Malta Hostels for Digital Nomads

 

Malta is an attractive destination for digital nomads, offering excellent internet, a growing number of co-working spaces, and a vibrant expat community. Popular areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s provide easy access to work-friendly cafes, the beach, and nightlife. The island’s Nomad Residence Permit allows remote workers to stay long-term, making it a great base for EU and non-EU citizens alike. The cost of living can be moderate to high, depending on the area, but the Mediterranean climate and rich history make it an appealing work-life balance destination. With stunning beaches and a lively social scene, Malta offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation after work.

Nomad Score: 8/10 ・ Cost of living: $2700/month ・ Internet speed: 150 Mbps

Spinola Stays – Standard Suite

Eldoris Boutique Living – Deluxe Double Room

South Wind Guesthouse – Deluxe Double Room

Fort40 Guest House – Queen Room

The Sliema Suites – Standard King Room

 

This guide will help you enjoy Malta as a digital nomad, offering the perfect blend of productive work environments, a vibrant social scene, and stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Mediterranean:

1. Internet and Connectivity

  • Wi-Fi: Malta has excellent internet connectivity, with fiber-optic broadband widely available in most parts of the island. Cafes, co-working spaces, and accommodations usually offer reliable Wi-Fi, making it easy for digital nomads to work remotely.
  • Mobile Plans: Providers like GO, Epic, and Melita offer affordable prepaid SIM cards with 4G/5G coverage. These plans can be purchased easily at local stores, and data plans are affordable and reliable.

2. Co-working Spaces

Malta has a growing number of co-working spaces, particularly in business hubs like Sliema, Valletta, and St. Julian’s:

  • Tribe: A well-known co-working space in Gzira, offering a modern workspace with a vibrant community and flexible membership plans.
  • Regus: A global co-working chain with multiple locations around the island, including in St. Julian’s and Valletta, offering professional work environments.
  • The Hub: Located in St. Julian’s, it’s a smaller, quieter co-working space perfect for freelancers and startups.
  • SOHO Office Space: Found in Gzira and St. Julian’s, SOHO provides a range of flexible workspaces and facilities for digital nomads.

3. Cost of Living

  • Accommodation: Malta can be relatively expensive compared to other European digital nomad destinations. A one-bedroom apartment in popular areas like Sliema or St. Julian’s can cost around €900–€1,500 per month. More affordable options can be found in areas like Gzira or Msida, with rent starting around €600–€800 per month.
  • Food: Eating out is moderately priced, with meals at casual restaurants costing between €10–€20. For groceries, supermarkets like Lidl, Greens, and Valyou offer a range of affordable products.
  • Co-working: Monthly memberships for co-working spaces typically range from €150 to €300, depending on location and amenities.

4. Where to Stay

  • Sliema: A popular area with digital nomads, Sliema offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces. It’s also close to the coast, making it easy to enjoy beach life after work.
  • St. Julian’s: Known for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to the business district, St. Julian’s is a great area for those looking for a more lively environment.
  • Valletta: The capital city, known for its historic charm and stunning architecture. It offers a more cultural experience and is a quieter option compared to Sliema or St. Julian’s.
  • Gzira: An affordable area located between Valletta and Sliema, Gzira is a great option for digital nomads looking for cheaper accommodation but still wanting access to the island’s hotspots.

5. Transportation

  • Public Transport: Malta’s public transportation system is primarily based on buses, and it’s quite affordable. A Tallinja Card offers discounts for frequent travelers, with single bus rides costing around €1.50–€2.
  • Ferries: The ferry between Valletta and Sliema is a popular and scenic option for getting around, costing only €1.50 per ride.
  • Taxis & Ridesharing: Services like Bolt and eCabs are widely available and affordable for getting around the island.
  • Walking: Many areas, particularly around Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, are walkable, with scenic promenades along the coast.

6. Work-Friendly Cafes

  • Mint Café: Located in Sliema, this cafe is popular with digital nomads for its great coffee, healthy food options, and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Caffe Berry: Known for its specialty coffee and quiet setting, it’s a good spot for remote work sessions.
  • Busy Bee Café: Found in Msida, it’s a spacious cafe offering reliable Wi-Fi and a comfortable environment for working.
  • Costa Coffee: Located in multiple locations across Malta, it offers fast Wi-Fi, plenty of seating, and a quiet work-friendly environment.

7. Visa and Legal Information

  • Malta Digital Nomad Visa: Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit, allowing non-EU digital nomads to live and work remotely from Malta for up to a year. Applicants must prove a monthly income of at least €2,700 and be employed by a non-Maltese company. The permit is renewable and is a great option for long-term stays.
  • Schengen Visa: EU and Schengen area citizens can live and work freely in Malta, while non-EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days visa-free within a 180-day period.

8. Networking and Community

Malta’s growing digital nomad scene makes it easy to connect with fellow remote workers:

  • Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com and Facebook groups host regular events for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and digital nomads. There are also tech and startup events frequently held around Valletta and St. Julian’s.
  • Expat Groups: Join Facebook groups like “Malta Expats” or “Digital Nomads Malta” to meet others and stay informed about local events and opportunities.
  • Co-working Events: Many co-working spaces, such as Tribe and SOHO, host networking events, workshops, and social activities to bring together digital nomads and local professionals.

9. Local Attractions and Leisure

  • Beaches: Malta is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Popular spots like Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and the Blue Lagoon (in Comino) are perfect for relaxation and water activities.
  • Valletta: Explore the capital city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks, such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
  • Mdina: The ancient walled city of Mdina, also known as the “Silent City,” is a must-visit for its medieval streets and panoramic views of the island.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Malta is a diving paradise with its clear waters and underwater caves. Scuba diving centers around the island offer trips to famous dive sites like the Blue Hole in Gozo.

10. Health and Safety

  • Healthcare: Malta has an excellent healthcare system, with both public and private facilities. Non-EU residents should have private health insurance, while EU citizens can access public healthcare using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
  • Safety: Malta is considered very safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.

Bonus Tips

  • Weather: Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. The summer months can get very hot, so it’s advisable to avoid midday sun and stay hydrated.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Maltese people are friendly and English is widely spoken, making it easy to communicate. Learning a few basic Maltese phrases can be appreciated, though it’s not essential.
  • Sustainability: Malta is an eco-conscious destination, so consider using public transport or walking whenever possible, and be mindful of water and electricity usage, as these resources can be limited.