Valletta Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, local culture & customs, and safety tips in Valletta, Malta with this comprehensive travel guide.


Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a charming and historic town filled with winding streets, beautiful architecture, and fascinating museums. It is one of the smallest capital cities in the world and is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique, cultural experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, you will discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, local culture & customs, and safety tips in Valletta, Malta.

Introduction to Valletta

Valletta is located on the eastern coast of Malta Island in Europe. The city was founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and was named after Jean Parisot de la Valette, a Grand Master of the order who had successfully defended the island from an Ottoman invasion. Today, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historic buildings and charming streets make it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.

List of Places to Visit in Valletta

Valletta is a vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks to museums and outdoor adventures. Below is a list of places to visit in Valletta:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Grand Master’s Palace: This stunning palace was built in the 16th century for the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. Today, it houses the office of the President of Malta and a number of important state rooms and art collections. Make sure to visit the Armoury, where you can see an impressive collection of armor and weaponry.
  • St. John’s Co-Cathedral: This Baroque-style cathedral is one of the most impressive works of art in Malta. It was built in the 16th century and is home to Caravaggio’s famous paintings, “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist” and “St. Jerome Writing”.
  • National Museum of Archaeology: This museum displays a fascinating collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Phoenician period.
  • Casa Rocca Piccola: This 16th-century palace offers an insight into the lives of Malta’s aristocracy during the 20th century. It features a charming garden, finely decorated rooms, and an impressive library.
  • Fort St. Elmo: This is an impressive fortification which dates back to the 16th century.

Natural Attractions of Valletta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Upper Barrakka Gardens: These stunning gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbor and the Three Cities. They are located on the highest point of Valletta and are an excellent spot for a picnic or a stroll.
  • The Waterfront: The Waterfront is an excellent place to take a stroll along the Grand Harbour and admire the views of the historic fortifications and the massive cruise ships docking nearby.
  • Marsamxett Harbor: This is a beautiful natural harbor and is an excellent place for a scenic walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valletta

Valletta and the surrounding areas offer some great opportunities for hiking and biking. Below is the list of the best routes:

  • The Victoria Lines: This is a scenic trail that provides stunning views of the Maltese countryside.
  • Dingli Cliffs: These impressive cliffs offer great hiking opportunities and stunning sea views.
  • Ta’ Qali National Park: This park is an ideal place for cycling and has a variety of trails with different levels of intensity.

Best Things to Do in Valletta: Activities and Tours

Valletta offers many interesting activities and tours. Here are some recommendations:

  • Take a harbor cruise: A harbor cruise is an excellent way to admire the impressive fortifications and the magnificent architecture of the city from a different perspective.
  • Join a walking tour: A walking tour is a great way to get to know the history and culture of Valletta.
  • Enjoy traditional Maltese food: Valletta is home to a variety of restaurants that offer traditional Maltese cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valletta

Valletta is a small city and can easily be explored in a few days. Here is a week-long itinerary for Valletta:

  • Day 1: Explore the historic center of Valletta. Visit the Grand Master’s Palace, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the National Museum of Archaeology.
  • Day 2: Take a harbor cruise in the Grand Harbour, relax in the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and then enjoy some traditional Maltese food.
  • Day 3: Go on a walking tour of Valletta’s beautiful streets and admire the magnificent architecture.
  • Day 4: Visit Fort St. Elmo and then take a hike along the Dingli Cliffs.
  • Day 5: Explore the Ta’ Qali National Park and take a cycling tour of the area.
  • Day 6: Visit the Casa Rocca Piccola and then take in the scenic views of Marsamxett Harbor.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to the nearby island of Gozo and explore its beautiful landscapes.

Food and Drink Scene of Valletta

Valletta is a city that is known for its diverse cuisine and excellent wines. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pastizzi: These are small, savory pastries filled with ricotta, peas, or chicken. They are a popular and cheap snack food in Malta.
  • Rabbit Stew: This dish is a traditional Maltese specialty. It is made with rabbit, tomato sauce, potatoes, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices.
  • Maltese Platter: This is a large plate filled with a variety of Maltese nibbles, including olives, cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers.

