Valletta For Digital Nomads: Our Guide

The Mediterranean island of Malta is quite literally a paradise on Earth. Its capital Valletta has become a famous digital nomad destination over the recent years due to numerous reasons.

Digital nomads have found this island to be perfect for a laptop lifestyle, thanks to its affordable cost of living and pleasant weather.

Let’s evaluate different aspects of Valletta and discuss what it’s like to live there as a digital nomad.

Where is Valletta located?

Valletta, the largest island and capital city of Malta is located in the central Mediterranean Sea. With the Grand Harbour to the east and Marsamxett Harbour to the west, Valletta is situated on the northwest coast of Malta.

Fact: Did you know that Malta used to be a part of Spain and Italy until it gained independence in 1964?

Why Choose Valletta as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons

Before you make any commitments, make sure to weigh down the main pros and cons of Valletta. Much like every other place, this island also has its fair share of flaws. Take a look below to learn all about them.

Pros	Cons
Year-round warm weather	Limited nightlife activities
Affordable cost of living	Traffic
Friendly locals	Poor healthcare system
Reliable wifi	Overcrowded
Vibrant culture
Visa options
Natural beauty
Rich history

As you can see, Valletta’s cons are limited yet somewhat influential. However, if you are willing to look past them, you’ll be guaranteed to have an unforgettable time. The island is filled with rich history, historic architecture, natural beauty, and a vibrant atmosphere. You are merely a flight away from the beauty that is the island of Valletta.

How to Get to Valletta?

Unfortunately, Valletta doesn’t have its own airport. There is only one airport in Malta; the Malta International Airport which is located about 8km away from the city center. Once you have landed there, here’s how you can get to Valletta.

By a bus

Malta has a good and well-developed bus network that connects to Valletta among other destinations. Route X1 operates from early morning to late evening and takes you to the capital. Bus travel also happens to be the most affordable option as it only costs a couple of euros.

By Shuttle

Shuttle services are also available to take you to the city center from the Malta airport. However, note that shuttles make various stops and drop passengers at their spots before your turn comes. A simple journey can take 50-60 minutes if you are traveling via shuttle.

By taxis

Taxis are a great way of getting to the city from the airport. Not only are they readily available but efficient and quick as well. If you want a convenient form of transport after a long flight then this is the best option for you. However, cabs tend to cost more than the former options.

By ferries

In addition to road travel, you can also get to Valletta by boat. There are multiple ferry services available in Malta that can take you to the capital in a short amount of time.

By car

Lastly, you can drive your own car or a rental into Valletta as well. The two main entry points are on the southern side of the city at Castille Place

And on the northern side, from Great Siege Road.

Transportation and How to Get Around Valletta?

Once you have made it to the city, here’s how you can get around on a day-to-day basis.

Electric car-sharing

Malta’s famous “go-to” system is a car-sharing scheme that operates all over the country. All you need to do is download the app and find a car parked near you. Once you sign in, you have to pay per minute and park it at the designated spot later on. It is one of the best ways to get around in the city.

Electric scooter-sharing

Much like the car-sharing system, you can get around the city via scooters as well. The process is pretty much the same with the exception of vehicle type. Both “go-to” and “Whizascoot” offer this service.

Buses

Buses are essentially the only form of public transportation in the city. However, they are well-developed, connected, and maintained. There are various routes and bus stops, providing access to almost everywhere. They run from morning to evening but night-time rides are not available.

You can get good discounts by purchasing a Tallinja card.

Taxis

Taxis are also a good option to get around in the city. While Uber doesn’t operate in this island country, reputable taxi services such as Bolt and Cool are fully functional.

3 Best Accommodation Options in Valletta

When it comes to accommodation in Valletta, there are plenty of good options. Hotels are good if you are visiting for a short time but Airbnbs are better if you are looking for longer stays. You can also look at rentals and co-living arrangements.

It is best to contact a real estate agent, look at online listings, or join relevant Facebook groups to find the best accommodation.

Here are some good options.

Osborne Hotel

This is a polished city-centre hotel located in south Valletta. With an incredibly hospitable staff and efficient services, Osborne Hotel offers a splendid living experience. Another good thing about this hotel is its proximity to the bus station. It is a good option for first-time visitors!

Casa asti

Casa Asti is a beautiful and well-refined guesthouse built in a 400-year-old 17th-century building. Located only 30 minutes away from the airport, this place is a good option for digital nomads. They have clean rooms, an on-site restaurant, a TV lounge, and several other facilities.

Castille hotel

Located within walking distance of numerous tourist attractions, Castille Hotel is another good option for accommodation. They offer free breakfast, amazing customer service, and a great living environment.

