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Things to do in Valletta: Top 20 Places of interest and activities

There are enough things to do in Valletta to fill a good three days. In fact, there’s an increasing number of tourists who decide to make Valletta their home base for their entire stay in Malta, simply because of the sheer number of places of interest, events, and dining options available.

That’s also because other major locations like Mdina, Gozo, Comino, The Three Cities and some of the better beaches are within easy reach with the main hub of public transport (bus routes) sitting right outside the city.

The below are my 20+ ideas for what to do and what to see in Valletta. In other words, if you have limited time to spend in Malta’s capital city, these would be my top choices.

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

Places of interest and things to do in Valletta: My Top 20

1. St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Location:  St. John’s Street (visitors’ entrance from Republic Street) Opening hours: Mon-Friday: 09:30-16:45h (last admission at 16.00hrs). Sat: 09:30-12:45h (last admission at 12). Closed on all Public Holidays. Entrance fee: €15 for adults, Children up to 12 years: Free

If you were in any doubt over how important religion and worship were to the Order of the Knights of St. John, a visit to the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is the ultimate proof. Without a doubt, it’s probably the best point of interest in Malta and should be at the top of your list of things to do in Valletta.

With an unassuming exterior, you would never expect to find a place so richly decorated inside its walls and entering the cathedral for the first time is an awe-inspiring experience.

Having served as the conventual church of the Knights for over 200 years, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a prime example of the artistic impression of the High Baroque era.

2. Grandmaster’s Palace (Palace State Rooms and Armoury)

Location:  St. George’s Square (within the President’s Palace) Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-16:30h. Closed: 24, 25 & 31 Dec, 1st Jan & Good Friday Entrance fee:  €10 (adults) or €5 (children)

The  Grandmaster’s Palace  was once the seat of power for the Order of the Knights of St. John, served as the Governor’s Palace during British rule and nowadays houses the Office of the President. Until recently it also housed Parliament until the new Parliament building near City Gate was built.

The Palace was one of the first buildings to be erected by the Knights soon after the foundation stone to the city was laid in the 16th century. Expanded and embellished throughout the centuries, the Palace State Rooms (name of the museum) and its halls and rooms are something to behold.

The Palace Armoury (accessible through a separate entrance to the side of the Palace’s courtyard) houses the world’s largest collection of arms and armour that is still housed in its original location. The collection is a fascinating glimpse into some of the physical artefacts that remain from past centuries and battles fought.

TIP:  From time to time the State Rooms may be temporarily closed due to government functions and some of the rooms are currently (2016) undergoing renovation. It’s best to call beforehand.

3. La Sacra Infermeria (Knight Hospitallers)

Location: Triq il-Mediterran (Building forms part of the Malta Conference Centre, with the main entrance located opposite Fort St. Elmo)

To this day, the primary mission of the Order of St. John (or Knights Hospitaller) is to care for the sick and poor. In fact, around the time of their presence in Malta, their practice of medicine was well ahead of its time. La Sacra Infermeria was one of the earliest hospitals they built and it played an important role as the Knights’ main hospital and medical facility.

It was also known as one of the foremost educational institutions in the field of medicine in Europe.

The building still stands proudly on the seafront of the edge of one of the bastions surrounding Valletta and makes for good viewing. Especially its 155-metre main ward, the longest in Europe at the time of construction is impressive.

There are two ways to visit La Sacra Infermeria: Through the Reliving the Sacra Infermeria Experience (an Augmented Reality tour which is great fun for families with kids, as well as for adults – highly recommended) or as part of The Malta Experience .

Reliving the Sacra Infermeria Experience

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9 am – 5 pm Entrance fee: €6 for adults, €4 for children

Reliving the Sacra Infermeria provides an engaging and interactive museum experience through an app-guided tour whereby visitors use a phone or tablet to find their way through the building. Thanks to Augmented Reality, the visitors will have the opportunity to relive episodes in the same places where they took place centuries ago, during the time of the Order of St. John. A perfect attraction for families with children, offering the right balance of education and entertainment.

You can get a preview of the tour by downloading the (free) app and using the Preview feature: Android app | iOs app .

The Malta Experience

You can also get a regular (but short) tour of La Sacra Infermeria as part of a combo ticket with the audiovisual show The Malta Experience , which provides an introduction to Malta’s history.

Tickets are sold on location and the fee includes a short guided tour of La Sacra Infermeria, with the highlight being the main ward of the old hospital (pictured).

Showtimes (every hour): Mon-Fri 11 am – 4 pm (last show). Tours commence at the end of the 45-minute audiovisual show. Entrance fee: €16 (adults), €6 (children). Covers both The Malta Experience show and Sacra Infermeria tour.

4. Fort St. Elmo and National War Museum

Location:  St. Elmo Place Opening hours: Daily from 9:00-16:30h. Closed: 24, 25 & 31 Dec, 1st Jan & Good Friday Entrance fee:  €10 (adults), €5.50 (children)

At the tip of the peninsula on which Valletta was built lies  Fort St. Elmo , strategically placed to defend the harbours on either side of the city.

The fort played an important role during the Great Siege of 1565 in which the Knights and their allies managed to ward off an invasion by the Ottoman Empire (present-day Turkey). The fort held up just about long enough for reinforcements to arrive.

The present-day fort was built to replace the ruins of what was left after the siege and although it fell into disrepair over the centuries it’s been magnificently restored recently.

Apart from exploring the fort, you can visit the National War Museum  to get a glimpse of the conflict and battles that Malta’s seen throughout centuries of foreign rule.

You don’t need to be a history buff to find something of interest here, it’s one of the best points of interest that Valletta has to offer.

TIP:  The actual George Cross that’s visible on the Maltese flag is on display in this museum. It was awarded to the people of Malta by King George V of Great Britain in 1942 “to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history”.

5. In Guardia Parade

Location:  Fort St. Elmo When? Sundays at 11am

Taking place in the centre square within Fort St. Elmo, usually on Sundays at 11 am, the In Guardia Parade is a series of reenactments depicting processions from the time of the Knights.

Taking place at Fort St. Elmo and lasting around 45 minutes, some 50 reenactors in authentic uniforms and armour of the day carry out military drills and sparring fights to demonstrate their readiness for battle.

Don’t forget to bring your camera! It’s one of the best opportunities to capture some action!

6. Upper Barrakka Gardens

Location:  To the east of Castille Place Opening hours:  7:00-22:00h daily

The  Upper Barrakka Gardens  are one of the more tranquil spots in Malta’s capital with a brilliant view out over Grand Harbour, also overlooking the Saluting Battery (more below).

With a small kiosk and terrace around, it’s a great spot to enjoy a quick snack and coffee as a stop to rest tired legs. Their pastizzi are pretty good so it’s a good opportunity to sample a typical Maltese snack.

With direct access to/from the harbour quay below, the Upper Barrakka Lift is also an entry/exit to Valletta, particularly for cruise passengers disembarking for the day near the Valletta Waterfront.

7. The Saluting Battery

Location:  Upper Barrakka Gardens Opening hours:  Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00h Entrance fee:  €3 (adults) and €1 (children)

Built and used as a defensive platform by the Knights, the Saluting Battery functioned both as an artillery platform to defend against attacks taking place within Grand Harbour as well as to greet dignitaries and friendly ships entering the harbour.

At noon and 4 pm sharp, through a short re-enactment, one of the restored guns is fired. It’s quite a spectacle to admire and you should definitely try to time witnessing this event as part of your itinerary for things to do in Valletta.

You can view the action from underneath the arches of the Upper Barrakka or you can choose to pay a small fee and get access to the battery and its facilities for a guided tour (including a multi-lingual audio guide).

8. Siege Bell War Memorial

Location:  Xatt il-Barriera

The bell was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992 to honour over 7,000 people who lost their lives during the WW2 Siege of Malta, between 1941 and 1943 and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the awarding of the George Cross of Bravery by King George V.

It’s a good photo opportunity with some lovely views out over the harbour.

The bell is rung at noon sharp, daily. If you happen to visit the location around that time keep your distance and cover your ears!

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9. Lower Barrakka Gardens

Location:  Triq Lvant Opening hours:  8:00-21:00h daily

Located right opposite the Siege Bell War Memorial and easily recognised by the arches lining its harbour-facing side, lie the Lower Barrakka Gardens.

Less popular than its Upper cousin, the  Lower Barakka Gardens  are a peaceful little haven to have a quick break and enjoy the views (and shade!) with a drink and a snack from the kiosk present near its entrance.

10. Fortifications Interpretation Centre

Location:  Bottom of Triq San Mark Opening hours: Tue & Fri 10:00-16:00h Entrance fee: €2

Explore the ingenious plans and designs behind the city of Valletta and its fortifications, from the towering high bastions to the strategically placed forts and its surrounding harbour area and fortifications.

The Fortress Builders exhibition is a bit of a hybrid between a museum and an information point, with a lot of knowledge on display, through audiovisual presentations and interactive, multi-lingual touch-driven displays to help you explore and learn.