Local Beverages

  • Cisk Lager: This is Malta’s most popular beer. It is a light and refreshing lager that is brewed locally.
  • Kinnie: This is a popular Maltese soda that is made from bitter oranges and is a sweet and tangy alternative to traditional soda.

Where to Stay in Valletta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Valletta is a small city, but it has a variety of lodging options to choose from. Here are some recommendations:

  • Grand Hotel Excelsior: Located on the waterfront just outside of the city, this is a luxurious and comfortable hotel with excellent facilities.
  • Casa Ellul: This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Valletta and offers beautifully decorated rooms and excellent service.
  • The Saint John: This stylish and contemporary hostel is located in a historic building in the heart of Valletta and offers budget-friendly rooms.

What to Buy in Valletta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Valletta has a variety of souvenirs and local products to choose from. Below are some recommendations:

  • Lace: Malta is famous for its handmade lace, and Valletta has a number of stores that sell exquisite pieces of this Maltese art form.
  • Maltese ceramics: You can find a wide range of pottery and ceramics that is locally produced in Malta.
  • Filigree jewelry: This is an intricate and delicate jewelry that is produced in Malta and is a popular souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Valletta

Malta has a unique culture and customs that are influenced by its long history and Middle Eastern and North African proximity. Here are some customs to be aware of:

  • Respectful clothing: In public places or when visiting religious sites, it’s suggested to dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs for both men and women.
  • Language: The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. English is widely spoken in Valletta.
  • Religion: The majority of Maltese people identify themselves as Roman Catholic, and visitors are recommended to respect religious traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Valletta

The best time to visit Valletta is from April to June or September to November, as the weather is pleasant and the number of tourists is less in comparison to the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valletta

Do:

  • Do try the traditional Maltese dishes and drinks.
  • Do take a walking tour of Valletta to get to know the city and its history.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Don’t litter in public places.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat during the summers.

Safety and Health

Valletta is a safe destination, and the crime rate is low. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Valletta

  • Always be aware of your surroundings when walking around at night.
  • Don’t leave any valuable items in your car.
  • Use only licensed and dependable taxis or transportation when moving around Valletta.

Health in Valletta

  • Make sure to stay hydrated during the day especially during the hotter months.
  • Apply sunscreen frequently to avoid sunburn.
  • Make sure to carry mosquito repellents if required.

Getting to Valletta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valletta

  • Malta International Airport is the nearest to Valletta and is around 8 km away. A taxi or bus ride from the airport to Valletta is the recommended option.

Bus Stations Near Valletta

  • Valletta Bus Terminal is the main terminal around the city and is located in the center of Valletta.

Other Options

  • Ferries run between Valletta and surrounding areas.
  • Renting a car, motorcycle, or bicycle is also an option.

How to Get Around in Valletta

Valletta is a compact city, and walking is probably the best option to explore the historic center. If you are traveling further, you can use the bus or rent a car, motorcycle, or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Valletta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valletta is the perfect starting point to explore the many beautiful destinations in Malta, including:

  • Mdina: Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is an ancient walled city that is full of history and charm.
  • The Blue Lagoon: This is a stunning beach in the nearby island of Comino.
  • Gozo: The smaller of the two main islands in Malta, Gozo offers a slower pace of life and some fantastic hiking and biking routes.

Conclusion

Valletta is a beautiful and historic city that offers something for everyone. From stunning architecture and museums to natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, Valletta is a destination that should not be missed. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most out of your time in this charming city.

Valletta city walls Valletta city walls Valletta from Sliema Valletta from Sliema St Johns Co-cathedral St Johns Co-cathedral Fort St. Elmo Fort St. Elmo St George's Square St George's Square Saluting Battery Saluting Battery View from Upper Barrakka Gardens View from Upper Barrakka Gardens St. Paul's Pro-Cathedral St. Paul's Pro-Cathedral Auberge de Castille at sunrise Auberge de Castille at sunrise Ships passing the Saluting Battery Ships passing the Saluting Battery