Grand Hotel Excelsior

Grand_Hotel_Excelsior
Grand Hotel Excelsior

Grand Hotel Excelsior

Great for couples seeking a classic waterfront stay Rejuvenating spa with sauna, steam room and treatments* Stunning views over Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island Seafront setting with private beach area and jetty Easy access to Valletta’s UNESCO‑listed old town Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Board options Bed and Breakfast, Half Board
Minimum guest age 12+ in most room types (better suited to adults and older children)

Overview

 
Blessed with wide‑screen views over Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island, Grand Hotel Excelsior delivers that old‑school, five-star grand‑hotel feel right on the water’s edge. Tucked just below Valletta’s UNESCO‑listed bastion walls, it’s perfectly poised for combining rooftop‑city sightseeing with lazy pool days, spa downtime and cocktails by the sea. Think spacious rooms, a palm‑framed seafront pool, a small private beach area and restaurants where Maltese and Italian flavours share the spotlight.

From its sweeping harbour‑front terraces to the palm‑lined pool and private beach area, Grand Hotel Excelsior is made for sea views at every turn. Step outside the lobby and you’re gazing straight across Marsamxett Harbour; step upstairs and Valletta’s golden‑stone skyline rises above you. Inside, marble floors and classic décor set an elegant tone, while the spa, indoor pool and generous rooms keep things firmly in the five‑star comfort camp. For couples seeking Malta’s charm with a front‑row harbour setting, Grand Hotel Excelsior delivers the perfect balance. It’s approximately 25 minutes from Malta International Airport. See more Malta holidays.

Map & location


Valletta, Malta

If you want Valletta on your doorstep without sacrificing space and sea views, Grand Hotel Excelsior is a smart pick. The property sits just outside the capital’s mighty 16th‑century bastion walls, directly on the waterfront.

From here you can:
– Wander up around 88 steps (or use the hotel shuttle) to dive into Valletta’s baroque streets, museums and chic wine bars.
– Hop across to Sliema by ferry for shopping and cafés (around 1km away).
– Take day trips to Mdina, St Julian’s or out along the coast knowing you’ll return to a calm harbour‑side base with sunset views.

  • Valletta resort centre 1km (or via 88 steps)
  • Sliema ferry port 1km
  • St Julian’s & St George’s Bay 7km
  • Mdina 12km
  • Approx. transfer time from airport 25 minutes

Facilities

Pool & outdoors


The hotel’s outdoor pool is the star of the show: a large, palm‑framed freshwater pool with a separate children’s section, plenty of loungers and parasols, and sweeping views across Marsamxett Harbour.

You’ll also find:
– A private beach area carved into the seafront terrace, giving direct access to the sea.
– A heated indoor freshwater pool with whirlpool – ideal for cooler days or a post‑sightseeing soak.
– Complimentary pool towels for guests.

Outdoor facilities are typically open from May to September and may vary with weather and occupancy.

Spa, sports & wellness


Wellness is a strong suit at Grand Hotel Excelsior.

Spa & wellness*
– Spa with sauna and steam room
– Indoor whirlpool
– Range of massages and beauty treatments
– On-site hairdresser

Fitness & leisure
– Air‑conditioned gym with cardio machines, free weights and fixed strength equipment (min. age 16 years, typically 09:00–21:00)
– Daily evening entertainment such as live music (generally January–October, programme varies)

Other on‑site facilities*
– 24‑hour reception and concierge
– Currency exchange and luggage storage
– Shuttle bus to Valletta centre at set times
– Mobility aids for hire including wheelchairs and motorised scooters
– Pushchair and fan hire
– Selection of English newspapers

*Spa, salon, mobility aids, newspapers and some services carry a local charge and are subject to availability.

Activities


? Daily evening entertainment programme (typically Jan–Oct)
? Live music and low‑key shows on selected nights
? Indoor pool and spa relaxation time
?️ Gym workouts with harbour views
? Seafront setting ideal for strolls and photo stops

Activities and schedules can vary seasonally and with occupancy.