11. The Manoel Theatre

Location:  115, Old Theatre Street Opening hours: Mon-Thu 1-3 pm and Fri 10 am-3 pm (theatre visits) and guided tours every 30 minutes between 10 am and 12:30 pm (Mon-Thu only) Entrance fee:  €5 (tour)

The Manoel Theatre  is a majestic building in the heart of Valletta with a long and rich history.

Although seeing what is believed to be the third-oldest active theatre in Europe (built in 1731) come to life during a sell-out performance is a lovely experience, events aren’t organised very frequently here.

The next best thing is getting a 30-minute audio-guided tour through the building and its museum, at a modest €5 fee. The theatre’s interior is something to behold and its survival throughout the centuries is remarkable.

12. National Library

Location:  36, Old Treasury Street Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-16:30h / Sat 8:30-12:30h (1st Oct – 15th Jun) and Mon-Sat 8:30-12:30h (16th Jun – 30th Sep) Entrance fee:  Free

The National Library was one of the last buildings erected in Valletta by the Knights.

With an already extensive library of books built up over the centuries, mostly books donated to the order by deceased Knights, it was built in 1776.

The building’s neoclassical design and the tall book-lined stacks are worth admiring and taking in, as are some of the authentic old documents on display.

You’ll also find temporary exhibitions there from time to time. Keep an eye out for updates on upcoming events on  their website .

13. Casa Rocca Piccola

Location:  74, Republic Street Opening hours:  Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00h Entrance fee: €9.50 (adults) and Free for children. Includes guided tour.

Casa Rocca Piccola  is the family home of the de Piro family that offers you a glimpse of how the aristocracy lived, with age-old furniture and loads of little treasures and decorated rooms. It’s actually still the home of the 9th Marquis de Piro, who opened up part of the house to the public as a museum.

A very capable and friendly tour guide takes you through the home, starting on the hour from the courtyard, which also offers access to the home’s WW2 shelter that lies 30m underground.

14. Church of Our Lady of Victories

Location:  Triq in-Nofsinhar, around the corner from Castille Place Opening hours:  Mon-Fri 8:45-16:00h, Sat 10:00-16:00h and Sun 10:00-13:00h Entrance fee:  Free (donations appreciated)

The foundation stone of Valletta was laid on the site of this small 16th-century church, which was the first building to be erected in Valletta and still stands proudly today, having benefited from recent restoration works.

Although small in size, there’s some gorgeous art to admire, primarily the ceiling paintings that depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.

15. St. James Cavalier

Location:  Castille Place

Right behind the Church of Our Lady of Victories, lies one of the oldest fortifications buildings in the city, St. James Cavalier. The building was one of the original fortification buildings planned by the Knights and its carbon copy, St. John’s Cavalier sits roughly in the same position relative to the main entrance to Valletta (City Gate).

Originally functioning as a gun platform to defend Valletta from landward attacks, the build now functions as the Centre for Creativity. Having undergone major restoration in the late-1990s, St. James Cavalier offers local artistic talent by offering exhibition space and facilities to host events and performances.

Apart from regular exhibitions and events, it’s worth having a little walk around inside the building.

16. Lascaris War Rooms

Location:  Xatt Lascaris (below Upper Barrakka Gardens) Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-16:30h Entrance fee: €14 (adults) and €7 (children)

The  Lascaris War Rooms are an underground complex of tunnels that formed the heart of the British war defence HQ. Believed to be one of WWII’s best-kept secrets, this is the location from which Malta’s defences were coordinated in a successful victory over Axis forces.

A tour of the complex takes you back to the days of WWII and despite the simple waxwork figures, it’s quite a vivid impression you’re left with.

The museum is located below the Upper Barrakka Gardens. With your back facing the entrance to the gardens, turn to your right down Triq Sant’ Orsola, take the first turn to the right and head down the road and steps and follow the signs.

17. St. Elmo Breakwater Bridge

Location:  To the North of St. Elmo

If you’re not very adventurous or steady on your feet this one may not be for you. If you’re up for a little walk across some of the rocky shoreline around For St. Elmo, you can get to the Breakwater bridge for some stunning views out over Grand Harbour.

Before heading down there, however, it’s worth checking that the bridge is actually open as it may be closed to the public at times. Personnel at the ticket office of Fort St. Elmo or the Malta Experience (Sacra Infermeria) should be able to tell you.

You can find your way around from the east, which is a short but rocky route with a few tricky places. The safer and easier route is entering from the west, although you’ll need to take quite a detour to get down to sea level.

18. The Malta Postal Museum

Location:  135, Archbishop Street Opening hours:  Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00h and Sat 10:00-14:00h Entrance fee: €7

This is a fairly new museum dedicated fully to the history of the postal service in Malta since the 16th century. Modernly laid out, there’s a lot to see here in terms of historical objects, stamps and stamp design, vehicles used, post during British rule, etc.

19. National Museum of Archaeology

Location:  Auberge de Provence, Republic Street Opening hours: Daily 10:00-16:30h. Closed: 24, 25 & 31 Dec, 1st Jan & Good Friday Entrance fee:  €5 (adults) and €2.50 (children)

Malta’s human history dates back to around 5900 BC and numerous artefacts have been found across sites that date back to the early periods, telling a story of Malta’s earliest inhabitants.

Moreover, you get a glimpse of some of the highly artistic figurines and rock carvings that have been recovered from the sites of some of the Neolithic Temples around Malta.

20. Malta 5D

Location:  7, Old Bakery Street Showtimes: Mon-Sat 10:00-16:30h every 30 mins (last show at 16:30h) Ticket prices: €10 (adults) and €6 (children)

An audiovisual alternative to the Malta Experience, Malta 5D presents the story of Malta’s history in a more technologically advanced way with 3D visual and physical special effects.

Things to do in Valletta

Wondering what to do in Valletta apart from visiting places of interest and museums? Here are my best suggestions.

Take a tour through Valletta

If you prefer a guided tour instead of visiting these places of interest yourself, here are a few options to consider:

• You can take a  half-day guided walking tour through Valletta , along with some of the most popular places to see from the above list. An experienced and knowledgeable guide will accompany you to give you in-depth info along the way.
• If you’d like to see  Valletta, Mdina and the Mosta dome (church) at night , this “night tour” is a full arrangement that shows you the most beautiful parts of these locations under the moonlight.
• The two large natural harbours on either side of Valletta hold a lot of history and interesting sights to admire. You can take  a Harbour tour that teaches you all about the history of the area while you enjoy the views. You’ll have to take a quick ferry ride to Sliema to hop on the boat tour and it’s well worth the price/time. More info here: Harbour Cruise Malta .

Attend one of the annual events

In the past decade or so there’s been a lot more activity in Valletta than in the recent past, with more and more annual events  being organised. If you can time your visit to coincide with one of these events, you might get a little bonus:

• The  Malta International Fireworks Festival  is held towards the end of April and sees a bright display of music synchronised fireworks lighting up the sky over Grand Harbour.
• The  Malta Jazz Festival brings together an ensemble of jazz musicians in an open-air concert, usually held at the harbourside at Liesse towards the end of July
• The  Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck is a local religious celebration in honour of St. Paul, to which one of the parishes of Valletta is dedicated. Similar to a regular village feast in Malta, band marches, fireworks and a generally festive atmosphere liven up the area around the Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck during the weekend. The feast is held on 10th February.
• Two  Wine festivals are usually organised around the end of July and August, where two of the main local producers (Marsovin and Delicata) offer wine tasting. Used primarily to promote their wines, the entertainment, relatively low entrance fee (usually around 10 Euro with glass to keep as a memento) and mellow crowd make for enjoyable events.
• Being a relatively religious (Christian) country, some of the major events on the Catholic calendar get special attention. Particularly  the Carnival in Valletta  in February is a big deal with performances and brightly coloured ‘floats’ touring the streets.
• Notte Bianca  has grown to become a real success that keeps bringing in the crowds in early October. With various museums keeping their doors open until late in the evening and performances and exhibitions on every corner in Valletta’s dimly lit streets, it’s a lovely event to attend.

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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Can you advise me if the In Guarda parade will be held on 16 April (Easter Sunday), this year?

Hi Andrew, according to the tourism authority’s events calendar the In Guardia parade will not be held on Easter Sunday this year.

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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.

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The 10 best things to do in Valletta, Malta

History, sunshine and plenty of pastizzi – here’s why Valletta is the ideal European city break

When it comes to why you should visit Malta it’s hard to know where to start. The more than 300 days of sweet Mediterranean sunshine a year? The extensive and complex history etched into every stone? Its incredible underwater vistas of wrecks, reefs and maze-like topography? Certainly. But perhaps the best reason to head to the island  is to explore its UNESCO-listed walled capital. 

