Diplomat Hotel Malta

Housed in an older building with somewhat dated interiors, the Diplomat draws couples of all ages and solo travelers with its central location, clean rooms, and a great rooftop pool. The lobby has a mix of old and new elements that give a first hint of the hotel’s traditional style, including heavy curtains in burgundy and silver hues, old-fashioned terrazzo-clad floors and pillars, and funky contemporary ceiling lamps. A few antique-style pieces of furniture add some elegance, while large windows overlooking the sea and a side street make the space sunny and bright. A small bar features a piano, snacks and pastries a few steps above the reception area, and its terrace is a popular spot for afternoon coffee on warm days. The restaurant isn’t stylish, but two large paintings of colorful "luzzus" (Malta’s traditional fishing boats) and wall-to-wall display windows showing a rocky wall decorated with plants lend the space local charm. The rooftop area is arguably the nicest common space here, with panoramic sea views, a quiet atmosphere, and lots of loungers scattered out on several decks.

The Diplomat is located on Tower Road, Sliema’s busy promenade. There are several seafront restaurants and bars within a couple of blocks, and rock platforms abutting the sea offer direct access to the water. The hotel has a private area on one of these with loungers, umbrellas and showers that guests can use free of charge during the summer months. The Diplomat is an easy walk along the coast from St Julian’s, Spinola and Balluta bays, all popular dining and nightlife areas. This location is also convenient for those looking to explore the island, as there is a bus stop just down the street with service to Valletta, the airport, and other regions. The main ferry terminal where boats to Valletta and Comino dock is just a 15-minute walk away. Driving to the airport takes about 25 minutes.

The hotel has 113 rooms, all with large windows opening onto balconies offering at least a partial sea view. Rooms are clean, spacious, and in good shape, but decor is a little old-fashioned, with simple wooden furniture with golden rims, burgundy or lime comforters, and '90s-style curtains. A small table and two chairs with burgundy upholstery offer additional seating, and a work desk with a stool is convenient for business travelers. In-room amenities are on par with those at other mid-range hotels, and include small flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, electric kettles, and air-conditioning. Safes are available for a daily or weekly charge, and adaptors can be requested at front desk. Free, fast Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Clean bathrooms have shower/tub combos, large mirrors, hairdryers, and an array of toiletries. Balconies in Sea View units are just railings against the window, but offer stunning views. Rooms on lower floors may get some street noise. 

Located on the eighth floor, the rooftop pool offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding area. There are a couple of decks with a couple dozen padded loungers and some shaded areas, and a small seasonal bar serves drinks and snacks throughout the day. An average buffet breakfast is served daily in the underground Penny Farthing restaurant, which also serves themed dinners. For lighter meals and snacks, the lobby bar has a limited selection of sandwiches and pastries, as well as a piano and sidewalk seating. A small pub offers entertainment a couple of days a week. The hotel has a small beach club right across the street, on a rock platform offering direct access to the water. There are several loungers and umbrellas there, and food can be requested at the adjacent restaurant. Basic cardio and strength-training equipment can be found in the hotel’s fitness center, which also features a sauna (for a fee).