valletta travel blog

Boats and balconies: The best things to do in Valletta, Malta

Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024

Discover the best things to do in Valletta, the compact capital city on the island of Malta, from gilded cathedrals and colourful painted balconies to boat trips and hidden underground tunnels.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Golden stone buildings, ornate churches, colourful balconies and sparkling seas – Malta’s capital Valletta might be tiny but it’s packed full of charm. It stretches just 1km by 600 metres and is surrounded by water on three sides, but has so much historic architecture that UNESCO has designated the whole city a World Heritage Site.

Walking its sunny streets is like stepping back in time, but Valletta’s not just living in the past, with recent renovation and redevelopment after it was made European Capital of Culture in 2018. So whether you’re visiting on a city break, cruise stop or a day trip from a Maltese beach holiday, here’s my pick of the best things to do in Valletta.

The best things to do in Valletta, Malta

Go for gold at St John’s Co-Cathedral

Malta is dotted with giant domed churches, by most impressive of all is St John’s Co-Cathedral . It looks plain from the outside, but once you go through the doors it’s a different story. Every surface is coated with colour and sparkling gold. There are frescoes on the ceilings, marble floors under your feet and walls covered with intricate gilded carvings.

The cathedral – or co-cathedral as it shares the job of Bishop’s residence with the cathedral in Mdina – was built for the Knights of Saint John between 1572 and 1577. But it was revamped and embellished in lavish Baroque style in the 17th century.

The cathedral is made up of nine chapels – one for each of the eight orders of the Knights of Saint John and the ninth dedicated to Our Lady of Philermos, patron saint of the Order. One of its highlights are the paintings by Italian artist Caravaggio in the oratory, including The Beheading of St John the Baptist . Climb up to the balcony to get a look up close.

Entry to the cathedral comes with an audio tour to learn about its history, or you can take a guided walking tour * of Valletta and the cathedral. Visitors need to cover their knees and shoulders, and high heels aren’t allowed as they can damage the marble floors.

Check out the views from the Barrakka Gardens

For one of Valletta’s best views, head to the Barrakka Gardens. There are two of them – the Upper and Lower gardens – but both lie on the east side of the peninsula and have panoramic views out over the harbour. The Upper Barrakka Gardens were originally built in 1661 as an exercise ground for the Italian division of the Knights of St John.

They’re surrounded by arches and originally had a roof, but once the French invaded Malta they turned them into a public garden filled with flowers and sculptures. There’s also a café to relax in with a drink. And if you visit at 12pm or 4pm (excluding on Sundays) you can catch the cannon-firing ceremony at the Saluting Battery below the gardens.

Originally the cannons were fired to welcome ships into the harbour, but they’ve been restored and are back in action. Or the quieter Lower Barrakka Gardens are similar to the Upper Gardens, with the same arches as well as a Greek-style mini temple.

Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace

Valletta was built by the Knights of Saint John in the 16th century, and one of the city’s earliest and biggest buildings was the Grandmasters’ Pal ace . The palace was where the most senior Knight lived and was used for Malta’s parliament until recently. And although it’s still the official residence of the Maltese president, part of it is open to visitors.

Like St John’s Co-Cathedral, it’s another building where the plain exterior hides a much more elaborate interior. There are five state rooms you can visit, which are decorated with rare French ‘Gobelins’ tapestries, artworks and Baroque ceiling paintings.

You can also visit the palace armoury, with suits of armour and weapons used by the Knights of Saint John from the 16th to 18th centuries, including the armour worn by Jean de Valette, founder of Valletta (you can see a statue of him near the Opera House).

Admire old and new architecture

Valletta is perfect to wander around – small enough that you can’t get lost, not too much traffic, with tucked-away churches and original 16th-century buildings now converted into shops, restaurants and boutique hotels to explore. The city is a photographers’ paradise with an endless supply of vintage shopfronts and artfully peeling doors.

Valletta was designed on a grid pattern to bring cool sea breezes in, with narrow, hilly streets and tall buildings to keep it shady. So even in summer its not sweltering hot. And there plenty of cafés to stop off at where you can pick up a coffee and a pastizzi (a local flaky pastry which is filled with ricotta – or more unusually with mushy peas).

Malta has its modern side too – in among the traditional architecture, the new City Gate and Parliament Building are a real contrast. They were designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and use the same kind of stone as the surrounding buildings, but still really stand out against traditional Valletta – and have been controversial with the locals.

Photograph colourful balconies

One of Valletta’s most iconic sights are the brightly coloured, square Maltese balconies, known as gallarija (meaning gallery) which decorate its buildings. When the city was built, the Knights of Saint John decreed that every corner had to have either a statue, a shrine or a corner balcony to decorate it, and many of them can still be seen today.

It’s thought they originated from Arabic mashrabiyas, which let people look out and take advantage of the breeze without being seen. They were first used in Malta at the Grandmaster’s Palace, where a long gallarija was built along one side so he could spy on his subjects, and became a status symbol in the 19th century – the more lavish the better.

Go back in time

For a small country, Malta has had an eventful history. It’s been fought over for centuries and ruled by everyone from the Greeks and Arabs to the Turks and British. For a tour through early Maltese history, head back in time at the National Museum of Archaeology .

The museum is located inside the impressive Baroque Auberge de Provence. Exhibits date back to 5200 BC and include the ‘fat ladies’ sculptures from the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum Neolithic burial site, Bronze Age pottery and Phoenician pendants.

Explore Malta’s Second World War history

Malta’s strategic position between Europe and North Africa made it an important Allied base in the Second World War, but it paid the price with the heaviest bombing of the war. So much so that in 1942 the whole population was awarded the George Cross for bravery.

There are a few places in Valletta where you can learn about Malta’s wartime role. The National War Museum in Fort Saint Elmo, at the tip of the peninsula, takes you through all Malta’s conflicts with a big WWII exhibition. On show is Faith – one of just three planes which made up the Maltese air defense when they were attacked by Italy in 1940.

There’s also the underground tunnels of the War HQ Tunnels and The Lascaris War Rooms . This complex of tunnels below the Upper Bakkara Gardens was a top-secret military base and Eisenhower’s command center during the invasion of Sicily. And across the harbour in the Three Cities you’ll also find the Malta at War Museum .

Have a drink on St Lucia Street

Valletta has no shortage of scenic spots, but one of my favourite was St Lucia Street. This street cuts right across the pensinsula, but on the south side from the junction with Merchant Street it’s pedestrianised with steps running down the hillside towards the harbour and the small Church of St Lucy, which dates back to 1570, at the bottom.

This part of St Lucia Street is lined with cafés and restaurants, with huge pot plants and lights draped across the street and chandeliers hanging between the buildings. It’s a charming spot for a drink, especially at night when the church is all lit up.

Take to the water on a boat trip

Valletta is surrounded by water, and taking a boat trip around the peninsula is one of the top things to do in Valletta. There are lots of different options but quickest and cheapest are the public ferries , which shuttle people over to Sliema from the north side of the city and to the Three Cities from the south. They cost €2 one way/€3.80 return.

The journey doesn’t take much longer than five minutes but the views are stunning. For peak photography timing, head to the Three Cities in the morning and Sliema around sunset to see Valletta in the best light. Though beware that ferries don’t run if the weather’s rough or the swell’s too high (which affects the Sliema ferry more often).

Longer 90-minute cruises * are available around Malta’s two harbours on board a traditional sailing boat known as a luzzi , with a commentary about Valletta’s history. If you prefer more flexibility, you can also hire a boat with or without a skipper though the SamBoat * rental site and explore the Three Cities or head out along the coast.

Or for something uniquely Maltese, how about a trip on a dgħajsa ? These tiny traditional wooden fishing boats are painted in red, blue and yellow. They were originally used to ferry sailors from their ships to land but now use motors rather than oars to take visitors across to the Three Cities (€2) or on a 30-minute tour around the harbour (€8).

Visit the Three Cities

If Valletta ever gets too busy, the peaceful Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are just across the harbour. This was where the Knights of Saint John were based while they built Valletta, so their buildings are older than in the city, but have a similar style, with colourful doors, tubs of flowers, wrought ironwork and narrow streets.

Each of the Three Cities has a mix of forts, bastions and churches to explore, as well as great views across the harbour to Valletta. There’s also a more modern waterfront promenade where you can check out the superyachts lined up in the harbour and grab a sunset beer or glass of wine in one of the marina’s bars and restaurants.

The details

When to visit valletta, malta.

Being right in the far south of Europe makes Malta a popular choice for a short-haul winter sun break, and it never gets too cold in winter, with average daytime highs of 15°C/59°F and nighttime lows of 9°C/48°F in January. But December/January can be rainy.

Spring is a great time to visit Valletta, with eight hours of sunshine a day and average highs of 18–23°C/64–74°F, making it perfect for exploring. Malta’s summers are hot and dry with plenty of sunshine, but with average highs over 30°C/86°F you might rather be on the beach than in the city. Plus as it’s peak season the island can be busy and expensive.

And autumn is a bit warmer than spring, with average high temperatures from 20–28°C/68–82°F. There might be a few showers around but there are still plenty of sunny days and you can often bag a bargain break towards the end of the season.

How to get to Valletta

Malta International Airport is 9km south of Valletta. You can reach the city in around 35 minutes on the X4 bus, which costs €2 one way and stops in the bus station just outside the city gates. Or you can pre-book an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups ,* which takes around 20 minutes and will transport you right into the city to your hotel.

If you’re visiting Valletta from another destination in Malta the island has a good bus network, and there are ferries from Sliema and the Three Cities. There’s also a high-speed car ferry which connects Valletta to Pozzallo in southern Sicily in 1 hour 45 minutes. And if you’re visiting Valletta on a cruise, the port is a 10-minute walk from the city gates.

Book your travel to Valletta*

Where to stay in Valletta

The Saint John * is a boutique hotel in the historic heart of Valletta on Merchants Street. Inside this traditional merchants’ house has been renovated in cool industrial style with high-tech features. The hotel has 21 rooms set around a central courtyard, some with balconies looking out over the city, and has a casual bar/restaurant.

Or stay in a 16th-century palazzo at the Casa Rocca Piccola B&B *, whose five colourfully painted bedrooms feature antique furniture, paintings and gilded mirrors. The palazzo is still owned by the Marquis de Piro and even if you’re not staying there you can take a tour of their historic treasures – including their own WWII bomb shelter.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Valletta?*

Where to eat in Valletta

Valletta has a good range of places to eat but it can get busy in the evenings so it’s a good idea to book a table in advance for dinner. Ambrosia on Archbishops Street is a friendly, welcoming spot which uses local, seasonal ingredients to create traditional Maltese dishes with a Slow Food ethos, including rabbit stew and slow-cooked pork belly.

Being so close to Sicily means there are lots of Italian options in Valletta too. Sotto Pinsa Romana makes authentic Roman-style pizzas with a huge variety of toppings, and has gluten-free bases available. And cosy Papannis, tucked away down a side street, serves home-cooked Italian food, including fantastic lobster and crab ravioli.

Caffe Cordina is a local institution which has been serving coffee, cakes and Maltese specialities on its shady terrace since 1837. For something a bit different, Naan Bar does tasty Indian food, with gluten-free and veggie options. And if you fancy a quick bite or want to stock up on supplies, head to Is-Suq Tal-Belt food court and market.

Save for later

You might also like

Cliffs and citadels: The best things to do in Gozo, Malta

8 of the best day trips in Malta (without a car)

Churches and cannoli: The best things to do in Catania, Sicily

Saturday 3rd of June 2023

Hey Lucy, Thank you for your great post! Where are the closest authentic Maltese boats to the Valetta cruise ship terminal? We would like a little 30 minute harbor tour on one. Also, do you know of any stores where I could buy a Christmas ornament in Valetta? Thanks, Patti

Lucy Dodsworth

Tuesday 6th of June 2023

Hi Patti, if you follow the waterfront north of the cruise ship terminal you can pick up a dgħajsa from the water taxi station just below the Upper Barrakka Gardens, around a 10-minute walk. Afraid I don't know about Christmas ornaments but there are a lot of gift shops around where you may be able to pick one up. Have a great trip!

Valletta travel guide: things to do in Malta’s capital & travel tips

Named after a famous Grand Master, Valletta is one of the smallest European capitals. However, despite its compact size, there are plenty of things to do in Valletta to keep you occupied for several days. A combination of sightseeing and the relaxed local life guarantees a fantastic holiday in Malta ‘s capital. Therefore, in this Valletta travel guide , you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting the city.

Specifically, apart from discovering how you can reach Malta’s capital, you’ll also read about the best things to see in Valletta. Moreover, you’ll find the best places for your stay together with recommendations about the top day trips you can take right now. Last but not least, I’ll share some travel tips for your Malta holiday , and, of course, you’ll see plenty of my photos.

So, let’s start with this travel guide to Valletta and the best things to do in Malta’s capital.

Table of Contents

*Some of the links are affiliate links. It means that if you buy something, I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Valletta travel guide: know before you go

How to reach valletta.

Valletta is a popular destination for people cruising the Mediterranean. Therefore, if you decided to embark on a cruise, the first thing you’ll see up close in Malta is the Grand Harbour of Valletta. However, two more options currently exist to reach Malta’s capital city.

Visit Valletta by plane

The International Airport of Malta is one of the smallest airports in Europe. It has just one passenger terminal and a handful of gates. The airport is located in Luqa, just 5 km (3 miles) away from the city.

Even though Malta has its own national carrier, Air Malta, the airport’s busiest airline is Ryanair. If you’re flying from continental Europe, you’ll be surprised by the number of airlines operating in Malta. On the other hand, since Valletta is the southernmost capital of Europe, you can expect long flight times if you’re flying from northern Europe.

As you can imagine, Malta enjoys sunny weather all year long, making it an ideal destination for a sunny vacation, even during winter. That said, it doesn’t come as a surprise that seasonal charters are offering competitive prices. If you’d like to check the current flight deals to Malta, I highly recommend Kiwi , the best aggregator you can find online. Kiwi will compare hundreds of flights from your city and show you the best deals.

You can check the best flight deals to Malta here .

Travel tip : Malta’s international airport has an excellent business class lounge called La Vallette , located on the third floor. Moreover, it has a stunning veranda with direct views of the airstrip. If you’re a business class traveler, make sure to spend some time there. And there is more good news: you can access it if even you’re not a business class traveler. All you need to do is pay 35 euros at the entrance. Alternatively, if you have a Priority Pass , you can access it for free together with hundreds of other lounges worldwide.

How to get from Malta International Airport to Valletta

You have three options to travel from the Malta airport to Valletta:

• To take a taxi from the designated area
• Prebook a private transfer

Let’s break down these three options.

From Malta’s airport to Valletta by bus

Taking the bus from Malta’s airport to Valletta is the most cost-effective way of traveling. The X4 travels twice per hour between the airport and the capital and costs 2 euros in the summer and 1,50 euros in the winter. The journey takes approximately half an hour, but it might take longer during rush hour. You can check the X4 schedule here .

From Malta’s airport to Valletta by taxi

Straight after luggage pick-up, you’ll see a desk with taxi services . That’s where you can book one of the airport’s official taxis. You’ll just have to mention your hotel in Valletta and prepay for your ride. At the time of writing, the ride costs 17 euros, and you can also pay via credit card. After paying for the ride, your driver will pick you up and drive you to your hotel. The ride won’t be longer than 10-12 minutes.

From Malta’s airport to Valletta via private transfer

If you’d like to skip the bus and taxi queues and don’t mind spending more, you can also pre-book a private transfer . The cars are in mint condition, and some of them are luxurious. Your driver will wait for you straight after luggage pick-up and drive you to your accommodation. The best private transfer costs 26 euros, and you can pre-book it here .

Visit Valletta by ferry

As I already wrote, several cruise ships stop at Valletta for a day or two, However, there’s also one more great option to reach Valletta by ferry. If you happen to be in Sicily, you can travel directly between Catania and Valletta. The ferry operates 16 times per week, and the journey takes less than two hours. You can find more info here .

The 10 best things to do in Valletta, Malta

Despite having just 6,000 permanent inhabitants and a compact city center, Valletta has plenty of things to do and see. Even though you can walk the whole city in just one afternoon, I highly recommend staying here for a couple of days. Moreover, the fact that all buses to every destination on the island start from Valletta means it will be more convenient to have Malta’s capital as your base.

So, in this section, you’ll find the best things to do in Valletta together with plenty of info.

Don’t miss St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta

Valletta is a paradise of baroque architecture, and one of its finest examples is the interior of Saint John’s Co-Cathedral . This Roman-Catholic church dedicated to St John the Baptist was concluded in 1577. Designed by the Maltese Girolamo Cassar, the church is an impressive highlight of local baroque architecture.

However, the main reason that even non-religious travelers visit the Cathedral is that it also hosts two masterpieces by Caravaggio . The “ Beheading of Saint John the Baptist “(1608) is one of Caravaggio’s masterpieces, and you can find it in the Oratory. The painting is the largest that Caravaggio created and also the only one he ever signed. In the Oratory, you can also see Caravaggio’s Saint Jerome Writing (1607–1608).

Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, previously known as the Conventual Church of the Knights of Malta, is one of the must-sees in Valletta. However, you should be prepared for long queues; therefore, arm yourself with some patience -and a hat during the summer. The church is closed on Sundays, and the ticket costs 15 euros.

Travel tip : If you would like to learn everything about the Co-Cathedral from a professional guide, a walking tour will take you around the capital’s main attractions and bring you to the church. There you’ll learn interesting facts about St John’s Co-Cathedral and get information about the building. You can book the walking tour here .

Stroll around the Upper Barrakka Gardens

Valletta has a fair amount of greenery despite its small size, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens are one of the city’s iconic spots. This public garden, created in 1661, offers tremendous views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Moreover, on the lower tier, you can also see the Saluting Battery, where gun salutes are still fired daily, and it’s one of the most loved attractions of visitors. Every day at 12:00 and 16:00, the guns fire salutes, and crowds gather to observe the spectacle.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens feature arches overlooking the open sea. An interesting fact about them is that they originally had a ceiling. However, during the Maltese Rebellion of 1775, the roof was removed. The Gardens’ location is stunning: it’s the highest point within Valletta’s walls, making it probably the best spot to shoot landscape photos in the city. Of course, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are open to the public; specifically, you can visit them between 10:00 and 20:00.

You will also find the Barakka Lift on one edge of the Gardens. This lift is somehow an urban shortcut: it’s 58 meters tall and connects Laskaris Wharf with the Grand Harbour. The journey takes just 23 seconds -on foot, you might need more than 20 minutes. It’s pretty convenient, especially if you want to catch a boat at the Grand Harbour.

And here’s one more fun fact about the Upper Barrakka Gardens: the Knights of the Order of Saint John created them for recreation purposes, and it took more than 150 years to open to the public.

Stop at the Lower Barrakka Gardens

Adjacent to the Upper Gardens and only a level lower, the Lower Barrakka Gardens is also a must-see. Inside the Lower Barrakka Gardens, you can see a neoclassical temple dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball and a few more statues and monuments. The Lower Barrakka Gardens are not as impressive as the Upper ones, but they feel closer to the open sea and are always quieter.

Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace

The Grandmaster’s Palace is one of the most beautiful buildings in Valletta. As its name suggests, this was the palace of the Grand Master of the Order of Saint John, who ruled the country. The most prominent Grand Master was probably Jean “Parisot” de la Valette (1495-1568), after whom the city got its name. Not every part of the Palace is open to the public, but visitors have access to some places of interest, like the Palace Armoury.

Unfortunately, significant parts of the building remain currently closed due to an extensive restoration project. However, you should see the impressive Grandmaster’s palace from the outside and admire its fine architecture and strategic location in Valletta’s heart. And if you enjoy ghost stories, be on the watch out: throughout the centuries, people claimed they felt some odd “presence.”

Cross the City Gate of Valletta

City gates have a long history in Valletta. The one you’ll actually cross is the fifth. Before this one, there was the Porta San Giorgio, the Porta Reale, the Porte Nationale, and the Kingsgate (also known as Kingsway). The current one was built by the famous Italian architect Renzo Piano between 2011 and 2014, and straight behind it, you can see the new Parliament House. The new City Gate brought enough controversy, and many people compared it to the Third Gate.

If you plan to explore the island of Malta, you’ll most likely cross the Gate several times. Straight after exiting it, you’ll find the bus terminal, from where you can reach every place on the island.

Explore Casa Rocca Piccola

Malta has a wealth of old palazzos. Most of them are in excellent condition, and the good news is that some are open to the public. The most beautiful palazzo you’ll find in Valletta is the Casa Rocca Piccola , a 16th-century palace in the city’s heart. Home of the noble de Piro family, Casa Rocca Piccola is an excellent example of local architecture. The palace is open to the public, and there are several guided tours during the day (ticket: 9 euros).

While strolling around the palace, you’ll see plenty of rooms with 16th and 17th-century decorations. Members of the de Piro family still live in the Palazzo, and you even have the opportunity to rent a room at the Casa Rocca Piccola for your stay in Valletta. Other impressive spots in the palazzo are the World War II shelter and a tromp l’oeil painting on the ceiling, imitating the roof of Victoria’s Cathedral in Gozo. The palace has more than fifty rooms and features an extensive collection of artworks and traditional Maltese costumes.

Did you know? Queen Elizabeth lived for a while in the Casa Rocca Piccola.

Stroll through Valletta’s impressive streets

Even after a quick stroll around Valletta, you’ll get an impression of why the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city has two natural harbors, and that’s where the Great Siege of Malta took place in 1565. Valletta is the first planned European capital, with a holistic plan based on Rennaissance’s ideas. The small streets and tall buildings create a fantastic atmosphere; walking each of them will expose you to Valletta’s beauty. Plus, you’ll see the beautiful Maltese balconies decorating the facades.

As I wrote earlier, you might need just one afternoon to walk through most of its streets. Republic Street, Old Mint Street, and Strait Street are all a joy to explore. However, different times of the day will show you various city aspects. Therefore, make sure to walk the (totally safe) streets of Valletta during the night for a more atmospheric touch.

See the Fort Saint Elmo

Valletta’s beautiful star fort is located straight between the Marsamxett Harbour and the Grand Harbour. Fort Saint Elmo is where the Great Siege of 1565 took place. After the siege, Grandmaster Jean de Valette decided to build a new city -Valletta. Francisco Laparelli was the man who designed the city’s fortification and the one who rebuilt the Fort. Today, you can visit Saint Elmo and see the fortifications together with fantastic sea views.

Visit the Three Cities with the boat

The Three Cities can be seen as Valletta’s suburbs, exactly like Sliema and St Julian’s. You can see them from the Upper Barakka Gardens, and to reach them, you’ll have to take a 15-minutes boat ride starting from the Grand Harbour. Sometimes though, the swell is so powerful that the boats will be suspended. In this case, you can cross the City Gate and catch the bus; the ride takes 45 minutes.

Now, each of the Three Cities has its name: Birgu, Senglea, and Conspicua. The most beautiful is by far Birgu, but make sure to stroll around each of them for a glimpse of local life. So, here’s what you can see in each of the Three Cities:

• Senglea : The Gardjola Gardens with impressive views of the Grand Harbour, the Senglea Basilica, and the Saint Michael Bastion.
• Conspicua : See the beautiful Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
• Birgu : Stroll along the waterfront, visit Fort Saint Angelo, and see Inquisitor’s Palace.

And: don’t miss the opportunity to walk the backstreets of the Three Cities. Visitors tend to ignore them, and in the afternoon, you’ll feel that you’re on a movie set.

Travel tip : There’s an excellent guided tour that will take you to the Three Cities after exploring Valletta. It lasts 4 hours, and you can book it here .

For art lovers: visit Muza, the Museum of Fine Arts

Apart from hosting an impressive 800-year-long collection of Maltese art, Muza is also hosted in a fantastic building. The Auberge d’Italie is one of the most iconic palaces of Valletta. Originally used as a residence of the Knights of Malta, Muza is today the city’s most dynamic museum. Its prime location on Merchants Street means that you’ll be in the heart of a busy road if you want to explore Valletta further. Find more info about Muza here .

Where to stay in Valletta, Malta

Valletta has an impressive number of accommodations. It’s not an exaggeration to say that the tourists are actually more than the inhabitants during peak season. In this section of this Valletta travel guide, you will find the best hotels in Valletta and the services to expect from them. Moreover, I’ll also share the accommodation I chose for my stay in the city.

Although it’s something to expect, I must say that the prices vary significantly depending on the season. Therefore, check your budget and choose your accommodation accordingly. A note: staying in a hotel within the city walls is slightly pricier than you might expect. Let’s start.

The best hotels to stay in Valletta

Here are the best hotels for your stay in Malta’s capital.

The Phoenicia . That’s Malta’s most iconic hotel, located straight out of the City Gate. You can expect an old-world hotel with all modern luxuries and live piano music in the lobby. The Phoenicia enjoys great views of the Triton Fountain and is conveniently located close to the bus terminal. Moreover, there’s an infinity pool overlooking the Grand Harbor. Spacious rooms, breakfast, and air-conditioning are included in the price. Book your room at The Phoenicia Hotel .

Casa Ellul . If you enjoy staying in small boutique hotels, that’s probably one of the best options in Valletta. Casa Ellul features unique rooms with original Maltese floor tiles. In addition, the hotel’s building is a masterpiece on its own: a well-preserved 19th-century building with lots of charm. Book your room at Casa Ellul .

19 Rooms . That’s one of the most convenient hotels in the city center. It’s just 3 minutes away from the beach, 350 meters away from the Grandmaster’s Palace, and very close to Casa Rocca Piccola. The rooms are elegant, and the prices are fair. Book your accommodation in 19 Rooms .

Sally Port Suites . That’s one more excellent accommodation option in Valletta’s heart. Sally Port Suites offers beautiful, atmospheric rooms and a convenient location close to Upper Barakka Gardens. If you’d like to use the boat services, this will be an ideal stay for your vacation. See the prices for Sally Port Suites here .

Ursulino Hotel . Located just 300 meters away from the famous Manoel Theater, the Ursulino Hotel offers modern rooms and a terrace with a sea view. The hotel is located in a typical Post-War building, and you can expect bathrobes and toiletries in your room. Book your room at Ursulino here .

Osborne Hotel . Last but not least, Osborne Hotel is one of the most affordable options in downtown Valletta. While it might not have the standards of the hotels mentioned above, Osborne has simple yet beautiful rooms just 5 minutes away from Saint John’s Co-Cathedral. Book your room at Osborne Hotel here .

