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The Best Valletta Tours and Excursions

Heading to  Valletta  on your next trip and looking to take a tour or excursion to see some of the highlights there?

You’ve come to the right place.

In this article I’ve curated the best Valletta tours and excursions that will take you past some of  the best places of interest in Malta’s capital city .

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Save big on sightseeing Valletta with iSeeMalta museum combo tickets and their Valletta harbour cruise ferry .

Valletta tours at a glance

These are the types of Valletta tours that I’ll cover today:

  • Valletta walking tours
  • Valletta boat tour  (around Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour)
  • DIY Valletta tours (with itineraries)
  • Private tours (also for cruise passengers)
  • Segway tours  around the city
  • Three Cities tour

Valletta is not a big city, in fact, it’s one of the smallest capital cities in Europe. But within its thick 16th century walls are so many interesting things to learn within short walking distance from each other. And the fun part about all this is that you can tour Valletta in a number of ways.

The below are a few Valletta tours and excursion options to consider. I’ve also included links to a few providers that I recommend booking with online for each.

Best Valletta walking tour

Stretch your legs and warm up your muscles! The best way to explore the city is the most traditional – on foot. Even better if you have a guide to pinpoint items of historical significance which you might otherwise never notice, who can also provide interesting background info.

During this half day Valletta tour, you’ll visit the most important highlights of the city:

  • You’ll start at the  Upper Barrakka Gardens  which overlook the Grand Harbour. Admire the great views while enjoying a quick coffee to kickstart your day.
  • From there, it’s straight to the spectacular  St. John’s Co-Cathedral . Prepare yourself to meet Caravaggio’s masterpiece  The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist  in the Oratory of the Cathedral, after entering one of the most beautifully decorated cathedrals in Europe.
  • You’ll continue to the  Grand Masterʹs Palace and the Armoury . This holds a most-impressive collection of medieval war artefacts.
  • Finally, you’ll finish off this tour by visiting the  Malta Experience , a multimedia show that takes you through thousands of years of Maltese history.

The cost of this tour is €40 per person for persons 13+ and €17 per person for children under 12 years.

More info and booking here

Going to a new destination can be daunting and the easiest way is to book a tour, but with Valletta being so small, it’s super easy to do your own sightseeing.

Although I don’t offer tours myself, I’m a huge Valletta fan and wrote a fully-fledged Valletta guidebook. There’s a ton of info in there, but the content is centred around a few itineraries with easy-to-follow walking routes in which I’ve prioritised the best places to visit in the city.

So if you’re only around for one day (on a cruise stop, for example), I’ve presented the best of Valletta on a silver platter.

Either way, if you’re keen to get to know Valletta better before you visit, it’s a very informative guidebook that’s well-reviewed by my readers.

More info here:  Valletta guidebook by Malta Uncovered .

Carmelite church seen from a higher part of Valletta.

Best Valletta boat tour

There’s the city from the inside, and then there’s the city from the outside. The Grand Harbour is closely tied to Valletta and its rich history. And what better way to explore the two natural harbours on either side of the city than by boat, one of the few Valletta tours at sea?

Hop on board a Wi-Fi-enabled harbour boat for a cruise around Marsamxett Harbour and the captain will take you very close to the fortifications. Meanwhile, a detailed audio commentary provides you with info on the rich history that shaped Valletta and the harbours around it.

You can get on or off at three points of the journey for added flexibility:

  • Valletta Waterfront
  • Sliema Ferries (great to hop on further tours to other places around Malta and Gozo)
  • Esplora Interactive Science Centre (fun outing for kids)

Tickets are just €10 per person and €7.50 for children (ages 4-12).

Get tickets here and learn more here: Traditional Harbour Cruise Malta .

Private tours of Valletta (also for cruise passengers)

If you’re looking to explore Valletta with the rich insight that a private tour guide can offer you, there are a few highly knowledgeable and experienced tour guides that do a great job.

For cruise passengers who have a short amount of time available for sightseeing, taking a private tour is the best way to maximise time on shore. These are a few options to consider, starting and ending at the cruise port terminal:

  • 3-Hour private walking tour  (max group of 4)
  • 4-Hour private walking tour , including the Three Cities

If you’re not a cruise passenger, you can still join these private walking tours. The cruise port terminal is a 10-15 minute walk away from City Gate, located at the end of the Valletta Waterfront down at the harbour.

Valletta tours by segway

Probably the most fun way of exploring Valletta is taking a segway tour. Hop on these noiseless two-wheeled contraptions and follow the leader around the straight streets of the city.

With 3 choice tour durations of 1.5 hours, 2 hours or 3 hours, you can go on a segway tour during mornings, afternoons and evenings. Your guide will help you get familiar with the easy-to-steer segways, and then show you around the most interesting places in the city.

