Things To Do
in Valletta
Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital, perches on a slender peninsula between two natural harbors and boasts a wealth of Baroque architecture. Founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with palaces, churches, and bastion walls. Its narrow streets are lined with traditional balconies, artisan shops, and lively cafés overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean.
With a compact layout and centuries of layered history, Valletta offers both immersive cultural experiences and stunning coastal vistas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day perched on the edge of the Triton Fountain as the first rays of sunlight glint off the rippling waters of the Grand Harbour. Sip a freshly brewed Maltese coffee from a nearby café while fishing boats drift lazily into silhouette. Feel the gentle Mediterranean breeze carry the scent of salt and citrus through the awakening streets.
Wander through narrow alleys toward the National Museum of Archaeology, admiring prehistoric artefacts that tell the island’s ancient stories. Pause for a light lunch at a shaded terrace, sampling local ftira topped with seawater sardines and fresh tomatoes. Continue to St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity to explore contemporary Maltese art installations.
Return to the waterfront for a sunset cruise, watching Valletta’s golden bastions glow against a rose-hued sky. Savor freshly caught seafood at a harborside bistro as lanterns begin to twinkle. End with an evening stroll along the fortified walls, peering into hidden coves lit by moonlight.
Step through the modern City Gate and marvel at the interplay between ancient fortifications and contemporary architecture. Explore the sprawling ruins of the Royal Opera House before climbing to Upper Barrakka Gardens. Breathe in panoramic views of the Three Cities as the sun dances on rippling waters below.
Descend by the historic Saluting Battery, where daily cannon firings echo centuries-old military traditions. Wander Republic Street’s lively shops and cafés, sampling traditional pastizzi in a cozy corner café. Then visit the Grand Master’s Palace armory to inspect ornate armor and weaponry once used by the Knights of St. John.
Return to Upper Barrakka Gardens for the magical Noon-Day Gun salute recreated at dusk by torchlight. Enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the illuminated harbor. Conclude with live harp music softly resonating across the ancient stone walls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🚍Public transport ticket | $1.50 |
| 🍺Beer (0.5L) | $4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO-listed history and architecture
- Compact, easily navigable urban core
- Mild year-round climate with sunny days
- Vibrant café culture and harbor views
- Peak-season crowds and higher prices
- Summer heat can be intense
- Limited green parks within the fortifications
- Public transport can be slow during rush hour
- "Bongu" - Good morning
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Jekk jogħġbok" - Please
- "Fejn hu l-banju?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Valletta
Visit one of these nice places.
Commanding views over the Grand Harbour, Saluting Battery and Three Cities.
Lavish Caravaggio paintings, gilded altar and opulent marble floors yield dramatic close-ups.
Colorful converted warehouses lining the harbor, best at sunrise or sunset.
Panoramic vistas of Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island across the water.
Food in Valletta
Valletta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or mushy peas—found at bakeries like Crystal Palace near City Gate.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked rabbit in red wine sauce, a national favorite served at many family-run restaurants like Rubino.
Seasonal fish pie made with dolphinfish, spinach, olives and fresh herbs; try it at Nenu the Artisan Baker.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful fishing village market selling the day’s catch; sample fresh fish sandwiches and local produce.
Reimagined food hall at St. George’s Square offering local street eats, ftira sandwiches and craft beers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple ‘Bongu’ (good morning) or ‘Ċaw’ (hello) is polite when entering shops.
Dress modestly in religious sites; remove hats and speak quietly.
Form orderly lines at bus stops and ticket counters; cutting in is frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Valletta
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory but 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants; bartenders and taxis are happy with rounded-up change.
Euro is standard; major credit cards accepted in restaurants and shops but carry cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures in the high 20s–30s °C, crowded beaches and peak tourism; book accommodations early.
Warm days (20–25 °C), cooler evenings, fewer crowds and ideal sea temperatures for swimming and diving.
Mild (12–16 °C) with occasional rain; quieter streets, off-season hotel deals and festive holiday markets.
Blooming bougainvillea, comfortable 18–23 °C weather and local festivals; perfect for walking tours.
Valletta at Night
Hiking in Valletta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic clifftop path west of Rabat with panoramic sea views and wildflowers in spring.
Gentle ridge walk near Mosta offering inland vistas and olive groves.
Airports
How to reach Valletta by plane.
8 km south of Valletta, with regular bus line X4 and taxis (~€20) linking to city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Catholic community, family-oriented and bilingual in Maltese and English.
British, Italian and other EU nationals live and work here, especially in tourism and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs like Valletta FC draw passionate crowds; amateur pickup games in open fields.
Well followed sport, with matches held at national pool facilities in Marsa.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valletta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetable pastizzi, qassatat (savory pastries) and caponata-style dishes are widely available; many restaurants offer pasta and salads.
Several cafés and bakeries now provide gluten-free pastizzi and breads; fresh seafood, cheese and salads are naturally gluten-free.