Internet Connectivity in Valletta

Generally speaking, Valletta has pretty good internet coverage and speeds. While you’ll find the upload speed to be slower than the download speeds, it works fairly well hand-in-hand. The reliable internet enables remote work and a healthy work-life balance.

The average internet speed in Valletta is 94.02 Mbps for the broadband and fibre connection which is extremely good for remote work and digital nomads. You can also get a local SIM card upon arrival and ensure extra consistency. The average speed for mobile data is 41.28 Mbps in the city.

In addition to that, there is free wifi available in almost every coworking space, cafe, and restaurant.

E sim

If you want to digitalize your visit to Valletta even more, consider purchasing an E sim. They are great alternatives to physical SIM cards and ensure reliability. Make sure to compare data packages before making a decision.

Holafly

Data validity	Days	Price
Unlimited data	7 days	29$ (26.81€)
Unlimited data	10 days	37$ (34.21€)
Unlimited data	15 days	51$ (47.15€)
Unlimited data	20 days	62$ (56.40€)
Unlimited data	30 days	75$ (69.34€)

Airalo

Data validity	Days	Price
1 GB	7 days	5.00$ (4.58€)
2 GB	15 days	7.00$ (6.47€)
3 GB	30 days	10.00$ (9.16€)
5 GB	30 days	15.00$ (13.74€)
10 GB	30 days	22.50$ (20.60€)

3 Best Places to Work from in Valletta

Lucky for remote workers, there are a lot of good places in Valletta where you can work from.

Soho office space

Soho office space is undoubtedly one of the best co-working spaces in Valletta. They offer various facilities and modern amenities including but not limited to open desks, private offices, meeting rooms, comfortable seating, and high-speed internet. They also happen to be affordable and flexible.

Grand Central

Grand Central is another good option for coworking in Valletta. They offer everything a remote worker could possibly need. From communal lounges and hot desks to boardrooms and private rooms, Grand Central has it all. You can work here for hours and excel in their productive working environment.

Offices.co

With 4 branches located all over the city, Offices.co is a well-equipped coworking space in Valletta. They offer shared coworking spaces and service offices, perfect for remote work. Their modern and contemporary interior is sure to encourage productivity!

Cost of Living in Valletta

Valletta is known for its affordable low cost of living. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why it’s becoming a digital nomad hotspot. This city offers a range of facilities and a high quality of life but it costs way less than other digital nomad destinations. Here’s a rough breakdown of general prices in Valletta, Malta.

Meal	$17.13 (€16.00)
Coffee	$2.69 (€2.46)
Beer	$4.00 (€3.66)
Apartment in the city center (one-bedroom apartment)	$958.87/month (€878)
Fitness club	$70.06/month (€64)
Utilities	$108.83/month (€99.63)
Internet	$38.84 (€35.57)
Local transport	$2.28/trip (€2.09)

As you can see, Valletta is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.

Culture, Nature, and Food in Valletta

In addition to being the political capital, Valletta is also known to be the cultural capital of Malta. The vibrant and rich culture is well depicted in art, music, and literature here. Other than that, Maltese people celebrate it in their traditions and day-to-day activities. The lively atmosphere and bustling environment make Valletta a happening place. The city has a perfect balance of ancient and modern space.

Valletta is also a good place for nature lovers. There is a wide scope for nature-related and outdoor activities that are bound to keep you entertained. The city is abundant in natural beauty and is a perfect place to reconnect with nature. You will surely enjoy the lush greenery, gardens, and scenic views in this city.

When it comes to the food in Valletta, it is simply extraordinary. Most restaurants and vendors still use traditional recipes that make the local cuisine rich, tasty, and flavorful. There are plenty of options in terms of restaurants, coffee shops, and bars in the city. You are likely to find a variety of options.

Best Time to Visit Valletta

Since Valletta has a Mediterranean climate, it experiences hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons when it’s neither too dry nor too hot.

June to September offers perfect weather for exploring the city and making the best of your trip. You’ll be able to admire Valletta’s architectural wonders and historical ambiance under refreshing sunlight and pleasantly warm temperatures.

This is also the best time to indulge in beach-related activities and water-related sports in Valletta.

12 Best Things to Do in Valletta

One thing about Valletta is that you’ll never be bored here. There are plenty of activities to do but here are the 12 best things.

1. Visit the St. John’s Cathedral

The St. John’s Cathedral is a must-visit site in Valletta that happens to be a major tourist attraction. You can visit here to admire the remarkable architecture and mesmerizing interior. The cathedral has historical and religious importance and locals hold it in great regard. You’ll find beautiful and significant canvases on the side altars.

2. Visit the Cinema Bar by City Lights

Located on St. John Street, this is an old cinema that promises a good time. They play old movies every week and have an intriguing atmosphere. You can watch a movie for 5 euros (popcorn included) and have a nostalgic experience.

3. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology

The National Museum of Archeology is a dream come true for history lovers. Their historical and rich collection exports you to the older times and provides a clear view of Malta’s previous inhabitants. Visitors are guaranteed to have an informational and educational time here.

4. Visit the bridge bar

Whether you are a jazz enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the bridge bar in Valletta. This jazz club offers a memorable environment, outdoor seating, and the best cocktails in the city. You are guaranteed to enjoy the live music and music sessions.

5. Visit Fort St. Elmo

If you want to appreciate and learn about Malta’s rich history then make sure to visit the famous Fort St. Elmo. This national war museum was the first ever building to be erected in Valletta. They display various artifacts and exhibits from World War I and World War II. The fort also offers stunning and panoramic views of the city.

6. Visit blue grotto

The Blue Grotto is a must-visit scenic point in Valletta that offers an unforgettable experience. You can get on a boat, enjoy the mesmerizing views, marvel at the natural beauty, and explore the sea caves. You can also get a tour to get the best out of the trip.

7. Visit the Spazju Kreattiv

Since Valletta is the cultural capital of the country, it is home to the cultural center; Spazju Kreattiv. This arthouse cinema is built in a 16th-century fort and located in the Castille square. It is the main cultural program of music, drama, art, and comedy in Valletta.

8. Visit the Saluting Battery

The Saluting Battery is a historical landmark in Valletta. Constructed in the 16th century by the order of St John, this artillery battery is located at one of the best vantage points in the city. When in Valletta, make sure to visit here and appreciate the history.

9. Visit the Barrakka gardens

If you want to spend a day surrounded by natural beauty and refreshing nature then head out to the historic Barrakka gardens. This park is small yet stunning and it offers beautiful views. It is also one of the most popular destinations and tourist attractions in the city.

10. Go shopping on the republic street

The main street of Valletta; Republic Street is one of the most visited places and famous tourist attractions in the city. Whether you want to indulge in window shopping, spend time in a bustling environment, immerse yourself with locals, or buy souvenirs, Republic Street is the perfect place to be.

11. Attend the local events

If you want to immerse yourself in the locals and enjoy the local culture then make sure to attend the festivals. While you can look out for specific activities, events happen all year round. You can always look forward to the Malta Jazz Festival, Nuit Blanche, Farsons beer festival, and so much more.

12. Experience the Paceville nightlife

If you want to enjoy Valletta nightlife then there is no better place than Paceville. This street is packed with bars and pubs, each offering cheap drinks and discounted offers. You can party here for hours and have an unforgettable time. The best part about this vibrant hub is that it’s only a few miles away from Valletta

Is Valletta safe?

Yes, Valletta is an extremely safe city (especially for tourists and foreigners). While petty crimes such as pocket-picking and tourist scams are not unheard of, they are rare and unlikely. The low crime rate and presence of friendly locals make Valletta a great place for solo travelers. As long as you stay vigilant, you are likely to find it safer than other European countries and main islands.

All in all, you can travel alone with ease of mind and expect to have a safe trip. However, if you encounter any criminal activity or feel threatened, make sure to report it at your earliest convenience. The local authorities are efficient, reliable, and helpful in this city.

As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.

Look out for tourist scams
Trust reputable companies
Stay away from isolated areas
Stay on your guard
Stay away from shady neighborhoods
Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
Don’t carry flashy items

Visa Requirements in Valletta

One of the main reasons for Malta’s popularity is its easy and accommodating visa options. Under the Schengen agreement, European Union citizens don’t need a visa to enter and stay in this island country. They can simply settle here by getting a residency card.

The government has also introduced Malta’s digital nomad visa (new temporary residence permit) that allows digital nomads to live in Malta while working remotely. Remote workers can get a 6-month visa or 1-year “nomad residence permit” if they fulfill certain eligibility criteria.

Here are some main requirements for this program.

Proof that you are working remotely for a company based overseas
Proof that you run your own business
Proof of freelance work

Other than that, visitors can apply for an ordinary residence or permanent residence depending on their personal preferences, tax benefits, and long-term plans.

It is highly recommended to consult a professional embassy or consulate to understand your home country’s visa policy with Malta. They can also guide you about the application process, costs, and best options.

Conclusion

With a friendly, vibrant, and lively atmosphere, Valletta attracts digital nomads from all over the world. If it’s consistently good weather and low cost of living aren’t enough to lure you, the Malta digital nomad visa will certainly do the job.

Remote workers can come to this city, settle down here, and call it their home. The growing expat and digital nomad community will certainly provide them with a sense of community. In addition to that, Valletta has anything and everything a digital nomad could possibly need. We hope this ultimate guide helped you gain insight into the digital nomad lifestyle. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.