Segway tours can be enjoyed by persons from 14 years to adult and prices start from €45 per person.

Tip: My Valletta travel guide book shortlists some of the best places to see and visit, so you don’t have to depend on excursions or tours to explore the city!

Other Valletta tours

The three cities tour – half day (morning).

This half-day trip takes you around the three fortified cities of  Birgu , Cospicua and Senglea. Popularly, these are known as the Three Cities (also referred to as Cottonera ). On their arrival on the islands, the Knights of the Order of St. John  made these cities their domain. They built some of the most impressive fortifications in the world, famous for having repelled a massive Ottoman invasion (known as the Great Siege of 1565).

During the duration of the tour, you’ll experience Malta by car, on foot and also by small boat ferry. First, there’s an informative drive through Cospicua. This is followed by a walking tour of Birgu (Vittoriosa), visiting several historical buildings and churches.

Next up, is a harbour cruise on a traditional Maltese boat from where you can truly be amazed by the immensity of the fortifications built by the Knights. The tour ends in Senglea, with a visit to the watchtower overlooking the Grand Harbour.

The cost of this tour is €32 per person for persons 13+ and €15 per person for children under 12 years.

Alley with colourful balconies in the Three Cities.

Are you looking for any other options to tour Valletta?

Leave a comment below and let me know!

About the Author: Edward Lansink

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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MapTrotting

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour: Explore Malta’s Capital on Foot

Kristina

Explore the capital city of Malta with our self-guided Valletta walking tour. It’s an easy and free way to explore if you have just one day in Valletta.

This Valletta city tour starts just outside the main gates but you can join it at any point along the circular route.

Use our free Valletta walking tour map (at the bottom of this page) to help you navigate around the streets and alleyways of the historic capital of Malta.

If you don't fancy the self-guided version, why not book onto a guided tour of Valletta with a friendly local?

Bookings: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a booking, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank You!

Triton Fountain: Valletta walking tour starting point

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour - Triton Fountain

We start our tour at the impressive Triton Fountain.

Three grand bronze Tritons holding a huge basin of water above their heads stand proudly outside the main gates of Malta’s capital.

The original statue, due to structural errors, collapsed in 1978. But thanks to the local artist and restorator, Kenneth Cauchi, the fountain was dismantled into 54 pieces and then brought back to life as an elaborate piece of art.

It was refurbished just in time to celebrate Valletta’s stint as European Capital of Culture in 2018 and is a popular spot to hang out at any time of the day or night.

It's located right next to the main Valletta bus terminal and taxi rank if you are taking public transport.

Anyone driving can use the main MCP underground car park just outside the city walls on St Anne Street, Floriana. Postcode for satnav: FRN 1460.

Valletta City Gate

After you’ve admired the circular Triton Fountain, step into the city of Valletta through the controversial yet grand Valletta City Gate.

This fifth and the most modern edition restored during 2011-2014 is often referred to as the ancient Egyptian temple of Edfu.

The grand entrance will lead you across the bridge and onto the 1 km-long Republic Street. This stretches the full length of the city from the gate, all the way down to Fort St. Elmo at Valletta’s waterfront.

Bonus: hidden gardens - Valletta walking (de)tour!

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour - Hastings Gardens

If you want to take a quick detour on this Valletta walking tour then check out Hastings Garden.

This lesser-visited Valletta attraction sits at the top of St. John's Bastion and St. Michael's Bastion . Just head up the steps on the left as you enter the city.

Here you can grab a panoramic view of the coastal Maltese towns Floriana, Msida and Sliema. It also overlooks the Manoel Island and Marsamxett Harbour.

This recreational space is dedicated to the British General Francis Marquis of Hastings who was a Governor of Malta during the British period on the island. Today, it’s a nice spot to grab some rare peace on the busy Maltese islands.

New Parliament building

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour - New Parliament Building

Next on your Valletta city walking tour is another sight regarded as too contemporary by the many critics – the New Parliament Building. Built at a cost of around 90 million euros, the project has sparked anger and disapproval among many locals.

Standing on stilts at Republic Square, Renzo Piano’s masterpiece blends in well with the rest of the monuments surrounding the area. It consists of two massive stone blocks with laser-cut windows and solar panels covering the roof. The north section houses MPs’ rooms while the south holds parliament offices.

Despite the controversy, the City Gate project has been instrumental in improving this area into a pleasant and beautiful space for everyone to enjoy.

Try to imagine a messy car park next to the derelict Royal Theatre site instead of the New Parliament Building and the restored Royal Opera House. That’s what Valletta's entrance was like before 2015 - not so grand!