Where I stayed in Valletta, Malta

I visited Valletta on very short notice, and most accommodations were sold out. After hours of searching, I managed to find a free room at Hotel Castille . Set in a beautiful 16th-century building and featuring a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the Three Cities, Hotel Castille is an excellent option for those searching for an old-fashioned hotel. The prices are moderate, and breakfast is included. However, this is not a modern hotel; therefore, if you are more into modern rooms, you won’t find them here.

I had a great stay at Hotel Castille: the room was spacious, it had a nice view, and the staff was polite. I would definitely stay here again on a future visit to Malta.

See the prices for Hotel Castille here .

For all other accommodation options, please use the interactive Valletta map below.

Valletta travel guide: Where to eat

Valletta has a fair amount of restaurants, and in most of them, you’ll enjoy good quality food. The local kitchen might sound familiar to you if you have traveled before to the Mediterranean. Therefore, while you might not discover many new dishes, Mediterranean cuisine offers a wide variety of tastes.

Part of Valletta’s dining experience has to do with the locations. There are several hidden spots in the stairways or little alleys where the scenery has a great vibe. So, while the food is good, the whole dining experience is elevated due to the environment. In the following lines, you’ll find the Valletta restaurants I ate and recommend. These are:

Cafe Cordina . That’s probably one of the most atmospheric places to drink or dine in Valletta. Located at 244 Republic Street , the cafe offers a wide selection of pastries and dishes on its fantastic terrace. The building is a historic palazzo, and Cordina has operated non-stop for almost 200 years. Check it out.

San Paolo Naufrago & Taste . These two restaurants are in one of the most instagrammable spots in Valletta. Located on the corner of St Paul Street with St Lucia Street, both places offer a selection of dishes. However, everything is here about the environment: the tables and chairs are on the charming stairs of St Lucia Street, and at night everything is illuminated with colorful lamps. Get a table and enjoy. See the St Lucia location here .

Piadina . Ideal for quick lunch and espresso, Piadina is close to everything. The food is good and the coffee even better. You can find it at 24 St. Lucia Street .

Kantina . Finally, if you’d like to have dinner next to the cathedral, Kantina offers a spacious terrace next to Valletta’s landmark. The food is tasty, and the location couldn’t be better.

Guided tours in Valletta and beyond

In this section of the Valletta travel guide, you’ll find some guided tours you can take in Valletta . The city is rich in history, and if you’d like to know as much as possible, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour. Moreover, you’ll discover plenty of hidden spots in the city that’ll give you a better overview of what Malta looked like in the past. Last but not least, you’ll find some of the best day trips you can take from Valletta.

The best Valletta tours

Malta’s tourist industry is booming, and Valletta is the country’s gem. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that several operators offer guided tours to places of interest. Joining one of these tours will give you insights into local life. So, the best Valletta tours you can join right now are:

3-hour walking tour . If you’d like to see all the major attractions, that’s the best tour you can have. A professional guide will take you to every place of interest, and you’ll have the option to enter the cathedral. It’s one of the most affordable ways to discover Valletta, and it currently costs 18 euros. You can book the walking tour here .

Street Food and Culture . If you’re into tasting street food in the countries you visit, that’s for you. Apart from the cultural sightseeing, you’ll also taste Valletta’s street food and discover the Maltese pastizzi . It currently costs 35 euros and sells out fast. Check out the street food tour here .

Private walking tour . Finally, if you’re more into private walking tours, this one is ideal if you’re traveling with friends. The tour costs 200 euros per group of four and will take you to every attraction. The tour lasts three hours. Book the private walking tour here .

Beyond the capital: day trips from Valletta

Valletta is pretty small, and the chances are that you’d like to see more of Malta during your stay. The distances are not long, and if you have a week in Malta, you will probably see the best attractions on the island. Although you can visit everything independently, I’ll only propose guided day trips from Valletta. And there’s a reason for that.

Malta travel tip : Although several buses start from Valletta, here’s the thing: Malta has no intercity buses. That said, you can’t expect to move from Valletta to another city with a non-stop bus. Every bus in Malta acts as a city bus; in other words, you’ll have to stop loads of times. For example, Marsaxlokk is 44 stops away, and Cirkewwa, where the Gozo ferry starts, is almost 100 stops. As you can imagine, it’s much more convenient to go on a day trip with an organized tour.

So, here’s what you can see away from Valletta.

Explore Malta in one day . That’s one of the best day trips in Malta. In this private day tour, you’ll explore Valletta, travel to Mdina, the old capital, and finish your day in the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Visiting 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day doesn’t sound bad, right? See the tour’s availability and prices here .

Explore Gozo in one day . Gozo is Malta’s sister island ( read my guide to Gozo here ), and it definitely deserves a visit. There you’ll have a more original Malta feeling due to the slower rhythms and the beautiful landscape. Most guided tours from Malta follow the same itinerary, and prices include hotel pick-up (Valletta, Sliema, or elsewhere in Malta) and a short ferry crossing. You’ll see the Comino caves, the Citadel in Victoria, and the Blue Lagoon.

Most of these tours cost between 60 and 70 euros. One of the best day trips to Gozo from Malta is the Jeep Tour with a Lunch and Powerboat ride . Alternatively, within the same price range, you can have a full-day sightseeing tour or one that deals mainly with the country’s past .

Valletta travel guide: Travel tips for your Malta vacation

Apart from the travel tips you read earlier in this Valletta travel guide, I’ll add a few more here. These travel tips will make easier your stay in Malta.

Consider ecabs

Ecabs is a local platform that resembles Uber. You can download the ecabs app and call a driver instead of a taxi. Of course, the prices don’t compare with the bus tickets, but it’s a good way to ride from point A to point B. You can expect to pay approximately 25% less in comparison to taxis. It might be costly for solo travelers, but it’s a reasonable way to explore some parts of the island for groups of people.

You can download ecabs for iPhone and ecabs for Android .

If you feel comfortable driving abroad, renting a car in Malta will make your journey easier. However, please remember that driving in Malta is on the left side (like in the UK). Therefore, if you haven’t driven a car with the steering wheel on the right, think twice about renting a car.

The prices for renting a car in Malta are moderate. The best service is RentalCars , which is an aggregator comparing loads of car rentals and showing you the best prices for your desired dates. You can search for car rentals in Malta here .

Try the hop-on-hop-off bus

That’s another great way of exploring Valletta and the island of Malta. The hop-on-hop-off bus is exactly what it sounds: a bus that stops at designated stations around the island, and you can visit them with a day ticket. Therefore, if you’d like to see several attractions and enjoy hopping on and off, this might be a good idea. You won’t probably see as much as on a guided day trip, but you’ll definitely have more freedom.

You can find more about the hop-on-hop-off bus of Malta here . Make sure to check the itineraries and departure times.

Think twice before boarding the catamaran

A couple of catamarans operate in Malta, and there are currently two that will bring you to Gozo for an independent day trip. The catamarans are a great shortcut: from the Grand Harbour of Valletta to Gozo, they take approximately 45 minutes. On the other hand, if you travel by public transport from Valletta to Gozo, you’ll need 1 hour and 40 minutes to the port of Cirkewwa by bus and another half an hour on the ferry.

But : even with an average wind, the catamarans are really shaky. The forty minutes might feel like an eternity if you get easily seasick. The ride will be very bumpy; therefore, think about it twice. The two companies operating catamarans from Valletta to Gozo are Gozo Fast Ferry and Virtu Ferries .

When to visit Valletta?

Malta enjoys fantastic weather all year long. However, the summers tend to be extremely hot. Therefore, if you can’t stand the heat, visiting Valletta between April and June or in September and October is better.

Travel guide to Valletta: Final Thoughts about the capital of Malta

Valletta is one of the loveliest Mediterranean cities. Its urban planning and architecture are things to admire. Plus, the wonderful Maltese balconies decorating the facades will fascinate you and occupy your camera’s memory card. Despite its size, there are plenty of things to see in Valletta. Therefore, if you’re not visiting Malta just for its fantastic weather, explore the city’s attractions.

So, that’s it with this long Valletta travel guide. Let me know in the comments below if you already visited Valletta or if you’d have further questions about the city.

More Malta : Malta without a car itinerary , Marsaxlokk guide , Mdina guide , Thomas Pynchon’s V and Valletta

Pin it for later

Sharing is caring. Share this Travel Guide to Valletta, Malta,  with your friends.

Last Updated on January 4, 2024 by George Pavlopoulos

• More Options
• Share on LinkedIn
• Reddit this!
• Save in Pocket
• Save on Flipboard
• Share on Tumblr!
• Share via Telegram
• Share via WhatsApp
• Send via Viber

Related Posts

Things to do in murano: discover venice’s glass island, things to do in burano: a guide to the lace island of venice, things to do in lido, venice: a travel guide, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Valletta, Malta Travel Guide (Updated for 2024)

by Words by Sarah Wilson - Photos by Jonathan Look Jr. | Jul 14, 2019 | Europe , Malta , Travel | 36 comments

Last Updated on: 16th April 2024, 12:28 pm

Brief History of Valletta, Malta

The Knights of St John built the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Valletta after the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. A ‘city built by gentlemen for gentlemen.’ It is named after its founder, Grand Master of the Order of St. John, Jean Parisot de la Valette.

The city of Valletta is the southernmost European capital city. It’s built on what was once Mount Sceberras, a peninsula that’s located between two natural harbours – Marsamxett Harbour to the west and the Grand Harbour to the east.

The city is designed on a grid system and being one of the world’s smallest cities at less than one square kilometre; it’s very easy to wander around on foot.

But don’t let its small size fool you, Valletta is jam-packed with places of historical interest; great cafes, bars, and restaurants; shows and events.

Here’s a list of some of our favourite things to see and do in Valletta.

Things To See and Do In Valletta

1) roam the street and soak in the history of valletta.

Our favourite way to explore any city we visit, and especially Malta, is to walk. And that’s the best way to explore Valletta too. Just walk and lose yourself in the back streets and narrow alleys. Well, you won’t get too lost, as Valletta, like many cities in the US, is built on a grid system. But do move away from the busy main streets for a more authentic Valletta experience.

Be sure to look upwards and admire the architecture and the gorgeous Maltese balconies, a.k.a. Gossip balconies.

In our opinion, the best time to walk the streets of Valletta is in the early evening, when the crowds have left and the shops are closed. The buildings are all lit up, and it’s just stunning.

2)  Get a better understanding of Malta’s Past with the Malta Experience

Ok, it’s a bit touristy, but we do recommend visiting the Malta Experience at the start of your trip to Malta. It’s a 45-minute audio-visual and is a great way to get a better understanding of Malta’s fascinating history. Plus, in the summer, it’s an ideal venue to escape the heat for a while.

3) Take a Free City Walking Tour of Valletta

Take a free walking tour of Valletta, Malta. Colour My Travel offers free walking tours twice a week in Valletta. They depart from Valletta City Gate on Wednesdays at 5 pm and Saturdays at 10 am. Tours last around 90 minutes. We did one when we first arrived in Malta. Our guide was excellent, and the tour was really interesting.

4) Enjoy a coffee and cake at Caffe Cordina on Republic Street.

The Caffe Cordina has been around since 1837. It’s a pleasant spot to enjoy a coffee and cake, sit outside in the square, and people watch but do go inside the cafe to admire the beautiful interior. Oh, and I highly recommend the Banoffee pie.

5) Take In a Performance At The Manoel Theatre

For a bit of culture, check out what’s showing at the Manoel Theatre .

Built in 1731, it’s one of the oldest theatres in Europe. It was originally built to keep the younger Knights of St John out of mischief!

It’s a lovely venue; so far, I have seen Shakespeare’s play Macbeth, enjoyed concerts by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, a couple of musicals and two pantomimes.

6) You Have to See The View of Grand Harbor From The Upper Barrakka Gardens

With incredible views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, you have to visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens. If you have arrived by ship, it’s easily accessible with the Barrakka lift, just €1 to take the elevator up and free to come back down.

The Gardens overlook the Saluting Battery, where a cannon is fired every day at noon and 4 pm with great pomp and ceremony. If you want to take a closer look at the Saluting Battery, it’s possible to visit. It only costs three euros, and you can buy your tickets in advance here.

There’s also quite a cute kiosk coffee shop located in the park too.

7) Take the Three Cities Ferry and explore Senglea, Birgu, and Bormla.

From Upper Barrakka Gardens, take the lift down to the waterfront and take the Three Cities Ferry across the Grand Harbour. It’s just a short ferry ride but really picturesque, and at only €2 per person, it’s excellent value. Or take one of the colourful local water taxis known as dghajsa (pronounced: “dicer”). To cross the harbour in a dghajsa, it also costs just €2 per person. They also offer tours of the harbour for only €8 per person.

Take a stroll through the Three Cities. You could visit Fort St Angelo, The Maritime Museum, or even the Inquisitors Palace in Birgu.

Or take a stroll through sleepy Senglea, enjoy a drink at one of the many waterfront cafes, and be sure to visit Gardjola Gardens for magnificent views of Valletta.

8) See A Show At Valletta’s Pjazza Teatru Rjal

Catch a performance at the Pjazza Teatru Rjal , the former Opera House and one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings of Valletta.  The Opera House was built in 1866. It was almost destroyed by fire in 1866 but beautifully restored by 1877.

However, it took a direct hit from bombing during World War II. There had been several plans over the years to rebuild the Opera House to its former glory, but in the end, the ruins of the theatre were redesigned by Renzo Piano, an Italian architect and in 2013, the open-air theatre in the ruins was opened to the public.

Admittedly, it doesn’t look so good from the outside, but it’s a great outdoor venue. Many concerts and films take place here, especially during the summer months.

9) Catch An Art House Movie At The Spazju Kreattiv

The Spazju Kreattiv is housed within the magnificent St James Cavalier, which was built during the time of the Knights of St John. All sorts of weird and wonderful arty events and films are shown here. Have a look at their website for a list of current and upcoming events.

10) If You Are Going to Valletta, You Really Must Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

Located in the heart of Valletta is the gorgeous St. John’s Co-Cathedral . If you enjoy visiting churches, you must see this one, and if you’re not particularly into religious buildings, you should still visit this one.

From the outside, it’s quite a plain-looking building, but inside, it’s stunning and very Baroque. Every corner of the Cathedral is decorated with 16th and 17th-century art, and it’s not just the ceilings and walls.

The floor is covered in a patchwork of marble memorials for the knights.

There’s also a balcony so you can admire the church nave from above. It’s only 45 steps!

And definitely, don’t miss the oratory to see the paintings by Caravaggio. His most famous work, once described as ‘the painting of the 17th century’ the Beheading of St. John the Baptist is on display here.

Cost To Enter St John’s Co-Cathedral

It costs €15 to enter, and included in the price is an excellent self-guided audio tour. The price includes entrance to the Cathedral and the oratory.

Note that the Cathedral is a popular spot for cruise visitors to visit, so queues to enter can be long. Check how many cruise ships are in from your vantage point at the Upper Barrakka Gardens to decide if it’s a good day to visit or not or check on CruiseMapper .

For details on opening hours, visit their website .

11) Go Way Back In Time to Ancient Malta At The National Museum of Archaeology

To escape the heat and the summer crowds, why not visit The National Museum of Archaeology on Republic Street? Here you will find exhibits and artefacts that date back to Malta’s Neolithic period (5000 BC) and up to the Phoenician Period (400 BC).

Highlights from the museum include the ‘Sleeping Lady’ (from the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum near Paola, which is just a short bus ride away) and the ‘Venus of Malta’ (from the Ħaġar Qim Temple .)

12) Bar Hopping Along Valletta’s Old Red Light District – Strait Street

Strait Street also affectionately known as ‘The Gut’ was once the seedy red light district of Valletta. During the late 19th until the mid-20th century, Strait Street was one of the liveliest parts of the capital. Prostitution and debauchery were rife. 

In recent years, it’s been somewhat gentrified and now hosts a number of wine bars, gin bars, music bars and restaurants. 

13) Visit Valletta’s Lower Barrakka Gardens

The Lower Barrakka Gardens is twinned with the Upper Barrakka Gardens – now, there’s a surprise. Much quieter than its twin, it too offers a fantastic view of the Grand Harbour and the breakwater. In its centre, there’s a rather prominent neoclassical temple that’s dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball.

Sir Alexander Ball was a British naval officer who was sent to Malta in 1798 to help the Maltese blockade against the French and who was widely loved and respected by the local Maltese.

Just outside the Gardens are a couple of eateries that are rather pleasant spots for a coffee and a sandwich.

14) Hastings Gardens

On top of St. John’s Bastion and St. Michael’s Bastion, to the west of the City Gate, is the Hastings Gardens. The Gardens is named after the Marquis of Hastings, who was a governor of Malta and whose monument stands in the centre. The garden has views of Floriana, Manoel Island, Msida, and Sliema.

15) Walk The Valletta Fortifications

One of our favourite walks in Valletta, is to walk the Valletta fortifications. Much of the city’s protective walls and bastions are still standing today, and with the sea on three sides, it’s an enjoyable walk around the city walls.

There’s a part that’s a little rocky, so wear proper shoes, but it’s not too difficult. It takes you close to the two lighthouses by the entrance to the Grand Harbour. Beautiful walk to watch the boats and ships entering and leaving the harbour.

Do the Valletta fortification walk at the weekend. We went again during the week, and there were loads of cars parked which rather spoilt the walk, but at weekends, it’s lovely!

16) Take A Stroll Along The Valletta Waterfront

We can see the Valletta Waterfront from across the Grand Harbour in the Gardjola Gardens on our daily walks with our dog. Nineteen historical warehouses built during the Baroque period have now been converted into bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. There’s even a Starbucks and a Hard Rock Cafe; not sure if that’s a good thing or not!

These former warehouses were where the Knights of St John and merchants from Europe used to unload their wares. The doors of each building were painted in different colours to represent what was once stored inside them.

Red represents wine, blue represents fish, green represents fruit and vegetables, and yellow represents wheat.

During the summer months, there is entertainment in the form of street entertainers, traditional dancers, marching bands, and street theatre. It’s also now part of the Cruise Terminal.

To be honest, it was a little bit too touristy for us; the drinks and food were underwhelming and a bit overpriced. When the cruise ships are in town, the Valletta Waterfront, with its chain restaurants and trinket shops, could be almost anywhere in the world. If you’re staying in Valletta and want to eat by the water, it might be worth a visit. We may be biased, but we far prefer the waterfront cafes and restaurants over in the Three Cities.

17) Take A Food Tour

The Valletta Food Tour with Offbeat Food Trails is a fun way to learn a bit about the history of Valletta and Malta and to try some traditional Maltese food – pastizzi and timpana, to name just a few. This three-hour food tour takes place every Saturday morning at 10:30, departing from St John’s Co-Cathedral.

You can buy your tickets in advance for the Valletta food tour here.

18) Chocolate District

This is one for the chocoholics. On Melita Street, not too far from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, is the Chocolate District. Spoiler alert – the Food Tour stops here for a break, but if you just want a chocolate fix and not an entire food tour , then this is for you.

19) Visit the Mysterium Fidei Beneath St Catherine’s Monastery

Closed to the public for over 400 years, the Mysterium Fidei is a fascinating place to discover how the cloistered nuns used to live.

20)The Grand Master’s Palace

Built in the 16th century, the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta showcases a blend of Baroque and Mannerist architecture. It’s recently reopened after extensive renovation works, although it’s not entirely finished yet. You can see the ornate staterooms, council chambers, and the impressive Palace Armory, which houses a vast collection of arms and armour from the Knights of St John’s era.

21) The National Library

Also referred to as the Bibliotheca, the National Library of Malta is housed in an 18th-century neoclassical building located just behind the Queen Victoria statue near Cafe Cordina. Established in 1776, the library’s roots trace back to 1555 when Grandmaster Claude de la Senglea mandated that books owned by deceased members of the Order of St John should be left to the treasury. Aside from an impressive collection of literary works, the highlight of the library is the Archives of the Order of St John.

The library is open every day except Sundays. It’s free to enter, but you must show some form of ID to enter. No photos allowed.

22) Justice For Daphne Memorial

Opposite the courthouse, beside the Great Siege Monument, there’s a memorial for Daphne Caruana Galizia . Daphne, an investigative journalist, lost her life to a car bomb on October 16, 2017. She dedicated her efforts to exposing political corruption in Malta.

23) Fancy A Trip To Gozo?

It’s now possible to take a fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo. The journey time is around 45 minutes. The new fast ferry terminal is located very close to where the ferry from the Three Cities docks in Valletta, or coming from Valletta, just head to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, take the lift down, and it’s just across the road. You have a choice of two ferry companies – for up-to-date prices and schedules, check out the ferry websites here – Gozo Fast Ferry and  Virtu Ferries .

24) Treat Yourself To A Spa

Need some pampering? I can personally highly recommend both the Amis Day Spa and Myoka 66 Spa in Valletta. Both offer relaxing massages, facials and manicures/pedicures. Check their websites for special rates on spa packages.

25) Visit The Casa Rocca Piccola

See how the wealthy used to live in this 16th-century palazzo, Casa Rocca Piccola . It’s a lovely home to explore and the family still live there. Fascinating.

Favourite Bars In Valletta, Malta

Have a drink at “the pub” in valletta.

Located on Archbishop Street, it’s only a small bar, but it is infamous for being the place where the famous actor Oliver Reed died in 1999 after a very heavy drinking session during the making of his last movie, Gladiator.

It is said that Oliver Reed had drunk more than eight pints of lager, half a bottle of whiskey, twelve large rums and half a bottle of whiskey. Sadly and probably not that surprisingly, he collapsed in the bar and unfortunately passed away before the ambulance arrived. The Pub” as well as being a nice place for a beer, is also an unofficial shrine for Reed.

The Bridge Bar

Every Friday night from May till the end of October, you can listen to jazz outdoors at the Bridge Bar on Saint Ursula Street. Book in advance if you want a table or come early and find a place to sit on the steps. Cushions are provided. It’s a different jazz band every week, so you never know who’s going to turn up. Bar snacks are available.

Also, on Strait Street. Serving great gin and tapas. If you love gin, you’ll love this place. It’s the first gin bar in Malta with a huge selection of gin. Apparently, gin is not just Gordon’s; who would have thought? There’s a great choice of tapas, they look pretty good but haven’t tried them yet as were full from the Maltese platter, see above.

Favourite Lunchtime Spots in Valletta

The museum cafe.

Located in the heart of Valletta and part of the iconic Auberge d’Italie, the Museum Café is a family-run cafe serving all sorts of snacks and local dishes. The Museum Cafe first opened in 1921 and is famous for its ftira, a ring-shaped, leavened Maltese bread. The ftira sandwiches are enormous and perfect for sharing.

Reno’s Caffe

A very simple family-run local diner. Similar menu to the Museum cafe. Sandwiches, pasta dishes. Huge portions, so suitable for sharing.

Il-Gifen Bar

Another family run restaurant located on St Paul’s Street. Umm, there seems to be a theme here. Generous portions, reasonable prices. Good for pasta dishes and salads.

The Submarine

For takeaway sandwiches, our favourite spot is The Submarine on Merchant Street. They have a choice of pre-made or create-your-own sandwiches. Always fresh, always delicious, and often a queue. There are many sandwich shops in Valletta, but this is the only one where you see people lining up, and it’s well worth it!

D’office does a pleasant three-course lunch deal that includes a glass of wine. It’s located just down the road from “The Pub” on Triq l-Arcisqof.

Favourite Dinner Spots in Valletta, Malta

Dmitri restaurant.

We don’t dine out much in Valletta. We usually eat in our local neighbourhood in the Three Cities. However, we did have an amazingly delicious meal at Dmitri Restaurant on St Paul’s Street. The restaurant is tiny, so we recommend making reservations for dinner. The decor is simple, but the food is fabulous. Lots of fish dishes and good selections of wine. Prices from around €50 per head with wine.

Beati Paoli Restaurant

This charming, small restaurant on St Paul’s Street , just behind the Is-Suq Tal-Belt (The Valletta Food Market), serves delicious Mediterranean dishes. Great food and service.

Aaron’s Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious meal of calamari and tagliatelle with lobster at an incredibly reasonable price for the quality of the food offered. Tagliatelle with lobster was just €18. Aaron’s Kitchen is located in the heart of Valletta, just a few minutes from St George’s Square. Turn left at the HSBC bank. The restaurant is run by Celebrity Chef patron Aaron Degabriele, whom I personally have never heard of, but the food and service were great. Reservations recommended.

Souvenir Shopping

If you’re looking for fridge magnets, snow globes and other tacky must-have gifts in Valletta, there’s an abundance of souvenir shops scattered around the city. A new shop opened very recently just by St John’s Co-Cathedral called Souvenirs That Don’t Suck – it’s got quite a fun collection of T-shirts, tote bags and coasters.

For something a little classier than t-shirts, we recommend you visit the Stephen Cordina Aroma and Therapy Flagship Store at 1 Archbishop Street. If you’re staying in Sliema, they also have a shop at Tigne Point. Here you will find a great selection of smellies for the body and home.

Think candles, room diffusers, essential oils, and gorgeous smelling body lotions and potions. We picked up some candles for Christmas made with frankincense, and probably not on your list if you’re souvenir shopping, but I’d also highly recommend the night serum.

Follow them on Facebook because they are planning to do a few workshops in the future, and as Stephen Cordina is one of just a handful of recognized perfumers in the world, they could be quite interesting.

Best Time To Visit Valletta, Malta

With over 300 days of sunshine and more than 3000 hours of sunshine a year, Valletta is an ideal all-year-round destination. Having said that, July and August are hot, seriously hot and very busy.

Spring and Autumn are great times to visit, with beautiful clear blue skies, cooler evenings and fewer crowds.

How To Get To and Around Valletta

First, you need to get to Malta. Being a tiny island in the Mediterranean, the only way here is by air or by sea.

If you’re coming by air and staying on the island for a while, do allow a day or two to explore the sights of Valletta. It really is a beautiful city, and being so compact and in a grid system, it’s effortless to get around on foot.

Malta’s Busses and The Explore Card

From all major resort areas, there are buses which will drop you off by Valletta Gate. The daytime fare for a bus ticket is €2, and the night-time fare is €3. On all the buses, tickets can be purchased from the bus driver. Please have the right money as the driver may refuse to change large banknotes.

If you’re planning to use public transport a lot during your trip, consider buying an Explore card for €21 or €15 for children, which will give you unlimited travel for seven days. Cards are available for purchase in most hotels, supermarkets, convenience stores and at the main bus station in Valletta. (Floriana)

Ferries in Valletta

Coming from Sliema or the Three Cities, you can take a ferry which I have to say is a much prettier journey than the bus. Costs €2 per ferry ride or 3,90 return and the journey takes less than 10 minutes. Boats leave every half hour. During the summer, the ferries run until midnight.

