The hype
Loyal British pensioners love the familiarity and staff, but younger travelers are often horrified by the dated decor and hygiene standards.
Canifor
$40-80/ notte
Prenota se You're a budget-conscious traveler who plans to spend 90% of your time exploring Malta and just needs a cheap place to crash near the bus station.
Perché piace così tanto
- Extremely affordable rates for a '4-star' property
- Prime location near the Qawra bus terminus and promenade
- Heated indoor pool is a rare find at this price point (when working)
In sintesi: A faded package-holiday relic that trades on its location and low price while struggling with cleanliness and maintenance.
Recensito da @Shelleylovestotravel: I returned to Malta with my siblings and honestly, despite the hotel showing its age, the staff were incredible. They knew us by name and order! It’s a basic, budget-friendly spot near the sea that feels like home.
Cosa hanno detto gli ospiti che hanno soggiornato qui
Reality check
The '4-star' rating is a technicality; expect 2-star maintenance with 1990s interiors.
- You are on a strict budget
- You prioritize proximity to public transport over luxury
- You enjoy a retro, no-frills British package holiday vibe
Pulizia e manutenzione
3.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Daily maid service exists, but often misses dust and corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Major weak point. Reports of moldy grout, rust, and sometimes cockroaches.
- Maintenance: Poor. Peeling paint, broken A/C units, and 'out of order' signs are common.
- Linens & towels: Worn and thin. Check for stains immediately upon arrival.
- Odors & scents: Frequently described as musty or smelling of stale smoke in corridors.
Sleepability™
5MODERATO
0-4RUMOROSO
4-7.5MODERATO
7.5-10SILENZIOSO
- Slamming doors in uncarpeted corridors
- Street noise from the busy tourist strip
- Wind whistling through older window frames on high floors
Prima di prenotare
Buono a sapersi
- The indoor pool is heated in winter, but check if the heater is actually on before booking.
- Wi-Fi is technically free but can be spotty in rooms; the lobby signal is stronger.
- Eco-tax of €0.50 per person/night is payable cash-only at check-in.
Cosa portare
- Flip-flops for the shower and pool deck (hygiene precaution)
- Earplugs for the thin walls
- Your own beach towel (hotel charges a deposit/fee for them)
Genio delle camere
Migliori scelte
- Pool View rooms on floors 3-4 (quieter than street side, less wind than top floors)
- Superior Rooms (slightly updated decor, though maintenance issues persist)
Camere da evitare
- Street-facing rooms (bus and bar noise)
- Rooms near the elevators (constant foot traffic)
- Ground floor rooms (security and noise concerns)
Genio delle richieste camera – copia e incolla
“I am requesting a Pool View room on the 3rd or 4th floor, away from the elevators. Please ensure the room has been recently inspected for maintenance issues.”
FAQ e consigli nascosti
Tutto ciò che vuoi davvero sapere prima di prenotare.
Is the pool actually green?
Recent reports from Feb 2026 indicate algae issues ('green water') in the outdoor pool. Check recent reviews immediately before travel.
Is there parking?
No on-site garage. You must rely on street parking, which is notoriously difficult in Qawra, especially in summer.
Is it all-inclusive?
Yes, packages are available, but food is often described as 'canteen-style' and repetitive. Many guests opt to eat out instead.
How far is the beach?
The rocky Qawra promenade is a 5-minute walk (150m). The sandy beach (Perched Beach) is about 10-15 minutes away.
Are there hidden fees?
Yes. Expect deposits for the TV remote and fees for the safe, fridge, and sometimes even kettle use.
Is there a gym?
Technically yes, but it's a small room with aging equipment. Don't plan your training block here.
Suggerimenti degli Insider
- ✨
The 'sister hotel' next door (Cardor) sometimes has quieter apartments but you still use Canifor's pool.
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast coffee; walk 2 minutes to 'Koffee' for a proper brew.
- ✨
The bus terminus nearby is a major hub—you can get to Valletta or the ferry terminal easily without a car.
5 cose da sapere prima di partire
💡The 'Jacuzzi' has been flagged for hygiene issues (E. coli claims in reviews).
💡You might have to hunt for the A/C switch—it's sometimes hidden behind furniture.
💡The sauna is frequently 'out of order' or requires a specific booking slot.
💡The hotel hosts a lot of local bingo and social events, which dominates the lobby vibe.
💡You can hear the wind howling on the 5th floor due to poor window sealing.
Guida locale
Mappa
Scopri dove si trova Canifor e cosa c'è nelle vicinanze.