Royal Opera House site

As you continue your self-guided Valletta walking tour, stop by the earlier mentioned Royal Opera House to the left of the Parliament building.

This unusual Royal Theatre is another site brought to life after sitting derelict for years as a carpark in Malta’s capital city.

Although it looks a bit like a Roman ruin, the columns are the remnants of the once-grand exterior. Before the bomb hit and severely damaged the precious Maltese site during WWII, the Royal Opera House was regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in Valletta.

It was built by Edward Middleton Barry, the British architect who also designed the stunning Covent Garden Theatre in London.

Originally, the Maltese government proposed to clear the site for the Parliament buildings instead. But, luckily, Mr Piano had a better idea. He revived the bombed site as an open-air theatre naming it after its original structure, Pjazza Teatru Rjal.

Church of Our Lady of Victories

Just behind the Royal Opera House, on your right-hand side, you’ll see the Church of Our Lady of Victories. It’s the first church building completed in Valletta by the Order of St. John in 1566 following the Great Siege of Malta.

The church served as the burial site for Grand Master La Vallette, the 49th Grandmaster and the hero of the Order. Later, his remains were moved to the elaborate John's Cathedral.

Pop in and see how they are fighting to restore the intricate Alessio Erardi ceiling paintings.

Auberge de Castille

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour - Auberge de Castille

Next up on your guided Valletta walking tour is Auberge de Castille. It sits proudly, looking inland across the recently remodelled plaza area. You’ll find it just past the Church of Our Lady of Victories towards Upper Barrakka Gardens.

The present building dates back to the 1740s in a Baroque style, and it has been called "probably the finest building in Malta."

It now houses the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta hence the security guards waving away any curious visitors.

Top Tip: Download this article as a self-guided walking tour on your smartphone. Check out our Valletta sightseeing guide on gpsmycity.com

Upper Barrakka Gardens and Saluting Battery

You shouldn’t leave Valletta without visiting the two-tier Upper Barrakka Gardens. The view from the upper level is probably the most satisfying on the island.

Just follow the signs to find the gate in. Head straight over to the terrace and soak up the vista across the Grand Harbour towards the "Three Cities" of Malta.

There’s the fortified Birgu jutting out into the sea closely guarded by Sanglea (Isla) and Caspiscua (Bormla).

The Grand Harbour tour boats leisurely pass by showcasing the grandest of the fortifications of Valletta from below. You’ll also see tiny Traditional Maltese fishing boats bobbing up and down the harbour crewed by the local folk.

The public garden at the top tier contains beautiful arches built by the Italian knights and a number of monuments commemorating several famous people including Sir Winston Churchill.

It’s a relaxing spot so, be sure to sit on a bench next to the fountain for a couple of minutes.

Saluting Battery

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour - Upper Barrakka Gardens and Saluting Battery

The lower tier of the Barrakka Gardens houses the Saluting Battery, overlooking Fort St. Angelo. It was originally used for the firing of the saluting guns but during WWII it was used for military purposes when needed.

Today it's used for its original purpose and, of course, for tourists’ amusement. Hordes of visitors gather at the upper and lower tiers to hear the loud bang and see the three cities disappear in a cloud of smoke.

The guns usually fire daily at 12pm and 4pm.

At this point, you can either carry on following this Valletta city walking tour or stray away to the tranquil Three Cities. If you have plans to spend a couple of Hours in Birgu, take the Barrakka Lift from the gardens down to boats across to the Three Cities.

There’s a regular ferry or for a truly local experience, jump aboard a fishing boat. The latter, as we mentioned earlier, is run by locals who can even give you a quick 1-hour Grand Harbour tour for a few euros extra.

This is a superbly quirky thing to do in Valletta if you have some spare time.

The Lascaris War Rooms

Back inside the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you’ll find some more military history if that’s your thing. Head down the stairs to discover "Malta’s best-kept secret." Their words, not ours!

The British began expanding the existing network of tunnels and chambers during the Siege of Malta in 1940.

Completed in 1943, these rooms hidden 150 feet below the city streets were the central hub for directing allied military operations in Malta and the wider Mediterranean.

The complex lived on long after the end of WWII, being used by NATO to intercept Soviet submarines in the Med until shutting down in 1977.

The rooms are now open to the public having been fully restored.

Tourist Information Centre – Merchants Street

If you’re in need of some more info and what to see, do, eat and drink whilst in Malta then pop over to the Tourist Information Centre on Merchants Street.

Follow the map to find it, it’s annoyingly tucked away and non-signposted for a tourist office, but hey, at least it won’t be busy!