Renting a Car in Malta

Renting a car gives you complete freedom, but particularly in the summer months, the traffic is terrible, and parking is a bit of a nightmare.

Taxi Cabs and Uber in Malta

Taxis are plentiful but not particularly cheap. We recommend downloading the Ecabs app . They operate like Uber, but out of all the taxi companies we have used, they are the most reliable and don’t (usually) drive like idiots.

Uber and Bolt also operate in Malta now, but I still prefer Ecabs.

Arriving By Cruise Ship Into Valletta, Malta

For those arriving by sea on one of the cruise ships, don’t just follow the crowds; getting around the city is easy. Most of the vessels moor up by the Valletta Waterfront, from there it’s a short walk to the Barrakka Lift which will take you up to Upper Barrakka Gardens.

I hope you have enjoyed our guide. I will keep updating this guide as I discover more places in Valletta. If there’s any place you feel that should be on this list, drop a line in the comments below.

For More Posts On Malta, Check These Out

Mysterium Fidei in Valletta

Casa Rocca Piccola Valletta

Why You Should Visit The Mosta Dome In Malta

Fort St Angelo in The Three Cities of Malta

Mdina – Malta’s Ancient Capital The Red Tower of Malt a

Driving in Malta Malta Cart Ruts – Clapham Junction Popeye Village Malta Food Tour Malta Carnival St John’s Co Cathedral in Valletta Valletta Guide The Malta Experience in Valletta The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu Senglea in the Three Cities

  Feast of Vows in Senglea Visit Comino Island Hagar Qim Ancient Temples Malta’s Hypogeum – a must see Maltese Maritime Sayings

Disclaimer:   Some of the links on this website are “affiliate links”, meaning that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost. This helps me to keep my website running and continue to share my travelling knowledge with you. I thank you for using the links on my website .

Sharing is caring!

• Pinterest 421

Related Posts:

36 Comments

Nice post! I really loved Valletta, more than I anticipated, especially the outstanding food.

Thank you. Where did you eat? Always looking for recommendations 🙂

Yeay…. Smashing list and images! WE. CAN’T. WAIT!!! We’ll be following this guide for sure for our trip! It looks like such a fantastic little place. See you soon ?

Angel is looking forward to taking you to all her favourite waterfront cafes ?

Thank you for this!! Malta is very high on our list of places to see and this is super helpful.

You’ve sold us. See you next spring!

Most excellent! We look forward to seeing you guys again.

I love this guide to Valletta! We’re in Sicily each summer (returning again this year) and we’re so close to Malta. I’d love to see the three cities, it sounds so fascinating to me. St John’s Cathedral looks spectacular too; I wouldn’t leave without seeing it!

Malta is not everyone’s wishlist on Europe trip. But Valletta looks like a city that must be visited. Now, it is added on my wishlist ?

For such a small capital city, it does seem like there is so much to do. Your posts have definitely enticed me to want to visit Malta and spend time in Valletta. The Grand Harbour reminds me of Venice with the colourful boats for hire. St John’s Cathedral definitely looks like the spot for stunning architecture and interior decoration. A spot in an outdoor patio for drinks or dinner would be where you would find me enjoying the local scene.

The Maltese balconies look simply gorgeous. There definitely is no better way to explore a place on foot. How long have you lived there? The bridge bar sounds right up our street, we love a bit of jazz. We’ve been to Gozo before but you’ve given us many reasons to visit the beautiful Valletta, we have pinned this – thanks!

I hadn’t considered Malta before. Valletta looks beautiful. Now on my list.

We are loving it here!

Thank you for this post! Your blog has just convinced me to visit Malta for a week rather than flying back home to Aus directly from Italy. Highly anticipating it thanks to all your amazing recommendations!

Hi Sonali! I hope you love Malta as much as we do.

A comprehensive and enjoyable read down memory lane. Malta’s capital is a beautiful, rich and enchanting city.

What a comprehensive guide to Valletta Malta—I think you covered everything I would want to do when visiting. As a gardener, the visit to Valletta’s Lower Barrakka Gardens and Hastings Gardens would be “must-see”s. I’d also want to take in the art and ancient culture. Thank you for the great dining suggestions too. You’ve saved m so much planning time!

A wonderful and thorough guide to Valletta, thank you. You have included some beautiful photographs. The one where the horses used to enter St James Cavalier particularly took my eye, I was lost in the arches! I have a number of friends who say that Malta is their favourite Mediterranean destination and I can see why it appeals.

You have provided a very detailed list of things to do in Valletta. I seems like you would need at least a couple of weeks in order to cover them all. I for sure wouldn’t miss visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral. I love the architecture and beauty of it, and of course you must have a drink while listing to entertainment at the Valetta Waterfront.

Those buildings are stunning – I’m in awe of just how gorgeous Valletta is! I’d love to visit one day, perhaps when my kids are a bit older. We enjoy visiting museums so that’s something we will certainly do. Thanks for sharing!

Valletta looks lovely, your photos really help to explain the attractions. I’d love to step back in time and visit The National Museum of Archaeology, followed by a spot of waterfront dining. What’s the name of that pasta pie? It looks terrible for you but SO delicious!

Oh, Valletta sounds like a lovely place to visit. It seems like it has something for everyone. I would love to watch something by Shakespeare at the Manoel Theatre. A walking tour would be an excellent way to experience and explore the city. Of course, exploring all of the older architecture would be a dream. Like you, I’d rather avoid the chains and cruise ship crowds, so it’s good to have recommendations for places off the beaten path. Thanks for the tips!

I love the style of buildings in Valletta, I’m a big one for looking up and seeing what is around me. I’d definitely take advantage of the walking tour to find out more. Who wouldn’t want to watch a performance at the Manoel Theatre with those surroundings? The Saint John’s Cathedral is so ornate, simply stunning! Valletta sure does have a lot to offer!

I have seen so many photos and videos of Malta that it has been in my bucket list since long. Your Gorgeous Maltese Balconies really look interesting and I love such places. I found their nickname – Gossip balconies very funny and even in India there are some corners of house dedicated to gossips. I always love walking city tour and therefore taking a free walking tour of Valletta, Malta by Colour My Travel would be great. Good to know they offer free walking tours twice a week in Valletta.

Hi Sarah, what a comprehensive guide to Valletta! It brings back so many lovely memories from our week in Malta back in 2018. But looking at your list, we obviously missed many places. The good news is that we can come again and enjoy the remaining sites.

this is amazing post thanks for sharing information with us

Malta has long been on my list. I fell in love with the first few photos I saw, and immediately said, I need to go there! I love your guide, it makes for a excellent itinerary planner. It is good to see so many free things to do, the walking tour, the wandering the streets, fortified walls, all excellent photo opportunities.

Loved this – saved for later as we’ll visit Malta later this year 🙂

Thank you 🙂

Malta is amazing. We were there on a cruise and loved the Co-Cathedral — just stunning!

That cathedral is impressive and I’ve seen a lot of churches in my time, but its in the top 5 for sure 🙂

I’ve never heard of Valletta before reading this article! Thanks for putting this place on my radar! I’d love to visit some day!

Well, let me know when you’re this way and Ill show you around 🙂

Malta has always been on my travel bucket list. This is a very good travel guide for Valletta. I’ll be checking out the rest of your Malta articles now. What a beautiful place to call home!

So much to love in this city, your post brought it to life! I’ve been fascinated with it since I read about its Templar past, but now even more so! Moving up on the Bucket List!

Wow! What a beautiful and helpful comprehensive guide to Malta! I’ve always been curious and this makes me want to visit. Thank you!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

LifePart2 & Beyond

Blog Search

• X (Twitter)

25 Things To Do in Valletta, Malta’s Charming Capital

Last updated on November 20th, 2023 at 07:14 pm

UNESCO-listed Valletta is a beyond-words beautiful city and this list of the best things to do in Valletta is here to inspire you to plan a trip to the Maltese capital soon. In this article, you’ll also find all the information you need about what to do in Valletta.

More often than not, people tend to squeeze Valletta into Malta itineraries as a day trip. Should you do that too? Definitely not. With its stunning architecture and insanely rich history, Valletta is worth a multi-day trip in its own right, either as part of a longer Malta itinerary or as a standalone city break.

There are many things to do in Valletta to keep you busy and amazed for a few days. If you’re wondering what to do in Valletta or if the tantalising Is Valletta worth visiting? question is echoing in your heads, read on and all your questions will be answered.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

Valletta Travel Tips

Before moving on to our list of the best things to do in Valletta, here are some tips that you may find useful when planning your trip to Valletta:

• Where is Valletta? Valletta is the capital of Malta , an island country situated in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily and north of Libya. Malta consists of three islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino . There are also two uninhabited islets in the Maltese Archipelago, Cominotto and Filfla.
• What is the best time to visit Valletta? To avoid the excessive summer heat – and crowds – while not missing out on Malta’s unique swimming opportunities, the best time to visit Valletta is from March to June and from September to November.
• How many days in Valletta? You need three days to fully appreciate Valletta and everything it has to offer.
• How to get to Valletta? You can get to Malta by plane . Malta’s Airport lies just 10 kilometres from Valletta. You can get to Valletta from the airport either by public transport (bus) or taxi. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer or a shuttle bus that will take you to your hotel in Valletta.
• How to get around Valletta? When in Valletta, you can walk, use public transport, take the ferry or hop on a traditional dgħajsa boat. You will find suggestions on how to get to specific places in Valletta in the list of the best things to do in Valletta below.
• Where to stay in Valletta? Valletta is a small city with great options for a special stay. For example, some of the best hotels in Valletta are housed in historic buildings. You should opt for a room inside a palazzo offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour or a stay at one of the finest boutique hotels in Valletta. Have a look at some of the best accommodation options in Valletta here . Another option is to stay in Sliema , just a short ferry ride from Valletta.

Travel Resources To Help You Plan Your Valletta Trip

• Find the best deals for your flights to Malta here .
• Find the best deals for your accommodation in Valletta .
• Book the best tours with GetYourGuide  or  Viator   in Valletta .
• Explore Malta on a road trip . Rent your car here!
• Travel without worries.  Click here  to buy your travel insurance .
• Make your transactions in foreign currency  simple without visiting a bureau de change.  Order your Wise Card here!

Before Going Into What To Do in Valletta, Here’s a Brief History of Valletta & Malta

At first glance, a history section isn’t an essential part of an article listing the best things to do in Valletta or any other city for that matter. Yet, in Valletta’s case, it is. The city has an incredibly rich history as Malta played a crucial part in several instances throughout the centuries.

During your trip to Valletta – and while you’re reading this guide on what to do in Valletta – you’ll keep stumbling upon this history. It happened to us and we often found ourselves struggling to put things in a logical order as we went about sightseeing in Valletta.

If only someone had put together a brief timeline for us, we often thought. As it turns out, we did. For you. This way, you can always come back to this section if you get lost in the sea of historical information.

• 1048: The Order of St John was founded in Jerusalem. The mission of the Knights of the Order was to care for pilgrims, regardless of their religion or nationality.
• 1310: The Order of St John moved to the island of Rhodes in Greece . By then, the Knights had assumed military duties, defending the Christian world. The Order was ruled by its Grand Master. The Knights who came to Rhodes from all over Europe were grouped according to the language (Langue) they spoke.
• 1522 – 1523: The Order of St John was defeated by Suleiman the Magnificent during the Siege of Rhodes . The Ottomans established their presence in the eastern Mediterranean and the Knights were forced out of Rhodes.
• 1530: Holy Roman Emperor Charles V gave Malta to the Order of St John. The Knights settled in Birgu, the de facto capital of Malta until 1571.
• 1565: The Great Siege of Malta ended with the Knights’ victory over the Ottomans.
• 1566: Following their victory, the Knights founded a glorious new city and named it after Jean de Valette, their Grand Master. Valletta, the new capital of Malta, was born.
• 1798: Napoleon brought Malta under French rule and expelled the Order of St John.
• 1800: Malta fell under British rule.
• 1914: During WWI, Malta was dubbed the Nurse of the Mediterranean. As the island was far from the battlefields, it served as the perfect place for soldiers to recover from their wounds.
• 1940 – 1942: Valletta was heavily bombed by the Nazis during the WWII Siege of Malta . The latter was instrumental in the defeat of the Axis powers.
• 1964: Malta gained its independence.
• 1974: Malta became a republic.
• 1979: The British Royal Navy departed from Malta.
• 1989: A historic meeting between George Bush and Mikhail Gorbachev took place in Malta, marking the beginning of the end of the Cold War .

25 Fantastic Things To Do in Valletta Malta

1. marvel at valletta’s architecture.

Built on a narrow peninsula by the Order of St John after the siege of 1565, Valletta features 320 historic monuments in a surprisingly small area. The prominent architectural style in Valletta is Baroque . The latter flourished during the 17th century when the Order ruled the islands of Malta.

Later, Neoclassical buildings emerged across the city when Malta was under British rule. In the last few decades, contemporary constructions , such as the city’s Parliament House designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano , left their mark on the city’s architecture.

While strolling around Valletta, you will notice the typical wooden Maltese balconies. This type of balcony is called a gallarija . Often forming a colourful grid on a building’s facade, these ornate balconies have an Arabic influence. Another typical element of Valletta’s architecture is the use of statues to decorate the corners of the buildings, a requirement set by the Order of St John.

Check out this Valletta walking tour that offers a quick introduction to the city’s history.

2. Stroll Along Republic Street

Pedestrianised for almost its entire length, the one-kilometre Republic Street is one of Valletta’s main streets. It starts from the City Gate and goes all the way to Fort St. Elmo. The Parliament of Malta , Teatru Rjal , the National Museum of Archaeology and the Grand Master’s Palace are only a few of the imposing constructions that line Republic Street.

A walk along Republic Street, past splendid palazzi and quaint squares, is the best way to take in Valletta’s unique charm.

3. Admire The Tritons’ Fountain & The City Gate

One of Valletta’s landmarks, the Tritons’ Fountain was constructed in the 1950s and restored in 2018. It symbolises Malta’s strong connection to the sea . A few steps from the Tritons’ Fountain, the magnificent City Gate – one of the city’s three gates – awaits. Dating back to 1569, the City Gate has been reconstructed five times since then. Its current version is the work of Italian architect Renzo Piano .

4. Step Inside St John’s Co-Cathedral

Built between 1573 and 1578, St John’s Co-Cathedral replaced St Lawrence Church in Birgu, the Knights’ main site of worship before the Great Siege of 1565. Designed by the Maltese architect and military engineer Girolamo Cassar , St John’s Co-Cathedral features a plain exterior compared to its elaborate Baroque interior.

One century after the Co-Cathedral’s construction, its interior was redecorated in Baroque style by Mattia Preti. The vaulted ceiling represents scenes from John the Baptist’s life.

One of the church’s nine chapels is dedicated to Our Lady of Philermos and the rest to the patron saints of the Order. In the Oratory, there are two masterpieces by Caravaggio : The Beheading of Saint John The Baptist and Saint Jerome Writing.

Moreover, several Grand Masters are buried in the Co-Cathedral’s Crypt. Among them, is Jean de Valette, the Grand Master who ordered the construction of Valletta. St John’s Co-Cathedral shares the bishop’s seat with St Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina since 1816, hence the name Co-Cathedral.

For more information about admission fees and opening hours, click here . Alternatively, book this guided tour of St John’s Co-Cathedral with a walking tour of Valletta .

5. Have a Look at The Grand Master’s Palace

Located in the heart of Valletta on St George Square, the Grand Master’s Palace was the headquarters of the Order when they moved to Valletta from Birgu after the Great Siege. It was the seat of the Order until 1798 when Napoleon ruled the island. The British took over the Palace in 1800.

In 1921, the Grand Master’s Palace became the seat of the first Parliament of Malta until 2015 when the new Parliament House was built. Today, the Palace houses the office of the President of Malta .

With a collection of armours – including those of several Grand Masters such as La Valette and Alof de Wignacourt – weapons, and swords, the Armoury is one of the Palace’s highlights. What’s more, the paintings that represent scenes of the Great Siege in the Palace State Rooms stand out.

The Grand Master’s Palace is temporarily closed to the public due to restoration works. For more information, click here .

6. Get in The Depths of The Lascaris War Rooms, One of The Best Things To Do in Valletta

Situated below the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery, the Lascaris War Rooms is an underground complex of tunnels and chambers where the British headquarters were located during WWII. The British expanded the existing tunnels that the Order used as slave quarters to coordinate naval and air operations from there.

One of the most critical operations that were conducted in the Lascaris War Rooms was Operation Husky in 1943. Thanks to this operation, the Allies invaded Sicily with amphibious and airborne units and took the island from the Italian Fascists and German Nazis.

After WWII, the Lascaris War Rooms continued to operate until 1977. In 2009, the complex was restored and it’s open as a museum since then. Among the highlights are the RAF Sector Fighter Control Room, the Filter Room, the Anti-Aircraft Gun Operations Room, and the Combined Room.

For more information about admission fees and opening hours, click here .

7. Discover The Upper Barrakka Gardens & The Barrakka Lift

Perched atop Saints Peter & Paul Bastion, the Upper Barrakka Gardens is a public garden with fantastic panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities .

Originally, the arched terrace and the garden were only available to the Knights of the Order’s Italian Langue. The garden opened to the public in 1800 after the French occupation. It’s the ideal place for some relaxation, while you can also grab a refreshment at the on-site kiosk.

From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you can take the lift down to the ditch. It’s the best way to get to the Grand Harbour quickly. From there, you can take the ferry to the Three Cities. This lift was constructed in 2012 to replace the first one that was built in 1905. Most importantly, though, the Barrakka Lift is life-saving on your way up to the gardens.

8. Go To The Saluting Battery

Situated one tier lower from the Upper Barraka Gardens, the Saluting Battery replaced a nearby Ottoman battery. After the Great Siege, the Order of St John used it for saluting vessels and military operations. Later, the battery was in use for military purposes during the French occupation and the Second World War until 1954.

Today, the battery is restored with replicas of the original cannons. Every day at noon , a grand ceremony with gun fires takes place. It’s worth timing your visit so that you don’t miss this special moment at one of the best places to visit in Valletta.

9. Take in The Charm of Valletta Waterfront

Few snapshots of Valletta can be as iconic as the strikingly pretty facades of the buildings that line Valletta’s Waterfront. The latter is one of the best places in Valletta to enjoy a long stroll before sitting at a quaint café along the promenade to take in the splendid views .

10. Catch Breathtaking Views From The Lower Barrakka Gardens

Located atop Saint Christopher Bastion, a short distance from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Lower Barrakka Gardens is its twin public garden. Similar to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Lower Barrakka Gardens are ideal for a relaxing stroll with panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.

The Doric temple that dominates the garden is a memorial to Sir Alexander Ball , a British Royal Navy officer who helped the Maltese take Malta back from the French in 1800. Sir Alexander Ball became the Civil Commissioner of Malta as he was very popular among the Maltese people.

11. Visit The Siege Bell War Memorial

A few steps from the Lower Barrakka Gardens, the Siege Bell War Memorial commemorates the 7000 soldiers and civilians who died in the Siege of Malta during the Second World War. The memorial was constructed in 1992, 50 years after Malta received the George Cross Award in honour of the heroism and bravery of its people. The bell rings every day in the victims’ memory.

12. Explore Fort St. Elmo & The National War Museum

Built at the tip of Valletta’s peninsula, Fort St. Elmo occupies a strategic location between the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, Valletta’s two main ports. The star-shaped fortress was built in 1552 by the Knights of the Order of St John as a defence against Ottoman invasions.

During the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, Fort St. Elmo was captured by the Ottomans after almost a month of resistance. However, the Knights gained the needed time to reinforce their defence in Birgu where their headquarters were. Although the Knights were kicked out of Rhodes by the Ottomans in 1522, the Great Siege of 1565 in Malta had a happy ending for the Order who ruled the Maltese Islands until 1798.

Fort St. Elmo is also home to the National War Museum , an exceptional display of WWI and WWII history. Among the museum’s highlights are Faith , a Gloster Gladiator, the only surviving British fighter plane of the three that defended the island during WWII, and the replica of the George Cross Award that was given to the Maltese people in 1942.

13. Be Enchanted By Casa Rocca Piccola, One of The Best Things To See in Valletta

Situated along Republic Street, Casa Rocca Piccola is one of many prestigious palazzi built after the Great Siege of 1565. Originally, it was the house of a Knight called Don Pietro La Rocca . Nowadays, it’s the family home of the 9th Marquis de Piro .

The house features a lovely garden and a private museum with collections of furniture, costumes and Maltese lace. However, the highlight for us was the underground World War II air raid shelter that was added in 1918.

Check out availability and ticket prices for Casa Rocca Piccola here .

Some of the palazzo’s rooms are available to stay if you’re looking for the once-in-a-lifetime experience to sleep within the same walls as a real-life noble family. You can check them out here .

14. Look For The Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck

On his way to Rome for his trial, Saint Paul was shipwrecked in Malta in 60 AD. Hidden in plain sight, the Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck was built in the 16th century and has a gorgeous 19th-century facade. The church’s highlights are the wrist bones of Saint Paul and the part of the column where the Saint was beheaded.

If you happen to be in Malta on the 10th of February, don’t miss the Saint’s celebration day when a wooden statue of Saint Paul is paraded through Valletta’s streets. This is definitely one of the best things to see in Valletta.

A stone’s throw from the Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck, you can find some of Valletta’s quaintest alleys, lined with cosy cafés, bars and restaurants overlooking the Grand Harbour. St Lucia’s Street is our favourite.

15. Try Delicious Pastizzi

Similar to neighbouring Italy , Malta has no shortage of mouthwatering treats. What we liked most were the pastizzi (singular: pastizz).

This staple Maltese treat is made with pastry traditionally filled with ricotta or peas . Besides those two traditional flavours, you can try other variations, too. Pastizzi are inexpensive and ideal for a quick lunch. You can find them almost everywhere, from the best restaurants in Valletta to historic cafés like Caffe Cordina .

Check out this Street Food and Culture Walking Tour in Valletta to discover all of the city’s delicious corners.

16. Have Lunch At Valletta’s Food Market

Located in the heart of Valletta, the city’s food market – also called Is-Suq Tal-Belt – dates back to the 19th century. After being damaged during World War II, the market lost its glory until it was restored and reopened in 2018 .

The covered market now hosts a food court with plenty of eateries featuring international cuisines, from Maltese to Asian. There’s also an on-site supermarket, ideal for those staying in Valletta.

17. Book a Tour of The Manoel Theatre

Inspired by the theatre of Palermo, Manoel Theatre was built in 1732. It’s named after the Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena who commissioned its construction. Manoel Theatre is considered one of the oldest theatres in Europe .

The theatre holds performances and organises guided tours. The hours of the guided tours vary because of the rehearsals. Therefore, it’s better to contact the theatre to make your booking.

For more information, click here .

18. Walk Along Strait Street

Regardless of the strict Catholic character of Valletta, Strait Street was the heart of nightlife for British and American sailors during the 19th and 20th centuries. The narrow street was lined with hole-in-the-wall bars filled with drunks and prostitutes. After the British navy left Malta, the street was abandoned.

Nowadays, though, it’s more vibrant than ever. One of the best things to do in Valletta is to take an evening walk along Strait Street to explore its fantastic bars and restaurants .

19. See The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Situated close to Strait Street, the imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel with its distinct oval dome was built between 1958 and 1980 on the site of a church built by Carmelite monks in 1570. The latter was destroyed during a WWII air raid.

20. Spend a Day Exploring The Three Cities, One of Our Favourite Things To Do in Valletta

Usually under the tourist radar, the Three Cities are right opposite Valletta. Visiting them is one of the off-the-beaten-path things to do in Valletta. The Three Cities are Vittoriosa (former Birgu), Senglea (former L’Isla) and Cospicua (former Bormla).

Among the three, Birgu is the oldest one. It used to be the capital of Malta since 1530 when the Order of Saint John came to the island. After the Order’s victory over the Ottomans in 1565, Birgu was renamed Vittoriosa (Victorious). The other two cities were founded by the Order at a later time.

The Three Cities were destroyed during the Second World War. They were rebuilt a few decades later. Situated at the tips of two peninsulas, Vittoriosa and Senglea offer breathtaking views of Valletta. Most of the Three Cities highlights are in Vittoriosa since Senglea was almost totally flattened by the World War II bombings.

Start your walk from Victory Square in Vittoriosa where the Victory Monument stands. Take your time having a coffee or lunch at one of the cafés there. Wander around the city’s quaint streets and discover some of the buildings that used to be Auberges of the Order. Step inside Norman House , which dates back to the 13th century.

If you have time, you can visit Fort Sant Angelo , the headquarters of the Order during the Great Siege.

After Vittoriosa, take a relaxing stroll to the tip of Senglea for the best views of Valletta. Once there, you can visit the Gardjola Gardens with their historic watchtower, the iconic Vedette.

You can get to the Three Cities by bus from Valletta. However, the best way to get to the Three Cities is the Valletta Ferry. Even better, for an authentic experience, opt for the traditional Maltese wooden boat, the dgħajsa . You can find both the ferry and the traditional boats at the Valletta Waterfront , close to the Barrakka Lift.

Check out this fantastic guided tour with a boat trip to the Three Cities.

21. Jump On The Ferry To Sliema

Given that Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and traffic can be horrendous, the best way to get around Valletta is the ferry. There are two ferry terminals in Valletta, one in the Grand Harbour, which connects Valletta to the Three Cities, and one on Marsamxett Harbour, which connects Valletta to Sliema.

Sliema is a residential area with a promenade, the Sliema Front, that’s lined with bars and restaurants. The closer to the sea you are, the more modern the architecture of Sliema is. However, if you climb uphill to Sliema’s old centre , the architectural landscape changes and you can see mostly charming old buildings there.

Get lost in Sliema’s maze of streets and discover small treasures like Simler’s Bakery for delicious pastizzi and the Hole In The Wall Bar for a glass or three of local beer.

What’s more, for fantastic views of Valletta, it’s worth taking the seaside stroll to Tigne Point , the tip of the peninsula from where the Ottomans attacked Fort St Elmo during the Great Siege.

22. Wander Around Manoel Island, One of The Lesser-Known Places To Visit in Valletta

The tiny island at the entrance of Marsamxett Harbour is Manoel Island. It’s home to Fort Manoel , a star-shaped 18th-century fort, and a 17th-century isolation hospital for knights, the Lazzaretto . You can get to Manoel Island from Sliema via a short bridge. The island is ideal for a relaxing long walk , past the ruins of the aforementioned hospital and other structures.