Guest services


?️ 24‑hour reception & concierge
? Luggage storage
? Currency exchange
? Equipment hire including fans, wheelchairs, motorised scooters and pushchairs*
? Spa, beauty salon & hairdresser on site*
? Shuttle bus to Valletta centre at set times*
? English‑language newspapers*
? Free Wi‑Fi throughout

*Local charges apply for some services and items; all subject to availability.

Food & drink

You’re well covered for wining and dining here, with a choice of buffet and à la carte venues plus several characterful bars. Expect international favourites alongside fresh Mediterranean and Maltese dishes, with sea views in prime supply.

Admiral’s Landing
Elegant waterfront restaurant serving international cuisine for lunch and dinner, in both buffet and à la carte formats. Smart casual is the norm and beachwear isn’t permitted.

Spice Island
Bright, relaxed buffet restaurant open for breakfast and dinner, featuring show cooking at breakfast and varied themed evenings. Ideal if you’ve opted for Half Board.

Tiki Restaurant
Beachfront à la carte spot for lunch and dinner (seasonal), pairing harbour views with a mix of international and Italian favourites. Kids’ menus, highchairs and a microwave are available, making it easy for families with older children.

Bars & cafés
– Blue Ocean: poolside snack bar for light bites and drinks (seasonal).
– Bougainvillea: garden coffee bar open during the day (weather dependent).
– Harbour View Lobby Bar: classic lobby bar serving drinks and snacks with views over the marina.
– Pool Bar: for daytime refreshments by the water (seasonal).

Opening times, dress codes, reservation requirements and any supplements can change by season and board basis.

What All Inclusive typically includes.

Rooms
Deluxe Seafront Room with Terrace Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps: 2–3
Premium harbour‑front setting with a larger terrace and full sea views – ideal for sunset drinks.
Facilities: TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, balcony or terrace, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, turndown service, kettle, fridge, minibar*, bathroom with bath and separate shower, air conditioning, daily cleaning, and linen/towel changes on request.

Superior Deluxe Room with Side Sea View Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps: 2–3
Upgraded side sea‑view room with extra space and a refined finish.
Facilities: TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, balcony, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, turndown service, coffee‑making facilities, kettle, fridge, minibar*, bathroom with bath and separate shower, air conditioning, daily cleaning, and linen/towel changes on request.

Deluxe Room with Side Sea View for Sole Use Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
All the essentials of the Deluxe Side Sea View Room with extra privacy for solo travellers.

Superior Deluxe Room for Sole Use (Inland View) Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
Spacious inland‑view room designed for solo guests, featuring flat-screen TV, free Wi‑Fi, balcony, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, coffee‑making facilities, kettle, fridge, minibar*, bath with separate shower, air conditioning, and daily cleaning with towel change.

Superior Deluxe Room with Side Sea View for Sole Use Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
Solo‑friendly upgrade with partial sea views, balcony and the same amenities as the Superior Deluxe Side Sea View category. Air‑conditioning is typically available between 1 May and 31 October.

Deluxe Seafront Room Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps: 2–3
Full sea‑view balcony, perfect for watching harbour comings and goings. Facilities mirror the standard Deluxe rooms with added seafront setting.

Deluxe Room for Single Parent Use (Land View) Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
Well‑equipped land‑view room, ideal for one adult plus a child aged 12+ looking for value without compromising on comfort.

Superior Deluxe Room (Inland View) Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps: 2–3
Spacious inland‑view option with the full suite of comforts: flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, coffee‑making facilities and bath plus separate shower.

Deluxe Room (Land View) Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps: 2–3
Comfortable entry‑level option facing inland, with balcony and all core amenities.

Deluxe Seafront Room for Single Parent Use Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
Sea‑facing room tailored for a single adult travelling with one child, combining full harbour views with Deluxe facilities.