Plus, don’t forget to visit our Top things to do in Malta post for a full guide to the islands!

valetta city tour

National Museum of Archaeology

Back on our self-guided walking tour, head two streets over and back onto the main shopping drag of Republic Street.

Construction of this "auberge" on Republic Street began in 1571. It is one of the first buildings to be erected in Valletta after the Great Siege in the late 16th century and therefore one of the oldest buildings in the city.

It was originally a palace, used by the Knights of Malta, and now houses the National Archaeology Museum of Malta which is worth a quick look.

St. John's Co-Cathedral Museum

Self-Guided Valletta Walking Tour St John's Co-Cathedral Museum

Head a little further along Republic Street and you’ll find the visitor entrance to the Cathedral on your right.

Despite its relatively plain exterior, a quick look inside will show you why St. John's Co-Cathedral is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe.

Adorned with intricate details, embellished dome ceiling and artwork donated by the knights, it was designed to rival the churches of Rome. The marble floor here houses tombs of around 400 Knights of the Order and so carries massive significance within Malta.

One of the most notable works of art and the one tourists flock to Valetta to see is the Beheading of St John the Baptist by Caravaggio. Considered to be his greatest work, the painting offers a rather gory depiction of human death.

The canvas was commissioned by the Knights of Malta as an altarpiece for the cathedral and is the biggest canvas the artist ever painted. It was also Caravaggio's only work which he signed.

If you visit, be sure to pick up an audio guide to learn all the details about this masterpiece of shadows.

Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck, Valletta

Head back towards the waterfront along St Lucia’s Street and hang a left on St Paul Street just before the steps.

Here sits the Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck, one of Valletta's oldest structures, dating back to the 1570s.

It is famous for the wooden statue of St. Paul, which is paraded on the streets of Valletta on February 10th each year during the celebration of St. Paul's Shipwreck.

Head out of the church and further along St Paul’s Street and then left, down St Christopher's Street to find...

Lower Barrakka Gardens

Twinned with the Upper Gardens of the same name, Lower Barrakka Gardens are a much smaller and quieter affair.

The view across the Grand Harbour from here is no less impressive though. It’s a lovely spot to take a load off and escape the busier streets of Valletta.

Siege Bell Memorial

Siege Bell Memorial Malta

Right beside the gardens, you’ll see a giant bell hanging in a simple memorial tower overlooking the Grand Harbour.

It rings out every day at 12 noon in memory of all those who lost their lives during the incessant bombing Malta took during WWII, often known as "The Siege of Malta."

As the signs warn, the noise is very loud so cover your ears if you’re closeby at midday!

Head back down the monument steps and along Mediterranean Street and seek out the Mediterranean Conference Center on the corner of North Street.

The Knights Hospitallers

Hidden below the conference centre is "The Knights Hospitallers," an exhibition detailing the medical beginnings of the Order of St John.

Sometimes also known as the Knights of Malta, history generally depicts them as a band of sword-wielding warriors. This attraction focuses instead on their work in the Holy Infirmary, which once stood on this site, treating the sick and injured of the Crusades of the 1500s.

It’s worth a look to experience the spooky network of tunnels running deep into the Valletta rock.

Fort St. Elmo – National War Museum

Fort St Elmo – National War Museum in Malta

A little further along Meddeteranian Street, sticking out at the very end of Valletta, you’ll find Fort St Elmo . This former gunpowder magazine and armoury is now home to a massive exhibition covering the history of Malta from the bronze age to the 1990s.

If you’ve got the time then it’s a great place to get a handle on the complete history of the islands. There’s a heavy focus on World War II with the St George’s Cross which Malta received for its pivotal role in the allied victory, proudly on display.

Casa Rocca Piccola

Navigate your way back to the furthest end of Republic Street and begin walking back up towards the city gates. Just past St Dominic Street on the left, you’ll see a sign for Casa Rocca Piccola.

Inconspicuous from the outside, stepping through the door here will transport you into the 16th- century palace of a noble Maltese family.

There are 50+ lavishly decorated rooms to explore and the included 45-minute guided tour will take you down to the hidden bomb shelters and tranquil gardens too.

Madonna tal-Karmnu - Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Take a wander along St Christopher's Street and take a left when you reach Old Mint Street. Further along, here you’ll see the side of The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on the right side of the street.

There’s no shortage of churches to visit in Malta but this one holds a special place for many of the locals. The iconic dome can be seen from far across the country and is easy to pick out of the Valletta skyline.

There’s been a place of worship here since 1570 but the current structure only dates from 1958 despite seamlessly blending into the surrounding streets.

Teatru Manoel - Manoel Theater

Pretty much next door to the church, standing on Old Theatre Street, is Europe's third-oldest working theatre. This stunning venue has been hosting performances since 19th January 1732.