23. Join a Day Trip To The Blue Lagoon, One of The Best Activities in Valletta

Located between Comino Island and Cominotto, the Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s highlights . As Comino is uninhabited, the best way to take in the beauty of the island is on a day trip. If you’re staying in Valletta, it’s more convenient to choose a day trip from Sliema like this one .

If you’re interested in more details on how to get to Comino and the Blue Lagoon, we’ve published this thorough guide .

24. Be Amazed By The Tarxien Temples

The islands of Malta and Gozo are home to seven complexes of megalithic temples. If your trip to Malta is a short one and you’re only spending time in Valletta, it’s worth visiting one of the temples closest to the Maltese capital.

Along with the famous temples of the Hypogeum, the UNESCO complex of the Tarxien Temples is situated near Valletta and it’s the largest prehistoric site in Malta . The complex consists of four megalithic temples that were built between 3600 and 2500 BC. You can get to the Tarxien Temples from Valletta by bus.

25. Enjoy a Brewery Experience, One of The Most Unusual Things To Do in Valletta

You haven’t been to Malta if you haven’t enjoyed CISK, the local beer . Housed in the Old Farsons Brewery , a detailed exhibition tells the story behind CISK beer and how it managed to replace wine in the locals’ hearts. The Brewhouse rooftop offers panoramic views of the city and it’s ideal for one or three pints of Malta’s finest beer.

For more information about admission fees and opening hours of the Farsons Brewery Experience, click here .

We hope that you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Valletta and that reading our guide made you dream of a trip to Malta’s fascinating capital. We’re sure you’ll enjoy Valletta as much as we did!

WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina EDITING: Maria

Related Posts

What to do in las palmas de gran canaria (spain), what to do in mdina, malta’s gorgeous silent city, how to get to comino & the blue lagoon in malta.

St John’s Co-Cathedral was the highlight of my trip to Valletta! Simply incredible from floor to ceiling. It’s one of the must-see attractions in Malta!

Hi Lisa, thanks for your comment! We agree, it’s one of the best things to see in Valletta!

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO
• WRITING PORTFOLIO
• CZECH REPUBLIC
• TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY
• TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY
• SAVE TIME TO TRAVEL
• SAVE MONEY TO TRAVEL
• BOOK FLIGHTS ONLINE

Ultimate Travel Guide to Valletta

Valletta is unlike any other European capital city you’ll ever visit. Firstly, it’s the 4th smallest capital city in Europe measuring only 1km long and 600m wide. Valletta is situated in Malta’s Grand Harbour but is sheltered by land on either side, which has helped to defend Valletta in the past from military invasions. But today? Its title as European Capital of Culture in 2017 helped make Valletta a truly up and coming city break destination.

Like the rest of Malta, the city is built up of dusty limestone buildings covered in bright-coloured window boxes and religious motifs on ceramic plates, and there is still the odd red telephone box reminding visitors that Malta was a British colony until the 1960s.

The streets are built tall and long, so they benefit from shade while allowing cool sea air to drift throughout the city. Valletta’s history is so unique and multicultural (thanks to Malta’s positioning between Sicily and Tunisia) and has so many monuments densely packed into a small area, the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Valletta has tonnes to offer visitors, whether you’re visiting as a family, couple or solo traveller. There are so many amazing bars and restaurants, fantastic museums like the National Archaeology Museum and the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo and beautiful new and old architecture like St John’s Co-Cathedral which dates back to the 16th century, and the new City Gate and Parliament buildings which are barely 10 years old.

This ultimate travel guide to Valletta will show you all the most beautiful places in Valletta, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Malta and things to do in Malta which will help you in planning a trip to Valletta Malta.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

How to get to Valletta

Malta is a very small country, so there is only one main airport, Malta International Airport. But luckily, it’s only around 8km from Valletta.

Malta Airport has direct flights to over 100 cities all over Europe and the Middle East including Tel Aviv, Cairo and Casablanca. 

Because the drive from the airport to Valletta is only 20 minutes, the taxi fare is a fixed €15, and you can buy taxi tickets from inside the Arrival Hall.

There are also express bus services from the airport to Valletta (X1, X2, X3, X4) which are very easy to navigate, and ticket machines can be found in the airport, but tickets can be bought from the bus driver too.

Valletta is a popular port city for cruises so it’s definitely possible to visit the city on a Mediterranean cruise liner and it’s totally doable to experience the best of Valletta in one day.

What to expect in Valletta

The official, main national language of Malta is Maltese, but with Malta being a former colony of the United Kingdom, English is also an official language and most residents will speak it as a second language.

Some will have familial ties with Italy so Italian is also common. Malta is now an EU country and is also in the Schengen zone so it’s a relatively easy country to visit for most. 

Malta’s currency is the Euro and tipping is expected in restaurants everywhere in Malta, including Valletta, but nothing more than 10% is necessary and if gratuity has already been added (which it will in some establishments) then you don’t need to include a tip.

Malta is a very safe country to visit, even pickpocketing is usually limited to clubs rather than on the street. Note that Malta uses the type G three-pronged plug for electrical items , like the UK.

How to get around Valletta

Since Valletta is such a small city, there really is no need to use transport if you have good mobility. You could walk from Fort St Elmo at the tip of Valletta to Parliament at the very bottom in 13 minutes. Navigating Valletta is super easy as it was a planned city built in a grid system like Manhattan.

You could drive into the city but many of the streets are pedestrianized and you will find it hard to park, but parking spaces are plentiful just outside of the city gate. If you need/want to use public transport, the N.133 bus drives up and down Valletta and stops every 30 minutes at each bus stop.

Cycling might be an option, but some of the steep streets actually have steps instead of a slope so it’s easier for pedestrians to climb the bigger hills and cycle lanes are rare.

The best time to visit Valletta

Thanks to its positioning just south of Italy, Malta has an incredibly mild climate year-round. In the summer months of July – September, the heat is almost unbearable in Valletta if you want to explore at well over 30 degrees Celsius with little to no cloud coverage.

This is the most popular time of year for tourists who want to spend their days relaxing on Valletta beach or swimming in the sea. 

The best time to visit Valletta for warm weather and to avoid the crowds are the months of April, May and June. It’s definitely warm enough for lounging around by the pool but not too scorching for sightseeing, and accommodation prices won’t have peaked. Spring is also great for annual events in Valletta.

But the winter months are also fantastic for sightseeing as the city is quiet (but it’s not a ghost town) and the weather is mild.

Things to do in Valletta

Valletta city gate and parliament house.

For a city that was founded in 1566, many of the most important buildings in Valletta are less than 10 years old! Valletta’s City Gate is the first landmark that visitors see and it’s a strikingly modern design for such an archaic structure with tall metal spires on either side.  

Just behind Valletta City Gate are the Parliament House and the site of the Royal Opera House, which was left in ruin for decades after it was bombed in 1942 during World War II. In 2013, Italian architect Renzo Piano redesigned and renovated all of these structures using the limestone that every building in Malta is made from.

You can’t visit Valletta without seeing these buildings even if you wanted to because you have to pass them on your way into the city. But they are incredible buildings and it’s a clear message from Valletta that it’s not a city stuck in the past.

Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens

Formerly military posts, Upper Barrakka Gardens and Lower Barrakka Gardens are now two beautiful parks that overlook the Valletta waterfront in the west of the city over to the town of Birgu.

One of the reasons Malta remained a British colony until 50 years ago was because of its advantageous location for military purposes, hence why Malta (and Valletta) has so many forts.

The Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are beautifully manicured parks with lots of benches, statues and water fountains and offer great views over the water.

Every day at noon, the Upper Barrakka Gardens remind residents of the parks’ military history as they use cannon fire to mark the time, as Valletta has done for the past 500 years.

National Museum of Archaeology

Malta in itself is like one huge archaeology museum. The island country has been inhabited since the Neolithic period 5,000 years ago, through the Bronze Age and the Phoenician period in 400BC.

There are lots of incredible sites all over the island that you can visit. But if you don’t have time to visit the sites in person, then the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta is definitely the next best thing.

There are fossils and artifacts from the Megalithic Temples, the Hypogeum (which is an underground burial place dating back 3,000 years) and so many others housed in the museum.

St John’s Co-Cathedral

Valletta’s Cathedral is yet another unique building in the city as St John’s Co-Cathedral shares its duties with St Paul’s Cathedral with the former Maltese capital city, Mdina.

The Cathedral was built by the Order of St John (themselves named after John the Baptist), a Catholic Military order who were first formed to tend the sick and injured pilgrims in Jerusalem in the 11th century but spread throughout Europe as a military order defending Catholicism.

The Order of St John is an extremely important part of Malta and Valletta’s history and they still elect a Grand Master of the Order every year.

The Cathedral itself is made out of Malta’s trademark limestone and inside, the walls and ceilings are elaborately decorated with artworks and golden trim.

The floor is so delicate and ornate that carpet has been laid to protect it and heeled shoes are not permitted inside the church. It’s free to visit so definitely worth popping in.

National War Museum at Fort St Elmo

From the Order of St John to World War II, Valletta’s military history is extensive, to say the least.

One of the best museums you can visit in Valletta to try and understand this lengthy military history is the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo , just one of the many forts in Valletta and the surroundings.

Valletta Nightlife

The Valletta nightlife is one of the most laid back, social and easiest to enjoy, primarily because all the best bars are close to each other (because everything is close in Valletta!) and the weather is almost always warm enough to sit outside.

So many tables and chairs spill out onto the streets and you might have a hard time recognizing which tables belong to which restaurant/bar.

Some fantastic cocktail bars like Bridge Bar and Cafe Society have wonderful views out onto Valletta waterfront and it’s a great experience you shouldn’t miss!

What to eat in Valletta

Maltese cuisine is a peculiar mix of Mediterranean and Italian staples like mezze platters, seafood and pasta as well as stews, soups with lots of pastry dishes and hearty meals too.

For a country that experiences mild weather year-round and isn’t in short supply of beaches, the Maltese love their comfort food. And it’s a cuisine you really don’t see outside of Malta.

A couple of restaurants in Valletta that serve local Maltese dishes are Legligin and Nenu the Artisan Baker . Rabbit Stew is the national dish and it’s served in both restaurants, usually accompanied with red wine gravy, carrots and potatoes and sometimes Maltese bread (which is like sourdough bread).

Of course, with Malta being an island country the seafood is spectacular, especially lampuka, swordfish and sea bass. 

Pastizzi is a great flaky pastry to eat on the go, usually filled with ricotta cheese or a pea paste, which can be found at Cafe Jubilee in Valletta.

Where to stay in Valletta

Budget – Valletta is a very small city, so there aren’t too many hostels with dorm rooms within the city itself. A great option for budget travellers is Airbnb where there are plenty of private rooms and entire homes available in the city.

Or, a B&B like Palazzo Sant Ursula B&B is only around €40 per night and you get a private room with a nice shared courtyard too.

Mid-range – It’s cost-effective for travellers seeking good value for money to head across the water to Sliema to find nice hotels for affordable prices as the town is just a short ferry ride away from Valletta.

Blubay Apartments by ST Hotels in Sliema is a great option for families and they have fantastic views of the water. Valletta Kampnar City Living , in the city itself, costs around €70 per night and is extremely well located and also has fantastic views and a modern interior.

Luxury – If you’ve got a bit extra to spend, there are some fantastic Valletta Malta hotels.  Ursulino Valletta Hotel , for around €150 per night, offers phenomenal views across the rooftops from your personal terrace and boasts luxurious modern rooms with traditional decor touches.

The Coleridge has a more traditional, elegant interior but you can still book rooms with a hot tub on your terrace.

Tours to do in Valletta

Three cities boat tour.

Valletta isn’t the only city that sits in the Grand Harbour, the ‘Three Cities’ known as Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea are situated around Valletta in this huge body of water.

There’s no better way to explore this area than by both land and water, with a great local guide , who will teach you about the significance of the Order of St John in these cities and you can visit some fantastic old forts like Fort St Angelo.

You will get amazing, 360-degree panoramic views of Valletta from the boat part of the tour, too!

Walking Tour

Valletta is one of the few cities where a walking tour really does include every single landmark and hidden gem, not just a selection.

This walking tour will take you around St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Barrakka Gardens and the Grand Master’s Palace all the while sharing stories and facts about the city. 

Wine Tasting Tour

Malta’s vineyards barely produce enough wine for its citizens, so almost all of the wine produced never leaves the country.

So, if you’re a wine aficionado, you need to make the most of your time in the country and check out this wine tasting tour in Valletta! You will be offered a tour of the winery, as well as tastings of some of Malta’s homegrown wine and light savoury snacks.

Day trips from Valletta 

Game of thrones filming locations.

Malta was only used as a Game of Thrones location in season one (Malta’s Government were supposedly unhappy with the state of the locations after filming!) but that hasn’t stopped fans of the HBO hit TV show making a pilgrimage to the tiny island country to see them in real life.

This day trip is particularly special because it’s run by extras of the TV show who share behind-the-scenes stories as you travel around Mdina, Rabat and Malta’s many forts which stand in as the Red Keep, King’s Landing and Essos.

Malta is made up of three islands: Gozo in the north, the smallest island of Comino and the mainland of Malta at the bottom.

You should absolutely try and travel to Gozo if possible and the added fun of travelling along Gozo’s dusty roads via Quad bike on this tour will make your day trip extra exhilarating. 

Recommended tours in Valletta

• Hera Round Malta & Comino Blue Lagoon 2020
• Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk Half-Day Tour from Valletta
• Jeep Tour of Gozo Island from Malta
• Round Malta Cruise Full Day Tour
• Malta National Aquarium Entrance Ticket
• Half-Day Malta Highlights
• Valletta City of the Knights 3.5-Hour Walking Tour
• Mdina, Rabat, Dingli cliffs, San Anton gardens, Ta’ Qali & Mosta guided tour
• Private Game of Thrones Tour of Malta
• Discovering Gozo Full Day Excursion including Train Ride to Cittadella

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

View all posts

Similar Posts

Budget Travel Guide to Valletta

The city of Valletta is a melting pot of cultures and languages, being found on the edge of the…

Where to Stay in Valletta

Given that Malta is the fifth smallest country in Europe, it’s unsurprising that the Maltese capital city of Valletta…

3 Day Itinerary for Valletta

I’ve lived and worked all over Europe, so when I went to Malta and Valletta for a short trip,…

10 Places You Need To Visit In Malta

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, the Republic of Malta is a superb vacation destination for those looking…

10 of the Best Beaches in Malta

Malta is an island country floating in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Tunisia. In fact,…

Here’s how to really enjoy one day in Valletta

Malta’s capital is also Europe’s most southerly, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits on a hilly peninsula in between two natural harbours. It’s incredibly pretty , a grid of golden limestone streets lined with charming old-town buildings that house cafes, restaurants and a handful of shops that seemingly haven’t changed their appearance in centuries.

Valletta is the perfect place for a European weekend break but it also a great stopping point as part of a longer Malta itinerary. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your visit to the capital of Malta then follow this guide as we share our top tips on how to enjoy one day in Valletta . 

About Valletta

The first foundation stone for Valetta was laid in March 1566 by the Knights of St John . The Christian military order had been gifted the island (along with neighbouring Gozo) by King Charles V of Spain, then ruler of Malta. Recognising that what the island lacked in resources they more than made up for in strategic location , the Knights set about building forts, watch towers and fortifications along the coast. 

Valetta itself was designed by military engineer Francesco Laparelli who created the capital after the Knight’s victory at the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 when 700 knights and 8,000 local troops defeated 40,000 Ottoman Turks. 

Valetta’s design, based on rectangular grids of wide, straight streets , remains unchanged today – the Knights believed that having straight streets would make the city easier to defend. Today, it’s a wonderful, wanderable city and, at less than a mile long, it’s also almost impossible to get lost!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy for more details.

Morning in Valletta

First things first, get your bearings. Republic Street , which runs from City Gate to Fort St Elmo on the tip of the peninsula, is the main drag and runs past many of Valletta’s most famous monuments. You can pick up a map from the tourist office near City Gate . 

The fountain just outside the City Gate is Triton’s Fountain that dates back to 1959 and was the result of a competition run by the Maltese Government.

Breakfast is not a particularly big deal in Malta but it’s worth trying Balbuljata while you’re here. This traditional Maltese breakfast is essentially scrambled eggs with tomato served with Maltese bread.

Some of the best places to head for breakfast while you’re in town include local favourites Piadina Caffe near St John’s Co-Cathedral and Museum Café , on Valletta’s Melita street. 

St John’s Co-Cathedral

Breakfast finished, the first place you should visit on your Valletta itinerary is St John’s Co-Cathedra l , which was completed in 1666. Today it’s one of the most popular and famous sights in the city. While the exterior is nothing to write home about the ornately guilded Baroque style interiors will have you reaching for your sunglasses – almost every surface is covered in gold or coloured marble. 

Highlights include the  Beheading of St John the Baptist   by Caravaggio located in the Oratory. It’s the artist’s largest painting and the only one that he actually signed. 

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Wander along to Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens and be rewarded with blockbuster views over the aptly-named Grand Harbour and the “Three Cities” beyond. 

The colonnaded public gardens , the highest point of Valletta, were created in the late 16th century by the Knights of Malta as private gardens for the Order (the only opened to the public in 1824). Today they’re filled with fountains, sculptures and monuments (including one to Winston Churchill) and benches but the real reason to come here are for the views. 

Immediately below the gardens is the Saluting Battery , canons that once fired to mark the start and end of the day and to salute visiting naval vessels. If you visit just before midday you can enjoy the noon-day salute accompanied by music. 

The Lower Barrakka Gardens sit nearby perched on top of St. Christopher’s Bastion. Both gardens are a great place to take a pause from sightseeing. 

Afternoon in Valletta

The midday salute from the Saluting Battery signals lunch and there are plenty of good places to eat within Valletta’s city walls. 

Lunch in Valletta 

While the Maltese might not be big on breakfast, the same can not be said for lunch and dinner. There are some excellent dining options these days in Valletta serving all kinds of cuisine but do make sure to try some traditional Maltese dishes while here. 

Some of the most popular dishes to try include pastizzi . These fluffy pastries com stuffed with either ricotta cheese or a type of pea puree and a a hugely popular snack. 

You will find fresh fish on most Maltese menus including Lampuka (also known as Mahi-mahi), which is caught seasonally from August through to December. Pixxispad, grilled swordfish steak, is another local favourite.  

For lunch head to The Harbour Club , where each dish is named after a different street in the Maltese capital. 

Is-Suq tal-Belt is a cool food market housed within a once-derelict Victorian building. Spread over three floors the basement is home to an enormous deli selling everything from fresh fish to spices. On the ground floor is where you’ll find the food court and 15 different stands serving Maltese street food, Turkish kebabs, Mexican tacos and more. 

A local favourite, Da’ Pippo Trattoria serves whatever they can source fresh that day so while you can’t expect a menu you can expect delicious dishes. 

Casa Rocca Piccola

Located in the heart of the Malta’s capital city is Casa Rocca Piccola , a 400-year-old baroque palace and one of the first noble houses in the city. Not only that, it was one of the only houses in Valletta at the time that was permitted to have a garden. 

Originally called ‘Casa del Giardino’ the 16th-century palazzo is still home to descendants of its original owner. Fortunately, however, the Marquis and Marchioness de Piro have opened up part of the home as a museum. 

While the ancestral portraits and silverware offer a fascinating glimpse into how Valletta’s old aristocrat families lived perhaps the most intriguing part of the house are the network of underground passages and tunnels that have been carved from the rock beneath the palace. One tunnel leads into a huge cavern that was used to shelter locals during World War II . 

If you’re feeling arty then head to MUZA , the National Museum of Art that opened in 2018 in a building that was once the seat of the Knights of St John. In the galleries hang artworks by old masters and contemporary artists . 

National Museum of Archaeology

Alternatively you may want to step back in time and explore Malta’s past. Housed within one of the auberges used by the Knights (this one belonged to the Knights of Provence) is the National Museum of Archaeology .

Once you’ve admired the impressive painted ceilings, enjoy the extensive collection of artefacts covering the Neolithic, the Bronze Age and the Phoenician era in Malta. The most famous item is the wonderful Sleeping Lady of Malta , which was found at the neolithic  Hal Saflieni Hypogeum monument. 

Wander the streets

One of the best things to do in Valletta is simply to wander around and you should definitely schedule some time for exploring the old limestone alleys. Every street of this small city hides its own share of courtyards, churches, alleyways , artisans and shopkeepers but remember to look up so you don’t miss the painted  gallariji  (enclosed balconies). 

Strait Street , known as Strada Stretta to locals, is Valletta’s most famous address . During the 19th and mid-20th century this was the city’s most popular entertainment district where 

American and British military men would mingle with locals for wild nights out – there’s a reason why it was nicknamed “The Gut”! There were bars, live jazz music, bordellos, entertainment halls and rooming houses – and lots of people out to have a good time. 

Today things are a little quieter on Strada Stretta but it’s still a great destination for delicious food, good drinks and live-music. 

The two main streets for shopping are Republic street and Merchant street ; these are lined with well-known stores so if you’re looking for something a little more unique then head off into the side streets. 

Late Afternoon in Valletta

In the afternoon take the 15-minute ferry from the Valletta waterfront to the Three Cities (the ferry terminal is located near the Quarry Wharf roundabout, a short walk from the ferry terminal where the cruise ships dock). The ferry runs daily from morning to evening and until midnight during the summer months.

The Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Single and Cospicua lie around the Grand Harbour perimeter guarded by thick, impenetrable walls. These cities were among the first settlements and the earliest home to the Knights of St. John. 

The narrow alleys are filled with family homes, historical buildings, churches, forts and ramparts – many of them far older than those that you’ll find in the city of Valletta. 

If you are short on time then a guided tour is a great way to make the most of your time here. Or, if you have longer, then consider visiting the Three Cities on a day trip. 

Evening in Valletta

Once you’re back in Valletta, stop for an aperitif at the beautiful Phoenicia Hotel positioned besides the main city gates. This was the island’s first five-star hotel and is a favourite with the Royals (Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip stayed here in 1949). If your wallet allows then it’s well worth booking a room here, otherwise come for happy hour and the views from the terrace of The Club bar.  

For dinner head to Michelin-starred Noni that has been wining and dining customers for over 250 years. Located on Republic Street, this is the place to come for a traditional Maltese meal with a twist. Expect plenty of fresh local produce and flavours. 

Where to stay in Valletta

All photos from Depositphotos

Share this post:

About the author.

Katja Gaskell

Welcome to globetotting!

Join our mailing list and receive a free guide to discovering London with kids on the cheap!

Downloads London for Free Berlin Itinerary

You have Successfully Subscribed!

One Day in Valletta Itinerary: What To Do in Malta’s Capital

Last Updated on February 27, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a one day in Valletta itinerary is necessary when mapping out a trip to Malta . Valletta is creeping up on the typical European traveller’s radar, and for very good reason.

Though small in size, Valletta has a lot to offer visitors and it’s worth taking the time to explore this beautiful city.

Its compact nature makes it ideal for simply spending only one day and though there is lots to see, you will also have time to take in the laid-back nature of the Maltese capital and allow yourself to kick back with a gelato or a drink at a wonderful streetside cafe.

Table of Contents

Getting To and Around Valletta

If you’re staying in Valletta during your time in Malta and need to arrive there directly from the airport, there are a couple of options available to you. If you’re looking to save some money, your best option is going to be to take the bus.

Bus number X4 leaves frequently from the airport and can get you to Valletta in anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour depending on the state of traffic. The bus costs €2.50-3 for a single journey and you can purchase tickets directly from the driver in cash.

If you want to get where you’re going a little faster and more conveniently, then your best bet is to take a taxi.

You can get a taxi from the rank outside of the airport arrivals hall that will take you to Valletta for about €20, however, you may be able to get there cheaper if you use the Bolt app to hail a taxi — often this will cost around €15-20 and you don’t have to worry about not having cash to pay. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

If you’re not staying in the Maltese capital and you plan on relying on public transport to get around whilst in Malta — which we would recommend as the system is extensive and affordable — there are a couple of options when it comes to getting to Valletta.

Assuming that you’re staying in Sliema or St. Julian’s, you could easily take a number of buses to Valletta’s central station. As Maltese cities can be very busy and have quite a lot of traffic, the bus may not be the fastest way to reach Valletta.

Probably the best way to get to Malta’s capital city is by ferry. There are ferries that leave from Sliema and Bormla (one of the Three Cities) every half hour. Both journeys only take about five minutes and the views from the harbour are unbeatable.

Valletta itself is very small and, while you are there, you will only really need to get around on foot. While the city is hilly, it is only 1 kilometre at its widest point so you will never be walking uphill for long and it doesn’t take long to get from one side of Valletta to the other.

There is also much of Valletta that is completely pedestrianised which means that it is a walker’s dream and makes it even easier to get lost while exploring this small city and the waterfront on foot.

One-Day Valletta Itinerary

Walk along the city walls.

This is probably the best way to get your bearings and also a fantastic first step if you’re looking for things to do in Valletta for a day.

An excellently preserved medieval city, Valletta is almost completely walled around its peninsula and strolling along these limestone walls provide excellent views Sliema to the south, the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua) to the north, and Valletta itself.

While circumnavigating the city, I would recommend taking the time to venture away from the walls and to explore some of Valletta’s beautiful back alleyways. The architecture is stunning and the shade can be a welcome refuge from the harsh Maltese sunshine.

Fort St Elmo

Built in the 16th Century by the Order of the Knights of St John, this is Valletta’s most important fort and it was integral in defending Malta during the Great Siege of 1565 when the Ottomans invaded Malta but failed to take the island nation.

You can explore Fort St Elmo and it is one of the best places to visit in the city of Valletta especially if you want to see what has kept Malta so strong and resilient throughout its long history. In the fort, you can also visit the National War Museum where you can learn about how Malta has withstood centuries of conflict.

St John’s Co-Cathedral

To be completely honest, I’m not generally the first person to jump at the chance to explore a cathedral. In most European cities, I’ve found that they all kind of look the same and it’s given me something of an “if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all” attitude. However, this is not the case with St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta .

The former headquarters for the Order of the Knights of St. John, the cathedral’s dome is the definitive aspect of Valletta’s skyline.

The architecture inside is just as impressive, however, and there is also a massive collection of artistic works by the Renaissance painter Caravaggio, who sought refuge there while wanted for murder in Italy.

The most famous of his paintings on display in the cathedral is his depiction of the beheading of St. John the Baptist. It is well worth the €15 entrance fee.

From here, it’s a short walk to the National Museum of Archaeology if you would like to learn more about Malta’s early history.

Upper (and Lower!) Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barraka Gardens are public gardens situated at the highest point of Valletta’s city walls. They are a lush place to relax while also commanding stunning views of the harbour and the Three Cities.