Deluxe Seafront Room with Terrace for Single Parent Use Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps: 1–2
Generous terrace, sea views and extra space – ideal for parents travelling solo with a teenager.

All rooms include free Wi‑Fi, air conditioning, private bathroom, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, tea/coffee‑making facilities and access to room service*.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.

More info

Valletta may be petite, but it packs in centuries of history, baroque architecture and a lively dining scene behind its honey‑coloured walls. From Grand Hotel Excelsior you can dip easily between harbour‑front relaxation and cultural exploring – think St John’s Co‑Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens and a roll call of museums all within easy reach.

Local essentials:
– Language: Maltese and English
– Currency: Euro (€)
– Time difference: GMT+1
– Average direct flight time from UK: around 3.5 hours
– Typical local costs: local beer ~£3.40; three‑course meal for two ~£50 (guide only)

Hotel notes:
– Official rating: 5 star
– 433 rooms, 10 floors, 3 lifts
– Information and opening times are based on previous seasons and may change.

For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Spain advice.

Prices & book

Find your dates

Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.

=

FAQs
Is Grand Hotel Excelsior right in Valletta’s old town?
Grand Hotel Excelsior sits just outside Valletta’s historic city walls on the seafront below the bastions, so you’re not inside the tiny grid of streets but a short walk away. You can reach the centre in around 10–15 minutes on foot (via a staircase of roughly 88 steps) or hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle bus at set times.
How long is the transfer from Malta International Airport to Grand Hotel Excelsior?
The hotel is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from Malta International Airport (MLA), depending on traffic. Shared coach transfers may take slightly longer due to additional hotel stops, while private transfers are usually quicker.
What board options can I book at Grand Hotel Excelsior?
You can choose between Bed and Breakfast and Half Board. Breakfast is generally served buffet‑style in Spice Island, while Half Board usually includes buffet breakfast plus evening meals in Admiral’s Landing or Spice Island, depending on the season and the hotel’s schedule. Drinks with dinner are normally extra unless stated otherwise on your booking.
Does Grand Hotel Excelsior have a dress code in the restaurants?
Yes. A smart‑casual dress code usually applies in the main restaurants and lobby bar. The hotel kindly asks that guests do not wear beachwear during meals. For more formal evenings in Admiral’s Landing, closed shoes and long trousers or smart tailored shorts for men may be preferred.
Is there a spa and indoor pool at Grand Hotel Excelsior?
Yes. The hotel features a spa with sauna, steam room and whirlpool, along with an indoor heated freshwater pool. A menu of massages, facials and beauty treatments is available for an extra charge, and there’s also an on‑site hairdresser. These facilities make the hotel a strong year‑round option, not just a summer sun choice.
Is Grand Hotel Excelsior suitable for guests with reduced mobility?
The hotel has lifts and step‑free areas inside, and you can hire wheelchairs or motorised scooters via reception for an additional charge. However, the 88 steps between the hotel and Valletta’s city centre can be challenging; guests with mobility concerns may prefer to use taxis or the complimentary shuttle bus when available. If accessibility is important to you, speak to a Travelisto advisor so we can request a room and arrangements that best match your needs.
What is the minimum age for children at Grand Hotel Excelsior?
The property is particularly popular with adults and families with older children. Many room descriptions reference a minimum age guideline of 12 years, and there are no large kids’ clubs or waterparks on site. There is, however, a shallow section in the outdoor pool and kids’ menus in the restaurants, so it can still work well for teenagers and older children.
Is Wi‑Fi free at Grand Hotel Excelsior?
Yes. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel, including guest rooms and public spaces, so you can stay connected, stream or work remotely if needed.
When are the outdoor pool and pool bar open?
The main outdoor freshwater pool with children’s section and the pool bar usually operate between May and late September or October, depending on weather and occupancy. Exact dates and opening hours can change each year, so check with reception on arrival if pool or bar facilities are important to your stay.