Why Malta Should Be Your Top Winter Getaway Destination


Escape the chill of winter by heading to Malta, a haven of warmth and culture in the heart of the Mediterranean. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local traditions, Malta offers an idyllic winter escape. Experience the island’s serene beauty with fewer crowds, explore historical sites in comfort, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of local celebrations.

Pleasant Climate Throughout the Season:

Malta’s mild winter weather is perfect for exploring the grandeur of Valletta and the ancient charm of Mdina without the burden of heavy winter wear. The gentle Mediterranean climate allows for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes along dramatic cliffs to leisurely strolls on secluded beaches. Take advantage of the sunny days with alfresco dining and enjoy traditional Maltese cuisine as you bask in the winter sun. The season is also ideal for boat trips to the enchanting Blue Lagoon or the rustic shores of Gozo.

Peaceful Exploration:

Winter in Malta offers a unique opportunity to explore its historical and cultural sites without the summer crowds. Walk through Valletta’s UNESCO-listed streets and admire the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral, or lose yourself in the timeless streets of Mdina. With fewer tourists, you can appreciate the true essence of Malta’s heritage, enjoy unhurried visits to museums, and take in panoramic views from coastal vistas in tranquility.

Festive and Cultural Events:

The winter season in Malta is rich with cultural celebrations and festive joy. Experience the magic of Christmas with dazzling street lights, traditional ‘presepji’ (nativity scenes), and vibrant holiday markets. As the season progresses, join in the revelry of Malta’s renowned Carnival, celebrated with elaborate parades, striking costumes, and lively street dancing in February. These festivities showcase Malta’s cultural depth and community spirit.

Cost-Effective Travel Options:

Winter also brings the advantage of more affordable travel and accommodation. Enjoy significant savings like a 15% discount at top hotels such as the Grand Hotel Excelsior. Experience luxury at a fraction of the cost, including exceptional dining and convenient access to Malta’s top attractions.

 

Choosing Malta as your winter destination means enjoying a holiday filled with discovery, relaxation, and cultural richness. With its inviting climate, serene landscapes, and festive charm, Malta in winter is a paradise for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

 

Xlendi, Malta

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Where to Stay for the WTTC Global Summit 2026 in Valletta, Malta

Where to Stay for the WTTC Global Summit 2026

The 26th World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit comes to Valletta from 7–9 October 2026, bringing together senior leaders from across the global Travel & Tourism sector.

For three days, Malta’s capital will welcome CEOs, government ministers, investors, tourism leaders and international stakeholders for discussions about the future of one of the world’s most important industries.

If you are travelling to Malta for WTTC 2026, where you stay can make a significant difference to your experience.

With the Summit taking place in Valletta, staying close to the capital means less time spent travelling and more time available for meetings, networking, dining and discovering Malta.

For delegates looking for a five-star hotel close to Valletta, Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta offers a waterfront setting just a two-minute walk from the city’s historic centre, with extensive business facilities and a range of leisure amenities.

Book your stay at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta for WTTC 2026.


Five More Places to Stay Near Valletta

Valletta and its surrounding area offer several accommodation options for WTTC delegates.

Each property provides a different experience depending on whether you prioritise historic city-centre accommodation, boutique design, luxury facilities or proximity to the capital.

The Phoenicia Malta

Located immediately outside Valletta’s City Gate, The Phoenicia is one of Malta’s historic luxury hotels and provides direct access to the capital.

Iniala Valletta

A design-led luxury hotel located within restored historic buildings in Valletta, with views towards the Grand Harbour.

Rosselli – AX Privilege

Located in a restored palazzo in Valletta, Rosselli combines historic architecture with contemporary accommodation and dining.

Domus Zamittello

A historic palazzo in the heart of Valletta offering an intimate accommodation experience within the city.

Casa Ellul

A boutique property located on Old Theatre Street, with a collection of individually designed suites.

For travellers who want to stay inside Valletta itself, these properties provide a city-centre experience.

For those who want close access to Valletta while also having a waterfront setting, outdoor facilities, a private beach and marina, Grand Hotel Excelsior offers a different proposition.