If you’re wondering what top things to do in Valletta for one day, The Upper Barrakka Garden, though quite popular, is a must. There are also a number of statues and memorials throughout the garden and also a nice cafe where you get get a cold beverage to take the edge off a warm day.

If you’re looking for the same stunning views and tranquil landscapes with fewer tourist crowds, head to the Lower Barrakka Garden.

Twinned with its larger neighbour, there is no cafe here but there are a number of benches and the scenery is just as nice. These can be a great place to get away from the busyness of Valletta.

Get Lost on Valetta’s Streets

As mentioned earlier, Valletta is only 1000 metres by 500 metres and the entire city is built on a grid system, so it is impossible to actually get lost in the Maltese capital. However, its small size and logical streets make it the ideal place to just allow yourself to wander for an hour or two and see where your feet will take you.

Some of the most beautiful parts of Valletta lie away from the main tourist drags or shopping streets and if you just wander around for a bit, you are sure to experience all of the charms and beauty that this tiny city has to offer.

The terraced pedestrian lanes and the beautiful Maltese balconies overlooking them are scenes that you can’t really get in other cities in Europe and getting a bit away from the tourist crowds will certainly make you appreciate how unique Valletta truly is.

Taking a city walking tour is a great way to discover some of these spots with a local guide.

And if you want to visit a few more historic sites, then consider heading to the Casa Rocca Piccola to tour a historic house or even to the Grandmasters Palace courtyard for a tranquil escape.

Valletta Restaurants And Bars

One of the things that we were incredibly impressed by in Malta was the quality (and value for money!) of the food. The local cuisine is delicious and there are myriad fantastic restaurants where you can sample it.

There is also a great cafe culture that is worth trying out, even if you only have time for a one-day Valletta itinerary.

Below are some of our favourite Valletta restaurants and cafes but if you want to experience the food culture with a knowledgeable local guide, then this Valletta food tour is an excellent choice. Alternatively, this food and culture tour is another great option.

Soul Food is a fantastic vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Valletta. They have a diverse menu that can be a welcome change from the meat-heavy local cuisine or if you’re looking for a healthy lunch. They also serve some wonderful organic local wines making this a great place to sit down, have some nibbles and enjoy a little break while people-watching.

The Submarine

If you’re looking for a good, affordable meal on the go, then look no further than The Submarine . This sandwich shop offers made-to-order sandwiches and salads.

The ingredients are both locally sourced and very fresh and they also offer generous portion sizes making it great value for money! It’s located right in the centre of the city and it is a favourite place with both locals and tourists alike.

Cafe Society

Tucked away in a picturesque Valletta alley, Cafe Society is truly a great hidden gem of a cocktail bar. The classy, cosy interior is adorned with vintage movie photos and their outdoor seating area provides great views of the sunset from the harbour.

They have a great cocktail menu, a good wine list, and a fabulous selection of local craft beers. They are open from noon – 1 AM every day (except Sunday, when they are closed) making this a great option to drink into the wee hours of the night as well.

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience in Valletta without seriously breaking the bank, look no further than Rampila . This restaurant serves absolutely fantastic local fare in an intimate and romantic setting. They have a lovely roof terrace that allows for great views of the nearby City Gate and their wine list is also quite impressive. We cannot recommend this restaurant more.

The Harbour Club

If you’re looking for a fantastic fine dining venue that offers absolutely delicious food, then you can’t go wrong with the Harbour Club .

Situated directly on the Grand Harbour with beautiful views of the Three Cities and overlooking the sea in Valletta, here you can get delicious, fresh Maltese fare, great wine, and fantastic service. This is a pricier place to eat and good for special occasions, but it is worth every penny if you want a memorable dining experience.

Where to Stay in Valletta

Domus Zamittello Hotel   – This hotel, located in the heart of Valletta and within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Upper Barrakka Garden, is a fantastic place to rest your head in the Maltese capital. They have a number of spacious and comfortable rooms available, a free breakfast included, and a helpful staff to ensure you have a great visit.

The Saint John  – This hotel is the perfect place to stay in you have a higher budget and are looking for a bit of luxury on your trip to Malta. Excellently located in Valletta, they have a number of wonderful, air-conditioned rooms on offer, fantastic facilities, and 24-hour reception. 

U Collection – If you’d like to have your own space in Valletta, then these apartments are a great option. They have a number of flats to choose from and all come fully furnished with everything you may need for your stay.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Valletta!

Though small in size, spending one day in Valletta is absolutely one of the best things you can do when visiting Malta. Packed with many historical sites, wonderful restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife, you certainly won’t be left wondering what to do in Valletta!

Are you planning to visit Valletta? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

A Guide to Marsaxlokk and St Peter’s Pool, Malta

Is Gozo Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons To Go

10 Tips For Planning a Trip to Malta

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I was in the US Navy in 1971 and Valletta, Malta was a frequently visited port for us on my Med. cruise. I would like to say that the people living there had a wonderful custom of daily strolls on their main street in the evening. It was a pleasure to join the crowd and walk along with them! They are pleasant people and it’s very comfortable to join in the process of strolling up and down the downtown’s main streets, right along with them!

Sounds like quite a nice memory, Kenneth!

Would like to point out that the traditional balconies that are posted here are in Sliema not Valletta, but similar(and even nicer ) balconies can also be enjoyed in valletta 🙂

Thank you for pointing that out! I’ve changed the photo to one in Valletta 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

What are you looking for?

15 best things to do in valletta, malta in 2024.

Valletta is officially one of my favourite capital cities in the world. The capital of Malta may be small, (which is why I like it), but it’s authentic with no skyscrapers in sight and it’s absolutely bursting with beauty and history.

This is a capital city that offers something unique on every winding street and I could spend hours wandering around this beautiful city. To help you plan your Valletta city break, I’ve put together a list of 15 awesome things to do in Valletta, including extra information to help.

How to get to Valletta 

Getting to Valletta is pretty easy and transport links are very easy! Based on our experiences, here’s how you can get to Valletta from some of the most popular locations …

Getting to Valletta from Malta International Airport 

Chances are that if you’re visiting Valletta, you’ll either be staying there or somewhere nearby, but you’ll be entering via Malta International Airport. The great news is that Valletta city is only 15 minutes from the airport! 

You can book your transport from the airport to the city right here.

If you’re visiting Valletta from other areas around Malta, then it’s super easy to get there via the local bus network, or using the ride sharing app “Cool” or taxi app, “Bolt”. Buses run regularly and are a set fare regardless of distance. In the winter the fare is 1.50 Euro per trip and in the summer, 2 Euro per journey. 

Getting around Valletta, Malta

Getting around Valletta is super easy and you’ve got a couple of options. 

• ‍ Walk : As I mentioned before, Valletta is small, it’s gated and walled, so it’s like a fort essentially. This means you can pretty much walk to all the sights in Valletta. Some walks will take around 20 minutes, but as long as you’ve got a decent pair of shoes on, you’ll be fine.  ‍
• Hop on/Hop off: There are a variety of variations of the hop on hop off service in Valletta, but we kept seeing a smaller sort of open air vehicle that held around 30 people driving to all the best spots in Valletta. The price was 5 euro per person and you can simply hop on when you want. OR you can buy a hop on/hop off ticket online that also allows you to travel to other parts of the country outside of the city of Valletta.  ‍
• Other types of transport: In the interests of giving you all the information, there are horses and carriages that can take you around, but I don’t personally recommend it as you can’t guarantee how horses are treated. There are also mini electric cars you can rent out at the Valletta Harbor. It’s a little pricey, but they fit two, look so cool and are perfect for the small roads of Valletta. You can see what they look like further down but the company is called Smarter Car Rental.

More info: Getting Around Malta: All Your Questions Answered

Where to stay in Valletta

When we visited Valletta we entered via transport and didn't stay in the city. We stayed about a 25 minute journey outside the city in St Paul's Bay. However, there are lots of great hotels in Valletta for you to choose from. Since it's a small city, accommodation within the city walls is quite pricey, but I've done my best to round-up the best options for you below.

Budget Choice

Luciano Valletta Boutique ‍

Grand Hotel Excelsior ‍

$75.50 (pppn)

Luxury Pick

Palazzo Rosaria Boutique Hotel ‍

$105 (pppn)

15 best things to do in Valletta

Okay now it’s time to delve into the most awesome things to do in Valletta! We did all these activities, and I honestly thought they were all fantastic. Valletta is seriously an awesome city. 

1. Check out the brilliant National War Museum 

The National War Museum is located in Fort Elmo, which itself is pretty darn cool. You can buy a joint entrance ticket that gives you access to Fort St Elmo, the National War Museum and The Malta Experience (which we will discuss below) for 14 euro, and this is very good value and far cheaper than buying them separately! 

When you enter, you can first walk around Fort Elmo and check out beautiful views and learn more about the history of the fort, then it’s time to enter the War Museum. It’s laid out in different buildings that take you on a journey of Malta from the beginning (when it first had people on it) right through the various wars, and then onto today. 

Malta has a fascinating history, and it was the most bombed country in the world in WW2, so this is definitely well worth a visit and it’s super interesting. 

A visit here will take around 1.5 hours, but should definitely make it on your Valletta itinerary. 

2. Learn exciting history at the Malta Experience 

The Malta Experience is probably one of the most important things to do in Valletta. Simply because it’s going to give you a complete overview of the history of this wonderful country in one 45 minute sitting. It’s basically a movie experience, that comes in over 30 languages, and it takes you through Malta’s History. It’s super interesting and you can take a tour of the underground hospital that once stood here afterwards if you so wish.

There’s also a little cafe too which serves up refreshing drinks and snacks before you go in! 

I think if you’ve only got time for a couple of Valletta sights, then make this one of your top places to visit in Valletta!  Buy your tickets online on their website here.

3. Discover the history of the Lascaris war rooms 

The Lascaris war rooms were probably one of the most surprising Valletta attractions we visited. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it exceeded my expectations. The war rooms are fascinating and original, and the history here is alive.

You can take a tour with a guide (for free) and I highly recommend this as it gives you so much more insight into how these rooms worked, and it gives you a chance to ask questions. The tours run hourly, so ask when buying your tickets when the next tour is so you can plan your day to match. 

The entrance price is 12 Euro per person and the war rooms are open from 10 am to 5pm. 

If you’re interested in the war and Malta’s role in it, then this is a great Valletta attraction to visit.

4. Enjoy the sun at the Lower Barrakka Gardens 

The Lower Barrakka Gardens are another great place to visit in Valletta and again it’s a perfect place to catch some sunshine. There is a restaurant on site to grab a bite to eat, or a drink, and there is a really cool “temple” style building that reminds me of Rome which is beautiful. From here you can also see the Siege Bell War Memorial, and if you wish you can walk to that too as it’s free to enter.

5. Check out the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Valletta is full of beautiful churches, but the most popular and most famous of them all is the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This church is free to enter (a pet peeve of mine is churches charging an entrance price) and it’s very beautiful inside. You can wander, read a little bit of information on the church as flyers are provided, or even light a candle if you wish. Just be respectful and quiet! 

6. Get your picture taken at Tritons Fountain 

Tritons Fountain is pretty epic. It’s located just before the entrance to Valletta City, so it’s a bit of an iconic fountain. I’ve seen pictures of it lit up in the evening and it looks really cool, but it’s just as majestic in the daytime! This is a popular place to get a picture, and there’s quite a few little stalls nearby selling ice cream, so a good place to grab one. 

Top Tip: Ice cream is half the price here than what they charge once you enter the city, so buy it here and bring it in with you. 

7. Dine & shop on Republic Street 

Republic Street is probably the most “famous” street in Valletta. It’s basically the tourist high street that’s packed with cool restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, general shops and more. If you want to grab a bite to eat, enjoy a cocktail, or get your shop on, then head down here! You’ll also see some street performers and people selling unique items on stalls. 

8. Enjoy some lunch by the Grandmasters Palace at St Georges Square 

St Georges Square is kind of known as the “centre” of Valletta and it’s where the Grandmasters Palace is located. This was actually closed for construction when we visited, but you can go inside during normal operation and check out the The Palace Armoury.

Regardless, St Georges square is a really nice place to just sit and sample a local delicacy,such as pastizzi or some ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere and surroundings. Brad and I sat here for lunch and I will warn you that the pigeons are ruthless! 

9. Catch a glimpse of the 3 cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua 

The 3 cities have a lot of history to them and they’re actually three different forts. Nowadays they’re just filled with housing, shops etc, but you can learn more about the history of them in the war museum I mentioned earlier, or the Malta Experience. But you can also catch some pretty cool views of them. If you’re at Fort Elmo, this will offer an awesome view of the 3 cities, or you can see them from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. 

It’s also possible to take a 3 cities tour that will drive you around the 3 cities and inform you of their history. 

You can book this tour of the 3 cities online at a great price.

10. Relax at the Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Gardens in Valletta were all made to introduce relaxing greens areas for the locals many many years ago and they still stand today. They are extremely tranquil, relaxing and there are a couple of small restaurants in the gardens that allow you to grab a bite to eat, or a glass of wine.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens also give you a view of the Saluting Battery (which you can visit separately and learn more about), but everyday at 4 o'clock, the cannons are fired! Brad and I missed this on two occasions, but I’m sure it’s very cool. 

Entrance to the gardens are free, so this is one of the perfect things to do in Valletta if you’re on a budget. 

11. Go for lunch at the Valletta food market 

If you’re looking for a lunch with choice, then check out the really cool food market dining experience in Valletta. You go inside and there are many different food outlets serving up all styles of food including, Italian, Chinese, Indian, BBQ, American, Mexican...everything! You place your order then you can sit outside and they’ll give you a little buzzer and when it goes off, you can collect your food!

Since Brad and I are now vegetarian, it is a little limited in the veggie options (Pizza & Pasta are available, but we had enough of that!), but if you’re a meat eater, then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Everything smelt AMAZING! 

12. Check out the modern Valletta Waterfront

Valletta waterfront is quite beautiful and it’s actually the area where all the ships dock for the day from cruises. Brad visited Malta when he was a child and couldn’t remember much, but when we headed to the waterfront, suddenly the memories came flooding back! 

The waterfront now has a strip of bars, cafes and restaurants and they’re currently building a new Hard Rock Cafe. But it’s a lovely, quiet area that’s perfect for grabbing a romantic meal, or a relaxing coffee. We did some work in the Starbucks, which even has a co-working table which is pretty cool. 

13. Discover the famous St John's Co Cathedral 

St John's Co Cathedral is one of the most popular places to visit in Valletta, and we had every intention of visiting. We learnt about the cathedral in the Malta experience, and it does have a unique history in Valletta. I’ve seen the pictures inside and it’s very grand and stunning.

However, my issue is that they charge 10 Euro each for entrance, and I just think it’s wrong to charge into places of worship (this is coming from a Christian!). But it’s a highly rated tourist attraction in Valletta, and if you don’t mind paying, then it’s worth visiting! 

Opening hours are from 9.30 am to 4 pm and you can't visit on Sundays. 

This awesome walking tour takes you to all the best spots in the city and includes the St John's Co Cathedral.

14. Marvel at the Valletta City Gate 

The Valletta City Gate is the grand entrance to Valletta and it’s seriously cool. You know a city is going to be awesome when it’s got walls surrounding it and a fabulous gate to gain entrance! This is an iconic picture spot in Valletta, and you can stand and appreciate the magnitude of the area before heading into the historic city. 

15. Get lost in the winding streets 

The reason this makes the list of things to do in Valletta is because of just how beautiful every street of Valletta is. The roads are small, hilly, with beautiful structures, and traditional Maletese Balconies, and I think you should just wander and discover some beautiful locations. As you’re wandering you’ll also find unique cafes and restaurants and more churches to discover. 

BONUS: Carnival in Valletta

This is very time specific but if you are in Malta for Carnival (which runs in February), then you should 100% go to Valletta to experience Carnival! It's typically a 5 day fiesta and there are awesome parades, floats and performances to see. We had never been to a carnival celebration before and we thought this one was awesome. It's free to go as well! Check out the website for updates on dates.

Other Valletta travel tips

Can i just book a tour in valletta.

You can indeed! There are lots of great tours in Valletta, and if you’re short on time, a tour is often the best way to sightsee. The best options for Valletta, Malta, are GetYourGuide / Viator 

Here are some of the most popular tours:

• 3 Cities Tour
• Valletta Walking Tour With St John's Cathedral
• Hop on Hop off sightseeing tour bus

When is the best time to visit Valletta, Malta?

Valletta is truly an all-year round destination since Malta gets awesome weather pretty much every month of the year. Bradley and I visited in the Maltese winter in February/March and the weather on the days we visited Valletta was beautiful. Highs of 23 degrees with no wind. Of course winter brings less crowds too, and if you do visit in summer, prices of tourist attractions may rise so just be aware. 

Read Also: How To Plan An Unforgettable Trip

How long should you spend in Valletta?

Valletta is a perfect city break destination, and in order to see all the best sights and really experience all the best things to do in Valletta, you’ll need at least 2 nights, but I recommend 3 nights so you can sample the culture and nightlife too. 

If you decide you want to see other parts of Malta, then stretch your stay to 1 week and that will even give you the chance to explore the sister islands of Comino & Gozo which are both amazing. 

How much should you budget for Valletta?

Being a capital city, you’d expect Valletta to be a lot more expensive than it is. You can get a decent meal with wine for 10 Euro, local snacks for 1-2 euro, drinks for a couple of euro and souvenirs likewise. Valletta can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. 

I would suggest a budget of around 80 Euro per day as this will include all your sightseeing too! This is based on you staying in cheaper accommodation.

If you are on a budget, then check out these tips: 

• Look for multi-deals on attractions. The Malta heritage pass includes all Malta heritage sights, and the Malta Pass offers great value if you do all the sights we’ve listed, and it includes a hop/hop off tour to other parts of the island. 
• In Valletta, head to the Sphinx pastry shop for cheap pizza, burgers, pastizzi and snacks. A cheap and cheerful lunch! 
• Walk to sights, when the weather is beautiful you’ll want to enjoy it and there’s no need to pay for transport in Valletta city centre. 
• Check Airbnb for cheaper places to stay and use our link for a sign up bonus.

Where to after Valletta?

After Valletta you could explore the rest of Malta and it’s beauty by heading to the north of the island, to St Paul's Bay, Bugibba, Sliema, St Julian's, or the old capital of Mdina. Or you can head over to the island of Gozo and check out it’s unique history and stunning landscapes. 

Other guides to read:

• Things to do in Malta - 25 Best Things To Do In Malta
• Things to do in Gozo - 15 Best Things To Do In Gozo
• Blue Lagoon Camino Tour - Our Camino Blue Lagoon Tour For Less Than $20!
• Malta Itinerary - 5 Day Malta Itinerary including Gozo & Comino
• Getting Around - Getting Around Malta: All you need to know

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

• Accessible Itineraries

Subscribe to our mailing list

Please select all the ways you would like to hear from Travel Breathe Repeat:

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. For information about our privacy practices, please visit our website.

We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

• Living with LAM
• Destinations
• Accessible travel

Things to do in Valletta (when you’re kinda stuck there for 4 days)

Last Updated on 6th January 2020 by Sarah and Justin

When we booked 4 days in Valletta, we planned to use it as a base from which to explore more of Malta. Because though Valletta itself looked wonderful, there were many other places in Malta that looked just as wonderful and we wanted to see as much as possible. But best laid plans and all… Sarah got sick. Not LAM sick , just a bit of a cold-like thing, which took away any extra energy and waylaid any plans to explore further afield.

But good news, if you you’re going to get sick on vacation, Valletta isn’t too shabby a place to do it. It’s stunning and small enough to see a lot of without too much effort. We got to know the place real well and absolutely loved it. We hope you find our recommendations of things to do in Valletta helpful and that you stay healthy when you visit, of course!

Things to do in Valletta

Wander valletta’s picturesque streets.

We did a lot of wandering around Valletta. And we also did a lot of “oohing and aahing” over how pretty everything is. We loved the hilly streets (and we never thought we’d love anything hilly), the colorful buildings, the intricate balconies, the glimpses of the water, the interesting door knockers, the fluttering laundry, the store signs… we could go on and on. So we’ll just let you see some of what we’re talking about.

To see (in our opinion) the most picturesque spots, make sure to venture away from the top attractions and the main pedestrian streets, down towards the less touristic streets. For example, Old Mint Street where we stayed was especially lovely.

Marvel at St. John’s Co-Cathedral

St. John’s Co-Cathedral was originally built in the late 1500s. In the 17th century, its interior was redesigned in the baroque style and is considered a masterpiece. And it is one of the most stunning, impressive churches we’ve ever seen. On the inside (maybe not from the outside). So we think it’s absolutely worth the entry fee to see it. Gold-covered walls, floors consisting of inlaid marble tombstones (with the skeletons to match), and of course masterpieces by Caravaggio. If your jaw doesn’t drop when you enter, we’ll be very surprised.

At time of publication, an adult ticket is 10 EUR including audio guide. You can check current prices and opening times on the St. John’s Co-Cathedral website . The cathedral is wheelchair-accessible.

See Upper Barrakka Gardens

Another fabulous place to see in Valletta is Upper Barrakka Gardens. It’s a main tourist attraction, but well worth a visit. Or multiple visits if you’re like us and have a few days in the city. We first visited for sunset, which was quite nice, but very busy as it’s a very popular sunset spot in Valletta. So we went again a few times to admire the view and take pictures at different times of day, and then just to have a nice sit and people-watch.

There are benches scattered around and a cafe with (surprisingly) reasonably-priced drinks where you can hang out. It’s also quite accessible, with the entire thing being flat and stair-less.

Walking to Upper Barrakka Gardens from the main part of Valletta is easy. It’s up a slowly sloping hill, but wasn’t too difficult for Sarah. If you’re coming from the water, that’s a different story. If you don’t want to climb some incredibly steep streets or a whole bunch of stairs, you can pay to take the Barrakka Lift. It only costs 1 EUR to ride up and is free to go down. The cost of the lift is also included in a Three Cities ferry ticket, but more on that later!

And don’t miss Lower Barrakka Gardens

Lower Barrakka Gardens is (as its name implies) lower down than Upper Barrakka Gardens. It’s not directly beneath it, but a bit further to the northeast. It’s yet another lovely place to see sunset, see views across the water, and relax. It’s got a completely different look than Upper Barrakka Gardens, with a monument in the form of a temple.

It also overlooks the Siege Bell War Memorial which is very interesting. We didn’t visit that specifically, but enjoyed the views of it from the gardens.

Since the gardens are “lower” you must go back up hill to return to the main part of Valletta. Alternatively, you can walk along the water for about 10 minutes to the Barrakka Lifts.

Quick and easy trips from Valletta

Since Sarah was under the weather, we (very sadly) gave up our plans to take a true day trip to Mdina and Rabat. But we did manage to get out of Valletta (other than the trip to and from the airport). There are a few easy and quick things you can do if you don’t want to or have the time to travel too far.

Take the Three Cities Ferry to Birgu

This little trip tops our list of things to do in Valletta, even though it involves leaving Valletta. The trip across the water from Valletta to the Three Cities only takes about 10-15 minutes, but was wonderful. The views of Valletta were especially magnificent, and we also quite enjoyed the entry into the Three Cities through the pretty large harbor.

The Three Cities consist of Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua. We only explored Birgu, the oldest, during our time in the Three Cities. It’s a really unique, lovely place. It was incredibly quiet when we visited. We felt like we had all the narrow, winding streets to ourselves. Be respectful if you visit. Real people live in those picturesque homes.

We visited Valletta in early November. We took the ferry leaving Valletta at 3:15pm and took a return ferry at 5:30pm, so we were treated to some lovely changing light.

In Valletta, the Three Cities ferry dock is located beneath Upper Barrakka Gardens (it’s findable on Google Maps). When we visited, the ferry dock at the Three Cities was in a temporary location as the permanent dock was under construction. We’re not sure when it will be finished, but it will look pretty great when it is! Then it will be on the Birgu side, very close to the place we explored. During our trip, it was just about 5 minutes away on the other side.

Our round-trip tickets only cost 2.80 EUR each and included a trip up the Barrakka Lift which we took full advantage of when we got back. You must have cash. The ferry leaves every half hour and runs a bit later into the evening in summer. You can see the schedule on the Valletta Ferry Services website . You can also take the bus from Valletta to the Three Cities. But for us, the boat trip was much of the fun.

Take the Sliema Ferry to Sliema

You can also take a ferry to the city on the other side of Valletta, Sliema. This ferry ride also offers really great views of Valletta.

Sliema is currently more of a residential neighborhood. In fact, the doctor Sarah saw who works out of Valletta lives in Sliema. It’s also home to some bigger, more modern (and we think not so attractive) buildings, as you can see below.

One of the main attractions in Sliema is Fort Manoel, a star-shaped fortress built by the knights of St. John. We didn’t visit it ourselves, but saw it from one of our favorite Valletta viewpoints .

The Sliema ferry is also run by Valletta Ferry Services , so you can check their website for current schedules and fares. Unfortunately, there is no elevator nearby to take you back up to the main part of the city, so you’ll have to walk back up those hilly streets. Alternatively, you can take the bus.

Walk to Floriana

Floriana is technically another city in Malta, but feels more like a neighborhood of Valletta since it starts just a few minutes walk from the Valletta City Gate. We definitely didn’t explore Floriana as much as we could have, but we liked what we saw.

We recommend doing at least what we did and walking through the leafy green “Mall” to St. Publicis Church and then back through some of the area’s smaller streets. The Valletta Waterfront, where the cruise ships come in, is also in Floriana.

Valletta restaurants

Even sickies have to eat! And eat we did. We ate so well in Valletta, we wrote a whole post about it.

What to do if you get sick in Valletta

Though we hope you stay healthy during your trip to Valletta, we thought it might be helpful to share our advice about what to do if you do actually get sick. Luckily for tourists, we learned that many doctors in Malta operate out of pharmacies. We called a few we found online but their doctors wouldn’t be working until the next day. So we popped into the one closest to where we were staying and their resident doctor happened to be in that day. Sarah got an appointment for a few hours later. The doctor spoke very good English, gave her an exam, and prescribed antibiotics. We had to pay the doctor in cash, but could pay for the medicine with a credit card. The whole thing cost just over 50 EUR (although we have travel insurance, so got that reimbursed). We were satisfied customers at the time, and even more satisfied when Sarah felt the antibiotics started working a few days later.

We went to the Empire Pharmacy on the corner of Old Mint and Old Theatre streets. Again we highly recommend it. But we did see a fair amount of pharmacies in Valletta, so you could try your luck elsewhere if that’s not convenient.

Like this post? Pin it!

