This tiled apartment is a taste of traditional Valletta, with a contemporary twist.

Named Atelier for its former life as an architect’s office, the Valletta apartment is housed in an early 18th-century building close to the beach, as well as the city’s museums. It’s furnished with a mix of old and new design pieces, with brightly patterned tiles contrasting steel and wood furniture, including a four-poster bed.

South-facing windows mean guests can soak up the sunlight and the sea views, while a roof terrace overlooks Valletta’s historic baroque architecture – parts of which have been newly restored, thanks to the European Capital of Culture 2018 programme.

Its gallarija – an enclosed wooden balcony typical of the Maltese capital – offers a sunny breakfast nook and a chance to people watch in the narrow streets below.

The one-bedroom apartment is one of Valletta Vintage’s five boltholes in the city, all renovated by Maltese architect Chris Briffa. A night’s stay in the Valletta holiday home starts from €115 a night.

Located in the same building are two other studios – The Gallery, which displays a regularly updated collection of local art, and The Library, stocked with reading material for design enthusiasts. The three share a communal kitchen and dining room with harbour views, however the entire building can be rented by one party.

For couples in search of their own space, Valletta Vintage’s Retropad has its own kitchen and living room and is located in a 360-year-old building on one of the capital’s steep backstreets.

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