History in every street
The city was built in the 1500s and still keeps its original grid. Look for the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Grandmaster's Palace and the Malta Experience.
See it from the water
Capital
Things to do in Valletta
A UNESCO capital of baroque palaces and harbour views
Status
UNESCO World Heritage
Size
Walkable in a day
Highlights
St John's Co-Cathedral
Best time
Spring & autumn
Valletta is a baroque city built by the Knights of St John. Its grid of limestone streets, hidden courtyards and harbour bastions make it the cultural heart of the islands.
Best experiences in Valletta
Hand-picked, instantly confirmed
Free cancellation 2 Hours Audio Guide
Three Cities & Valletta Harbour Traditional Dgħajsa Boat Tour
4.88(1,490 reviews)
From / person€29
Select date
Small group 7 Hours Lunch incl.
Gozo Highlights & Tuk-Tuk Island Explorer with Local Lunch
4.92(2,180 reviews)
From / person€79
Select date
Likely to sell out 6 Hours English, Italian
Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Sea Caves Luxury Catamaran
4.95(3,412 reviews)
From / person€38
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Beginners welcome 3.5 Hours Gear incl.
St Paul's Bay Scuba Try-Dive & Marine Life Safari
4.96(920 reviews)
From / person€65
Select dateValletta after dark
As the sun sets, the city's bars and restaurants fill with locals. A sunset catamaran from Sliema shows Valletta's skyline lit up in gold.
Getting to Valletta
Bus from the airport
Routes X1, X2 and X3 reach Valletta in 20-30 minutes.
Ferry from Sliema
A scenic 10-minute crossing across Marsamxett Harbour.
Taxi
About 15 minutes from the airport.
Best time to visit
March to June and September to November, when it is warm but not hot.
Insider tips for Valletta
- 1
Visit St John's Co-Cathedral early to beat the crowds.
- 2
Take the Barrakka Lift for the harbour view.
- 3
Wear comfortable shoes; streets are steep and stepped.
- 4
Fire the noon gun at the Upper Barrakka Gardens at 12:00 and 16:00.
How it compares
See how this destination stacks up against the other hotspots.
| Destination | Vibe | Best for | Typical price | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Lagoon | Natural, swim-focused | Swimming & cruises | From EUR 38 | Very high 11:00-15:00 |
| Comino | Wild, car-free | Hiking & swimming | From EUR 29 | High at the lagoon |
| St Julian's | Lively, upscale resort | Dining & nightlife | From EUR 35 | Busy evenings |
| Sliema | Relaxed, local-feel resort | Boat trips & shopping | From EUR 29 | Moderate |
| Valletta (this page) | Historic, cultural | Sightseeing & food | From EUR 29 | Busy with cruise ships |
| Paceville | High-energy, late-night | Clubs & bar crawls | From EUR 20 | Packed on weekends |
Valletta on the map
Combine this with
Popular pairings from other travellers
Free cancellation 2 Hours Audio Guide
Three Cities & Valletta Harbour Traditional Dgħajsa Boat Tour
4.88(1,490 reviews)
From / person€29
Select dateSmall group 7 Hours Lunch incl.
Gozo Highlights & Tuk-Tuk Island Explorer with Local Lunch
4.92(2,180 reviews)
From / person€79
Select dateValletta FAQ
One full day covers the highlights; two days lets you explore at a slower pace.