Valletta is a beautiful, bustling city with a history as dense as its sixteenth-century bastion walls. It’s made up of sandstone-paved streets overhung by wonky window boxes, roads  tumbling down  to the so-blue-it-looks-fake Mediterranean Sea, and the whole place is  soundtracked by the tolls of church bells. Eating out is a showcase of the city’s centuries-old influences, while its nightlife scene still has echoes of its wartime origins. 

Valletta might be the smallest capital city in the EU, but it's got a big personality. Here’s what not to miss in Malta’s compact capital. 

Ally Wybrew is a travel writer and Malta specialist.  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines   and check out our latest   travel guides   written by local experts.

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The best things to do in Valletta

1.  Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

Malta wears its Catholicism proudly, with every town and village featuring at least one ornate place of worship – and  St John’s Co-Cathedral, slap bang in the middle of Malta,  is the country’s crown jewel.  Outside, muted Mannerist-style architecture belies an almost overwhelmingly elaborate Baroque interior. Within, nine chapels, a crypt hiding Grand Masters’ tombs, marble headstones denoting famous knights and endless artworks are just the beginning of the building’s many offerings. 

Time Out tip: Invest in an audio guide. Not only will it give context to what you’re seeing, but it also ensures you don’t miss out on the finer details (such as hidden messages in the marble floor). Whatever you do, don’t leave without seeing Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of St John the Baptist’ in the oratory. An iconic piece, it’s the artist’s only signed painting: look for his name in the blood trailing from St John’s neck.

2.  Dig deeper with Underground Valletta

Getting beneath the skin of a city should be the goal for any intrepid traveller, and luckily Valletta offers a literal way to do just that. Beneath the capital’s flagstone streets and limestone buildings are a warren of ancient tunnels and passageways that provided water, grain and transportation to the city during the Great Siege of 1565.

In the last century, these passages were expanded and altered to assist troops during World War Two, as well as acting as bunkers for the terrified populace (Malta was the most bombed country in the war). Take an eye-opening tour with Underground Valletta , which reveals the struggles of the city in wartime, from cramped, stone-walled rooms to the soaring archways of the water cistern. Best avoided by those of claustrophobic disposition.

3.  Drink your way along Strait Street

Once the destination for joy-starved soldiers to let their hair down, Valletta’s old red light district is now the capital’s nightlife hub. It’s somewhat elevated since it earned the moniker ‘The Gut’, when its debauched reputation meant many locals gave it a swerve. 

A heady evening can be spent working your way along its various bars and clubs. Be sure to stop in at Yard 32 , a gin bar featuring a 100-page menu of over 180 gins and 12 negronis alone, and then hop next door to its neighbour, Ginscal , a top-notch mezcal bar with pleasingly alternative cocktails. Both serve Mexican food, and though tasty, portions here are overpriced and undersized. Instead, eat at The Gut itself, a recently refurbished ‘restaurant hub’ sporting a collection of delicious eateries including N Japanese Bistrot, sushi and noodle bar The Victoria and, for those still imbibing, trendy mixology spot Alchemy Bar.

4.  Explore the Three Cities

I know: this isn’t technically Valletta, but the three cities of Vittoriosa , Senglea and Cospicua played key roles in the capital’s formation, and are just a stone’s throw away. 

During the Great Siege, French Knight of the Order Jean de Valette defeated the Turks from fortifications here, earning the capital its name. Visitors can immerse themselves in this history with a tour of Fort St. Angelo (which is also a stone frigate, complete with mast and HMS designation), the Malta Maritime Museum and the Malta at War Museum , which includes access to some World War Two bunkers. 

Time Out tip: To get there, catch a Three Cities ferry from below the Upper Barrakka Gardens (next to where the Gozo Fast Ferry departs; Malta’s little sister is well worth a visit) and a ten-minute ride will drop you at the recently renovated Vittoriosa Yacht Marina for just three euros return. Alternatively, independent ferrymen offer transfers in colourful dgħajsa  (a type of harbour boat unique to Malta) –  just be prepared to pay more for the pleasure.

5.  Chow down on pastizz in the Upper Barrakka Gardens

Previously a play space for the Italian Knights of Saint John, the elevated Upper Barrakka Gardens are the highest point on the city walls, allowing visitors panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. It’s the ideal place to appreciate the country’s incredible fortifications and understand how Malta was able to defend itself over the centuries.

Time Out tip: Arrive just before noon or four pm when the saluting battery below sets off canons to great ceremony (every day except Sunday).

I also recommend adding a classic Maltese snack to the mix: a pastizz . These flaky pastries are usually filled with curried peas, cheese or rabbit (the national dish) and you can grab one for cheap (about 35 cents) from the cafe in the gardens, or pick them up en route from most shops in the city. Keen to try the best? Head west to Malta’s other walled city, Mdina, where you’ll find the most famous pastizz shop on the island: Crystal Palace Bar.

6.  Soak up the city on the steps of Cafe Society

Sitting outside a bar, sipping a beverage and watching the world go by is a favourite European pastime, and Valletta is no different. There are plenty of spots across the city to enjoy the alfresco lifestyle, but none possess quite the combination of views, drinks and good vibes as Cafe Society , which dubs itself ‘The wrong place for the right people’. 

A picturesque drinking spot by day and a raucous bar by night, this tucked-away watering hole on St John’s Street offers superb cocktails with matching views. Grab a cushion, a Painkiller or Pea-sco sour (or another of their eclectic cocktails), sit beneath twinkling lights and take in a window box view of the Grand Harbour and its mesmerising waters. In the evening, head inside the pink and purple-lit brick arched space and let loose to a soundtrack of live local music or DJ sets.

7.  Eat, eat, eat

Thanks to Arabic, Italian and northern European influences, Malta’s cuisine is pretty unique, and Valletta’s dining options pleasingly diverse. 

Begin at Fifty Nine Republic on St George’s Square, where Maltese Head Chef Maria Summat crafts seriously delicious dishes (like veal ossobuco with orzo) in a party-pink setting. For Italian fare, try Ambrosia on Archbishop Street; a popular spot with the locals. Menus change on Chef Christopher Farrugia’s whim, but classics including gnocchi and shrimp risotto sit alongside seared sea bass and veal escalope. Carnivores shouldn’t miss Sciacca on South Street, often lauded as the best steak in the city, while turophiles will love basement bar Trabuxu , where Fermier cheese-filled boards are served with Maltese bread and chutneys beneath 400-year-old vaulted ceilings. Veggies and vegans aren’t left out either: Elephant Shoe is a trendy brunch spot dishing up WAPs (Waffles Are Perfect), Migrains (a mixed grain bowl) and more to a noughties pop soundtrack.

Valletta also has three Michelin-starred eateries: Noni , Aki and Under Grain , the latter of which sports a chi-chi rooftop bar.

8.  Go museum-hopping

While Valletta houses plenty of museums for those wanting to learn about the country’s tumultuous past (the Museum of Archeology , Palace Armoury and Lascaris War Rooms are great places to start) there are more curious offerings too. The Malta Postal Museum  has four floors of postal artefacts spanning the last five centuries and doubles as an arts hub, with exhibits ranging from 1920s photography to historic military uniforms. 

Step into the foyer of the Central Bank of Malta to see their Currency Museum , a small but fascinating display of national coins and banknotes reaching as far back as Punic times. It’s free to enter and open when the bank is.

You can also peek inside one of the capital’s more prestigious dwellings. Casa Roca Piccola is an opulent sixteenth-century palazzo that’s well worth a visit for its Palladian-meets-art-deco-design and curious costume collection, the largest antique costume collection on the island.

9.  Watch an arthouse film at Spazju Kreattiv Cinema

Malta’s movie-making credentials have skyrocketed in recent years, with huge international productions such as Jurassic World: Dominion , Napoleon and most recently Gladiator 2 shooting there. The isles have a strong local filmmaking scene too (Alex Camilleri’s Luzzu turned heads at festivals in 2021) and a collection of cool cinemas to go with it. 

Spazju Kreattiv is one of the more interesting. An artsy creative space in central Valletta, just metres from MUZA (the National Museum of Art), it has a 105-person screening room that shows major film releases alongside foreign language and art films, as well as recordings of opera, ballet and theatre performances. For more mainstream fare, try Embassy Cinemas , right alongside the Courts of Justice, which offers six compact screens ranging from a 16-seater to a 97-seater auditoriums. 

10.  Experience a Maltese festival

Maltese celebrations are very much of the ‘go big or go home’ variety, and it’s hard to find a weekend (or weekday) when there isn’t something going on. A few of the biggest festivals in Valletta take place early in the year: Carnival and the Fireworks Festival. The former kicks off the weekend before Lent and starts five days of costume parades, extravagant floats, dance and theatre performances and live music. 

Of almost equal importance to the festival calendar is the Fireworks Festival, where the Grand Harbour is lit up by tightly choreographed sparkling displays across two days at the end of April. It’s a truly awesome sight, but it gets busy, so arrive early to grab a good viewing spot. 

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Must-see attractions in Valletta

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...

