What to do and see in Valletta Malta

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Valletta is the small capital of Malta. This beautiful walled city is famous for its palaces and monumental churches, as well as its island atmosphere. Home to some of the best sunsets in the Mediterranean, discover what to do in Valletta, the city you must not miss on your visit to Malta.

To organise your travel itinerary, we recommend using the Passporter website, which is free, easy and practical.  Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers and choose the places that interest you most by adding them to the route map.

Stroll through its narrow streets, and let yourself be captivated by its coastal charm.

Things to see in Valletta Malta

Fortifications of Valletta

Valletta’s beautiful and sturdy city walls are home to the Old Town, a historic centre declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. But not only that, the walls of Valletta are in themselves a unique marvel. There are very few examples of this type of citadel still standing. They also have one of the best views in the whole city.

Hastings Gardens

One of the places you must visit when you go to Valletta is Hastings Gardens. This beautiful public park is located to the west of the entrance gate to Valletta. Legend has it that Hastings Gardens were made in just four hours, which proves just how hard-working and efficient the islanders are. Whether this is true or not, the views here are a sight to behold at any time of day.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta Malta

An essential stop in this city is St. John’s Cathedral, dedicated to John the Baptist. St John’s Cathedral was built by the Knights of the Order of Malta at the end of the 16th century. Its austere exterior belies the decorative richness of its interior. On entering, you will be surprised by its Baroque decoration, but above all by the most famous work of art in this church, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist (1608) by Caravaggio.

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St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral

This church, rebuilt in 1839, is also a beautiful place to visit, not only because of the fantastic construction of the building, but also because you can see the majesty of its enormous dome and the views of Malta from the top of its towers. Furthermore, this was the first Protestant church to be built on the island after the British conquest.

Auberge de Castille

This castle is located in Valletta’s Castille Place and was the place where the knights of Castile, León and Portugal, some of the most powerful of the Order of St. John, were housed. These knights were in charge of guarding the fortifications of the capital of Malta, which is why it is located at the highest point of the city.

Today this building can only be seen from the outside as it is the residence of the Prime Minister of Malta, but it is still worth a visit to see the architecture.

Grandmaster’s Palace

If you’re more of a palace person than a cathedral person, make sure you visit the Grand Master’s Palace, better known as The Palace, in Maltese Palazz tal Gran Mastru. This late 16th-century building was one of the first in Valletta and now houses the Maltese Parliament. Other interesting palaces in Valletta include the Palazzo de la Salley and the Armoury Palace.

Casa Rocca Piccola

This Valletta landmark is an elegant 16th century building that preserves the period furniture of a Maltese noble house. This place has a special tourist attraction that will surprise you: it is a house that is still inhabited by nobles descended from the first members of the Maltese aristocracy. The surprises don’t end here, as the tours are done by the Marquis of Piro himself or his wife.

Barrakka Gardens

The Barrakka Gardens are one of the few green spaces in Valletta and is famous for the panoramic view it offers. Here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire Grand Harbour, with the Three Cities in the background. They are split into upper Barrakka and lower Barrakka, exactly above one another, and just below the upper Barrakka is the Saluting Battery.

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Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Valletta Malta?

The Three Cities

The Three Cities offer an intriguing insight into Malta’s history. These little-visited towns are practically glued together and provide a taste of authentic life, as well as a glimpse into Malta’s maritime fortunes. The Three Towns boast being the cradle of Maltese history, as Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua have served as home and stronghold to almost all civilisations that have settled on the islands.

On the shores of the Mediterranean, local communities celebrate holidays and festivals here like nowhere else on the islands. The most spectacular events are the Easter processions, in which statues of the “Risen Christ” are carried through crowded streets.

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Birgu, Vittoriosa

Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, stands out among the three towns. The ancient fortified town of Birgu and its pretty harbour is another must-see destination for an authentic taste of Malta. It’s a small walled enclave where, after passing through the wall’s gate, a main street leads you to the central square of the historic centre.

In Birgu you will see old palaces and some churches, but above all you should lose yourself in its narrow streets where you will experience the daily atmosphere of life in Malta. In the city of Vittoriosa, the ideal thing to do is to let yourself be carried away by its streets, taking you back to a bygone era. You should also visit the Forti Sant’ Anlgu and the Grand Inquisitor’s Palace.

Marsaxlokk Village

The village of Marsaxlokk in southern Malta is famous for its colourful fishing boats. The Phoenicians, who first settled in this bay in the 9th century BC, created the tradition of painting an Eye of Osiris on the bows of their boats. Marsaxlokk is an enchanting village that holds all the seafaring magic of Malta.

What to see in Valletta Malta, in one day?

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Due to its size you can discover the most special corners of Valletta and its beautiful monuments on foot. In one day you will have plenty of time to wander around this charming little city to get to know its authentic character. Visit:

• The Fortifications of Valletta
• Hastings Gardens
• St John’s Co-Cathedral of Valletta, Malta
• St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral
• Casa Rocca Piccola 
• Grandmaster’s Palace
• Barrakka Gardens

What to see in Valletta Malta, in two days?

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Valletta is beautiful but its surroundings are almost just as beautiful. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Three Cities and the picturesque village of Marsaxlokk.

Day 1:

• The Fortifications of Valletta
• Hastings Gardens
• St John’s Co-Cathedral of Valletta, Malta
• St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral
• Casa Rocca Piccola
• Grandmaster’s Palace
• Barrakka Gardens

Day 2:

• Marsaxlokk Village
• Birgu

Tips for your trip to Valletta Malta

• Although the weather in Malta is generally sunny and dry, it can rain a lot between September and November.
• Please note that the busiest tourist months are July and August.
• It is illegal to go topless in Malta.
• Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. However, many locals speak Italian and understand Spanish perfectly well.
• It is common to tip in restaurants, usually between 5% and 10% of the bill.
• As a Mediterranean island, Malta’s climate is generally mild most of the year, so don’t forget to bring cool clothes and a swimming costume.
• Plan your route in advance and create your travel itinerary with the Passporter App.

Frequently asked questions about your trip to Valletta Malta