Malta 101 for SBC Summit Malta Attendees: Insider Tips, Best Stays & Hidden Treasures

SBC Summit Malta is just three months away, and if you’re attending, get ready for a whirlwind of networking and sun-drenched evenings (all my British colleagues keep emphasising that this is important) that may or may not involve a few too many Aperol Spritzes (and that, surprisingly, was not a recommendation from my British colleagues).

Now, I know that sorting out accommodation and travel logistics can be the stressful side of event planning. 

That’s exactly why this blog exists. 

We’re talking hotels, getting around Malta, must-do activities, and some final insider tips from someone who’s been living here for eight years (which, at this point, feels like a lifetime).

The event is happening at the InterContinental Hotel in St. Julian’s on 10-12 June. This is also ground zero for most of SBC’s networking parties. If you value convenience (or an extra hour of sleep in the morning), staying within walking distance is a no-brainer.

Alright, let’s get into the details.

The No-Brainer Option: InterContinental Hotel

The InterContinental Hotel is the heart of it all when it comes to SBC Summit Malta. And lucky for you, we’ve got special attendee discounts, so if you can snag a room there, you’ll be right in the middle of the action.

Want to book through SBC and get fixed, favourable rates? Just do it here: Book Now

Now, let’s break down why staying here is a no-brainer.

• The event is literally inside the hotel. That means you can roll out of bed and be at the expo floor or your meeting in under two minutes. No sweaty treks and no taxis.
• Got an hour between meetings? Go up to your room, stretch your legs, take a breather. Need to freshen up between the expo and dinner? Easy. Two out of three SBC networking parties are either happening on the InterContinental rooftop or within a two-minute walk. If you add up all the time you’re NOT spending commuting, you’re basically winning the game.
• Also, do I really need to remind anyone what Malta’s weather is like in mid-June? Didn’t think so. Let’s just say not arriving drenched in sweat is a serious factor.
• The InterContinental Hotel also has killer breakfast, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, sauna, steam room, beauty salon, and one of the biggest health & fitness centers in Malta. So if you’re one of those superhumans who still manages to hit the gym or go for a swim before a full day of conferencing (I envy you, truly), that’s just the best option. (I did JUST find out there was a beauty salon too. Kind of love it).

Other Great Options (Accommodation)

The beauty of staying in St. Julian’s is that everything is within walking distance—the conference venue, networking events, restaurants, and even the beach. 

Of course, you’re free to stay wherever you’d like (some attendees opt for Sliema, Gzira, or even Valletta), but for sheer convenience, we highly recommend staying in St. Julian’s.

Luckily, St. Julian’s has plenty of hotels to fit every budget. Here are some top picks:

Luxury Hotels

Hilton Malta

• Booking.com Rating: 8.8/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 6-minute walk (500m)

The Westin Dragonara Resort

• Booking.com Rating: 9.1/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 8-minute walk (700m)

Hyatt Regency Malta

• Booking.com Rating: 9.2/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 4-minute walk (300m)

Mid-Range Hotels

Holiday Inn Express Malta

• Booking.com Rating: 8.9/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 3-minute walk (200m)

Hotel Valentina

• Booking.com Rating: 8.8/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 5-minute walk (400m)

be.HOTEL

• Booking.com Rating: 8.8/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 2-minute walk (100m)

Budget Hotels

Antoniel Suites

• Booking.com Rating: 9.0/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 6-minute walk

Hotel Argento

• Booking.com Rating: 8.2/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 9-minute walk (650m)

Allegro Hotel

• Booking.com Rating: 7.9/10
• Walking Distance to InterContinental: 8-minute walk

How to Conquer Malta’s Tiny but Mighty Roads

Before I say anything else—don’t tell me I didn’t warn you. AVOID PUBLIC TRANSPORT. I mean it. It’s unreliable, packed, and in the summer, it feels like a sauna on wheels. You do not want that.

That said, if you’re staying in St. Julian’s, you won’t need transport much—everything is within walking distance. But if you’re venturing beyond or staying elsewhere, here’s how to get around without losing your sanity.

Taxis (aka your best bet): Malta has Bolt, eCabs, and Uber as the main rideshare apps. There are also traditional white taxis, but unless you’re feeling particularly generous, I’d stick to the apps—they’re way more budget-friendly.

The Malta-based crowd is honestly spoiled because cab fares here are super reasonable. In fact, a lot of expats ditch owning a car entirely and just Uber. During big events, prices surge, but for SBC Summit Malta, it’s really not that bad as we can only host around 5,500 people at the InterContinental.

Bolt, Uber, and eCabs all have similar prices. Sometimes, one runs a promo that makes it slightly cheaper, but the difference isn’t huge. Just check all three before booking and go with the best deal.