Why Choose Grand Hotel Excelsior for WTTC 2026?

Choosing your hotel for an international conference is about more than location.

You need somewhere that works for the business side of your trip while also giving you the opportunity to enjoy the destination.

Grand Hotel Excelsior brings these elements together.

Two minutes from Valletta

Walk from the hotel to the capital and reach the city’s historic centre without a long daily transfer.

Most venues within 15 minutes

The compact nature of Valletta means that most key venues, restaurants, attractions and meeting locations are within approximately 15 minutes of the hotel.

Waterfront location

Return to the hotel after a busy day and enjoy views across Marsamxett Harbour.

Extensive business facilities

More than 4,000 square metres of conference and banqueting facilities, 14 meeting rooms and large-scale venues.

Private beach and marina

Combine your business trip with a Mediterranean experience that extends beyond the conference room.

Leisure and wellness

Outdoor pool, spa and wellness facilities provide space to relax between meetings or after the day’s programme.

Dining on property

A selection of restaurants and bars gives guests convenient options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and informal meetings.


FAQ: Where to Stay for the WTTC Global Summit 2026

When is the WTTC Global Summit 2026?

The 26th WTTC Global Summit will take place in Valletta, Malta, from 7–9 October 2026.

Is Grand Hotel Excelsior close to Valletta?

The hotel is located just outside Valletta, within easy walking distance of the city centre.

Does Grand Hotel Excelsior offer transport to Valletta?

Yes. The hotel provides complimentary transfers to Valletta city centre every 20 minutes from 09:00 to 20:00.

Is Grand Hotel Excelsior suitable for business travellers?

Yes. The hotel has extensive conference and event facilities, including more than 4,000 square metres of event space and 14 meeting rooms.

What facilities does Grand Hotel Excelsior offer?

The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, private beach area, private marina, spa and wellness facilities, fitness facilities, restaurants and bars.

Is it better to stay inside Valletta or outside the city?

It depends on the experience you want. Staying inside Valletta places you directly within the historic city. Staying at Grand Hotel Excelsior gives you easy access to the capital while providing a waterfront setting, leisure facilities, private beach and marina.

Why stay at Grand Hotel Excelsior for WTTC 2026?

For delegates, the combination of proximity to Valletta, business facilities, waterfront surroundings and leisure amenities makes Grand Hotel Excelsior a convenient base for WTTC 2026.

Isle of MTV Malta 2026

Katy Perry Comes to Malta for an Unforgettable Summer Experience

Every summer, Malta becomes a meeting point for music, culture, and unforgettable Mediterranean moments, and 2026 is set to be one of the biggest years yet.

International pop superstar Katy Perry will headline Isle of MTV Malta 2026 on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, bringing one of the world’s most recognised live performances to the historic Floriana Granaries.

With thousands of visitors travelling to Malta for this spectacular open-air event, Isle of MTV is more than a concert, it is a celebration of summer on the island.

A Landmark Night for Malta’s Music Scene

For years, Isle of MTV has welcomed some of the biggest names in global music, transforming Floriana into one of Europe’s most exciting festival locations.

The 2026 edition promises another unforgettable atmosphere as fans gather beneath the Maltese summer sky for an evening of live entertainment, energy, and world-class production.

Katy Perry’s arrival marks a special moment for the island, with fans expected to enjoy a show filled with iconic songs, vibrant visuals, and the creativity that has defined her international career.

Discover Malta During Isle of MTV Week

A trip to Isle of MTV is also the perfect opportunity to experience everything Malta has to offer.

Spend your days exploring Valletta’s UNESCO-listed streets, discovering historic landmarks, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying Mediterranean dining before the evening celebrations begin.

With warm summer evenings, beautiful coastal views, and a lively atmosphere across the island, July is one of the most exciting times to visit Malta.

Stay Close to the Celebration at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta

Located beside the historic walls of Valletta and overlooking the beautiful Marsamxett Harbour, Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta offers the ideal setting for your Isle of MTV getaway.

Enjoy the excitement of the festival while staying in a peaceful five-star environment just moments away.