Lascaris War Rooms

A mechanically ventilated underground tunnel complex that lies 40m beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens, this housed Britain's top-secret command in Malta…

Church of St Paul's Shipwreck

In AD 60 St Paul was shipwrecked on Malta and brought Christianity to the population. This church has a 19th-century facade, but the interior dates from…

Upper Barrakka Lift

There was a lift between the Grand Harbour and the Upper Barrakka Gardens from 1905 to 1973. In 2012, this was finally replaced by the marvellous…

Carmelite Basilica

Originally built in 1570 and expanded in the mid-19th century, the Carmelite Basilica (formerly known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Mt Carmel) was…

Valletta Contemporary

Emblematic of Valletta's cultural development during the city's 2018 stint as a European Capital of Culture is this modern gallery with an ever-changing…

MUŻA is a 2018 incarnation of Malta's Museum of Fine Arts, which closed in a previous location in 2016. Sited in the Auberge d'Italie, a 16th-century…

Manoel Theatre

Malta's national theatre was built in 1731 and is one of the oldest theatres in Europe. The building is being slowly restored, but is still in use for…

Auberge de Castille

On Pjazza Kastilja, pause to admire the facade of the Auberge de Castille, designed by the architect Andrea Belli in 1741. It adorns a 16th-century…

Casa Rocca Piccola

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Malta Postal Museum

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Malta Contemporary Art

After a few years of exhibiting at various pop-up venues around Valletta, Malta Contemporary Art (MCA) now has its own dedicated space tucked away in a…

Entrance to Fort St Elmo & National War Museum

The entrance to Fort St Elmo, named after the patron saint of mariners. The fort contains the stunning National War Museum. Note it is not possible to…

War HQ Tunnels

Twice-daily one-hour tours negotiate the wartime tunnels under Valletta and focus on Maltese history from WWII to the Cold War. Good walking shoes are…

This innovative gallery and performance space has various pop-up exhibitions and events and hosts resident artists throughout the year. There are no set…

St James' Cavalier

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Malta Experience

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Royal Opera House

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Palazzo Castellania

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Sacra Infermeria

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Valletta Waterfront (Pinto Wharf)

The Valletta Waterfront was once a rundown dockside area, now renovated and lined with waterside restaurants. Most of its services, including shops,…

Prospettiva

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Siege Bell Memorial

Erected in 1992, this memorial commemorates those who lost their lives during the wartime convoys of 1940 to 1943. The Latin inscription of the bell…

Palazzo Parisio

Now housing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this mansion built in the 1740s combines neoclassical and baroque influences, and was the residence of…

Triton Fountain

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This doll-sized museum houses an impressive private collection of model toys, such as tin cars from 1950s Japan, tin toys from 1912 Germany, as well as…

Of the original 25,000 16th- to 18th-century Knights of St John suits of armour, around 5000 remain at the Armoury, which is housed in the Grand Master's…

National Library

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Pjazza de Valette

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Lower Barrakka Gardens

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Top 20+ Things to Do in Valletta

Our suggestions of places to go in valletta.

Suggestions of things to do in Valletta and how to enjoy your stay at the most visited location on the island. A variety of ideas of what tourists usually do. We wish to get you started how to spend your time at the capital.

Today Valletta attracts so many visitors from so many countries as it still enchants the people who visit it. It is a living working city with the commercial and administration for the Maltese islands.

Disclaimer: On our website, you will find affiliate links from which we receive a small commission.

The best way to see Valletta is on foot with many things to do and see.

Photographers can delight with the variety of colours contrasting with the rich blue sea, blue sky and the Maltese honey stone colour while walking around. Not least the varied architectural features that have changed over time.

1. St. John’s Co-Cathedral + Caravaggio Painting

The beautiful  St. John's Co-Cathedral  with its stunning interior adorned with gold leaf and marble, typical of the high-baroque period . Your ticket will allow you to visit the museum with the famous tapestries. Buy tickets at the door or take an organised tour.

Taking a tour on your own or with an organized tour and here all the details from an experienced tourist guide.

Michelangelo Merisi known as Caravaggio

Do not miss the famous Caravaggio’s painting the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the largest and his only signed panting by this master of light and shadow.

2. The Churches Of The Capital

Things to do in valletta.

Valletta is home to some of the most architecturally beautiful churches on these islands, with 25 churches, although its size measures 900 by 630 metres. We suggest visiting Church of Our Lady of Victories and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church apart from others that you will find along your walking tour. All the churches in Valletta are free to enter, apart from St. John's Co-Cathedral.

3. Upper Barrakka Gardens And The Saluting Battery

If you want to enjoy the views of the Grand harbour, go the  Upper Barrakka Gardens . Join the many people who go there, take a snack, sit on a bench, take photos. Most of all observe the spectacular view. 

Take the lift from this garden down to the harbour area. Walk along to the Valletta Waterfront Cruise Terminal. Pleasant views great selection of food along the quays from the many restaurants beside each other.

The garden is free to enter. You can visit every day between 07:00 to 22:00. There is a restaurant beside the garden and also a snack bar inside the garden.

saluting battery - Things to do in valletta

At noon every day, the gun salute from the Saluting battery beneath the gardens . It is perhaps the  oldest battery still in operation anywhere in the world . Since 500 years ago if used to protect the Grand harbour from intruders. 

lascaris war rooms

Visit this  unique ultra-secret British war headquarters complex 150 feet under the Upper Barrakka Gardens  with tunnels, chambers and operations rooms where air and sea operations were observed and controlled the operations by the axes within the Mediterranean region.

4. Lower Barrakka Gardens

The Lower Barrakka Gardens  is perfect for a lovely quiet walk overlooking the Grand Harbour from another perspective . Opposite you see the Siege Bell Memorial. The entrance to the garden is free. You can stay as much as you want. There is a restaurant by the garden where you can have lunch or a snack. The garden is open every day between 09:00 to 21:00.

5. Siege Bell War Memorial

The Siege Bell War Memorial  on the lower part of St. Christopher Bastion with a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour breakwater entrance with surroundings towns, villages and fortifications all around.

An attractive location for tourists for the great location with surrounding buildings and fortifications hundreds of years old.

6. Grandmaster’s Palace Including The Palace State Rooms And Armoury

The palace state rooms are richly decorated and embellished, showing the historical achievements of the Knights of St. John . A visit should be part of your visit while in Valletta. The Palace Armoury is within the Grandmaster’s palace a showcase of the wealth of the Knights of St. John. Today you find a complete collection of armour and weapons. A ticket needs to be purchased to enter the premises.

7. Fort St. Elmo And National War Museum

Fort St. Elmo is at the tip of the peninsula between the two main harbours. It has withstood great battles and rebuilt many times to withstand more modern warfare. The present structures date back to the Knights of St. John and the British period.

The Malta War Museum takes you back to the second world war. It is located within this fort nicely recently refurbished with Military Armour of the Order of St John and the Ottoman Turks. Roosevelt’s Jeep ‘Husky’, the Malta award for gallantry and the George Cross. You must buy tickets before entering.

8. Casa Rocca Piccola

Casa Rocca Piccola is a 16th century palace in the heart of the capital, beautifully restored . This amazing gem is the only privately owned palace open to the public . It still contains the internal décor of the time located very close to the Grand Master’s palace. A great place to see if you are interested to see something very different while at the capital. Tickets must be bought by the door.

9. The Malta Experience

The Malta Experience  is an audio-visual projection, a good way of starting your visit getting to know about the history of Malta . It is located within the La Sacra Infermeria. It is also referred to as the Knighs Hospitaller (referring to one of the names by which the Order were also known). One can but a combined ticket to see the show and visit La Sacra Infermeria.

La Sacra Infermeria (Knight Hospitallers)

La Sacra Infermeria was the main hospital built by the Order of the Knights of St John  to care for the sick. At the time it was one of the main hospital in Europe.

10. The Manoel Theatre + Museum

Manoel Theatre is one of the oldest theaters in the world that is still operable. Here, a series of plays, musicals and pantomimes are performed within this theatre. To buy tickets for the museum and theatre to visit.

Apart from this theatre, you will find other various theatres at the capital city. See a show at Mediterranean Conference Centre, Teatru Rjal, Spazzju Kreattiv Theatre at St. James Cavalier and Valletta Campus Theatre.

11. Malta 5D - Things To Do In Valletta

The 5D interactive Valletta experience is a 20 minutes show is an excellent introduction to the history of the Maltese islands . A thrilling experience that brings history to life on screen. Tickets are available at the door before entrance.

12. Fortifications Interpretation Centre

Visit the Fortifications Interpretations Centre around 100 metres away from the ferry landing.  An ideal place to explore the incredible history of the fortifications in Malta . You need a ticket to enter and it must be bought at the ticket office.

13. National Museum Of Archaeology

Located in the centre of the capital at the Knights of Malta, housed at the Auberge de Provence in Republic Street. The museum covers the period from the Neolithic Period (5000 BC) up to the Phoenician Period (400 BC). You can buy tickets at the door.