Nothing special on the exterior, all the magic is hidden inside. Despite multiple alterations over the years, the interior still holds true to the original stunning 18th-century design.

It’s currently home to Malta's National Theatre and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. Check the listings to catch shows in English or Maltese, including opera, pantomime or a musical.

Grandmaster’s Palace and Armouries

The Grandmaster’s Palace and Armouries Malta

Just a block away from the theatre is the open space of St George’s Square and the imposing facade of the Grandmaster’s Palace.

Built as a home for the "Grandmaster" (ruler of Malta) in the 16th century, it’s been used and altered by various occupants every since. Today it’s home to the office of the President of Malta.

The public can visit the State Rooms and Armoury exhibition areas run by Heritage Malta. Entrance for both of these can be found on Old Theatre Street to the right of the building.

Pop in the entrance regardless as you can wander around one of the two palace courtyards for free.

Queen Victoria Statue

Right across from the Grandmaster’s Palace is Republican Square, called Pjazza Regina or Queen’s Square by the locals. This is your final stop on your self-guided Valletta walking tour.

Look up at the white marble statue located away from Cafe Cordina and in front of the National Library.

It was erected in 1891 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s 50th Jubilee during British rule, despite her never having visited the country.

It’s also a tribute to Queen Victoria ordering “eight dozen pairs long and eight dozen pairs short mitts, besides a scarf” made from Maltese lace. She’s therefore credited with single-handedly reviving the old tradition of lace-making on the Maltese islands at a time of need.

Come closer to look at the ornate shawl covering Queen’s lap - it’s made from Maltese lace.

Café Cordina

From what was a small tea shop in Bormla in the 1800s, Cafe Cordina grew into a Valletta icon. With its striking interior, mouth-watering cakes and pastini, the cafe, located in an old palazzo, is a popular coffee pitstop for both locals and visitors.

Celebrate completing the tour by pulling up a chair at one of the courtyard tables and grabbing something nice to eat and drink.

Despite being a tourist hotspot the prices are reasonable and the service is snappy. Enjoy!

THE 10 BEST Valletta City Tours

City tours in valletta.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. The Original Valletta Walking Tour

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2. 6-hour Private Tour around Malta

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3. Valletta World War II Private Walking Tour

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4. Valletta Segway Tour and The Malta Experience

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5. Valletta Walking Tour, Knights, Slaves and Mistresses

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6. Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul's Grotto

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7. Half Day Tour of Valletta Malta's Capital City

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8. Malta Deluxe Tour for Cruise Passengers

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9. Majestic Malta Tour for Cruise Passengers

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10. City Sightseeing Malta Island Bus & optional Harbour Cruise

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11. Valletta: City Nobles App Tour + Optional Malta 5D Show Ticket

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12. Private 8 hour tour to Valletta, Marsaxlokk & Mdina from Valletta (Hotel-cruise)

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13. Valletta Private Walking Tour: Sins in the City

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14. Cruise Passenger's Adventure to Malta's Hidden Gems

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15. Private Tour in Gozo, Comino, the Blue Lagoon and Caves

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16. Private Shore Excursion of Malta including Mdina and Valletta

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17. Half Day Tour Private Tour in South Malta

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18. The very best of Malta in one day

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19. Private 4-hour Walking Tour of Valletta with official tour guide

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20. Valletta Private Tour – explore the capital of Malta

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21. Private Food Tour in Valletta

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22. Half Day Private Scuba Diving Discovery from Valletta

What travelers are saying.

  • Liam O 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles History of Valletta in 3 hours Great 3 hour tour of Valletta. Informative guide unfortunately I can’t remember her name. It was a great way to understand the history of the city and helped us to decide where we needed to go back to and spend more time. Read more Review of: The Original Valletta Walking Tour Written April 25, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

brooklynchile

  • The Original Valletta Walking Tour
  • Valletta Walking Tour, Knights, Slaves and Mistresses
  • Valletta Segway Tour and The Malta Experience
  • 6-hour Private Tour around Malta
  • The Original Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour
  • Best Tours Malta
  • Colour My Travel
  • City Walking Tours Malta
  • Amy's Guided Tours of Malta & Gozo
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valetta city tour

Valletta Walking Tours – Malta’s Best Guided & Free Self-Guided Walking Tours

Popular historical & urban sites on valletta walking tours.

Triton Fountain

The Triton Fountain

The valletta city gate.

Valletta City Gate

The New Parliament Building

The royal opera house.

Royal Opera House Site

The Church of Our Lady of Victory

The auberge de castille.

Auberge de Castille, Valletta, Malta

The Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens

The saluting battery.

Saluting Battery

The Lascaris War Rooms

The national museum of archaeology.