Public Transport aka the best solution for the brave and adventurous souls: For those of you who ignored my warning:

• Buses are cheap (yay!) but also slow, crowded, and wildly inconsistent (boo!).
• If you happen to see a bus that’s going your way and there’s room to breathe, go ahead and hop on.
• But for the love of all things holy, do not plan your schedule around public transport. You’ll regret it.

Car Rental (worth it only if you’re staying longer): Now, if you’re here for a few extra days, renting a car is a solid option. Malta is tiny, and with a car, you can explore stunning beaches, historical sites, and scenic countryside at your own pace. BUT. If you’re just here for the conference, I wouldn’t bother.

❌ Reasons NOT to rent a car during SBC Summit Malta:

• Parking in St. Julian’s is a nightmare. (Hotels might have parking, but check first.)
• Traffic can be chaotic, and driving on the left (remember, it’s a thing here) isn’t for everyone.
• Cabs are cheaper, faster, and way less stressful.

✅ When renting a car makes sense:

• If you’re staying the weekend and want to escape to a quieter area (because let’s be real, three to four days in St. Julian’s is plenty).
• If you’re in the mood to properly explore the island and don’t mind the adventure.
• If you’re a control freak who hates crazy drivers (so any driver in Malta really).

If all you want is to hit the beach and chill, just take a cab. It’s cheaper, easier, and far less hassle.

Final takeaway: Just take the damn cab.

Beyond St. Julian’s: Believe it or Not, There’s more to Malta Than Bars

St. Julian’s is great to keep you entertained until sunrise. But if you’re in Malta and don’t take the chance to explore beyond the conference hub, you’re seriously missing out.

If you have some extra time, here’s where you should go:

Valletta

Only 15 minutes away by taxi, Malta’s capital city is an absolute must-visit. Think gorgeous baroque architecture, jaw-dropping sea views, and centuries of history packed into a compact (and very walkable) city. It’s also home to some phenomenal restaurants and cocktail bars.

👉 Don’t miss: St. John’s Co-Cathedral (the inside is pure gold), Upper Barrakka Gardens (best harbor views), and a cheeky negroni at The Thirsty Barber.

Mdina

Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is Malta’s old capital and, quite frankly, a magical experience. Cobblestone streets, grand palaces, and no cars allowed (so it’s ACTUALLY silent). 

👉 Pro tip: Go for sunset—the views from the city walls are next-level. Bonus points if you find the legendary Mdina glass shops and take home a colorful souvenir.

The Blue Lagoon (Comino)

If you’ve ever seen a screensaver-worthy turquoise swimming spot and thought, “That can’t be real,”—well, it is, and it’s right here in Malta.

A quick boat ride gets you to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a crystal-clear paradise. (Disclaimer: Just brace yourself for crowds—this place is no secret.

👉 Survival tip: Get there early or take an afternoon boat to dodge peak tourist hours. And bring water shoes.

👉Friendly tip: If you’ve got a solid crew, do yourself a favour and rent a private boat. The local captains know all the secret spots with the same stunning turquoise waters—minus the tourist crowds. Many of them even let you bring your own food and drinks, so you can fire up a little BBQ right on your boat or catamaran.

Gozo (Malta’s sister island)

If you have a full day to spare, hop on a ferry to Gozo, the slower, more scenic version of Malta. It’s greener, quieter, and full of stunning coastal views, making it the perfect place to recover after the conference.

👉 Must-sees: The Citadel in Victoria, the Inland Sea in Dwejra, and Xlendi Bay for a ridiculously scenic seafood lunch.

The Million-Dollar Question: What’s the Best Beach in Malta?

Malta has no shortage of stunning beaches, but if I had to crown the best one, it’s got to be Imġiebaħ Bay (Selmun Beach). Here’s why:

• It’s a hidden gem: Unlike Golden Bay, Mellieħa, or Blue Lagoon, which get packed with tourists the second the sun comes out, Selmun remains blissfully uncrowded. It’s not as widely known, so you can actually find a peaceful spot without fighting for towel space.

• The water is absolutely unreal.

• The vibes: Selmun feels raw and untouched. No big resorts, no beach clubs blaring music. Just pure, scenic beauty. If you’re into quiet, Instagrammable landscapes, this is your spot.

• A bit of an adventure (but worth it): Selmun isn’t the easiest beach to get to, which is probably why it’s still a hidden treasure. You’ll need to do a short trek to reach it, but once you’re there, you’ll 100% understand why it was worth the effort.

👉 Pro tip: Ask me for pictures.

Final Tips

• Mid-June in Malta is HOT—think 30°C+ during the day—so pack light, breathable clothing (I recommend linen) and plenty of sunscreen.
• Even though St. Julian’s is lively and it might be tempting and convenient to just stay thre, try to venture out and see more of what Malta has to offer. The island is small, and even a half-day trip can be incredibly rewarding.

See you in June!