14. MUZA - Things To Do In Valletta

The Museum of Fine Arts (MUZA) at Merchants Street was the original palace where the Italian knights used to live.  A collection of works by Maltese and foreign artists. Opened during the 2018 European Capital of Culture. It was one of 15 brand new worldwide museums which opened during that year, as mentioned by the international Architecture Digest. You must buy tickets to enter the premises.

15. Triton Fountain

Walking on your way to enter Valletta you are attracted to the Triton fountain, a real symbol of the sea associated with ancient Greek culture. The famous Maltese sculptor Vincent Apap was inspired by the famous fountains of Rome harmonised decorated with water jets that inspired many photos especially in the evenings.

16. Walk Through Republic Street And Around The Capital

A stroll through the grid pattern of wide and narrow streets is certainly a must thing to do in Valletta.  While walking through the streets, admire the old buildings with the colourful balconies. Streets we recommend you visit for fantastic photography are St. Lucy's street and St. John's street.

These are very famous streets for many local and foreign photography enthusiasts. Tourists are fascinated with the straight roads. A highly advanced road system for the time of 450 years ago. Explore the many architectural buildings, corner niches, palaces, blocks old flats and churches.

17. Walk Along The Fortification Walls

The massive fortifications built by hand between 1566 and 1570, the shear magnitude of these walls to protect the new capital and Malta. A great walk along the surround’s walls with the seashore along the way. This will be further appreciated if you combine a visit with the Fortifications Interpretations Centre with free entrance will help you appreciate what you see.

18. Karozzin And Dghajsa Ride, Train & Catamaran

A typical horse-drawn cab called the Karozzin is suitable to take a ride round Valletta.

Get yourself on the water and take the Dghajsa (a small colourful traditional Maltese boat) from

Valletta to Birgu and see the Grand Harbour from another perspective. They anchor beside the Customs House. Just 50 metres away from the Upper Barrakka Lift.

Take the train round the capital and the harbour area good way to locate various points of interest around the city.

19. Shops Around The Capital

Valletta is the centre of shopping in Malta.  Republic Street and Merchants Street, with all the narrow streets surrounding them, are great for shopping. Ever holiday needs some shopping time. You will find plenty of souvenirs to fashion items and accessories by high end international brands.

20. Restaurants, Cafes And Bars

Valletta has an excellent choice of restaurants for during the day and a quiet evening meal. The city itself boosts several cafes for convenient dining.

A snack and a drink at Valletta Cafe Cordina and Eddie’s Cafe’ at Piazza Regina, enjoying the people sprawling along Republic Street and around. Many locals and tourists stop here for to enjoy the surrounding architecture, people walking around and stopping at shops.

Several other restaurants and cafes surround the streets and squares are very inviting to stop and feel part of this city.

Here is a list of some of the best restaurants in Valletta.

21. Valletta Waterfront

Have lunch or dinner while admiring the luxury cruise liners berthed within the port.  Eat at the several open-air restaurants along the waterfront. The atmosphere is great both in the morning and evening.

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How To Get To Valletta

Public transport.

• Visiting the capital city Valletta by public transport is easy and efficient. All buses stop at the bus terminus outside the fortifications beside the city entrance. There are abundant routes from all corners of the island. Click here to find all Valletta bus routes.
• There is a circular bus (133) that goes round the fortification walls and through the streets.

By Private Car

• There are signs to Valletta all over the island. It is very easy to get here. Parking here might be a little headache. You have two options, either go round and try find parking or go to one of the car parks on the outside of Valletta and pay a small fee.
• Option two is easier and you will save a lot of time. Option one you might be lucky to find immediately. If you want to try find parking, we recommend trying Floriana or close to the Police headquarters as it is easier to find parking. You will have a small walk but you avoid paying parking fee.

Ferry Trips

• Catch the ferry from Sliema stopping outside the fortifications. You can also take the ferry boat to Valletta from Sliema ferry quay. Enjoy the amazing views along the way. Very popular with tourists and the fastest way to arrive to the capital.
• Catch the ferry from the Three Cities (Vittoriosa (Il-Birgu), Senglea (L-Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla), you arrive at the Customs House and in 5 minutes you arrive at the Upper Barrakka Gardens Lift. You will find yourself in the heart of Valletta.

All locations mention on this page are marked on the Google map to help you to identify.

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Valletta: Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems in Malta’s Capital

As an avid traveler always on the hunt for the world’s most captivating destinations, I was instantly enchanted when I first set foot in Valletta, Malta.

This fortress city and capital of the Mediterranean island country charmed me with its rich history, stunning Baroque architecture, and irresistible coastal setting.

Though Valletta sees plenty of tourists, its network of narrow alleyways and tucked-away sights means there are still secrets to uncover beyond the main attractions. 

During my visit, I made it my mission to explore as many hidden gems and must-see sights as possible to get the most out of experiencing Malta’s magical capital.

When looking at where to stay in Malta , I’d highly recommend basing yourself in Valletta to make the most of exploring the city’s treasures.

Wandering the Backstreets for Picture-Perfect Photo Ops

One of my favorite parts of visiting Valletta was wandering the labyrinth of small side streets and alleys that crisscross the city, stumbling upon one postcard-worthy scene after another.

The capital’s famed honey-colored limestone buildings and balconies are reminders of the medieval architecture brought over by the Knights of Malta who once ruled here.

Beyond Valletta, there are plenty of other amazing things to do in Malta like exploring the ancient temple sites or spending days lounging on the island’s beautiful beaches.

But within the city itself, I’d highly recommend getting lost in neighborhoods like Il-Bombi to snap photos of vibrant Maltese balconies decked out with lace curtains and overflowing flower boxes.

The photogenic corners and alleyways around St. Paul’s Street and Old Bakery Street are also ideal for pics boasting vintage European charm. Don’t miss the brightly-colored doors and entryways throughout the city either – they pop nicely in photos against the stone walls!

Admiring the Sweeping Harbor Views from the Barrakka Gardens

No visit to Valletta is complete without spending time taking in the panoramic views of the Grand Harbour from the Barrakka Gardens on the eastern edge of the city. I loved gazing out at the deep blue harbor waters while watching the boats come and go from this tranquil hillside oasis dotted with palm trees, fountains, and neoclassical architecture.

The ideal time to visit is just before sunset when the golden light illuminates the capital and the harbor below.

Walk along the Saluting Battery waterfront promenade stretching from the gardens for more excellent vistas of Fort St. Angelo across the harbor. The scenic outlooks are places where I could have lingered for hours!

Diving into Valletta’s Thriving Cafe Culture

As a passionate foodie, getting to sample Malta’s delicious cuisine and lively cafe culture was a huge draw. Spending lazy afternoons hopping between hole-in-the-wall cafes, bakeries, and restaurants is a must in Valletta.

I’d recommend stops at local favorites like Cafe Cordina for the Maltese sweet treats and Da Pippo for mains showcasing fresh Mediterranean flavors.

I also adored relaxing outside at the charming Cafe Society with a frothy cappuccino in hand, watching the world go by as the church bells chimed through the city.

Valletta has so many cute outdoor cafes and eateries to choose from – it was heaven for sampling local bites while soaking in the historic ambiance. Don’t miss the food markets either for tasty street snacks!

Finding Architectural Treasures on the St John’s Co-Cathedral Tour

History buffs will find a jackpot of art and architecture at the elaborately decorated St John’s Co-Cathedral near the center of Valletta.

The cathedral’s ornate exterior was impressive, but it was the lavish Baroque interior that blew me away. From the jewel-toned walls to the stunning marble flooring, every inch was a Baroque work of art.

I highly recommend taking a guided tour to get the fascinating backstory on the cathedral’s most prized artworks.

The audio guide also provides great detail on treasures like the magnificent artificial ceiling painted by Antonio Manuele. Don’t miss wandering the cathedral’s ornate side chapels either – they showcase beautiful examples of Maltese stonework.

Browsing Through Local History at the National Museum of Archaeology

For insights into Malta’s ancient past, the National Museum of Archaeology is an excellent stop. Housed in the stately Auberge de Provence building, this museum provides a well-curated overview of the island nation’s history spanning from prehistory to the Phoenician era.

I found the temple artifacts and stone carvings giving a glimpse into Malta’s mysterious temple-building past especially intriguing.

But the highlight was absolutely the Sleeping Lady, a stunning clay figurine dating back an astounding 6000 years! Don’t rush through – there are over 20 exhibit rooms showcasing Malta’s ancient wonders here.

Finding Street Art Surprises in Valletta’s Alleys

Beyond the Baroque facades, I delighted in discovering colorful and creative street art tucked along the streets and alleyways of Valletta. The city has a thriving urban art scene, with local and international artists using the cityscape as their creative canvas.

Some of my favorite murals were the gigantic mental health awareness pieces along St. Christopher Street and the blue whale on Old Theatre Street.

I’d keep your eyes peeled when exploring on foot – you never know what beautiful, thought-provoking image you might spot on an otherwise plain wall! The street art added an extra vibrancy and depth to the city.