Sarah and Justin

One thought on “ things to do in valletta (when you’re kinda stuck there for 4 days) ”.

Beautiful pictures, the old houses really caught my eye. Thank you for sharing it.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

10 things to do in Valletta, Malta’s capital city

By: Author Monica

Categories Malta

Rebecca Sharp from Almost Ginger shares her top things to do in Valletta, the capital city of Malta. This beautiful walled city is a World Heritage City and a European Art City and is well known for all its incredible churches museums and palaces.

Valletta is one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, not to mention one of the most breathtakingly picturesque. Stretching a tiny 1km long by 600m wide, you might be surprised to find there are plenty of things to do in Valletta for such a small city. In fact, I’d say Valletta is only going to increase in popularity with tourists who are seeking an abundance of historical sites and the best restaurants and bars all within walking distance. The climate is pretty incredible, too!

The trouble with city breaks in big cities like Rome or Paris is that I end up with a list of sites, museums, restaurants and activities that make accomplishing everything I’d like to do impossible in one weekend. I end up saying “I’ll do that next time” but the truth is I’d rather see new places. With somewhere like Malta, it is completely realistic to experience all the best things to do in Valletta in a short space of time, at a leisurely pace.

With Valletta being 2018’s European Capital of Culture , there’s never been a better time to visit Malta’s capital city. Here are all the top things to do in Valletta including the beautiful historical sites that helped the entire city become a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as the new modern touches which make Malta’s capital city a true up-and-coming place to visit.

If you like to explore alone but love having the knowledge of a guide then I highly recommend this audio guide for Valetta. You download it and listen to it on your phone so you can explore at your own pace but it’s like having a guide in your pocket! Much better than reading from a guide book and nicer than joining a big group tour!

1. Marvel at the Valletta City Gate and new Parliament building

Valletta certainly knows how to make a good first impression. I still remember the first time I saw the imposing city walls and tall, striking gate. It was like entering an ultra-modern medieval city, if that makes any sense at all.

Valletta’s city gate, walls, Royal Opera House and Parliament building (which both sit just behind the gate)  were all designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano in 2013, making use of Malta’s abundance of limestone. There has been some criticism of the untraditional facades from locals but, personally, I like the idea that Valletta is developing its own identity.

2. Enjoy the views across the water at the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens

Two beautiful parks are situated along Valletta’s east coast and they’re great places to take a break from the cobbled streets and enjoy the views across the water to Birgu. Sitting in either courtyard would list high on the most tranquil things to do in Valletta if it weren’t for one activity.

Every noon in the Upper Barrakka Gardens , officials in Military uniforms fire cannons to mark the time of day. For almost 500 years, the Saluting Battery has been used as a timekeeping device and to mark special occasions. The tradition continues as a way to commemorate the Naval forces that used to protect Valletta from various enemies approaching from the sea.

3. Wander through the limestone streets

Valletta is such a walkable city and it would be completely possible to walk up and down every single street if you wanted to! That gorgeous limestone brick can be found all over Valletta (and the rest of the country). You might notice the streets are on a grid system like New York City and it’s no coincidence. The long streets allow the sea air to travel around the city and let the light in around the tall buildings.

You might also notice that the houses tend to have brightly painted window boxes and doors. This has everything to do with the Knights of Saint John, a medieval military order in Malta who ordered that every street corner street should be decorated with shrines, statues or balconies. Most are still there today which doesn’t surprise me as why would you remove decorations when they look so pretty?!

If you’re short on time or love to learn more about a destination then why not take a walking tour in Valetta? 

I’m a big fan of walking tours because you see so much more than when you’re wandering alone and this one is just £12. Book it for when you first arrive to help get your bearings and so you can quiz your guide on great places to eat and drink!

4. Check out the National Museum of Archeology

It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the archeological history in Malta is perhaps among the best (and oldest) in the world. So, if you don’t have time to check out the sites themselves around the rest of Malta, then a trip to the National Museum of Archaeology should be high on your list of things to do in Valletta.

The museum features artifacts from the Hypogeum (an underground crypt) in Paola from 3000 BC and the Megalithic Temples . If you’re a pre-history nerd then consider this the best place in Malta to get your geek on! Tickets cost no more than €5 per person.

5. National War Museum at Fort St Elmo

Nowhere else has a military history like Malta, and especially Valletta. Over the last 1,000 years Malta, has been under the rule of everyone from the Romans to the Spanish, the French and finally the British until they finally gained independence in 1964.

Many forts were built in and around Valletta to help protect the city and country from potential conflict. The National War Museum is housed in a beautiful old fort covering all Maltese conflicts from 2500 BC and the Bronze age, the Order of St John’s Catholic Military right up to World War II. It’s an incredibly interesting exhibition, and Malta’s historical conflict with other civilizations is so surprising considering its size. Entrance fee is a maximum of €10 with many concessions.

6. St John’s Co-Cathedral

What would a trip to a European country be like without visiting the top churches and cathedrals in the country? St John’s Co-Cathedral – named because it shares duties with St Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina – looks pretty inconsequential from the outside. However, inside is decorated with artwork, marble and gold from head to toe.

Travel Hack Tip: Like many cathedrals around Europe, all visitors need to cover their shoulders and knees. The Cathedral offer wraps to help with the shoulders but you might want to wear trousers or a long skirt. Unique to St John’s, they have a no-high heels policy as they damage the marble floors.

7. Take a cruise around the city

Surrounded by water and small, charming towns on either side, taking a short cruise around the city is one of the most relaxing things to do in Valletta and a great way to learn about the city’s diverse past.

The history of Valletta revolves around it’s relationship with the sea whether that’s culture drifting in from Malta’s Italian and Tunisian neighbours, enemy ships meeting their match with Valletta’s many forts or the huge fishing industry.

Check out this Valletta and  2 harbours day cruise from just £13.77

8. Eat a delicious Italian meal on Strait street

Strait street is the most thriving street in Valletta with so many restaurants serving the best cuisine, and the best Italian food in the country. There are so many first and second generation Italian-Maltese master chefs who want to prove that their Italian food is just as tasty and authentic as it is in Italy.

I’m no expert, but the pasta is up there with the best I’ve ever tasted! Papanni’s is consistently rated the best Italian restaurant in Valletta, but I visited Trattoria Romana Zero Sei and it was pretty delicious.

9. Enjoy a beer or cocktail at Valletta’s best bars

One of the best things to do in Valletta, a city that is usually warm until the wee hours, is to sit outside drinking a cocktail or cold glass of beer watching the sun go down over the sea.

The best place to sit outside and grab a cocktail is Café Society , a bar with a bit of a hipster vibe but they really know their cocktails. Right down the street is Bridge Bar , which is also great for cocktails.

For craft beer lovers, I would have to recommend Wild Honey which, again, has a hipster vibe but has a huge selection of beers from all over the world. 67 Kapitali is the best bar in Valletta for local beer as it’s one of the biggest stockists of Lord Chambray, Malta’s own craft beer.

10. Take a day trip to the Game of Thrones locations

And finally, every fan who visits Malta has to make an effort to visit the Game of Thrones locations! Many King’s Landing and Dothraki scenes from season one were shot all over the islands. However, filming was moved to Dubrovnik in season two when reports of damage to the natural scenery in Gozo surfaced.

Valletta is the perfect base to take a day trip to the filming locations. There are so many tour companies offering group and private trips, but this Game of Thrones filming locations tour in Malta is run by two former extras who take you to locations not open to the public. The tour starts from £50 per person with hotel pick-up, which is actually much more reasonable that some of the other Game of Thrones location tours on offer from Valletta.

Those are the top 10 things to do in Valletta! What things would you like to to in Malta’s capital city?

Read Rebecca’s other blog about Mdina in Malta: How to spend one day in Mdina, Malta’s Silent City

This guide to Valletta was written by Rebecca from  Almost Ginger,  a blog about Rebecca’s love for travel and films with helpful travel tips and information about film locations, festivals and screenings.

“ Almost Ginger is a film and travel blog aimed at showing film and TV lovers how their silver screen escapes can be a reality by documenting my own travels to film locations and film festivals around the world.”

Pin this for later ->

Alice Wilton

Thursday 28th of November 2019

The cathedral and museum are definitely two of my must-sees in Valletta, glad to see they made it on your top 10 list :)

Thursday 4th of April 2019

Thank you for the tips! I am planning on going to Malta in May, super excited about exploring these islands!

mark william

Tuesday 22nd of January 2019

Malta is a great place for everyone to visit in the world. I want malta only once, need to plan this year with my family.

Natalie Redman

Wednesday 16th of January 2019

Would love to go to Malta, it's on my travel bucket list!

Friday 11th of January 2019

What a stunning destination! My travel bucket list just gets longer and longer :)

• South Africa
• Dominican Republic
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Itineraries
• Travel photography tips
• Travel Tips
• Weekend getaways
• Unique Accommodations
• Work together

No products in the basket.

Return to shop

• Search for:

Europe , Malta , Weekend getaways

How to spend one day in valletta: 12 wonderful things to do.

A city trip to Malta ? Yes, that’s possible. Although Malta is mainly known as a beach holiday destination, this country consisting of several islands has much more to offer! And Valletta, the capital, is one of them. Valletta is a small, cozy and picturesque city located on a peninsula with breathtaking views over the large harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. With its beautiful historic buildings in Baroque style, Valletta has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1980. Valletta was also declared European Capital of Culture last year. So many reasons to spend one day in Valletta and see it all for yourself.

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. That means we can receive a commission if you buy something that we really recommend. There are no extra costs you and it supports our blog. Thank you.  ** 

How to get to Valletta?

From Belgium or any other country you can travel by plane to Malta. You’ll arrive at the international airport on the main island of Malta. From there you can take the bus, taxi or hotel shuttle service   to Valletta.

You can also opt to rent a car. We always book our rental car with Sunny Cars , which cooperates with local car rental companies. The big advantage when you rent a car at Sunny Cars is that all insurance policies are already included in the price. So you will not be faced with surprises in the form of extra costs when you pick up your car.

Valletta isn’t a big city. So you can easily go everywhere on foot. If you would like to explore the area around Valletta, you can  do this by bus. From the port of Valletta you can also rely on a traditional water taxi that takes you to the harbors of the surrounding towns.

When is the time to travel to Valletta?

The best time to travel to Malta is from April to October. Then you have the best chance of good weather. During the summer months it can get very hot and crowded here. Then it’s less pleasant to visit all Valletta sights in one day. That’s why I advise you to plan your city trip to Valletta outside the high season.

Where to stay in Valletta?

Domus zamittello.

Would you like to stay in an authentic setting with a touch of luxury? Then opt for a night in the 17th-century restored palazzo Domus Zamittello in Valletta.

Photo credit: booking.com

Click for availability and prices

The Embassy Valletta hotel

The hotel with one of the most spectacular views of Valletta is definitely  The Embassy Valletta hotel . This luxury hotel will literally lift your stay in Valletta to the next level.

Palais Le Brun

This gem can also be found in the centre of Valletta. You won’t only stay in an authentic palazzo, but you can also enjoy a rooftop swimming pool with phenomenal views.

Are you looking for a place to stay at a different location in Malta? Then you can easily search with this handy map from booking.com. You will find a top stay at the location of your choice in no time. Booking.com

How to spend one perfect day in Valletta?

12 wonderful things to do, 1 – fort saint angelo.

I’m fully aware that Fort Saint Angelo is located just outside Valletta, in Birgu. It’s about 15 minutes with public transport from Valletta.

That is precisely why I recommend starting your one day in Valletta with a visit to Fort St. Angelo. From here you have the most phenomenal views of Valletta and the large harbor.

This building played a major role in Malta’s military past. Now it is accessible to the public for a fee. The turbulent past of the war and the role of Fort Saint Angelo are illustrated inside the museum of this castle. And that’s not all, you can still find impressive examples of artillery here.

2 – Sail with Dghajsa through the large harbor of Valletta

Take a dghajsa back from the Birgu waterfront to Valletta waterfront. This is a traditional water taxi. With the small authentic boat you’ll sail through the large harbor, a true experience in itself. You’ll enjoy first-class views of the city of Valletta and the large harbor.

Arriving at Valletta waterfront you’ll be overwhelmed by the beautiful architecture of the most stunning historical warehouses. Or either because of the impressive cruise ships that dock here. This neighborhood is also very pleasant in the evening. You can enjoy many cozy bars and delicious restaurants here.

3 – Get wonderfully lost in the Valletta streets

Getting lost on while wandering around Valletta won’t happen that quickly as the street plan is based on a checkerboard pattern. But nothing is more pleasant than strolling through those typical little, charming streets and alleys and being completely immersed in the Maltese atmosphere. Enjoy the authentic scents and colors that the centre of Valletta has to offer. This romantic vibe makes Valletta the perfect honeymoon destination in Europe .

4 – Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are public gardens where you can enjoy a phenomenal view over the large harbor and the 3 cities Cospicua, Senglea and Vittoriosa

The saluting Battery is great a activity to attend. A cannon shot is fired every day at 12 noon and 4 pm. In this way, the tradition of indicating the afternoon still remains alive today. The only disadvantage is that it can be very busy around those times.

If you just want to relax in the gardens, the lower Barrakka Gardens are an equivalent alternative. They are located slightly lower and are much quieter. I personally found it much more pleasant to walk and relax there. Here you also have a magnificent view of the large harbor.

Besides, around the gardens there are cozy terraces where you can enjoy an aperitif in a great scenery.

5 – Saint John’s Cathedral

Unfortunately we were unable to visit St John’s Cathedral due to the holidays. Nevertheless, I would like to share this tip with you, because if I can believe the stories and photos, the interior is stunning and completely decorated in Baroque style.

There’s an entrance fee to St. John’s Cathedral and it can also get quite busy there. So be sure to check the opening hours and avoid peak hours.

6 – Grandmaster Palace

The Grandmaster’s Palace was built in the 16th century by Jean de la Valette. Better known as the founder of Valletta. This Palace was one of the first buildings in the city. Nowadays it is still a very impressive building. While the exterior looks sober, the interior consists of beautifully decorated rooms with a dazzling collection of tapestries and frescoes. You can even admire a very historical collection of weapons. The inner gardens around which the palace is built, are also enchanting.

Today the Grand Master’s Palace serves as the office of the President of Malta. You can see whether he’s present or not when the flag hangs. The facade of the palace is guarded by traditional guards.

The grandmaster’s palace is open to the public for a fee. Are you curious about the beautiful working environment of the president or would you like to bump into him? Then you have to plan a visit for sure!

7 – Theatru Manoel

Don’t forget to drop by theatru Manoel on your Valletta walking tour. Here you can enjoy a spectacular opera show. If you’re not really into opera you can just admire the breathtaking interior. You can visit the theater during the day for a fee. While you’re there you can take a look behind the scenes or imagine yourself being an opera star on stage.

8 – Renzo Piano City Gate Project

Entering Valletta, through an impressive city gate, you don’t immediately get that historical vibe that you get to experience in the city centre. The gate and surrounding buildings were only built recently as part of the Renzo Piano City Gate project.

Renzo Piano is one of the most famous architects who also designed Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Shard in London. The new parliament building and the renovated royal opera house that now is an open-air theatre, are also part of this project. Despite the modern character, I think the result fits in with the historical character of Valletta, even though many residents don’t think so. They call the new parliament building cheese grater. Be sure to include this ‘hot topic’ on your Valletta walking tour.

9 – MUZA

Are you a big art lover? Then you’ll definitely have to visit the MUZA . This newly opened museum houses a national art collection that is quiete impressive. From local paintings to the most beautiful and dynamic sculptures, you will be amazed by all that splendor.

10 – Shopping

You can also go shopping in Valletta. From the small authentic shops where you can purchase delicious traditional and local Maltese specialties.

To strolling through the main street where you can daydream along the large shopwindows of modern boutiques with the latest fashion collections.

11 – Tours in Valletta

You can also discover Valletta in one day in a unique way through Getyourguide. You can choose from different tours that take you along the most beautiful Valletta sights. View the offer below and book the best deals.

12 – Explore the surroundings

Would you like to see more of Malta, but are you limited in time? Then go down to Sliema where you can explore a bit more, but also have one of the most beautiful views of Valletta.

Also in the neighboring 3 cities you have beautiful views of Valletta. To discover the cozy, narrow streets and most beautiful places in the 3 cities, I can definitely recommend the tour with Rolling Geeks .

If you can, don’t forget to visit Malta’s former capital, Mdina. If you want to discover even more of Malta, be sure to check out our ultimate 7 days Malta itinerary .

These are my tips to plan one perfect day in Valletta. Valletta is a compact city with an immensely rich history that is still alive in many ways. Besides its beautiful location, it is all this that makes Valletta so unique. Therefore Valletta is definitely worth a visit!

If you like to read more about Malta, be sure to check out my other Malta blog posts.

• The ultimate 7 days Malta itinerary .
• Visiting Malta in april. Is that a good Idea? 
• The most beautiful places to visit in Gozo .

Would you like to spend one day in Valletta?  Let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading.

Yours truly,

Stay tuned for new blog posts and subscribe below!

Pin it for later

Travel tips and essentials

Find plane tickets

Find airport parking

Find vacation accommodations

Find a rental car

Book tickets, tours and excursions

Book a transfer with a bus or train

Find a travel guide

Find the right travel photography gear

You might also like these

Free lightroom preset for stunning vacation photos

12 amazing cities to visit (by month)

How to spend 3 perfect days in Florence | Italy

Sarah de gheselle, 16 thoughts on “ how to spend one day in valletta: 12 wonderful things to do ”.

My family is from Malta and I’ve visited more times than I’d like to count. I love wandering around Valletta, I always discover something new! I haven’t been to Muza yet, so that’ll be on my list for the next time that I visit. Thanks for this great list!

I loved everything about Malta, especially Valletta. I’m so happy I got to discover it last year. I hope you’ll like the MUZA.

Wow all these view points are gorgeous and the streets are so charming! Looks like a great city to explore, love the tips!

Indeed Valletta is a great city to discover. I loved everything about it 🙂

What crazily gorgeous views! And I love all the little narrow streets, I’d be walking around exploring for hours

Oh yes, we did too. Valletta is a great city to explore by foot! 🙂

I’ve never been to Malta before but this post just convinced me to book a trip ASAP! I love the vibe of your pictures – the edit is gorgeous. 🙂

Oh so happy I could convince you! And thank you for the compliment! <3

I love your romantic pictures! Can’t wait to discover Malta with all these great tips!

I’d never even heard of this city, but your photos were so beautiful that it is definitely on my radar for a potential trip in the future (: Thanks for sharing!

I really loved wandering in the alleys of Valletta and the Upper Barrakka garden! Thanks for sharing you top 10 things?

Tahnk you! Valletta is such a great town to explore. I just loved it!

I’ve heard so many incredible things about Malta and your gorgeous photos only proved it further! Definitely saving this for the day I make it to Malta 🙂

I hope you do too and don’t forget Gozo! It’s such a stunning island!

Stunning blog. Makes me want to go back to Valetta so much.

Thank you! I really want to visit Valletta again as well! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• phototography
• social media en blog promotion

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Visit Valletta: Top 10 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

The 10 best things to do in valletta.

You’re going to Malta and plan to visit Valletta , its beautiful capital city? Great choice, you will love it for sure!

In order to help you make the most out of your stay in one of the smallest European capitals , I have prepared a list of the 10 best things to do in Valletta.

In addition to the must-see attractions, I will give you itineraries to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as a list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

Now, it’s time to immerse yourself in the rich history of Valletta and the famous  Order of the Knights Hospitallers.

1. St. John’s Co-Cathedral

2. grand master’s palace, 3. upper and lower barrakka gardens, 4. republic street and merchant street, 5. the casa rocca piccola, 6. teatru manoel, 7. the national museum of archaeology, 8. national museum of fine arts, 9. the fort st elmo and the national war museum, 10. the three cities, how many days to visit valletta, 1 day in valletta, 2 days in valletta, 3 days in valletta, where to stay in valletta, the 4 best activities to do in malta, 1) the best activities in malta (and from malta), 2) the best activities in gozo, where to eat in valletta, my impression of valletta, valletta tourist map, you’re traveling in malta these articles will help you, visit valletta: the 10 must-see attractions and points of interest.

Let’s start your visit to Valletta with a masterpiece of Baroque art: St. John’s Co-Cathedral .

Its somewhat simple facade hides a breathtaking interior. At first glance, there is so much things to see that it’s even a bit confusing. When I walked in, I didn’t know what to look at first!

The marble floor decorated with coat of arms houses the Knights of the Order tombs. The vault is entirely covered with frescoes depicting the life of St. John the Baptist.

You can also discover the eight chapels, each dedicated to one of the languages of the Order and richly decorated. And as if that wasn’t enough to dazzle you, the pillars and walls are all covered with magnificent golden decorations! Lastly, you will have the opportunity to admire some of Caravaggio’s paintings.

In order to get in, you need to follow the dress-code : shawls are distributed inside to cover your arms and legs. Ladies are not allowed to wear high heels because they could damage the precious floor. Anyway, it’s not a very good idea to wear high heels to walk in the cobbled alleys of Valletta!

You can find all the information you need to visit the cathedral on the official website.

The Grand Master’s Palace is the second major tourist attraction of Valletta.

As its name suggest, it was originally the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta’s residence . Nowadays, the palace houses the President of Malta Office. It’s actually quite surprising that, although housing one of the highest authorities of the country, the palace can be visited freely.

From the start, you will be surprised by the beautiful courtyards with fountains and statues: a bit of shade is more than welcome during the hot days.

Inside the palace, you will have access to the State Rooms, which includes the Council Chamber and its magnificent drapes made by the Gobelins manufactory .

You can also visit the official dining room, the Supreme Council Hall and the Page’s Waiting Room (the grand master had 16 servants!). Finally you can discover the ambassador’s room, the former Grand Master’s audience chamber. Today, Maltese presidents still welcome foreign guests here.

In the part of the palace that used to be stables, you can also visit the armoury : it houses an impressive collection of weapons and armors. All of them are authentic and were used by the Knights and Grand Masters of the Order of Malta . When a knight died, his armour became the property of the order. That explains why there are so many to admire today!

I visited the Royal Armoury of Turin , in Italy , 2 months before and I was particularly thrilled. This one is also really worth a look if you are in Malta! Nearly 5000 armors, crossbows, muskets and swords are exposed. They really shows the visitor how heavy was the military equipment and gives you a glimpse of what war was at that time.

The price is 12€ for about 2 hours of visit.

Every day at noon, you can hear cannon shots in Valletta. This may surprise you at first, but don’t worry, there is no need to go back to the Armoury to arm yourself, the situation is under control!

What you can do however, is head to Upper Barrakka Gardens, a garden located in the centre of Valletta to attend one of the capital’s major attractions.

Overlooking Grand Harbour, the  Upper Barrakka Gardens, with its numerous arches, benches and flower beds offers a breathtaking view over the Three Cities.

It’s a very pleasant place to rest a bit during the day. Finding a bit of greenery and shade during the hot Maltese summer feels good!

Below the gardens, you will find the Saluting Battery . Once used to greet foreign ships, the cannons have been restored to bring a bit of folklore to your visit of the city. A salvo is fired every day at 12:00, by people in historic costumes.

You may suspect that if there are Upper Gardens, there must be  Lower Gardens as well. You’re right!

The Lower Barrakka Gardens , is a bit further along the seashore, close to Fort Saint Elmo .

Smaller than its big brother, it is especially worth a look for 2 things:

• The small neoclassical temple, dedicated to Alexander Ball, the gentleman who led the Maltese in war against the French.
• The Siege Bell War Memorial , often simply called “The Bell” is a very photogenic monument, with the sea and the Three Cities in the background.

To stroll through the typical streets and discover the history of Valletta and its unmissable monuments, I recommend you to opt for a guided tour . The guides are really great and have many great anecdotes about the city.

This guided tour in Malta can be booked by clicking the button below:

This tour is also available in a private version (only for your group – book here ) and the historical version: “Valletta in World War II” (Also a private tour – click there to book)

And if you want to enjoy a magnificent view of Valletta from the sea , I recommend you to book a trip on board a traditional Maltese boat , the “Luzzu”.

To book, please follow this route:

During your visit to Valletta, you shouldn’t miss the 2 main shopping streets.

Republic and Merchant streets are the best places to find souvenir shops with magnets, postcards, “I love Malta” t-shirts and Malta’s iconic souvenir: a knight of the Order of Malta figurine. Yes, in case you’re wondering, I do have one of these in my living room now!

While walking along the street, you will also find a lot of jewellers: Maltese craftsmen are renowned for their gold and silver filigree . Some of the works are particularly impressive.

In Republic Street, there are numerous cafes and restaurants with terraces: perfect for your lunch break! You will also be able to see some monuments like  St Francis of Assisi Church, the Church of Saint Barbara or the Parliament (The Grand Master Palace I told you about earlier).

Still in Republic Street , there is a big local market that takes place every Sunday morning. You should go early to avoid the crowds!

The Casa Rocca Piccola is the only palace in Valletta that is still inhabited. Since the XVI century, 9 generations of Marquis de Piro have been living here.

The owner has opened a part of his house to the public in order to share and spread the history and culture of a Maltese aristocratic family . You will be able to visit about 12 rooms of the palace and discover the private collections of the Marquis as well as objects of the daily life of the past centuries.

At the end of the visit, you will go to the air raid shelters dug during the Second World War.

There are only guided tours (no free visit) in English, which take about 1 hour. You can even book a private tour with the Marquis (obviously more expensive).

Find all the information you need to plan your visit on the official website.

You’re going to Valletta?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Valletta on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Valletta.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Valletta, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Valletta!

Built in 1731 to entertain the knights and the population, the Maltese national theatre or “Teatru Manoel” is one of the oldest in Europe.

This small but pretty theatre is worth a look for its elegant baroque hall with its impressive golden chandelier . You can also see an exhibition about the history of the theatre.

You can visit it (with audio guide if you want), attend a concert or a theatrical performance.

If you want more info about the theatre, you can go on the official website . There, you can also book your tickets for one of the shows.

The  National Museum of Archaeology is located in the Auberge de Provence. Built in 1571, at the same time as the city, it housed the Provençal-speaking knights.

The museum is quite small but very complete and well done . It gives a good idea of Malta’s history from the Neolithic period (5000 BC) up to the Tarxien phase (2500 BC). It presents a collection of objects of all kinds from prehistoric and megalithic temples discovered on the island such as pottery and statuettes.

Don’t miss the 2 most famous statuettes: “the Sleeping Lady” and the “Venus of Malta”.

The  National Museum of Fine Arts houses an important collection of sculptures , paintings, furniture and objects associated with the knights of the order of Malta. They practically all come from the Grand Masters Palace or one of the various knights’ auberges.

