Valletta might be one of Europe’s smallest capitals, but it packs a serious punch. Sitting right on the edge of the Mediterranean, this sun-soaked city is full of charm—think golden facades glowing in the sun, quiet backstreets, and sweeping sea views. If you’re planning your first visit and wondering about the best things to see in Valletta, from history and food to breathtaking viewpoints, this guide has you covered.
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If You’re Short on Time
Visiting on a cruise stop or only have a few hours? Joining a walking tour is the best way to make the most of your visit:
- Ben Good Tour offers a tip-based walking tour led by a local, running Saturday to Monday at 5 PM. It lasts around 2 hours, with a suggested minimum tip of €12 per person.
- There’s also the option of a daily 2.5-hour walking tour at 10 AM, priced at €20 per person. Book in advance.
- Street Food & Culture Walking Tour: Perfect if you love exploring through food. Runs daily at 9:30 AM (3 hours, €55). Includes tastings of pastizzi, ftira, Maltese sausage, Kinnie, Cisk, and imqaret. Go hungry!
Have More Time? Explore Valletta at Your Own Pace
Prefer to wander independently? The DIY walking tour below covers my favourite spots; whether it’s your first visit or your fifth.
Getting Your Bearings
- Arriving by public transport or Bolt: Start at the Triton Fountain (outside Valletta’s City Gate).
- Arriving by cruise ship: Disembark at Valletta Waterfront, then take the Barrakka Lift up to Upper Barrakka Gardens.
- Taking the ferry from Sliema: You’ll arrive at Marsamxett Harbour.
No matter where you begin, the route is circular. For simplicity, this guide starts at the Triton Fountain.
DIY Valletta Walking Tour
Triton Fountain
A popular meeting point at the entrance to Valletta.
Parliament Building
Designed by Renzo Piano, this modern building blends contemporary design with historic charm.
Castille Square
Home to Auberge de Castille, one of Valletta’s grandest Baroque buildings and today the Office of the Prime Minister.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Offers panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities; one of Valletta’s most scenic spots.
Don’t miss the Saluting Battery, where historical cannons are fired daily at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM (Monday–Saturday, excluding Sundays and public holidays). It’s a tradition dating back to the Knights of St. John and a must-see experience.
St. Ursula & Battery Streets
Wander towards Bridge Bar and the Saint Barbara Bastion area. Expect picturesque views, traditional Maltese balconies, and quirky religious door plaques.
Victoria Gate
A 19th-century arch that once served as the main gateway from the Grand Harbour.
(Optional) Lower Barrakka Gardens
Another peaceful garden with beautiful harbour views.
St. Lucia Street
Known for its changing seasonal decorations and street charm.
It’s especially magical during the Christmas season.
Merchant Street
One of Valletta’s main shopping streets, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Built in 1577, this cathedral hides a lavish Baroque interior behind its plain façade. Don’t miss Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist—his only signed painting. Buy tickets online in advance.
If you’d prefer a guided experience, consider this walking tour of Valletta, which includes entry to the cathedral (ticket sold separately) and expert insights into its history and art.
Republic Street & Caffe Cordina
Walk along bustling Republic Street to reach Caffe Cordina, Valletta’s most iconic café since 1837.
St. George’s Square & St. Catherine’s Monastery
Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery, a peaceful 16th-century cloistered convent with gardens and underground chambers. Book your tickets here.
Strait Street
Once Valletta’s red-light district, now a lively hub of nightlife, history, and live music.
(Optional) Old Bakery Street & Marsamxett Harbour
Detour along Old Bakery Street for historic charm before catching a ferry to Sliema or a harbour cruise.
Hastings Garden
End your tour at Hastings Garden with elevated views over the Triton Fountain and city entrance.
Tickets & Prices (2025)
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral: €15
- St. Catherine’s Monastery and Gardens: €10
- The Malta Experience: €14
- Harbour Cruise: €20
Local Tips for Visiting Valletta
- Time your visit to Upper Barrakka Gardens at noon or 4 PM (Monday–Saturday) to catch the Saluting Battery cannon firing.
- Take a harbour boat tour in the evening to see the bastions glow under the city lights—magical!
- Hop on the ferry to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua) for a quieter, authentic slice of Maltese life; just a quick 10-minute ride from Valletta Waterfront, here’s how.
Spending the Night in Valletta
Staying overnight? Excellent choice! Valletta’s nightlife scene is buzzing, especially along Strait Street and Merchant Street, where bars host live music into the evening.
To make the most of it, book a central stay, I especially love these hotels, all within walking distance of the action.
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- The Pheonicia – In my opinion, this is the most beautiful 5-star hotel in Malta. Its infinity pool, with sweeping views of the Valletta bastions, is absolutely unforgettable. Even if you only stay for one night, it’s worth the experience. While you’re there, don’t miss their afternoon tea—it’s a treat that won’t disappoint.
- Grand Hotel Excelsior – Sitting right on the waterfront just beyond Valletta’s gates, this 5-star hotel combines a grand setting with excellent value. You’ll still be within walking distance of the city, but with larger rooms, a pool, and rates that are often far more affordable.
- Battery House – Opened in 2024, this boutique property sits in one of my favourite corners of Valletta, near the historic St. Barbara Bastions and just steps from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. The rooms are beautifully designed, blending modern comfort with authentic Maltese character; a detail I really love.
Hungry?
Check out my guide to Must-Try Food Spots in Malta for the best bites around Valletta and beyond.
Fun Fact
Valletta has 28 churches packed into less than 1 km²—perfect for history and architecture lovers!
I hope this guide helps you discover the best things to see in Valletta—whether you’re here for a few hours or a few days.
Happy Travels! x
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