Basking in Panoramic Views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens

While the Lower Barrakka Gardens boast views of the Grand Harbor, the Upper Barrakka Gardens across town offer sweeping panoramas over Marsamxett Harbor and the northern peninsula.

I’d recommend starting early to take in the looks over the yacht-speckled harbor while enjoying a coffee from the nearby cafe.

This was one of the top spots I found for watching the sunset over Valletta, with the golden light silhouetting domes and steeples to breathtaking effect.

The gardens themselves are also worth exploring, with stone walkways weaving through palm trees, shady gazebos, and even a small aviary. The views make it a mandatory stop on any Valletta itinerary.

Final Thoughts

My time exploring Valletta absolutely charmed me – this coastal capital offers such a rich mix of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Beyond the main sights, be sure to wander off the beaten path downside alleys, stop in cozy cafes, hunt for street art, and linger over gorgeous scenery.

With so many hidden gems still waiting to be found, Valletta is a destination I know I’ll return to time and again.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Valletta Explorations

As an avid traveler who loves uncovering hidden gems in captivating destinations, I’ve compiled some top tips for getting the most out of your own explorations of Valletta’s sights and alleyways.

Take it from me – with just a bit of planning, you can see the highlights, discover secret spots, and truly soak in the magic of Malta’s coastal capital.

Wander for Neighborhood Finds

Don’t limit yourself to the main tourist drags! Some of my favorite moments were spent wandering off the beaten path into Valletta’s various neighborhoods. Winding through the narrow streets is the best way to find those Instagram-worthy doors and balconies, stumble upon small piazzas and fountains, and feel the rhythm of local Maltese life. The maze-like streets hide cafes, shops, and surprises.

Tour Early to Beat the Crowds

An early start is key for a stress-free visit to Valletta’s top sights like St John’s Co-Cathedral and the National Museum of Archaeology.

I’d recommend visiting as close to opening hours as possible to avoid the multitudes of tour groups that flock in later. That way you can take your time viewing exhibits without being jostled. The city is also at its most peaceful in the early morning light.

Dine Like a Local

For authentic dining experiences away from the tourist traps, head to spots where you see plenty of locals. I loved finding family-run restaurants down side streets where the staff didn’t speak much English – it meant I got to try true Maltese home cooking!

Sitting outside and watching neighborhood life pass by over a meal is one of the best parts of a Valletta visit.

Capture the City at Golden Hour

The “golden hour” just before sunset is a magic hour in Valletta for photography. Be sure to hit Instagrammable spots like the Barrakka Gardens or the Upper Barrakka Gardens at dusk to snap that perfect shot with the paint-like pink and purple hues over the city. The low light illuminates the honey limestone buildings beautifully.

Pack Layers and Comfortable Shoes

Valletta’s hilly streets mean comfortable footwear is a must! Pack shoes or sandals with good traction and support for all the walking. Layers are also useful as shade can make some narrow alleys feel cool even when it’s hot outside. You’ll be popping your sweater or jacket on and off between sun and shade.

Look Up, Down, and All-Around

Some of Valletta’s most fascinating sights are overhead, underfoot, and off to the sides. Don’t forget to glance up at intricately decorated window frames, winding wrought-iron balconies, and colorful Maltese doors. Look down for ornate paving stones and mosaic street art. And peek through doorways or down alley branches for hidden finds!

With the right approach, Valletta will reward you with all kinds of beauty, history, cuisine, and culture around every corner. Let the city’s coastal charm and character cast its spell over you!

Valletta FAQs

What are the top things to do in Valletta?

Wander the narrow backstreets, admire the views from Barrakka Gardens, dive into the cafe culture, tour St John’s Co-Cathedral, browse the National Museum of Archaeology, hunt for street art, and watch the sunset from Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Where can I find the best photo ops in Valletta?

The alleyways and side streets in neighborhoods like Il-Bombi are full of Instagrammable spots like flower-decked balconies and brightly colored doors contrasting with stone walls.

What is there to do in Valletta at night?

At night, visit lively bars and restaurants in the main square for drinks and dancing. Take in a show at the historic Manoel Theatre or check out live jazz at Bridge Bar.

How many days do you need in Valletta?

2-3 days are ideal to see the major sights at a relaxed pace, wander different neighborhoods, sample the cafe culture, and enjoy sunset views. It’s very walkable.

What is the best way to get around Valletta?

As a small city, Valletta is extremely walkable. Just wear comfortable shoes to handle the hills and uneven cobblestones. You can also use the ferry and buses.

Where should I stay in Valletta?

Stay in the heart of the action around Republic Street or near the waterfront. Boutique hotels in restored townhouses offer historic charm.

Is Valletta safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Valletta is very safe. The low violent crime rates and welcoming culture make it a great solo travel destination. Just take normal precautions as in any city.

In conclusion, Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a city that captures the heart and imagination of any traveler. With its fascinating history, stunning architecture, enchanting alleys, and panoramic views, Valletta offers a truly memorable experience.

From wandering its labyrinthine streets to immersing yourself in its café culture and uncovering hidden street art, Valletta – no matter when you visit Malta – leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.

So, embrace the magic of this coastal capital, and let Valletta’s charm and character cast its spell over you time and time again. Happy exploring!

Meet Billy, the adventurer behind BRB | Gone Somewhere Epic. For the past nine years, Billy has been exploring the world, embarking on incredible adventures that leave a lasting impression. With an unwavering passion for travel, he has mastered the art of experiencing epic journeys without emptying his wallet. Join Billy on his quest for unforgettable experiences and budget-friendly escapades as he shares his insights and tips for making the most out of every destination. 

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malta

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, the Maltese Islands (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) have a fascinating heritage. Being close to Tunisia, there is a distinct North African influence. The Maltese language is derived from Arabic mixed with Italian.

The country is also fiercely proud of the legendary Knights of Malta, who fought off the Turks and launched the Crusades.

Under the scorching sunshine, Malta's palm-tree-fringed landscape is dotted with beautiful places to visit, including picturesque hilltop towns, peaceful seaports, and colorful fishing villages.

Packed with cultural attractions, the capital city of Valletta is an ideal base to explore the Island of Malta. As a traveler, you will appreciate Valletta's array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, and cultural events.

Across the harbor, Sliema has less culture but more entertainment options and caters to 20-something travelers and students on school breaks. The Island of Gozo is the best choice for relaxing beach vacations.

Malta's weather is perfect in spring and autumn. During the hot summer months, villages come to life with religious festivals and outdoor concerts.

Plan your visit to these enchanting islands with our list of the top things to do and tourist attractions in Malta.

1. Valletta: Malta's Elegant Capital

2. the idyllic island of gozo, 3. the medieval hilltop town of mdina, island of malta, 4. historical attractions in rabat, island of malta, 5. ħal saflieni hypogeum, island of malta: a neolithic cult site, 6. prehistoric tarxien temples, island of malta, 7. blue lagoon, island of comino: nature's perfect swimming pool, 8. the blue grotto, island of malta, 9. breathtaking views at dingli cliffs, island of malta, 10. golden bay beach, island of malta, 11. ghajn tuffieha bay and gnejna bay beaches, island of malta, 12. the seaside charm of mellieha, island of malta, 13. ħaġar qim temples, island of malta: a prehistoric megalithic site, 14. mnajdra temples of the maltese bronze age, island of malta, 15. siggiewi, island of malta: a traditional maltese village, 16. the country village of zebbug, island of malta, 17. family fun times at popeye village, island of malta, map of tourist attractions in malta.

Valletta is the elegant capital of the Republic of Malta. The entire city is testimony to the grandeur of the Knights of Malta, the European noblemen who were granted the Maltese Islands by the King of Spain in 1530.

The Knights created a capital worthy of their aristocratic stature, on par with other great European capitals. Valletta's regular grid plan and orderly public squares reveal the Knights' logical 16th-century urban planning.

You can easily navigate this small city that is bounded by two harbors: the Grand Harbor and Marsamxett Harbor. It takes less than an hour to walk across the entire city.

The heart of the city is St. John's Co-Cathedral , a 16th-century church built by the different Orders of the Knights, hailing from various countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. The moment you step into this magnificent sanctuary, you are awestruck by the lavish interior with its opulent gilded decor.

Nearby is the immense Grandmaster's Palace , once the residence of the Knights of Malta. This palace boasts splendid paintings, as well as an armory, that tell the story of the Knights' military victories.

If you appreciate culture and historic monuments, Valletta is one of the best places to visit on the Maltese Islands. Malta's most modernized city, Valletta is packed with tourist attractions and is a convenient base for exploring the Island of Malta without a car. The island has an efficient bus system with Valletta as its hub.

The Island of Gozo is the most idyllic destination of the Maltese Islands. With its quiet towns and pristine beaches , this little island is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing vacation for several days or even a weeklong stay.

