One of the first things you’ll sort out before arriving in Malta is where to sleep. It’s not complicated, but the options work very differently from each other, and the right choice depends on how you like to live. Here’s a straight-talking breakdown of the three main accommodation types for English language students in Malta.
Host Family — Immersion Without Trying
Staying with a host family means you’re not just learning English in a classroom — you’re living it. Meals are usually included, and you’ll find yourself picking up casual phrases and cultural habits that no textbook teaches. Most host families are experienced with international students and know how to be welcoming without being intrusive.
The cost typically sits between €120 and €180 per week, depending on room type and whether you want breakfast only or half board (breakfast and dinner). That’s genuinely good value for Malta, especially when you factor in that you won’t be spending money on groceries or cooking.
The proximity to school varies. Maltalingua is in St. Julian’s, and host families in the area are usually within walking distance or a short bus ride. If your family is further out, budget 20–30 minutes for your commute.
Who this suits: Students who want maximum immersion, prefer not to cook, and feel more comfortable with a structured daily routine. First-time travellers to Europe often find host families reassuring. If you want to be independent and go at your own pace, it might feel a bit formal.
Student Residence — Social by Default
Student residences in Malta are popular because they come pre-loaded with people your age from all over the world. Most residences used by language school students are apartment-style: your own bedroom (sometimes en-suite), shared kitchen and living area, communal spaces. The social atmosphere is hard to beat — it’s almost impossible not to make friends.
Prices range from around €130 to €220 per week, depending on the standard of the residence and whether you book direct or through the school. Some residences near St. Julian’s are walkable to Maltalingua; others are a bus journey away.
One thing to be aware of: residences can get noisy. Kitchen parties at midnight are common, and if you need absolute quiet to study, it’s worth checking whether your residence has designated quiet zones or whether it’s more of a social hub.
Who this suits: Social learners who thrive on meeting new people, don’t mind some noise, and want the full student experience. Also good if you’re booking on a tighter budget but want your own space.
What About Hotels and Airbnb?
Hotels are rarely the best value for language school students staying more than a few nights. They’re comfortable, but you miss the immersion of a host family or the social infrastructure of a residence. You also pay a premium for privacy you might not need.
Airbnb has a larger footprint in Malta than some other European destinations, and there are genuine apartments listed. The risk is the same as with any rental: photos can flatter, locations can be misleading, and the deposit return process isn’t always straightforward. If you’re booking remotely for a stay of two weeks or more, it’s worth getting a second opinion from someone who’s been there — Maltalingua’s accommodation team can often flag which buildings and areas are reliable.
Shared Apartment — Freedom With Responsibility
Renting your own apartment (or a room in one) gives you maximum control. You choose your flatmates, set your own schedule, and cook what you want. It’s the most adult option, but it comes with adult responsibilities: utility bills, supermarket runs, figuring out the deposit, navigating Maltese rental contracts.
A single room in a shared apartment in St. Julian’s typically costs €100–€160 per week, with bills on top. For a studio or one-bedroom flat, you’re looking at €500–€800 per month. If you’re sharing with two or three people, the per-person cost becomes very reasonable.
The catch is the logistics. Finding a flat remotely before you arrive is risky — photos don’t always reflect reality, and scams exist. Some students use their first week in a hostel or hotel to flat-hunt in person, which is smarter than committing to something you haven’t seen. Maltalingua’s accommodation service can help match you with verified options, which takes a lot of the risk out of it.
Who this suits: Independent travellers who are comfortable navigating logistics on their own, prefer privacy, and plan to stay longer (apartments make more financial sense on a 4+ week stay).
Which Should You Choose?
There’s no universally correct answer, but here’s a quick way to narrow it down:
- Immersion and ease → host family
- Social energy and meeting people fast → student residence
- Privacy and longer stays → shared apartment
If you’re still unsure, Maltalingua’s team can advise based on your course dates, budget and personality. That’s what they’re there for.
Maltalingua’s accommodation service can match you with the right option and take the guesswork out of booking.
Getting Help From the School
Maltalingua’s accommodation service can do a lot of the legwork for you. They’ll match you with options that fit your budget, preferred environment, and proximity to the school. For host family and residence bookings made through the school, there’s usually someone you can contact if something isn’t as expected when you arrive. That’s worth knowing — private rentals offer less protection if something goes wrong.
If you’re unsure which option suits you, email the school before you book. Most are happy to give honest advice based on what you’ve told them about yourself.
Ready to start sorting out your trip? Get a quote for your English course in Malta — no booking fees, no material fees, straightforward pricing.