National Museum of Archaeology

The St. John's Co-Cathedral

The church of st. paul's shipwreck.

Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck

The Siege Bell Memorial

The knights hospitallers.

The Knights Hospitallers

The Fort St. Elmo National War Museum

The casa rocca piccola.

Casa Rocca Piccola

The Manoel Theater

The grandmaster’s palace and armouries.

Grandmaster’s Palace and Armouries

The Queen Victoria Statue

Architectural wonders on valletta walking tours, valletta food and culture walking tours, planning the perfect valletta walking tour.

Valletta Walking Tour Malta,

Guided Valletta Walking Tours

Free guided valletta walking tours, private guided valletta walking tours, comment (0).

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Top Tours in Valletta, Malta

Valletta tours.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
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  • Likely to Sell Out
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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. Half Day Private Tour around the Island in Malta

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2. Blue Lagoon, Beaches and Bays Catamaran Sailing Tour

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3. The Original Valletta Walking Tour

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4. Gozo and Comino Islands: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & caves

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5. Private Customizable Full-Day Tour in Malta

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6. Comino Island: including Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & sea caves

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7. Valletta & Three Cities Harbour Cruise

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8. Malta Deluxe Tour for Cruise Passengers

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9. The Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour

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10. Private Day Sailing Boat Charter

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11. Valletta Food Tour

valetta city tour

12. 6-hour Private Tour around Malta

valetta city tour

13. Valletta City Walking Tour

valetta city tour

14. Private Valletta Food Tour

valetta city tour

15. Malta: Private Tour with Video Guides & Driver (6 Hours)

valetta city tour

16. Valletta Food Tour - Eat like a local

valetta city tour

17. Magic of Malta : A Cruise Passenger's Dream Day

valetta city tour

18. Malta Private Half-Day Tour

valetta city tour

19. FULL Day Eco Twizy 2 seater self drive Malta tour

valetta city tour

20. Mdina and Rabat - City Walking Tour

valetta city tour

21. Valletta World War II Private Walking Tour

valetta city tour

22. Private Driver to roam the island of Malta (VIP)

valetta city tour

23. Valletta Segway Tour and The Malta Experience

valetta city tour

24. Valletta Private Walking Tour

valetta city tour

25. Valletta Harbour Cruise

valetta city tour

26. Valletta Walking Tour, Knights, Slaves and Mistresses

valetta city tour

27. The Grand Tour of Valletta

valetta city tour

28. Private Valletta Food Tour

valetta city tour

29. Private Harbor Cruise - Marsamxett & Grand Harbor Valletta

valetta city tour

30. The Traditional Harbour Cruise

What travellers are saying.

Mrs o

  • Liam O 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles History of Valletta in 3 hours Great 3 hour tour of Valletta. Informative guide unfortunately I can’t remember her name. It was a great way to understand the history of the city and helped us to decide where we needed to go back to and spend more time. Read more Review of: The Original Valletta Walking Tour Written 25 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Erin  O

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Valletta City Walking Tour

Valletta City Walking Tour Malta — #1

Overview of the tour in Valletta

Meet your guide at the entrance of Valletta next to the New Parliament Building, on Freedom Square. The guide will have the City Walking Tours Malta sign or a red umbrella. The guide will give a brief introduction to the city and then proceed for walking tour in Valletta's historic city center. During this walk you will discover at a leisurely pace, learn how it all began, how the city evolved through the centuries and about the events which shaped Valletta into the city that it is today. Whether you are a first time visitor or you want to delve in deeper, our fully guided tour will not disappoint you. You will walk past the main squares of the city, Auberges of the Knights, palaces, churches and visit gardens, which offer stunning views of Malta's Grand Harbour. Apart from the cultural and historical aspect, you will also glean interesting news and behind the scene stories. Tour will end at St. George's Square, next to the Grandmaster's Palace and the guide will help to orient you and also give you tips as to how is best to continue exploring the city on your own.

This activity includes:

  • Parliament of Malta
  • Historic city center
  • Typical streets
  • Views over Grand Harbour

Nadine  — Guide of Valletta City Walking Tour, Malta

Meeting point

Freedom Square

Meet your guide at the entrance of Valletta next to the New Parliament Building, just past the City Gate. Look out for the red City Walking Tours umbrella. Public buses, as well as the various Hop on Hop off bus companies, operate at Valletta City Gate. There is also a multi-store car park just outside City Gate.

Things to note

It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes.

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.

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valetta city tour

Valletta Walking Tour

This tour is in English; other languages are available upon request.

Welcome to Valletta, World Heritage Site and European City of Culture 2018!