You will find notable  works of Mattia Preti , a knight who also painted the frescoes on the vault of St. John’s Co-Cathedral .

Don’t miss: the section of the museum dedicate to the weapons, costumes and coats of arms of the knights!

As the museum is too old and small, it was relocated to the “Auberge d’Italie” for the “Valletta, European Capital of Culture in 2018” Event.

So you can now visit the new museum, named MUZA.

The Fort St Elmo was built in 1552 by the knights to protect Valletta harbours. Historically, it’s especially known for one of the most tragic event that happened in Malta: “The Great Siege” . For more than 30 days, the turks besieged and bombed the fort. When it was captured, almost all the defenders were killed (1500 men).

A few centuries later, during World War II, it still acted as a major defensive infrastructure and was bombed by the Italian Royal Air Force.

Today, in addition of being an important memorial site for Maltese people, the Fort St Elmo hosts the National War Museum. If you’re interested in Malta’s war history, it’s the place to visit!

In the museum you can discover one of the 3 planes used to defend Malta against Italy. It’s the only one that wasn’t destroyed! You can also admire the George Cross , awarded by the English King George VI to all Maltese people for their courage.

The view over the sea from the fort is a must see.

You have seen them from the Upper Barraka Garden, it is now time to go visit the Three Cities!

To go there, take the lift down from the garden (going down is free, going back up is also free if you show your Three Cities boat ticket), cross the street and continue on the left. You will arrive on the boat departure location.

A round trip to the three Cities costs 2.80€ and takes about 10 minutes one way with the ferry. You can also opt for a traditional boat trip that lasts a little longer and is a bit more expensive.

The ferry will take you to Vittoriosa (also called Birgu in Maltese), one of the Three Cities, along with Senglea and Cospicua . They all offer magnificent views over Valletta and can easily be visited on foot.

Here are the best places to see in each city:

• In Vittoriosa : The Fort St. Angelo, the Inquisitor’s palace, the maritime museum and the Collegiate Church of Saint Lawrence
• In Senglea  : go to one of the most beautiful viewpoint on Valletta, the Safe Heaven gardens , located at the tip of the city.
• A Cospicua, explore its small streets as you please.

To visit the 3 cities, you can also opt for a guided tour . And the little trick is that it also includes a tasting of local wines !

In 2 days in Valletta, you will have the time to see most of the must-see attractions I have mentioned in this article.

And if you would like to visit absolutely every points of interest, I suggest you to stay 3 days in town.

If you don’t want to change hotel during your trip to Malta , you can even stay for a longer time and spend a week in the city! Then, do day trips from Valletta to the other touristic places such as Mdina, Rabat, Blue Grotto or even take a boat to Comino .

Here is an itinerary for a day in Valletta:

• Visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral
• Take a walk and do some shopping in Republic Street and Merchant Street
• Go to Barrakka Upper Gardens at noon
• Lunch-break
• Visit the  Grand Master’s Palace and the armoury
• Go to the  Barrakka Lower Gardens.

In addition to the first day presented above, you can do the following for your 2nd day in Valletta:

• Discover the lifestyle of the Maltese aristocracy with a visit to Casa Rocca Piccola
• Immerse yourself in the island’s tumultuous history by visiting Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum
• Lunch break
• Visit the Three Cities in the afternoon.

If you have 3 days to visit Valletta , you can do the following, in addition to the previous days mentioned above:

• Go to the Teatru Manoel
• Visit the National Museum of Archaeology
• In the afternoon, you can for example take the ferry to Sliema, the starting point of a nice seaside walk. It is also the perfect place for shopping, with many shopping malls and boutiques.

Other options for your 3rd day in Valletta are:

• A day trip to Comino island
• Half a day in Mdina + Rabat
• Half a day in Blue Grotto and around.
• Private Room : Located 300 metres away from Fort St Elmo and 700 meters from the Upper Barrakka gardens. Comfortable double room from 75€, breakfast included. Strong points: the excellent location, the hospitality and kindness of the host, the calm.
• Grand Harbour Hôtel : Hotel with traditional architecture, located in the heart of downtown Valletta, only 100 meters away from the Upper Barraka Gardens. Standard double room from 90€ per night or view sea + Three Cities view for 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location, magnificent view, roof terrace.
• Tano’s Boutique guesthouse : Hotel located in the center of Valletta, very close to all the best places to visit. Spacious and bright double room from 115€ per night. Strong points: the central location, the calm, the terrace on the roof for breakfast. The best value for money in town!
• Grand Hôtel Excelsior : 5* Hotel located on the waterfront, the view is stunning! Very nice rooms starting at 170€ per night. Strong points: The swimming pool, jacuzzi, free parking, the amazing breakfast and many other things that will make your stay in Valletta truly exceptional. My favourite place to stay in Valletta!
• Hôtel Phoenicia Malta : Luxury hotel located on City Gate square. Spacious, bright and tastefully decorated double room from 349€, breakfast at 17€. Strong points: the infinity pool with view on the port, the huge garden, the place and the free private parking. It’s simply the best hotel in Valletta, if you can afford it.

Other activities to do in Malta

Are you up for  more activities  during  your stay in Malta?

No problem: Here you will find the complete list, with many ideas that you will certainly enjoy. There is definitely something for you!

For more information  about these activities  and to book them, simply click on the following links:

It’s your first trip to Malta and you want to focus on the best activities and excursions?

In that case, I have selected for you the 4 activities and excursions you can’t miss during your trip to Malta.

So, here are my 4 favorites!

1) Going on a boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon

• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (transport from Malta can be organized after booking)
• Sailboat “3 islands” day trip – Snacks, wine and lunch + Free transportation from Malta included
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!) – Also available for a half day (3h30).
• Full day VIP private boat trip with skipper from Valletta – Full day
• Full day VIP private sailboat trip with skipper from Valletta – The best way to make the most of your day at sea!

2) Visiting Gozo by Quad bike or Jeep

• Full day Quad bike tour in Gozo, with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta!
• Renting quad bikes in  Gozo: To visit Gozo, you can also rent quad bikes! You can get the best quad bikes (brand new, 450cc) by clicking here and booking them directly on Quad Bikes Gozo website. The rental include helmets, free 2nd driver and a GPS map of Gozo’s best places to visit.
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta included. A great way to discover Gozo if you don’t want to drive!

3) Diving in Malta and Gozo

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental , you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• First Dive in Gozo , one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe. And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .

4) Jet-ski-tour around Comino (Blue Lagoon)

• Jet Ski Tour (From Gozo) – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves! – Call me at +356 7920 1451 (phone or whatsapp)  and I will book the activity for you!

In addition to the 4 amazing activities mentioned above, here is the complete list, with all other activities you can do in Malta:

Boat trips to the Blue Lagoon

• Boat trip to Comino Blue Lagoon:   + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Catamaran boat trip to the Blue Lagoon + transport from Malta can be organized after booking
• Day trip to Comino Blue Lagoon + 3h to visit the island of Gozo
• 3h boat trip around Comino + 3h tour of Gozo by Jeep
• Shuttle boat to Comino

Visiting Gozo from Malta

• Quad bike day trip to Gozo,  with departure from Malta (transport included). Return by boat via Comino and the Blue Lagoon! Definitely one of the best activities in Malta! –  A half day tour is also possible – click here.
• Gozo: guided Bus Tour  – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta
• Gozo: private Jeep tour   – Pick up at your hotel in Malta

Guided visits and excursions in Malta

• Guided tour of Valletta (small group) / Valletta Private guided tour / Historical tour: Valletta at the time of the Second World War
• Guided tour to the 3 Cities + wine tasting
• Vintage Bus Tour to the 3 Cities
• Guided tour of Mdina (small group) / Private guided tour of Mdina on foot
• All-inclusive night tour:  This night tour includes a visit to Mdina, a 5D show in Valletta about the history of Malta and a visit to the town of Mosta. Transport to and from your hotel is also included.
• Game of Thrones tour  – Malta is one of the filming location for the TV show.
• Day trip to Marsaxlokk and the Blue Grotto  – Transport + guide included!
• Half day guided tour to discover the megalithic temples of Malta,  some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Private 1 day guided tour of Malta.

Other activities to enjoy in Malta

• Try dive in Malta – at the best diving center. Just like for the quad bike rental, you just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• Boat trip on a traditional Maltese boat in Valletta
• Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Partying in Malta

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Malta to party (on your last evening or maybe even on several evenings during your stay !), you should:

• Go on a pub crawl and make friends from all other the world – Click here!
• Dance all night long in one of Paceville nightclubs
• Opt for a boat party with an open bar .

• Private 3,5 hour boat trip to Gozo and Comino
• Private VIP boat trip to Comino and Gozo full day (the best!)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Mgarr (Gozo harbour)
• How to reach Comino by shuttle boat from Hondoq
• Shuttle to Comino + visit to the sea caves.
• Visit of Gozo by jeep + lunch + boat trip of 3 hours to Comino

Other activities / Guided tours

• VIP full day quad bike tour in Gozo (top!) – Visit the island of Gozo with the best local guide and take a lunch in an amazing restaurant with countryside view. Small groups + discover more than 2 times more places than with other quad tours (including a few hidden gems!)
• 2h Segway tour with local guide (Gozo)
• 2h or full day hike with a guide (Gozo),  to discover the hidden gems of Gozo, away from mass tourism.
• Quad bike guided tour of Gozo (full day) / Also available for a half day
• Scooter guided tour of Gozo
• Tourist bus tour (Hop-on Hop-off) .

Nautical activities

• First Dive  at one of the most beautiful dive sites in Europe! And if you already have diving experience, you can opt for the following packages:  “1 day – 2 dives” (click here)  and  “2 days – 4 dives” (click there) .
• 1h guided Jet-Ski-Tour – Follow your instructor on an epic 1h tour around Comino and discover the sea caves! –  You just have to call or message me (WhatsApp) at +356 7920 1451 and I will take care of everything!
• Subwing  – New in Gozo, super trendy!
• Snorkeling course
• Jet Ski rental – Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) 3h guided tour
• SUP 3h guided tour at sunset
• Paddling experience day + night   (amazing!)
• Boat rental: no license needed (up to 90 HP engine) – Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451
• Boat rental: with license (more than 90 hp engine) –  Reservation by phone or whatsapp at +356 7920 1451

Renting a boat in Malta

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your itinerary in Malta, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Malta? 😊

• Beati Paoli Restaurant : Located on Saint-Paul Street. Small restaurant with traditional cuisine, the dishes are copious and delicious. The staff is very friendly. Good time guaranteed!
• Rubino : Located on Old Bakery Street. Typical home cooking with fresh and local products. The dishes are very tasty and copious. Home made desserts. One of the best place to taste local Maltese cuisine in Valletta.
• Dimitri Cafe: Located on Saint-Paul Street. A very small restaurant with simple and local cuisine. Everything is home made, even the bread! Wide choice of well cooked fresh fish dishes. The owner is adorable and the prices more than fair. Note that the restaurant doesn’t accept credit card, you are warned!

Compared to other European capitals, Valletta is a very small town and that’s what I love about it! It’s extremely pleasant to walk around this ancient city, full of interesting places to visit. There really are really things to discover around every corner.

I was particularly impressed by the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the interior is truly breathtaking!

The views from Upper and Lower Barrakka gardens are also amazing, and well, needless to say that a bit of greenery and shade in Malta are always welcome.

And you, how many days are you planning to spend in Valletta? What do you plan to visit?

Malta travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Malta guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Malta : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Malta are listed there.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Malta : The ultimate bucket list!

• Itinerary: 2-3 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 4-5 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 10 Days in Malta – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Gozo: The 10 must-see attractions of the island

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

Visit Malta: Top 27 things to do and best places to visit

2 Days in Marseille: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Nice: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 1 comment.

Such a great itinerary which includes so many beautiful locations!

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

• CURATED STAYS
• PRE/POST CRUISE STAYS & TRANSFERS
• SUSTAINABLE MEETINGS

Expertly Curated Stays

Let our destination expert tailor your stay to perfection

Immerse Yourself

Malta’s capital city, Valletta, boasts an array of golden stone buildings, UNESCO World Heritage architectural gems, intricately designed churches, fortifications, bastions, gardens, museums and houses splashed with lively colours. The Valletta peninsula comprises two natural harbours, Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour which has featured in popular music videos and international movies.

Recommended stays in Valletta

Iniala Harbour House

Rosselli – AX Privilege

The Barrister

The Gomerino Hotel

The Embassy Valletta Hotel

La Falconeria

Palais Le Brun

The Cumberland

Domus Zammitello

Palazzo Consiglia

AX The Saint John

Filter price, hotel facilities.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

FLEXIBILITY & SAFETY

IN OUR HANDS

Valletta restaurants you cannot miss, featured posts.

Experience the essence of Valletta and its people

Visit Vittoriosa by Dgħajsa

Vox City Walks Malta

Early Riser Walk

Very valletta blog - tips and insights to make your visit very rewarding.

Valletta Malta—5 Reasons It’s Worth Visiting

Do You need a Workcation ?

Valletta and The Three Cities – an itinerary based on authenticity

Memberships and partnerships.

or continue with

Reset Password

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

Best Museums

Adventurous Things to Do in Malta

48-Hour Itinerary

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Malta International Airport Guide

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do in Malta

Top Things to Do in Valletta

The 15 Top Things to Do in Valletta, Malta

Sylvain Sonnet / GettyImages

As Malta's capital and largest city, Valletta is often the first stop for visitors to the tiny Mediterranean island nation. Although Malta has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, Valletta is a relatively young capital city. It was founded in 1566 by Jean de Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St. John, also known as the Knights of Malta. Though Valette died before its completion, his namesake city rose to be a European Baroque architecture model—most buildings in the old town date to this period.

Today, Valletta, aside from functioning as the hub of Malta, is a lively city offering a mix of historic sites, scenic spots, museums, nightlife, and other diversions. Spend a few days here to discover our top things to do in Valletta.

Gild-Out at St. John's Co-Cathedral

Malta Tourism Authority 

St. John's Co-Cathedral may look plain on the outside, but its interior is a stunning display of high Baroque style. Its central naive and numerous side chapels are covered in gilded plasterwork and frescoes and filled with symbols that reference the history of the Knights of Malta and its close ties to the Catholic Church. The floors are covered with tombs of hundreds of the Knights of Malta—Jean de Valette rests in a stone crypt with his likeness in bronze on the top. Of particular note is a side chapel with Caravaggio's  "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist," a huge canvas that dramatically illustrates the famous moment from scripture.

Chill Out in the Three Cities

Krzysztof Dydynski / GettyImages

When you're ready for a break from Valletta's busy core, hop across the Grand Harbour and explore the area known as The Three Cities, the towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Aside from offering great views of Valletta, the Three Cities contain historic bastions, churches, and palaces, lovely spots for waterfront strolls, and the chance to wander in quiet, stone-paved residential neighborhoods.

Hop in a Dgħajsa

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

If you decide to visit Grand Harbour, be sure to get there in style—aboard a colorful dgħajsa rowboat. Like Venetian gondolas, these brightly painted boats serve as water taxis for commuters and tourists and cost just 2 euros one-way. While tradition holds that dgħajsa boats are powered by rowing, most of today's vessels are fitted with outboard motors. Still, they're a fun, fast way to get from one side of the scenic harbor to the other.

Photograph the Baroque City Center

malcolm_grima / GettyImages

Europe's smallest capital city, Valletta's city center is less than one-quarter square mile, laid out in a neat grid. It is replete with Baroque-style palaces, government buildings, and everyday houses—some of them in various states of decay. It's also incredibly photogenic. Test your photography skills by wandering the old town and snapping photos of the old doorways, doorknockers, archways, and balconies that make up the historic center.

Ride the Barrakka Lifts

Frank Vincentz / GFDL

Sure, you could walk down to Grand Harbour—or make the steep climb from the harbor to the old city. But it's a lot more fun to ride the Barrakka Lifts, twin elevators that make the 190-foot trip to and from the waterfront to the upper town in a mere 25 seconds. The current elevators were opened in 2012, replacing a vintage elevator that had been out of commission since 1973. The elevators hold up to 21 people and can get crowded during morning and evening rush hours. A round-trip ticket costs 1 euro.

Hear Cannons at Upper Barrakka Gardens

At the edge of the old city overlooking Grand Harbour, Upper Barrakka Gardens is part botanical garden, part display of vintage military might. The gardens offer some shady spots among ornamental plantings and spectacular views—especially around sunset—of the harbor and The Three Cities. Be sure to visit at either 12 or 4 p.m., when a ceremonial cannon is fired each day. Admission is free.

Ogle the Grandmaster's Palace & Armoury

© Marie-Lan Nguyen / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY 2.5

The Grandmaster's Palace serves as the seat of the President of Malta, but it's also a treasure trove of Maltese history. Built by the Knights of Malta, the palace and its halls are lined with sculptures, armors, paintings, tapestries, and murals depicting the island's military-heavy history. Self-guided tours allow visitors to access staterooms, ceremonial halls, and ornate courtyards, as well as the Armoury, which houses a vast collection of Medieval armaments. Note that the palace is temporarily closed for renovation. Tickets to the Armoury are 10 euros for adults.

Plumb the Past at the National Museum of Archaeology

National Museum of Archaeology, Malta

Malta's archaeological history is one of the oldest and most important in Europe—neolithic temples dotted across the island country are the world's oldest freestanding stone structures, even older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. The National Archaeological Museum in Valletta houses artifacts dating from the neolithic to the Byzantine eras, with the greatest focus on prehistoric Malta up to the Phoenician period. Admission is 5 euros.

Party on Valletta's Steep Steps

Cafe Society Valletta

The old city of Valletta is built on a hill, and many of its streets are narrow, pedestrian-only alleys with steps or ramps leading down to the waterfront. Many of these are lined with bars and restaurants that really come alive at night. If you're up for an evening cocktail and socializing, wander until you find a place that looks inviting, grab a spot on the stairs, and make some new friends.

Dine and Shop at the Valletta Waterfront

Valletta Waterfront

Originally built as storehouses in the 1700s, the complex that is now the Valletta Waterfront was badly bombed in WWII, thanks to its vicinity to the British-controlled Malta Shipyard. Today, those vast storehouses have been restored, and the Valletta Waterfront functions as the cruise ship port and is home to several restaurants, bars, and retail outlets. It's a pretty, historical setting in which to spend an evening—and some money!

Troop Around the Fort St. Elmo National War Museum

Westend61 / GettyImages

On the end of the narrow point of land on which Valletta is built, Fort Saint Elmo recalls the city's earliest history. Once geographically isolated, in 1565, the fort, with a garrison of Knights of Malta and Spanish troops, withheld an Ottoman siege for 28 days in what became known as the Great Siege of Malta. The Knights, backed with reinforcements from Sicily, eventually fended off the Ottomans, and the city of Valletta was planned shortly thereafter. The fort has been modified over the centuries but still retains its original star-shaped design. The onsite war museum holds military artifacts dating to prehistory. Admission is 10 euros.

Visit Lower Barrakka Gardens and the Siege Bell

trabantos / GettyImages

A smaller counterpart to Upper Barrakka Gardens, Lower Barrakka Gardens also offers some shady areas and sweeping harbor views. Just across the road from the gardens, the Siege Bell Memorial stands as a solemn monument to the 7,000 civilians and hundreds of Allied troops who died during the three-year Siege of Malta during World War II. At noon every day, the bell tolls to commemorate the hardship and loss during that dark period in history.

Set Sail at Sunset

Michael Avina / GettyImages

Even though there are no beaches right in Valletta, it would still be a shame not to get out on the water while you're there. Book a sunset cruise, either on a sailboat or a cruising yacht, and get a narrated tour of Valletta and the surrounding area, accompanies by swoon-worthy views of the city and Grand Harbour. The VisitMalta website offers a list of established tenders.

Sample Stuffat Tal-fenek

La Pira Maltese Kitchen

The Maltese national dish, stuffat tal-fenek, is rabbit stew marinated in a sauce of wine, garlic, tomatoes, and other savory ingredients. There are many variations across the island, so you might find it served with pasta, rice, couscous, or more traditionally, with thick-cut fried potato chips. La Pira Maltese Kitchen 's version of stuffat tal fenek is said to be among the best in Valletta.

Splash Around on St. George's Square

Petroos / GettyImages

On a hot day, central St. George's Square is a great place for kids—and adults—to cool off a little bit. Set in front of the Grandmaster's Palace and Armoury, the square is a focal point of the old town and a meeting point for locals, tourists, and tour groups. A kids' fountain invites visitors to kick off their shoes and play a little. There are a few bars and restaurants right on the square.

48 Hours in Malta: The Ultimate Itinerary

Disney Magic - Western Mediterranean Cruise Travel Log

The Top 8 Museums in Malta

The 10 Best Restaurants in Malta

The Top 15 Things to Do in Malta

Top 18 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Your Trip to Malta: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Malta

Top 15 Destinations in the French Riviera

8 Best Things to Do in Vatican City

15 Fun Things to Do in Dusseldorf, Germany

The Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

Top 10 Historical Sites in Canada

The 25 Top Attractions in Rome, Italy

The Top Destinations to Visit in Croatia

20 Top Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to…

Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does…

India travel tips — 25+ what & things to know before…

Must eat in Hong Kong — 7+ must eat & must…

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Malta travel blog — the fullest malta travel guide for first-timers.

Malta is a small island nation in the middle of Mediterranean Sea and to the southern island of Sicily, Italy. The charming landscape, secluded beaches, warm climate, vibrant life, long-standing history, cultural diversity and especially it possesses massive fortresses, ancient temples that have made this place to be one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. This country once played a big role in shaping human history. There are temples dating back 5000 years old and are considered the oldest remaining independent structures on earth. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Malta for the first-time? Let’s check out our Malta travel blog (Malta blog) with the fullest Malta travel guide (Malta guide, Malta tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• 20+ beautiful photos show the beauty of Malta – The island nation filled with sunshine in the Mediterranean
• What to do in Maldives? — 10 best things to do in Maldives & Top things to do in Maldives
• Bajau laut — Explore the life of the last sea nomads

Boracay travel blog — The fullest Boracay travel guide for first-timers

Coron travel blog — the fullest coron travel guide for first-timers.

Having been annexed by many empires, Malta offers visitors an interesting mix of cultures. When traveling here, it’s easy to see the blending styles of Italian, British and North African in cuisine, language, culture and architecture. Thanks to its wonderfully warm climate and relatively cheap travel costs and friendly locals, it is a good place for those who love medieval cities and castles and cities decayed but still has its own charm.

Malta travel guide: Overview of Malta

The Republic of Malta located away 80 km to the south of Italy, 284 km to the east of Tunisia and 333 km to the north of Libya. This country has only an area of ​​316km2 (square kilometer) with a population of about 450,000 people, Malta is one of the smallest countries and the highest population density across the globe. The capital of Malta, Valletta with an area of only ​​0.8 square kilometers is the smallest capital in the European Union. Malta consists of 9 large and small islands, but only 3 large islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited.

Malta has strategically located in the middle of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, once occupied by the Phoenicians, the Aragonese, the Knights of Saint John, the French and the British. The country also played an important role in many of history’s most famous wars, such as between Catholic Europe and the Ottoman Empire, the success and failure of Napoleon, as well as World War II. That continuous change of control has given it a unique culture – a blending of architectural styles, culinary and cultures (in fact, Maltese is a blend of Arabic and Italian) that you can’t find anywhere outside of Southern Spain.

Malta is known as an international tourist and leisure destination, with nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The official languages ​​of Malta include Maltese and English. Roman Catholic is the main religion of Malta, in addition to Orthodoxy, Protestantism and Islam.

Malta travel guide: When to come?

Malta has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature from January to April during the day is 12 – 18 degrees Celsius and 7 – 12 degrees Celsius at night. From mid-April to November, the daytime temperature is 28 – 34 degrees Celsius and nighttime is 19 – 24 degrees Celsius.

In summer from May to October is the best time to explore this island nation. If you want to explore Malta’s beaches, diving, water activities, then from July to September is an ideal time to come, the temperature is approximately 30 degrees Celsius.

Malta travel guide: How to get to Malta?

While most European countries have seasonal flights, not many airlines operate routes to Malta year-round. But Ryanair, Air Malta, EasyJet and Lufthansa, Emirates are the largest airlines that offer services to Malta year-round. If you flying from London, it will take more than 3 hours by flight to reach Malta. Access Google Flights , Momondo , Skyscanner , Kayak to find your suitable flights.

To getting from Malta Airport to city center you can take the bus: BUS X1, BUS X2, BUS X3, BUS X4 or Bus TD2, Bus TD3. In which TD buses stand for Tallinja Direct are direct buses running from airport to your destination and quicker than X buses which running to most localities in Malta and stop at every bus stop.

Alternatively you can reach Malta by waterways with ferries from the ports of Catania and Pozzallo in Sicily, Italy, which take about 2 and a half hours and cost about 61 – 127 euros ($63 – 135) / one-way (depending on each season). Ferry details here .

Malta guide: Getting around

There are 3 main ways to getting around Malta: Buses, taxis and self-drive.

Ticket price: The single ticket costs EUR2 in summer, EUR1.5 in winter and EUR3/night bus.

In addition, there are a 12 SINGLE DAY JOURNEYS for EUR15 for adults (Children up to 10 years old 15€) which can be used for groups, families, valid for 1 year from the first-time you validate it and with this ticket you can take 12 bus rides. Or 7-day ticket for EUR21 / adults and EUR15/children called EXPLORE CARD .

We stayed here for a week, so we chose to buy a 7-day ticket for EUR21, the ticket is made with a very good hard card and can be kept as a souvenir ^^.

• Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Where to buy tickets? There are places to buy tickets in each locality, usually in bookstores or souvenir shops, but note that all supermarkets and shops here close before 7pm. So, we planned to go to Valletta at night to strolling around streets and then buy tickets, but when we arrived, almost shops were closed, but luckily we were help by a local, he said there was a ticket vending machine located at the Valletta bus station , which still operating 24/24.

Bus and ferry times: Buses here are not as frequent as other major cities in Europe, you usually have to wait about half an hour to an hour with a trip, so you should remember to note the departure and return times, especially at night with very few trips, 10:30PM is the last trip.

Renting a car costs $41 / day (rental costs around $53 or higher in the summer). There are many local car rental companies, but I rent at Hertz because it’s close to my Airbnb. Many companies only accept cash payments. Rent a car from big companies to ensure your safety.

Taxi & Uber

Taxis cost EUR10-20, you can book a taxi via Whatsapp in advance and taxi may a good last minute option if you get stuck and can not take a bus. In addition, you also can use Uber rideshare service.

