Valletta

Introducing Valletta

Valletta is the capital of the Republic of Malta, located on the eastern coast of Malta Island. It is famous for its unique architectural style and classical charm. The city has a neat layout, narrow and straight streets, and the buildings on both sides are mostly built with Malta's unique limestone, showing a grayish-white tone. It is home to the Manoel Theatre in Valletta, one of the oldest theaters in Europe.

Climate and best time to travel

Valletta has a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons, and spring and autumn are suitable for tourism.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended attractions:
St. John's Co-Cathedral: A prime example of late Renaissance architecture, it features a magnificent interior and houses paintings by Caravaggio.
Upper Barrakka Gardens: With stunning views overlooking the Grand Harbour, it's a great spot to watch the sunset.

Things to do in Valletta:
Take the Valletta City Noble App Tour, a smartphone-guided tour of the city, exploring famous landmarks and historic buildings.
Stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens and enjoy stunning harbor views.
Experience the Malta 5D Show and delve deeper into Malta's history.
Enjoy a street food and cultural walking tour, sampling local delicacies while learning about Valletta's history and culture.

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Most Popular FAQs for Valletta

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Valletta, Malta’s capital, was founded in 1566 by the Knights of St. John. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of historical architecture, art, and culture, with landmarks such as St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master's Palace. Valletta played a key role in the defense of Malta during the Great Siege of 1565.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Valletta is located on the east coast of Malta, easily accessible from various parts of the island. You can get there by bus, taxi, or ferry from nearby areas such as Sliema and the Three Cities. Valletta is a compact city, so walking is the best way to explore it.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Valletta is a year-round destination, with the best times to visit being in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. Major attractions like St. John’s Co-Cathedral are typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but check individual sites for exact hours.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, St. John's Co-Cathedral has an entry fee of around €10. Tickets can be purchased directly at the sites or online, especially for popular attractions like the Malta Experience or the Grand Master's Palace.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s advisable to book tickets for popular attractions like St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Malta Experience in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets a few days in advance online for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full day is ideal for exploring Valletta. This allows you to visit the major attractions, wander through the city’s streets, and enjoy its cafes and views. If you're short on time, you can visit the key highlights in 4-5 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• St. John's Co-Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece with intricate interior details.
• The Grand Master's Palace, a historic building that once housed the knights of St. John.
• The Upper Barracca Gardens, offering magnificent views over the Grand Harbour.
• The Malta Experience, a multimedia show explaining Malta's history.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, Italian, French, and German, at major attractions such as the Grand Master's Palace and St. John's Co-Cathedral. Audio guides are also available at some sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Upper Barracca Gardens offers spectacular views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and Fort St. Angelo.
• Castille Square is a great spot for photographing the architecture of the city’s historic buildings.
• Views from the Siege Bell War Memorial are also impressive, overlooking the harbor.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Upper Barracca Gardens for panoramic views, then visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Afterward, explore the Grand Master's Palace and stroll down Republic Street to see the shops, cafes, and other landmarks. End the day with a visit to the Malta Experience or a harbor cruise.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While most attractions in Valletta close by evening, the city is beautifully lit up at night and ideal for evening walks. The Malta Experience and some other historical sites may offer evening events or special performances, especially during festivals or special exhibitions.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Valletta can be crowded during the summer months (June-August) and cruise ship days. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are early in the morning or in the off-season (November to March).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Valletta has many cafes, restaurants, and shops along its streets. Toilets are available at most major attractions, and there are several water fountains in the public areas. Rest areas can be found in gardens and public squares.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Valletta is built on hills and has some steep areas, which can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, most attractions are accessible, and some offer wheelchair access, including the Malta Experience. The city has some elevators to help with the slopes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted throughout Valletta, especially in restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or tips.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Caffè Cordina – A historic café offering pastries and coffee in a beautiful setting.
• The Harbour View Café – A great spot for lunch with a view of the Grand Harbour.
• Legligin Wine Bar – A local wine bar serving Maltese tapas and wines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many restaurants in Valletta offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly those serving Mediterranean or Italian cuisine. Halal options are available in some restaurants, especially near the city’s multicultural areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Grand Hotel Excelsior – A luxury hotel with views of the harbor.
• The Phoenicia Malta – A historic 5-star hotel near the city center.
• Valletta Waterfront – Offers a variety of accommodations with harbor views.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Three Cities – Historic fortified cities across the harbor from Valletta.
• Fort St. Elmo – A fortress that played a key role during the Great Siege of Malta.
• Mdina – Malta’s old capital, just a short drive from Valletta.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Valletta sell a variety of local crafts, including Maltese lace, hand-painted pottery, and traditional jewelry. Popular items include Malta’s famous filigree silver jewelry and products made from local honey or olive oil.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Valletta, you can take a ferry to the nearby Three Cities or Sliema, or take a bus to other parts of Malta like Mdina, St. Julian’s, or the Blue Lagoon. Taxis and private transportation are also available.