How did this great city come into being?  What makes Valletta so unique? Who were the Knights of Malta, and what of the British period? During this walk you will learn how it all began, how it evolved over the centuries, and about the events which shaped Valletta into the city that it is today.

The walk will take you past the city’s main landmarks as well as off the beaten track.  In just 2.5 hours you will see and learn about Valletta’s more known buildings as well as about its hidden charms.

To 31 December 2023

Every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 10.00 a.m.

Special dates – Thursday 15 August

Meeting Point

At the Parliament building, City Gate Valletta.  Your tour guide will have the City Walking Tours Malta sign or red umbrella.

valetta city tour

Public buses as well as the various Hop on Hop off bus companies operate to Valletta City Gate.  There is also a multi story car park just outside City Gate.

  • Adults €18.00
  • Children 10 to 16 €9.00

Children 10 years and under are free (max 2 children per adult).

Pay direct or BOOK ONLINE

  • Included is a 2.5 hr walk with a fully licensed guide.
  • Walk ends at the Grandmaster’s Palace, City Centre.
  • Come with comfortable walking shoes.
  • During this walk we will descend some steps.
  •  No tours are held on Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter Sunday.

Book the Valletta Walking Tour

Check availability, contact details.

Please ensure that the information submitted is correct as this will be used in a case where important booking updates need to be communicated.

Ticket details

Related tours.

valetta city tour

valetta city tour

Best things to do and see in Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta and the most important city in the country. It is the economic and cultural focus and the locality that attracts more travelers and tourists throughout the year. It is known for its museums, gardens, palaces and monumental churches (of Catholic tradition). It emphasizes on the rest the concathedral of San Juan that owns in its interior one of the masterpieces of Caravaggio, "The decapitation of San Juan Bautista". In addition, it is a very accessible city by sea thanks to its good port connection with Athens, Palermo or Naples. One of the best ways to get to know this city is to do it together with a local guide who knows the history and culture of this town. There is a free walking tour in Valletta that will allow you to discover places like the Palace of the Grand Master, the Fort of San Telmo or the Upper Barrakka Gardens, although it is also interesting to know the Casa Rocca Piccola, the Grand Port, the Manoel Theater, the The Museum Malta Experience, the gardens of Lower Barrakka Gardens, the Fort of San Angel, the City Gate, the Fountain of the Triton, the Plaza de San Jorge, the Armory of the Knights of San Juan or the Covered Market. All Valletta free tour have ratings and opinions from other walkers who have already experienced the experience of touring this city. It can help you decide which guided tour is best suited to your trip and what you want to know about this city bathed by the Meditarranean Sea and which is the heart of Malta.

Want to share your culture with travelers from all the world?

Free walking tour near valletta, malta, others cities to visit after valletta, malta, where are you traveling to.

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Underground Valletta

valetta city tour

Descend into the fascinating depths of Valletta, built first as a fortress and then as a city. Valletta’s underground was its lifeline. Apart from tunnels for the movement of troops and for grain storage, underground spaces were essential for two other crucial factors: water and drainage, both vital for survival of the city under siege, but also during peace time.

Centuries later, a new frenzy of digging began. The Second World War saw 17,000 tonnes of bombs dropped over Malta. The population of Valletta moved underground into a dense network of shelters that expanded on existing tunnels and cisterns to shield people from certain death. A tale of desperation, and resistance.

Valletta, a world heritage site, cannot be fully appreciated without experiencing what lies beneath it. A unique experience of defence and survival.

  • It is important visitors wear closed comfortable shoes for the visit (Visitors wearing high heels, sandals or flip flops will not be admitted).
  • Meeting point is 30 minutes before at MUŻA.
  • Children under 6 years of age cannot be admitted to Underground Valletta. Children who are between 6 – 11 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

valetta city tour

Click link below for opening hours:

MUŻA - The Malta National Community Art Museum, Valletta, Malta

Adults (18+): €15.00

Senior Citizens (60+): €10.00

Concessions & Students: €10.00

Youths (12-17): €10.00

Children (6-11): €10.00

Visit the Museum

Getting here.

MUŻA - The Malta National Community Art Museum,

Auberge D'Italie, Merchants Street,

Public Transport

The closest bus stop is 2 minutes on foot. Interested in getting here by public transport?

Featured Museums & Sites

The Old Prison

IMAGES

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Valletta City Walking Tour 2024

    With its golden-hued buildings, opulent churches, and baroque splendor, Malta's capital city of Valletta is ideal terrain for a walking tour. Learn more about the UNESCO-listed city's highlights—and delve into its history—when you explore on foot. Meet your guide in Valletta's Freedom Square, and make your way to a number of its main landmarks, including the Barrakka Gardens, the ...

