Valletta is a unique capital city, a vibrant cultural centre and a UNESCO World Heritage Site built over 400 years ago by the Knights of Malta.
Following the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, when the Knights of Malta under the leadership of Grand Master Jean de la Valette emerged victorious after a siege that lasted a whole summer, the Knights quickly decided to build a fortified city that would be ready and waiting for any future assailant.
The result is Valletta, a city designed by military engineers on a peninsula that the Grand Harbour flanks on one side and Marsamxett on the other.
The Knights spared nothing to build a city that would stand the test of time, and many referred to it as ‘the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen’.
Within its fortified walls, Valletta is a hub that is awe-inspiring to discover. Home to over 320 monuments, the city’s skyline, with its architectural marvels, still stands as it did in the sixteenth century.
As you wander through the streets, you’ll come across the various Auberges, the Palace of the Grand Master, the co-cathedral of St. John, and many other churches, palaces, and squares, each a testament to the city’s grandeur.
Within its fortified walls, Valletta is a hub that is awe-inspiring to discover. Home to over 320 monuments, the city’s skyline, with its architectural marvels, still stands as it did in the sixteenth century.
As you wander through the streets, you’ll come across the various Auberges, the Palace of the Grand Master, the co-cathedral of St. John, and many other churches, palaces, and squares, each a testament to the city’s grandeur.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral: This church, which starkly contrasts the austere Mannerist exterior with the elaborate Baroque interior, is a must-see. As you step inside, you’re enveloped in opulence, as if you’ve entered a treasure chest. The church is adorned with regal tombstones and monuments, illustrious artefacts, and various rich collections, including Flemish tapestries, choral books, and masterpieces by Caravaggio.
Auberges: In Valletta, the Knights built several auberges that served as the residencies of the Knights according to their homeland of origin. With its incredibly ornate facade, the magnificent Auberge de Castille is today the Office of the Prime Minister. Other Auberges that are still standing today are the Auberge D’Aragon, Auberge De Baverie et Angleterre, Auberge De Provence, Auberge D’Italie (today housing MUZA, the National Museum of Art), and Auberge De Provence (serving as the National Museum of Archaeology).
Barrakka Gardens and Harbour Views: Take a break from your tour and visit the Barrakka public gardens, which consist of upper and lower areas with a unique and commanding vista over the Grand Harbour.
Churches: You’ll need more than a day to check out all the churches in Valletta! However, you cannot overlook the Our Lady of Victory Church located very close to Auberge de Castille, the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the Basilica of Saint Dominic and the Collegiate Parish Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck.
Grand Master’s Palace and St. George’s Square: Overlooking St. George’s Square, the Grand Master’s Palace is among the most magnificent edifices in Valletta. It is no coincidence that this is one of the most visited sites of the Maltese islands, as it is an impressive palace complete with one of the world’s best armoury collections. Today, it serves as the Office of the President of Malta and previously served as the British Governor’s Palace.
Strait Street: This narrow street in Valletta has a most colourful history. During the British period, it was the place where all the seamen and army men flocked to for entertainment and nightlife. Strait Street has been regenerated and offers a different eclectic vibe.
Valletta has something for everyone. If you’re here for a quick tour, it is best to plan which landmarks to visit. Other exciting areas to consider are the lower part of Valletta comprising Fort St. Elmo and the Sacra Infermeria, the Manoel Theatre (the third oldest theatre in Europe), and you can also indulge in a shopping experience along Republic Street, which is the main artery of the capital.
Other highlights that you can rope in visit to Valletta: Take the water taxi or dgħajsa tal-pass across the Grand Harbour to The Three Cities, or take a boat trip to explore the Grand Harbour and the surrounding fortifications. Pickup and drop-off points are Valletta Waterfront and Old Customs House in Valletta.
Getting to Valletta is easy. The best option is to take the fast ferry that leaves from Mġarr Harbour, and you will be in Valletta in just 45 minutes. From there, you can take the lift to Barrakka Gardens. This lift is just opposite the fast ferry landing, and it operates from 7.00 to 21.00 in Winter (November – May) and up to 00.00 in Summer (June – October). You can return to Gozo via the fast ferry, too.
View Fast Ferry Fares and ScheduleHOW TO ORGANISE A DAY TRIP TO VALLETTA
Valletta is a relatively straightforward city to explore. If you’re armed with a map, it is relatively easy to follow the grid-like street layout of Valletta and make your way to the main monuments and sights. Alternatively, you can look up Valletta walking tour operators organising tours around Valletta and its landmarks.
DINING IN VALLETTA
In Valletta, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying a quick stop at a casual snack bar, soaking in the vibrant café culture or indulging in a delicious meal. Sitting down for a coffee in one of the city’s charming squares must be part of the experience of visiting Valletta. Whether you’re looking for an elegant dining experience or a casual meal, Valletta offers a variety of options to suit your mood.