Although Gozo is less developed than Malta, the island has plenty of cultural attractions: a fortified medieval city, Victoria ; a bustling seaside resort, Marsalforn ; and the most important archaeological site of the Maltese Islands, Ġgantija Temples , dating back to around 3500 BCE.

The countryside of Gozo offers a delightful retreat from the modern world. A patchwork of small farms covers the island's valleys and rolling hills. Traditional villages perch above the landscape, while the hillsides lead down to protected beaches and quaint old fishing ports. Even the tiniest towns have grandiose Baroque churches.

A favorite beach is at Ramla Bay with a wide, sandy shore and gentle waters that are safe for swimming. This well-equipped beach welcomes visitors with excellent facilities: lounge chair and umbrella rentals, showers, restrooms, changing areas, and snack bars.

The Island of Gozo is a short ferry ride from Cirkewwa on the Island of Malta.

Step back in time and experience the allure of a walled medieval town. You must pass through the dramatic Main Gate to enter Mdina. Within the city's immense, ancient ramparts is a delightful world of car-free streets and beautiful, old sandstone buildings.

The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , brimming with historic monuments and cultural attractions such as its glorious Baroque cathedral, the 17th-century Carmelite Priory, and several old aristocratic palaces.

The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum (Villegaignon Street) offers the chance to see an authentic medieval palace, decorated in the original style. The Palazzo Falson also displays exquisite art, antiques, and Oriental carpets, as well as a collection of ancient coins.

The Palazzo Vilhena (Saint Publius Square) is a stately 18th-century Magisterial Palace that now houses Malta's National Museum of Natural History .

Just outside the Mdina ramparts is the neighboring town of Rabat. You can see both cities in the same day; Mdina and Rabat are sometimes considered to be one unified urban area.

In Maltese, the word "Rabat" means "suburb." Rabat is less touristy and more modern than Mdina, but there are noteworthy historical attractions.

One of the hidden gems is the Casa Bernard , a grand 16th-century house that is still a private residence but is open to the public for guided tours. The house is decorated with antique furniture, masterpieces of painting, and noteworthy objets d'art.

The Domvs Romana provides a glimpse of everyday life during the ancient Roman era, with exhibits about fashion, entertainment, and cuisine. The museum stands on the ruins of a Roman aristocratic townhouse and contains some of the finest 1st-century BCE Roman mosaics in the world.

The 17th-century Parish Church of St. Paul's stands above St. Paul's Grotto , where it is said that Saint Paul found refuge during his stay in Malta. Next to the church, the Wignacourt Museum displays ancient Roman artifacts and paintings by Mattia Preti as well as other European artists.

Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, St. Dominic's Convent is an important pilgrimage destination because it contains a marble statue of the Virgin Mary that is considered miraculous. The convent's courtyard garden was used in the filming of Game of Thrones .

The massive dimensions and sheer mystery of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum takes your breath away. This Neolithic-era underground cemetery is designated on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its cultural value.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has provided archaeologists and scholars with intriguing clues about the Neolithic mindset and culture. The complex stands as a rare testimony to a vanished civilization.

Visiting this site offers a beguiling experience. On a guided tour, you enter the site at ground level. Then, you will walk through underground passages and stairways to descend down into three levels of superimposed chambers. The lowest two levels are man-made caves, entirely carved out of limestone rock.

Natural light reaches the middle level of the complex, but not the lowest level. Archaeologists speculate that Neolithic-era people used some form of artificial illumination such as torches.

The lowest level is the chamber known as the " Holy of Holies ," which is over 10 meters below the entrance to the first level at the top. Using your imagination, you might try to envision how this chamber was used by prehistoric man to perform burial rituals and ceremonies.

The site is remarkable for how old it is (4000 BCE to 1500 BCE) and for the excellent state of preservation, complete with beautiful sculpted details and paintings in red ochre. It is also fascinating the way structural elements of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum mirror the architecture of contemporaneous (prehistoric-era) megalithic sites such as the Tarxien Temples.

Some of the artifacts found in Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum are now displayed at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta, including clay sculptures; stone figures of birds; and The Sleeping Lady , a rare prehistoric object that depicts a woman lying on a couch.

Tip for Tourists : Book ahead! The site is open to the public for 50-minute guided tours. It is recommended to reserve your Hypogeum tickets online in advance for a specific day and time. For reasons of conservation, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum has a limit of 10 visitors every hour.

Address: Burial Street, Paola, Island of Malta

The UNESCO-listed Tarxien Temples is the largest and best-preserved prehistoric cult site in Malta, consisting of four megalithic structures. Excavated in 1914, the site covers an area of 5,400 square meters and displays the artistic achievements of Malta's mysterious prehistoric culture during the " Temple Period " (Late Neolithic Period) between 3,600 BCE and 2,500 BCE.

Stone reliefs and sculptures that were found here are represented on the site by excellent reproductions; the originals are displayed in the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

The stone walls of the four adjoining temples are decorated with surprisingly intricate spiral patterns and animal figures. The decorative South Temple contains the largest collection of art, including reliefs that depict goats, pigs, bulls, and a ram.

You will also find the remnant of a statue depicting a fertility goddess with robust legs, small dainty feet, and a pleated skirt. (Unfortunately, the top portion of the statue was missing when it was uncovered by archaeologists.)

The East Temple is made of sturdy slab walls with recognizable oracle holes. The Central Temple features a six-apse architectural plan and has an arched roof that reveals technically advanced construction techniques.

Tip for Tourists : The Tarxien Temples archaeological site is within easy walking distance of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum . Both sites could easily be visited on the same day.

Address: Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien, Island of Malta

The Blue Lagoon is a mesmerizing scene of crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping over a white-sand seabed. This expansive lagoon gives the impression of being a giant swimming pool because the water is temperate, there are no waves, and the shallow end is safe enough for children.

Wonderful for swimming, splashing around, or floating on inflatable tubes, the core of the lagoon is roped off to boats. The lagoon is equivalent in length to several Olympic-size swimming pools. Good swimmers can cross to the cove on the other side.

The lagoon has a small beach with umbrellas and lounge chairs available for rent. The other option is sunbathing on the scorching-hot rocky hillside. At least, you can count on refreshment stands set up around the lagoon.

Things to do on Comino Island include nature walks, hiking, and water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tips for Tourists : During high season, this beach is often crowded by 10:30am, so it is best to arrive early. The lagoon is less crowded after 4pm, however the returning ferries stop running around 5pm.

The ferry ride from Mgarr on the island of Gozo takes about 15 minutes to arrive at the Blue Lagoon on the Island of Comino. From the Island of Malta (departing from the port of Marfa or Cirkewwa), the ferry ride to the Blue Lagoon takes about 30 minutes.

The breathtaking coastal vistas on the approach to the Blue Grotto provide an exciting introduction to this spectacular nature site. You arrive here by taking a scenic route along a winding cliffside road high above the Mediterranean Sea.

The scenery has a serene, mesmerizing quality with brilliant blue waters sparkling in limestone caves. It explains why according to mythology, the Blue Grotto was home to the sirens (sea nymphs), who captivated sailors with their charms.

You can take a guided boat tour in one of the brightly painted Maltese fishing boats called luzzus . Boats leave frequently year-round, when the sea is calm. The 20-minute joyride speeds through the sea past six caves, including the Blue Grotto, a 30-meter-high cave with a luminous pool of cobalt-hued waters.

Tip for Tourists: The best time to visit is early in the day, ideally before 2pm, when the sunlight best illuminates the water.

The village of Wied iz-Zurrieq (just one kilometer away from the Blue Grotto) has many souvenir stores, ice-cream shops, and cafés, as well as cliffside restaurants with marvelous views. You will enjoy a meal at one of the restaurant terraces overlooking the gorgeous expanse of azure sea.

The Blue Grotto is also a popular scuba diving destination because of its bountiful marine life.

For awe-inspiring coastal scenery, take a short drive or bus ride from the Blue Grotto in Wied iz-Zurrieq to the Dingli Cliffs. The appeal (and the drawback) of this location is its remoteness.

The sheer 250-meter Dingli Cliffs plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea, and the sloping hillsides are fertile land used by small farms.

The highlight of Dingli Cliffs is the viewpoint that offers stunning seaside panoramas.

Besides a short walking trail, there is nothing at Dingli Cliffs except a tiny hilltop chapel (closed to the public), which is devoted to Saint Mary Magdalene.

Tips for Tourists : Keep in mind that there are no restrooms or cafés. Sometimes you might find a pop-up souvenir and refreshment stand. Dingli Cliffs does not have a visible bus stop (ask the bus driver where to get out), and buses run infrequently, but the sensational photo-ops make it worth the trek.

Golden Bay in Northwest Malta is one of the island's prettiest beaches. This picturesque and well-maintained beach features sheltered sandy shores tucked away behind a mountainous coastline and sloping cliffs.

The beach has an extremely wide shoreline with soft golden sands. The clean, calm waters are safe for swimming. You could spend the day here sunbathing, while listening to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore.