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    DIY Valletta tours (with itineraries) Private tours (also for cruise passengers) Segway tours around the city; Three Cities tour; Valletta is not a big city, in fact, it's one of the smallest capital cities in Europe. But within its thick 16th century walls are so many interesting things to learn within short walking distance from each other ...

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    The new Parliament building in Valletta. Next on your Valletta city walking tour is another sight regarded as too contemporary by the many critics - the New Parliament Building. Built at a cost of around 90 million euros, the project has sparked anger and disapproval among many locals. Standing on stilts at Republic Square, Renzo Piano's ...

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    Discover Valletta, Malta's capital city, as well as a World Heritage site and European Cultural Capital in 2018. With your guide, explore Valletta and take in the sights on a 2.5-hour tour.

  5. THE 10 BEST Valletta Tours & Excursions

    4. Gozo and Comino Islands: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & caves. 542. Glass Bottom Boat Tours. 6-7 hours. Get away from the main island of Malta in search of sea and sunshine on this tour from Bugibba. Visit the Crystal Lagoon…. Free cancellation. from.

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    Full description. Take part in a city tour of Valletta, Malta's capital city. Valletta is known for its vast and varied history, and contains buildings from the 16th Century onwards that were built during the rule of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The city is essentially Baroque in character, with elements of Mannerist, Neo-Classical, and ...

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    Full description. Discover what makes Malta, and specifically Valletta, so unique on a fascinating walking tour through major historic landmarks. Listen to stories of the numerous events that have taken place in the city and the arrival of thousands of people that turned it into a melting pot of cultures. Walk through the City Gates, a modern ...

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    5. Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul's Grotto. 124. City Tours. 2-3 hours. Explore the historic highlights of Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, on this guided walking tour. Your local guide takes…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 97% of travelers.

  9. Valletta Walking Tours

    Embarking on a walking tour in Valletta, Malta, is an enriching journey through time, culture, and picturesque landscapes. From the grandeur of St. John's Co-Cathedral to the hidden corners discovered in the company of a knowledgeable guide, each step reveals the layers of history woven into the fabric of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

  10. THE 10 BEST Valletta Tours & Excursions (from £5)

    20. La Valletta Private City Tour for Kids and Families in Malta. Historical Tours. 2-3 hours. Valletta, the fortressed capital of Malta is a very fascinating and fun place to discover with your family. Kids will play…. Free cancellation. from. £163.

  11. Valletta City Walking Tour

    The meeting point for the Valletta City Walking Tour is the New Parliament Building on Republic St in Valletta, where the tour commences promptly at 10.00 am. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start to the exploration of Valletta's historic streets and landmarks.

  12. Valletta City Walking Tour

    Overview of the tour in Valletta. Meet your guide at the entrance of Valletta next to the New Parliament Building, on Freedom Square. The guide will have the City Walking Tours Malta sign or a red umbrella. The guide will give a brief introduction to the city and then proceed for walking tour in Valletta's historic city center.

  13. The BEST Valletta Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    The best tours to do in Valletta with kids are: Mellieha: Popeye Village with Optional Private Transfers; Valletta: Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour; Valletta: Malta, Gozo & Comino Private Chauffer Tour by Car; Valletta: Malta 5D Audio-Visual Show; Malta: 5-Day Tours Package with Gozo Island and Transfers

  14. Valletta Walking Tour

    To 31 December 2023. Every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 10.00 a.m. Special dates - Thursday 15 August. Meeting Point. At the Parliament building, City Gate Valletta. Your tour guide will have the City Walking Tours Malta sign or red umbrella. Public buses as well as the various Hop on Hop off bus companies operate to Valletta City Gate.

  15. Valletta: 3-Hour Walking Tour

    Know before you go. Please wear suitable shoes for a 3-hour walking tour. Likely to sell out. From $19.50 per person. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Give this as a gift. Polina - Germany March 22, 2024 - Verified booking.

  16. 10 Free Walking Tours at Valletta, Malta

    The best guruwalks in Valletta, Malta (4 / 10) Ben's Valletta free walking tour. 290 ratings. 4.9. Duration: 2h. Starts at: 15:00, 16:15 and 1 more. fri.

  17. Underground Valletta

    Descend into the fascinating depths of Valletta, built first as a fortress and then as a city. Valletta's underground was its lifeline. Apart from tunnels for the movement of troops and for grain storage, underground spaces were essential for two other crucial factors: water and drainage, both vital for survival of the city under siege, but also during peace time.

  18. Valletta: Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour

    Full description. Get to know Valletta at your own pace on this interactive scavenger hunt walking tour played on your phone. Decipher riddles, interact with the most important attractions of the city, and unlock interesting facts and legends. An ideal outdoor activity for first time visitors, couples, groups, families, and children.