Before the show, relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy refreshing drinks by the water, or take in panoramic harbour views. After an unforgettable night of music, return to the comfort and elegance of your room without the stress of long journeys across the island.

A Five-Star Summer Escape

Your Isle of MTV experience does not have to begin and end with the concert.

At Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta, guests can enjoy:

• A unique waterfront location near Valletta
• Outdoor swimming pool and private beach access
• Spacious rooms and suites
• Restaurants and bars with Mediterranean views
• Easy access to Malta’s cultural attractions and nightlife

Whether you are visiting Malta for the music, the sunshine, or a memorable summer escape, Grand Hotel Excelsior offers the perfect base.

Plan Your Isle of MTV Malta 2026 Stay

With one of the world’s biggest pop artists arriving in Malta, July 2026 is expected to be a popular period for visitors.

Make the most of Isle of MTV Malta 2026 by combining an unforgettable festival experience with a relaxing five-star stay overlooking the Mediterranean.

Reserve your summer escape at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta and experience the best of the island.

Malta Is Now Closer Than Ever: Direct Flights from the USA to Malta

Malta Is Now Closer Than Ever: Direct Flights from the USA to Malta

The Mediterranean has long been a dream destination for American travelers. Sun-drenched coastlines, centuries of history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable cuisine continue to attract millions of visitors each year.

Now, Malta is easier to reach than ever before.

With direct flights connecting the United States and Malta, travelers can enjoy a more convenient journey to one of Europe’s most captivating island destinations.

A New Direct Connection to the Mediterranean

Traveling to Malta has traditionally required one or more connecting flights through major European hubs.

The introduction of direct flights from the United States creates a simpler and more comfortable travel experience, allowing visitors to spend less time in airports and more time enjoying their destination.

For the latest schedules and flight availability, travelers can visit Delta Air Lines.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a Mediterranean adventure, reaching Malta has never been more convenient.

Discover Valletta and Beyond

A visit to Malta offers far more than beautiful weather.

Explore the historic streets of Valletta, visit the ancient city of Mdina, enjoy a boat trip around the islands, or experience the vibrant waterfront atmosphere that has made Malta one of Europe’s most exciting destinations.

Food lovers can enjoy a rich blend of Mediterranean flavours, while history enthusiasts can discover thousands of years of heritage shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Knights, and empires from across the world.

Stay at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta

Situated on the waterfront at the entrance to Valletta, Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta offers guests a prime location from which to experience everything the island has to offer.

Wake up to spectacular harbour views, relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy exceptional dining experiences, and explore Malta’s capital city just moments from your room.

Whether you’re visiting for leisure, celebration, or exploration, Grand Hotel Excelsior combines luxury, comfort, and authentic Maltese hospitality.

Explore Our Accommodation

Pink October at the Grand Hotel Excelsior

Standing Together for Awareness and Hope

Every October, the world unites in shades of pink, a symbol of compassion, hope, and strength.
At the Grand Hotel Excelsior, our team proudly joined the global movement in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month through our Pink October initiative.

This heartfelt event brought together colleagues from all departments.



They showed their solidarity by wearing pink and joining a friendly gathering held in front of the staff canteen.
Team members enjoyed delicious homemade muffins, shared smiles, and contributed donations to support breast cancer awareness efforts.

As Tamara Ilić, Assistant HR Manager, shared:

“Pink October is more than just a day of wearing pink, it’s a reminder of compassion, unity, and the importance of awareness. At the Grand Hotel Excelsior, we stand together to support those affected and to spread hope within our community.”

A Culture of Care at Grand Hotel Excelsior

Moments like these remind us how even small actions can make a big difference.
A shared muffin, a kind word, or a symbolic color, each gesture matters.
At the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta, we believe in fostering a culture of care, empathy, and unity.
This spirit extends beyond our workplace and into the wider community.

Together, We Make a Difference

We sincerely thank every team member who took part in this year’s Pink October at Grand Hotel Excelsior.
Your kindness, generosity, and enthusiasm reflect the true spirit of this initiative.
Together, we continue to build a workplace that values compassion and celebrates the strength found in unity.