Ferry ticket to Comino island cost about EUR13 / round-trip, from the Cirkewwa wharf with the earliest trip departs at 9:10am and the last trip at 3:40pm, the return trips from 9:30am to 6:00pm daily.

The ferry to getting to Gozo is super big and beautiful, with no cost for departing trip, when return, you buy a ticket for EUR4.65 / person, the ferry running all day and night, and the best thing when we took the return trip at sunset, sitting on the ferry and watching Gozo island lights up against the pink sky of the sunset is really memorable moments (information about the ferry to Gozo here).

For convenient traveling and saving when exploring Malta you can buy in advance some PASS or CARD such as MALTA PASS which allows you free to visit more than 35 museums, architectural or historic, famous tourist attractions throughout the country, it also covering free sightseeing bus ride. Price: 1-day 49.95€ / 2-day 79.95€ / 3-day 99.95€. Website: www.maltapass.com.mt .

Or VALETTA CARD which allows you free to visit some famous attractions in the capital of Valleta as well as traveling from, to, and within Valletta plus 2 free ferry trips. Price: 24 hours 19€. Website: www.publictransport.com.mt/en/valletta-card

Malta travel guide: What to do and where to go?

The capital of Valletta

With an enthralling history, amazing architecture and a bustling urban lifestyle, this city proudly received awards such as the European Cultural Capital of 2018 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Traveling to Valletta, visitors feel like stepping on a journey through many majestic, magnificent of ancient architectural buildings and structures such as: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grandmaster’s Palace, Grand Harbour, Manoel Theater, Regina Square (Republic Square)… Quaint, secluded Medieval architecture attracting and captivating all your eyes, bringing an atmosphere that makes visitors feel like they are immersed in endless stories. The narrow steep alleys, signature and colorful windows of hillhouses make Valletta more charming and romantic.

In particular, take time to strolling and enjoying the beauty of Valletta at night with a vibrant nightlife, you also easily see the world’s famous DJs in the splendid capital along with most luxurious brands in the world also garthering here.

Popeye Village (Film Set Village)

Built as a movie setting in 1979, the Popeye sailors’ village is still today a popular tourist attraction in Malta. “Popeye Village”, also known as “Sweethaven Village” is an amusement complex – an open-air museum, and one of the most popular tourist attractions around Anchor Bay on the Mediterranean coast. Popeye Village was originally built as a filming location for Robert Altman’s “Popeye” film, co-produced by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions.

Throughout the years, many activities have been held in the village, but the most special and attracting the attention of visitors is Popeye and Olive’s wedding. There are also exhibitions of Popeye’s sailor comics, as well as more than 200 original comics and cartoons from the 60s, 70s and 80s. In good weather, visitors can take a tour to explore Anchor bay by boat and admiring the beautiful Popeye village from the sea.

Address: Triq Tal-Prajjet, Il-Mellieħa, Malta Hours: 10:30AM–5:30PM/Monday: Closed

The fishing village of Marsaxlokk

About 30 minutes by bus from the capital Valletta to the South Eastern of Malta, the fishing village of Marsaxlokk is considered a convergence of colors. From the Luzzu boats painted pure white to the gentle blue water reflecting the sunlight. All create a poetic picture bearing typical style of the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you can stroll along the coast, visit fishing village and enjoy specialties in harbor restaurants.

Love the beauty of nature, blue sea and golden sunshine? So, Gozo Island is the perfect destination for you. Gozo Island is one of the 3 largest islands in the island nation of Malta which attracts travelers with a wide coastline, majestic and magnificent Window Azure arch which was formed in a limestone rock in a unique shape lying quietly in space creating a spectacular scenery of nature. Not only that, visiting Gozo you also have the opportunity to visit the ancient and sacred temples of Ggantija. An early morning sunrise on the island of Gozo will be a great start for your journey. You can take a boat tour to visit the rock arch to feel the grandeur and wonder of nature, swimming or diving in the clear water in this sea are also interesting experiences.

With 200km of coastline, Malta possesses beautiful hidden coves, bays, secluded beaches that intriguing visitors at firt sight. In Comino, an island has only an area of ​​​​about 3.5 square kilometers but owns the most beautiful beach in this island nation. In particular, the Blue Lagoon on the island wears a sparkling turquoise blue with a white sand strip in a tranquil space between heaven and earth. Lying on the sand, enjoying the warm sunlight on the beautiful and romantic island of Comino will make you always in a peaceful and happy mood. Wandering around the island, watching the waves crashing on rocks or the magnificent scenes of sunrise and sunset will make you fall in love with this beautiful island more.

Mdina is a fortress town in the North, which served as the capital of Malta during the Middle Ages. The whole city was enclosed within the fortress wall with a total population of less than 300 people. The town is exactly an ancient fortress that has preserved its original structure and shape from ancient time. From the narrow roads surrounded by golden stone walls to the ancient street lamps along the alleys, corners, street signs… All of them still have the impression of medieval times.

There is a wide range of activities to enjoy here such as strolling around the picturesque streets as well as visit many museums. This town is also known for its cute cafes and eateries, perfect for relaxing for hours.

Located just outside the walls of Mdina fortress is the town of Rabat. Rabat means “suburban”, or in other words Rabat is the suburb of Mdina. The small town of Rabat with about 11,000 people, is not as magnificent as Mdina, but literally a more ordinary inhabited town. The road leading into the town center is filled with shops, houses, small cafes with red and blue windows that are very typical of Malta.

Visiting Rabat you will be surprised when green dominating everywhere. The green of the lawns adorning the foot of the ancient citadel, of the sparse forests interspersed and spreading, the town is full of old trees whose trunks are large enough for two people to embrace, with their elaborately trimmed foliage in round or square shape.

Sliema is a coastal town located in the northeast of Malta, bordering St. Julians. Once the home of the Maltese nobility, it has now become a major commercial area, very popular for shopping, bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels. Elegant villas and townhouses as well as many Victorian buildings built by the British lying along the promenade overlooking the rocky coastline. A unique experience that worth a try is Dinner in the Sky, where your dinner table will be lifted 40 meters above by a crane, and the panorama from above is something you’ll never forget.

Qrendi is located in the South West of Malta near Mqabba and Zurrieq. The town is small, with a population of around 3,000 people, but it has two of the most important Neolithic temples in Malta, Mnajdra and aġar Qim. On the seaside, you can find the Maqluba, a massive sinkhole that was formed by a great storm in 1343. Qrendi also home to the spectacular Wied iz-Zurrieq harbour and the famous Blue Grotto. The village center is quiet, with many old buildings, however, the suburbs are quite modern and developed. There are no tourist facilities in the centre, making Qrendi a truly Maltese village.

It is a megalithic temple complex, and one of the UNESCO cultural heritage sites in Hagar Qim area, Mnajdra temple is located 500 meters from Hagar Qim temple. This archaeological site is located in an isolated and rugged stretch of the south coast of Malta facing the sea. The complex consists of three buildings facing a common oval front yard and may be part of a larger complex.

The oldest structure, the southern temple dates from around 3600 to 3200 BC. Two other temples were built between 3150 and 2200 BC. These three structures represent an important period in prehistoric human development known as the Ggantija Period (circa 3150 BC to 2500 BC), which was an important period of The Bronze Age period in Malta (2400 BC – 700 BC).

This rural village has a history dating back to 1436. The Grand Master de Rohan (Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc) elevated Zeborms to a city, renamed it Citta Rohan and built the triumphal arch at the town’s entrance. The main square is decorated by the two-story Baroque Parish Church of Saint Philip with an ornate interior. The original design was created by Cassars, the architect of Saint-John Co-Cathedral in Valletta. Zeborms holds its annual religious festival, The Saint Philip’s Festival at the Parish Church in June.

Blue Lagoon

Great for swimming, water activities, or floating on a life jacket, Blue Lagoon with its emerald water, smooth white sands, the same length as Olympic-sized swimming pool. Good swimmers can cross the cove and small beach on the other side of the lagoon.

From May to October, tourists can stay at Comino Hotel (the only hotel on the island) to enjoy the Blue Lagoon without a tour and enjoy a peaceful vacation more easily. Things to do on Comino Island include walking, hiking, and water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Blue Grotto

Not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon above, located in the Northwest of the archipelago, in Comino Island, the Blue Grotto is an ensemble of seven caves found along the island’s southern coast, directly across from the islet of Filfla and less than a kilometer from Wied iż-Żurrieq village to the west. It was given its name in the 1950s when a British soldier visited the area and compared it to the famous Grotta Azzurra of the island of Capri, which basically means “Blue Grotto”, because the water is so blue.

The breathtaking seaside setting and limestone caves here are a picture of pure serenity, the water surface shines a brilliant blue in the sun. According to mythology, the Blue Grotto was the home of mermaids and sea nymphs, who seduced sailors with their enchanting voices.

The village of Wied iz-Zurrieq (just 1 km from the Blue Grotto) has many souvenir shops, ice cream shops and cafes, as well as cliff restaurants with great views. You’ll enjoy a meal at one of the restaurant’s terraces overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The beach is extremely wide with soft golden sand, clean water, quiet because it is far from traffic, safe for swimming. Many visitors spend whole day here for sunbathing while listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore. There are also cafes and restaurants with terraces overlooking the coast and gentle waves.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and the beaches of Gnejna Bay

For visitors exploring the area by car, it’s worth the two-kilometer drive from Golden Bay to the pristine beach at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. Surrounded by cliffs and steep hillsides, the beach is accessed by climbing down 200 steps. Considered one of the top beaches in Malta, Ghajn Tuffieha is popular with locals.

Continuing riding for another seven kilometers from Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is Gnejna Bay, a protected cove surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. Walk down the steep stairs you will reach the beautiful orange-sand beach, which is popular with swimmers and snorkelers. Water ski and canoe rentals are also available as well as public restrooms and food stalls.

Between the bays of Ghajn Tuffieha and Gnejna is the rural village of Mgarr, a scenic spot of vine-covered hills and small farms. Outdoor lovers will enjoy beautiful hiking trails from Mgarr to the countryside and along the coast to Gnejna bay.

Mellieha Beach

Located in the scenic countryside of the Northwest, Mellieha is a family-friendly beachfront destination. The beach is located next to a busy road but does not lose its natural beauty. Mellieha Beach has the largest stretch of sand in the island nation of Malta with a 1.5 km long coastline with fine white sand.

Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

At Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, visitors can explore the prehistoric world (circa 4000BC – 2500 BC). This UNESCO archaeological site is a Neolithic relic discovered in 1902. It is a complex of stone-carved catacombs. In this underground labyrinth, prehistoric humans performed religious burial rituals. The most fascinating thing of the site is that it represents an ancient cultural tradition that no longer exists but remains a mystery to archaeologists and scholars.

Diving at HMS Maori

Malta has a warm climate and is also blessed with azure seas, which means it is the perfect choice for those who love to swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving. There is an array of man-made reefs here as well as a number of military shipwrecks dating back to the Second World War.

One of the most famous diving sites is called HMS Maori, a frigate that was sunk by the Germans and now lies on the seabed at a depth of 14 meters. This is a good diving spot for beginners due to easy access and relatively shallow depths, and if you want to get a diving certificate, some expert divers can support you.

Malta guide: Where to stay?

Hotels in Malta are also very diverse with wide-range choices and different prices, depending on the choice of travelers. Hotels are usually concentrated in St Julian’s , Sliema , St Paul’s Bay , St George’s Bay and Bugibba. In addition, there are many hostels, guesthouses and apartments in Malta for tourists to rent and relax. Campsite in Mellieha will also be an interesting experience if you want to try. Malta also has 2 tourist villages and villas suitable for families and large groups.

If you choose to stay in Valletta, it’s hard to find a cheap hotel (lowest rates are usually 70 euros/night), but one thing is for sure, you will get a room of the right value. Dozens of luxury hotels and apartments are offered in the city, with beautifully decorated authentic buildings, historic buildings and spacious, villa-like hotels. Hotel Phoenicia Malta ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Hotel Palazzo Paolina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Palais Le Brun ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) and Ursulino Valletta ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) are just some of the best options if you want the ultimate in experience.

Check out more top rated and best hotels in Malta on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Malta blog: What to eat?

Local, fresh, simple and seasonal dishes are the essence of Maltese and Gozitan cuisine. Maltese cuisine is influenced by its proximity to Sicily and North Africa but it still holds its own flavor and uniqueness.

You can find a wide range of Mediterranean flavors with mains being seafood, vegetables, pasta, meat, bread, cheese and olive oil. To experience the most authentic dishes and a better understanding of Maltese cuisine, look to family-run restaurants in smaller towns.

Stuffat tal-Fenek (Stewed Rabbit)

Stewed rabbit is the national dish of Malta. Rabbit meat is usually prepared in one of two ways, stewed or fried. For stewing, this is a slow cooking process (more than 2 hours) that made the meat to become extremely tender. Stew dishes uasually add a rich tomato sauce and can include a variety of vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. It is also often served with spaghetti or some other pasta. You can find this dish at most restaurants in Malta.

Gbejniet (Maltese cheese)

Maltese love their own cheese, especially Gbejniet! Gbejniet is a typical cheese of Maltese people, made of goat or sheep’s milk, salt and rennet. It can be found in 3 forms: fresh, dried or processed and may have peppercorns added to enhance flavor or remain original. In addition to being eaten in original form, this cheese is also commonly served by deep-fried, sprinkled on salads, filling for ravioli (instead of ricotta), and sometimes, even in pies.

Don’t miss this pastizzi. This is one of those wonderfully creative dishes, this pastry is filled with a variety of ingredients, but the two traditional pastizzes contain ricotta cheese or peas. They’re incredibly greasy, delectable and full of calories, so it’s best to try them in the morning when they’re fresh out of the oven!

Aljotta (fish soup)

Aljotta is a soup that uses fish and herbs, has a light, fresh and delicious taste. The flavors stem from herbs, citrus, garlic and of course fresh seafood (mussels, octopus, shrimp, fish, typically kingfish). A hearty meal for any seafood lover!

Timpana (Grilled Macaroni)

These are great pasta pastries. This baked pasta dish is made with very simple ingredients – pasta and dough. Macaroni is cooked in a bolognese sauce with minced meat, bacon, tomatoes, garlic, onions and cheese and then baked in a puff pastry. This dish is quite filling, so make sure you are very hungry before enjoying this meal!

Torta tal-Lampuki (Lampuki Pie)

Always loved by Maltese people, Torta tal-Lampuki brings a sea flavor will surely make diners excited to enjoy. Torta tal-Lampuki is made with fresh sea fish as the main ingredient, cooked in a variety of ways, such as grilled or fried and then topped with tomato sauce, onions, olives and fresh herbs. The time from late August to November is the “season” of this dish.

Imqaret (Doughnuts)

Imqaret is a deep-fried Maltese sweet that can be found at any street corner and on dessert menus at restaurants. The pastry is filled with dates then deep fried and covered with icing sugar and served with ice cream. If you want to get one for takeout, you’ll be missing out the delicious ice cream, so be sure to give it a try while sitting at the shop.

Zalzett tal-Malti (Maltese Sausage)

Maltese sausage is a homemade sausage mainly made of pork. The dish is influenced by British cuisine but prepared in the Portuguese tradition way. Fresh Maltese sausages are made from garlic, herbs, pepper, crushed coriander seeds and spices while the dried ones are made a bit simpler.

Pan-fried Lamb Chops

Maltese people love to eat well-done cooked meats, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find both lamb and pork on many menus. Because the meat is slow cooked and tender, it has more flavorful. The cuts of meat are tender and tastier, especially when covered in gravy and served with butter and potatoes, it’s amazing!

Maltese Platter

The best recommendation when you want to learn about Maltese cuisine is a Maltese appetizer plate. Most of them will have small portions of the most appreciated dishes by locals. In the example below, you’ll enjoy a spread with tuna, capers and dried tomatoes, Maltese sausage, stewed beans, and olives, and a salted cheese and pepper similar to feta cheese (gbejniet).

Recommended bars and restaurants:

Restaurants: Rising Sun (Marsaxlokk) , Loli (vegetarian restaurant), The Grassy Hopper (vegan), Marsaxlokk fish market, Suruchi, Ta Doni, Cuba, Rocksalt, Ta’ Rikardu (Gozo) , Electro Lobster Project.

Bars: Hole in the Wall (Sliema) , Native (and any bars on this street as it is the main hub for nightlife), Dubliner, Legligin, The Thirsty Barber.

Malta travel guide: Malta travel costs

Traveling to Malta is surprisingly cheap, the cheapest one among European countries. I came here in the middle of winter – there is no seasonal increase in accommodation, car rental and airfare and my friends tell me that most costs for food, activities and year-round public transport remains the same. Here is a list of common costs in this country:

• Ferry from Sliema to Valletta: One-way: 1.50 euros. Round-trip: 2.80 euros
• Ferry from Valletta to Gozo: 4.65 euros/person, Car and driver : 15 euros
• Pastizzi (cheap snacks): 1-2 euros
• Sandwiches for breakfast : 3-4 euros
• Full breakfast: 3-4 euros
• Lunch at the cafe: 8-10 euros
• McDonald’s: 5-6 euros
• Sandwiches: 6 euros
• Dinner with wine at a restaurant: 25 euros
• Main meal: 10-14 euros
• Pizza: 6-9 euros
• Bottled water: 1 euro
• Wine: 8-10 euros
• Beer: 3 euros
• Admission to the museum: 6 euros
• Car rental: 38-48 euros
• Taxi fare: 10-20 euros
• Bus ticket: 2 euros

On average, you can travel to Malta on a budget with 30-45 euros per day, but in the summer you’ll need around 50 euros per day. For that price, you will have to stay in a hostel or share an Airbnb with a friend, take public transport, most of the activities you take part in will be free activities, prepare your own breakfast and cheap eats at cafes.

In addition, all churches are free admissions. You will find lots of companies that will take you around the island in a boat for EUR25. Most museums and attractions cost EUR5 entrance fee but you can choose to buy a Malta tourist card as suggested above (there is one for Mdina and another card for Valletta) which will save you around EUR10-20 depending on number of tourist attractions you will choose to visit.

Malta blog: Before you go

• Opening hours of restaurants, cafes and bars will be from 9AM to 1PM. The hotel bars will be open from 1PM to 4PM but will continue to serve guests from 6PM.
• Short-haul flights between Grand Harbour in Valletta and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo usually take about 20 minutes. You can also rent cars and bicycles for your convenience of traveling.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Malta you can refer to

• Valletta Traditional Two Harbours Day Cruise of Malta
• Malta Prehistoric Temples Tour
• Valletta Half Day Tour
• St Paul’s Bay: Blue Lagoon, Beaches & Bays Trip by Catamaran
• Bugibba: Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon Sightseeing Cruise
• Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon & Gozo – 2 Island Boat Cruise
• Malta: 5-Hour Lazy Pirate Boat Party with Drinks & Food
• Comino: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Seacaves Tour
• Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon & Caves Boat Cruise
• Gozo: Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Powerboat Ride
• Malta: Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Caves Day Trip
• Malta: Shuttle Transfer between Malta Airport and Hotels
• Malta: Malta Island Bus Tour and Boat Tour
• Malta: Full-Day Gozo and Blue Lagoon Cruise with Drinks
• Malta: Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour Cruise by Night

Are you looking for more top things to do in Malta: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Malta travel guide here .

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

El nido vs Coron Palawan — Comparison between Coron and El Nido, Philippines

El Nido travel blog — The fullest El Nido travel guide for first-timers

Bali itinerary 8 days — How to spend 8 days in Bali (8 days 7 nights in Bali) pefectly?

Bali travel blog — The fullest Bali travel guide for first-timers

Sardinia travel blog — The fullest Sardinia travel guide for first-timers

Uluwatu beach club — Top 5 most beautiful & best beach club in Uluwatu, Bali

Koh Rong travel blog — The fullest Koh Rong travel guide for first-timers

Editor picks.

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to...

Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does...

India travel tips — 25+ what & things to know before...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1459
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 208
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Nomadic Notes

Travel blog and weekly travel newsletter

Valletta Travel Notes

November 9, 2014 By James Clark

Travel Notes > Malta > Valletta Travel Notes

Accommodation

Hotels in Valletta – Search for discount hotels in Valletta.

Accommodation Review Airbnb room in Valletta, Malta

Travel Guides

Visit Malta – Information on Valletta by the Malta Tourism Authority.

Valletta Capital City Guide – Travel guide by MaltaUncovered.com.

A day in Valletta (Malta)

Valletta essentials

I Heart My City: Clive’s Valletta (Malta)

Valletta Tours – Tours and things to do hand-picked by Viator.

Guide Books

Lonely Planet Malta & Gozo (Travel Guide)

About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

About Nomadic Notes

Search nomadic notes, travel notes, travel resources, where to stay in…, travel newsletter.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Valletta is Malta's lilliputian capital, built by the Knights of St John on a peninsula that's only 1km by 600m. Its founder decreed that it should be 'a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen', and it retains its 16th-century elegance. It may be small, but it's packed full of sights; when Unesco named Valletta a World Heritage site, it described it as 'one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world'.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

St John's Co-Cathedral

St John's Co-Cathedral, Malta's most impressive church, was designed by the architect Gerolamo Cassar. It was built between 1573 and 1578, taking over…

Grand Master's Palace

The stern exterior of the 16th-century Grand Master's Palace conceals a sumptuous interior. This was once the residence of the Grand Masters of the…

National Museum of Archaeology

The National Museum of Archaeology is housed in the impressive Auberge de Provence. Exhibits include delicate stone tools dating from 5200 BC, Phoenician…

Upper Barrakka Gardens

These colonnaded gardens perched high above Grand Harbour were created in the late 16th century as a relaxing haven for the Knights from the nearby…

Fort St Elmo & National War Museum

Guarding Marsamxett and Grand Harbours is Fort St Elmo, named after the patron saint of mariners. The fort was built by the Knights in 1552 in just four…

The Renzo Piano–designed City Gate forms part of the architect's dramatic and harmonious development. It echoes the dimensions of the original 1633…

Parliament Building

Renzo Piano's breathtaking Parliament Building was completed in 2014. Its design includes two massive volumes of stone that look suspended in air, but are…

Saluting Battery

The Saluting Battery is where a cannon once fired salutes to visiting naval vessels. The battery has been restored, and a cannon is fired Monday through...

Latest stories from Valletta

Oct 16, 2014 • 6 min read

The story of Malta's capital is inextricably linked with the island's mythology – after laying Valletta's foundation stone in 1566 the Knights of St John…

Mar 24, 2014 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Valletta

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Valletta with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

What to do in Valletta - perhaps Europe’s most underrated city

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• is-valletta-europes-most-underrated-city

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Abigail Blasi

updated 12.08.2021

Valletta, the Maltese capital, has been missing from the tourist radar for years. This sixteenth-century city has remained remarkably preserved, a grid of elegant houses with a view of the sea at the end of every cobbled street. Valletta started to get noticed when it was crowned European Capital of Culture for 2018, but remains relatively under the radar - good news for travellers looking for a quieter capital city experience. Find out what to do in Valletta and how to make the most of your trip - this information in this article is taken from the Pocket Rough Guide to Malta & Gozo , your essential guide for visiting Malta.

Why should I go?

Why should i visit valletta, what are the best things to do in valletta, is it worth venturing further afield in malta, where should i eat and drink.

Valletta is a beautiful place. The forget-me-not blue of the Mediterranean contrasts with the golden-butterscotch of the city's buildings. Constrained by a narrow peninsular, Malta 's capital is perched up high with soul-flipping views over the sea on three sides. It sits above the aptly named Grand Harbour, the deepest natural harbour in the Mediterranean, in use at least since the Phoenician era.

Valletta is packed to the gills with splendid monuments, too. It was built as the Knights of Malta’s victorious capital after their David-and-Goliath victory at the Great Siege of 1565, where 700 knights and 8000 local troops overpowered 40,000 Ottoman Turks.

There’s a lot to take in, but the city is compact and easy to navigate. You can walk from end to end in about half an hour, so there’s plenty of time to relax in between sightseeing.

Visiting Vittoriosa Harbour is just one of the many great things to do in Valletta © snowturtle/Shutterstock

The last few years have almost as if the city has awoken from a deep sleep. Regeneration projects spruced up Valletta in preparation for its stint as European Capital of Culture next year, with fine mansions turned into boutique hotels, and new restaurants and bars reigniting the city’s spark.

Italian uber-architect Renzo Piano has revamped Valletta’s main City Gate. He built an open-air auditorium on top of the broken pillars and rubble of the WWII-bombed, nineteenth-century Opera House. The forts of St Angelo and St Elmo, both key during the siege, have also been renovated and opened to the public. The latter houses the magnificent Malta at War museum.

Most magnificent of Valletta’s older buildings is St John’s Co-Cathedral . It’s fortress-like on the outside, but its interiors are lavishly gilded. The largest of all Caravaggio’s paintings, a brutal depiction of the beheading of John the Baptist, hangs in the cathedral oratory.

The city’s other attractions include the similarly enriched Grand Master’s Palace . Meanwhile, the Casa Rocca Piccola is the lived-in house of a local aristocratic family. Go on the right day and you may be shown around by the nice-as-pie Marquis himself.

Close to the city you can visit the Hypogeum, an underground temple built more than 5000 years ago. Above ground, the Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim temples have pinch-yourself sea views.

Ct John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta © Casper Simon/Shutterstock

One of the joys of Valletta is that you’re in easy reach of many of Malta’s other attractions. You could spend your morning sightseeing in the city, and the afternoon jumping off rocks into crystalline sea.

Boatmen also chug tiny boats across the water between Valletta and the historic Three Cities and stylish Sliema.

Planning a trip to Malta? Find the perfect Malta hotel for your stay.

Malta's stunning Sliema Church© FredP/Shutterstock

Valletta’s restaurant scene is burgeoning by the week. You can eat rib-sticking Maltese pizza at Nenu the Artisan Baker, or sample a Mediterranean menu at wine-bar-cum-restaurant Trabuxu . Michael’s, in the ex-Civil Service Club, serves up creative dishes conjured from local produce. The eponymous chef here greets everyone with enthusiasm.

There’s also some nightlife to discover (a rarity until recently). A string of bars have reopened along Strait Street – a lane narrow enough to shake hands across. It was once the Red Light district, catering to sailors passing through. Now you can catch an outdoor gig or art installation here.

Subscribe to The Rough Guide to Everywhere now ( iTunes ; Soundcloud ; Spotify ).

Find out how to make the most of your trip to Malta and find a place to stay in Malta .

Love being charmed by small places? Discover more of the world's smallest countries .

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this does influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

• Inspiration

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Ready to discover tailor-made travel?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.