malta?

September to November: good weather, fewer tourists, more housing available. Avoid July/August (hot, packed, expensive) and December/January (rainy, many services close).