The hype
Guests love the grand harbor views and the breakfast spread, but consistently mention the property feels 'tired' and in need of a refresh.
Grand Hotel Excelsior
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a massive resort-style pool and sea views while still being within walking distance (albeit a steep one) of Valletta's historic center.
Why People Love It
- Stunning views of Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island
- Rare private beach and large pool deck right on the water
- Grand, old-school lobby that feels like a diplomatic summit venue
Quick Take: A hulking 2007-era beast that trades boutique charm for resort scale, offering great views but tired rooms and a steep climb to the city.
Reviewed by @Case: I felt like I was staying in a palace. The lobby is massive with marble everywhere, and having the choice between the indoor and outdoor pools was a game-changer. The sushi dinner was the perfect end to the day. Highly recommend for a classic luxury vibe.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '5-star' rating feels more like a solid 4-star due to dated furniture, 'jug coffee' at breakfast, and occasional maintenance lapses.
- You crave a resort pool/beach experience near a city
- You need on-site parking (it's free, a rarity in Valletta)
- You enjoy a bustling, large-hotel atmosphere with live piano in the lobby
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable, though some guests report missed dust in corners or under beds.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean but dated. Grout lines show age, and some shower fixtures have limescale buildup.
- Maintenance: The biggest issue. Reports of peeling paint on balconies, broken AC units, and 'tired' carpets are common.
- Linens & towels: Standard 5-star quality, clean and crisp, though towels can sometimes feel a bit rough/over-washed.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells grand and polished; some older rooms have a faint musty/damp smell due to the sea air and carpets.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thin walls/floors (can hear guests walking above)
- Corridor noise in the vast hallways
- Maintenance noise (lawn mowers) in garden-facing rooms early morning
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is technically in Floriana, not Valletta proper (though they bleed together)
- A €50/day deposit is taken upon check-in
- Eco-tax of €0.50 per person/night is payable locally
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes for the 88 steps to the city gate
- European adapter (Type G - British style is standard in Malta)
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper (thin walls)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Seafront Room with Terrace (7th-9th floors) for the best unobstructed harbor views
- Royal Suite for massive terrace space
Rooms to avoid
- Partial Sea View rooms (often disappointing)
- Lower floor rooms near the pool/service areas (noise risk)
- Inland view rooms (you're staring at a parking lot or wall)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a Deluxe Seafront Room on the 7th floor or higher. Please ensure it is NOT a 'partial' view. If possible, I would like a room away from the service elevators to minimize corridor noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool open during the 2025 renovation?
The outdoor pool is affected/closed from Feb-July 2025. Guests are directed to 'alternate facilities' (likely the indoor pool or a partner hotel), so confirm before booking if this is a dealbreaker.
How far is the walk to Valletta?
It's about 5-10 minutes to the City Gate, but it involves a significant uphill climb (88 steps). Going down is easy; coming back is a workout.
Is there a shuttle?
Yes, but it's limited. Typically runs at 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Do not rely on it for frequent back-and-forth trips.
Is breakfast included?
Not always. If not in your rate, it costs ~€20. It's a large buffet with good variety but mediocre coffee.
Is there parking?
Yes, free underground parking is available, which is a huge perk for this area.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are generally not allowed.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The indoor pool is open 24/7 (or very late), which is a great way to unwind after a day of walking.
- ✨
Skip the hotel taxi for short trips; use the Bolt or eCabs apps for much cheaper rates.
- ✨
The 'Harbour View' bar has a happy hour that offers a great sunset vantage point without the room price tag.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'private beach' is actually a small sandy patch and concrete platform, not a sprawling resort beach.
💡You can hear the cannons from the Saluting Battery across the harbor if the wind is right.
💡The hotel corridors are incredibly long—if you have mobility issues, ask for a room near the elevator.
💡The 'jug coffee' at breakfast is notorious; pay extra for a barista-made espresso or go to a cafe in town.
💡The hotel was built on reclaimed land, giving it a unique position right on the water's edge below the bastions.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Grand Hotel Excelsior is located and what's nearby.