Lounge chairs and beach umbrellas are available for rent, and the site has well-maintained facilities including public toilets and changing rooms. There are also cafés and restaurants with terraces overlooking the shoreline.

The beach is found next to a luxurious five-star hotel, the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands , which has three restaurants, a café, snack bar, swimming pool, and fitness center.

Unlike other beaches in Malta, Golden Bay Beach is far away from street traffic, which makes it a perfect get-away-from-it-all seaside escape. At the same time, Golden Bay Beach is easily accessible by car or bus; the bus stop is only a five-minute walk away from the beach.

If you are exploring the area by car, it's worth driving two kilometers from Golden Bay to the unspoiled beach at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and sloping hillsides. You get here by climbing down 200 steps.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach feels secluded in nature, except for the umbrellas and lounge chairs for rent, public restrooms, and a snack bar. Considered one of Malta's top beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha is favored by locals who appreciate the quiet, peaceful environment. The waters are safe for swimming except when the red flag is up (indicating strong currents).

Continuing seven more kilometers from Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is Gnejna Bay , a small protected bay surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. You must hike down a flight of steep steps to reach the gorgeous 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 stands.

Between Ghajn Tuffieha Bay and Gnejna Bay is the rural village of Mgarr in a bucolic landscape of vine-covered hills and small farms. Outdoorsy types will enjoy the scenic hiking trails from Mgarr into the countryside and along the coast to Gnejna Bay.

Nearby are ruins of Roman baths and ancient cart ruts (grooves in the limestone plateau), which intrigue scholars and visitors alike.

Mellieha is a family-friendly seaside destination in the scenic countryside of Northwest Malta. The beach is next to a busy road, which detracts from the natural beauty. However, the Mellieha Beach has the largest stretch of sandy shore on the Maltese Islands with a one-and-a-half kilometer shoreline of fine white sand.

Mellieha Bay has very gentle shelving, which makes it shallow enough to stand even quite far away from the shore. The calm waters with no undercurrents are safe for children to wade or swim.

The picturesque village of Mellieha stands on a craggy hilltop overlooking the pastoral landscape of rocky outcrops, vine-covered hills, and small farms.

At the highest point in the village, the lovely 19th-century Baroque Parish Church of Our Lady of Victory (Parish Square) contains the Shipwreck of Saint Paul painting by renowned artist Giuseppe Cali and a statue of the Virgin Mary.

The church's Virgin Mary statue is venerated during the annual Mellieha Village Festa . This nine-day festival begins on August 30th and features snack kiosks, traditional Maltese desserts, marching bands and fireworks.

Opposite the steps that lead down from the Parish Square is a mystical cave-shrine dedicated to the Madonna. An underground spring running through the cave is said to have miraculous healing powers.

Mellieha also has a protected habitat for migrating birds in the Ghadira Nature Reserve .

The UNESCO-listed Ħaġar Qim Temples appeal to travelers who are fascinated by Malta's megalithic sites. Perched on a rocky hilltop plateau, this archaeological park on Malta's rugged southern coast overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and the Island of Filfla in the distance.

Dating between 3600 BCE to 3200 BCE, the ancient site was buried under mounds of earth until its discovery in 1839. The facade, made up of two upright stones supporting one stone lintel, has a striking entrance.

The builders of these remarkable prehistoric temples did not use a symmetrical layout of the three chambers. Instead, the chambers and apses connect with one another but not in a uniform plan. Each temple was built as an individual place of worship.

The largest megalith of this 5,000-year-old site is more than seven meters long and weighs approximately 20 tons. The little boulders, the size of bowling balls, strewn about the site were used like castors to move the massive megaliths into place.

Artifacts found on the site, including the Fat deities, believed to be symbols of fertility, and the nude Venus of Malta , are on display at the National Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2501

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Mnajdra Temples are found 500 meters away from the Ħaġar Qim Temples in an isolated stretch with stunning sea views. This archaeological complex includes three different structures.

The oldest structure, the South Temple, dates to around 3600 to 3200 BCE. The other two temples were built between 3150 BCE and 2500 BCE. These three structures represent a significant stage in prehistoric human development known as the Ġg antija Phase (circa 3000 BCE to 2200 BCE), which was an important period of the Maltese Bronze Age.

The most intriguing feature of Mnajdra Temples is the doorway of the South Temple. The doorway is flanked by two immense blocks with small holes that mark the position of the rising sun on the Equinoxes (first day of spring and autumn) and the Solstices (the first day of summer and winter).

Address: Triq Hagar Qim, Qrendi QRD 2502

This traditional Maltese village is in southwestern Malta between Rabat and Marsaxlokk in the fertile Girgenti Valley , which begins near the Dingli Cliffs .

At the center of the village, the Parish Church of Saint Nicholas features an impressive Baroque facade created by Lorenzo Gafà in 1693. The church is usually closed except during the annual festival.

The Siggiewi Festa (Feast Days), honoring Saint Nicholas, is held at the end of June. The church is illuminated with multicolored lights, and its relics are paraded around the town. The four-day festival includes fireworks, brass band music, and authentic Maltese treats (such as pastry stuffed with dates and nougat made with almonds or peanuts).

From May through October, Siggiewi hosts the Maltese Summer Folklore Nights at the Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens. This lively event showcases Maltese culture with folkloric dance and music performances, as well as a buffet featuring delicious Maltese dishes. The Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens is also a popular venue for outdoor weddings.

This country village has a history dating back to 1436. The Grand Master de Rohan elevated Zebbug to a city, renaming it Citta Rohan, and built the triumphal arch at the entrance of the town.

The main square is graced by the twin-towered Baroque Parish Church of Saint Philip with an ornately decorated interior. The initial design was created by Cassars, the architect of Saint-John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta.

Zebbug celebrates its annual religious festival, the Festa of Saint Philip , at the Parish Church in June. The celebrations include marching band processions, fireworks, and colorful decorations. A highlight of the festival is when the silver statue of Saint Philip is paraded through the village.

For families with young kids, the Popeye Village in Mellieha offers an entertaining place to spend the day. This charming tourist attraction was originally a film set for the 1980s movie Popeye starring Robin Williams and has become one of the top tourist attractions of Malta.

The film set is a quaint seaside village made of 20 wooden structures. You are greeted by Popeye the sailor and then can take a tour of the village to find the post office, bakery, firehouse, and other buildings. Popeye Village also has a beach, sunbathing decks, and a souvenir shop.

The village celebrates holidays, such as Carnival, Easter, and Halloween, with festive decorations and amusing activities.

Address: Popeye Village, Anchor Bay, Triq Tal-Prajjet, Mellieha, Malta

More on Malta

Map of Valletta — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Valletta, Malta for travelers! Check out Valletta’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Valletta? See our Valletta Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Valletta. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Valletta map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Valletta by categories
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Top 19 attractions in Valletta

St. john's co-cathedral, upper barrakka.

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National Museum of Archaeology

National war museum - fort st elmo, lower barrakka.

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The Lascaris War Rooms

Malta postal museum & arts hub, the valletta waterfront, casa rocca piccola, barrakka lift, the malta experience, the knights hospitallers, triton fountain.

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Siege Bell War Memorial

Grandmaster palace courtyard, 3 cities take away, saluting battery, top 10 restaurants in valletta, caffe cordina.

Nenu The Artisan Baker

Legligin restaurant.

Trabuxu Bistro

Is-suq tal-belt - valletta food market, the harbour club, rampila restaurant, transportation in valletta, nearby airports, malta international airport, highways and major roads.

• Great Siege Road
• Triq il-Mediterran
• Republic Street
• St. Paul's Street
• Archbishop Street
• Merchants Street
• Old Bakery Street
• Strait Street
• South Street

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Popular road trips from valletta, what's the weather like in valletta.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Valletta for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Valletta in January
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All road trips from Valletta

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Explore nearby places

• Birgu (Vittoriosa)
• Ta' Xbiex
• Cospicua (Bormla)
• Saint Julian's
• Santa Venera
• Santa Lucija
• Ta' L-Ibrag

All related maps of Valletta

• Map of Senglea
• Map of Floriana
• Map of Birgu (Vittoriosa)
• Map of Kalkara
• Map of Ta' Xbiex
• Map of Sliema
• Map of Cospicua (Bormla)
• Map of Pieta
• Map of Il Gzira
• Map of Hamrun
• Map of Msida
• Map of Saint Julian's
• Map of Paola
• Map of Marsa
• Map of Fgura
• Map of Zabbar
• Map of Xghajra
• Map of Santa Venera
• Map of San Gwann
• Map of Tarxien
• Map of Santa Lucija
• Map of Ta' L-Ibrag
• Map of Pembroke
• Map of Qormi
• Map of Swieqi
• Map of Birkirkara
• Map of Iklin
• Map of Luqa
• Map of Madliena
• Map of Zejtun

Valletta throughout the year

• Valletta in January
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• Valletta in May
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• Valletta in August
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• Valletta in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Valletta?

Get inspired for your trip to Valletta with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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