Things to Do in Valletta: Your Complete Guide to an Amazing Trip

Valletta
Nick Fewings, Unsplash
October 25
Written by Elena Kostas

Discover the top places to visit in Valletta and enjoy the most incredible experiences in this beautiful city. Don't miss out on the must-see sights, rich history, and delicious cuisine that Valletta has to offer.

Welcome to our Valletta guide, a gem in the heart of the Mediterranean sea. Known for its baroque architecture, preserved fortifications, and rich historical past, Valletta isn't just Malta's capital; it's a welcoming time capsule.

Steeped in tales of knights, empires and sieges, Valletta isn't just a city of beautiful sunsets, but a place brimming with stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Valletta.

As you navigate the alluring alleyways, each turn offers a new discovery, a new place hiding a part of Valletta’s narrative, and you'll quickly understand why figuring out what to see in Valletta can be overwhelming. But fret not, this guide is here to reveal the hidden and the known, paving the way for a journey brimming with exploration, and offer you the most unforgettable experiences.

1. St. John's Co-Cathedral

Historical Monuments and Architecture

Discover the majesty of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta and delve into the history of this iconic place. Built in the 16th century, this cathedral is one of Malta's historical treasures. Its impressive Baroque architecture and richly decorated interior will leave you speechless.

St. John's Co-Cathedral is a must-visit for art and history lovers. Its frescoes, sculptures, and paintings are true masterpieces, and the St. John's Chapel houses the famous Caravaggio paintings, considered as some of the artist's finest works.

With its magnificent facade and dazzling interior, St. John's Co-Cathedral is one of the most impressive things to do in Valletta.

2. Upper Barrakka Gardens

Natural Spaces and Parks
a large body of water sitting next to a city
Upper Barrakka Gardens / Gina Groß, Unsplash

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are one of the main tourist attractions in Valletta, the capital of Malta. Situated in the citadel, these gardens offer spectacular panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.

Take a walk through well-kept gardens as you explore historical monuments and enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty that this urban oasis offers. Admire the statues, fountains, and colorful flower beds that adorn the place.

Don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the viewpoints to contemplate the impressive maritime landscape. You will see boats and yachts sailing through the harbor while the ancient fortifications evoke a sense of history and grandeur.

3. Valletta Waterfront

Historical Monuments and Architecture

Valletta Waterfront is a stunning seaside area in Valletta. Surrounded by majestic fortifications and historical buildings, the place offers a perfect blend of past and present.

Known for its unique architecture and beautiful views of Marsamxett Harbour, Valletta Waterfront is a gathering point for tourists and locals. Here you'll find a wide variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment, all in a picturesque setting.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and immerse yourself in Malta's history and culture at Valletta Waterfront. A must-visit place on your trip to Valletta!

4. Għajn Tuffieħa Bay

Natural Spaces and Parks$$$
a city with many buildings and cars
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay / Karl Paul Baldacchino, Unsplash

Things to do in Valletta

Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is one of the top tourist attractions in Valletta, a picturesque bay with a golden sandy beach and crystal clear waters. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Malta.

A paradise for nature lovers

Surrounded by stunning cliffs, Għajn Tuffieħa Bay offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. It is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Additionally, it offers a wide range of water activities for all preferences, such as snorkeling and paddleboarding.

Għajn Tuffieħa Bay: A haven of peace

With its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can spend a day on the beach, enjoying the sun and sea breeze, or simply relax on one of the terraces overlooking the sea.

5. The Malta Experience

History and Cultural Heritage
a man climbing up the side of a cliff
The Malta Experience / Micaela Parente, Unsplash

Things to do in Valletta: The Malta Experience is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. This unique place will immerse you in a fascinating journey through the centuries, showcasing the highlights of Valletta's history.

At The Malta Experience, you can enjoy a state-of-the-art multimedia projection that combines stunning visuals, special effects, and captivating narrations. You will learn about the city's struggles and achievements, from its foundation by the Knights of St. John to its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit The Malta Experience and dive into the fascinating history of Valletta.

6. Casa Rocca Piccola

articleItemCategory.historic-monuments-and-architecture$$$

Looking for things to do in Valletta? Casa Rocca Piccola is a must-visit. This historical palace will transport you through time and allow you to explore its fascinating architecture and rich history.

Built in the 16th century, Casa Rocca Piccola has been the home of Maltese nobility for generations. Every corner of the palace is a window to the past, with antique furniture, artwork, and tapestries that tell stories of times gone by.

In addition to its impressive interior, Casa Rocca Piccola boasts beautiful gardens where you can stroll and enjoy the tranquility. It also offers guided tours that will take you through its rooms and reveal fascinating details about high society life in Malta.

7. Grandmaster's Palace

Museums and Art Galleries$$$

The Grandmaster's Palace is one of the must-see attractions in Valletta, the capital of Malta. Built in the 16th century, this magnificent palace is a testament to the island's glorious past.

With its impressive architecture and intricate details, the Grandmaster's Palace is a true historical gem. From its beautifully decorated halls to its stunning gardens, this place will transport you to bygone eras.

Explore the exhibition rooms and discover the history of Malta through historical artifacts and artworks. Don't miss the National Library of Malta, which houses a vast collection of ancient books and manuscripts.

8. National Museum of Archaeology

Museums and Art Galleries$$$

The National Museum of Archaeology is one of the main tourist attractions in Valletta, the capital of Malta. Housed in an impressive historical building, the museum showcases a wide collection of artifacts and ancient objects dating from prehistoric times to the Phoenician and Roman eras.

While exploring its halls, visitors can admire unique pieces, such as fertility goddess figurines, decorated ceramics, and prehistoric treasures. Additionally, thematic collections portray the island's historical evolution and its relation to other Mediterranean cultures.

A visit to the National Museum of Archaeology is like taking a journey back in time to uncover the secrets and wonders of ancient Malta. It's a must-see if you're wondering about things to do in Valletta.

9. Great Siege of Malta and the Knights of St. John

Historical Monuments and Architecture

The Great Siege of Malta and the Knights of St. John is one of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Valletta. This important historical fortress witnessed an intense battle during the medieval era.

The siege took place in the 16th century and was led by the Knights of St. John, a military order dedicated to the defense of Christian territories. For months, Ottoman forces tried to take Malta, but the knights bravely resisted.

Today, you can visit the remains of the fortifications and learn about the bravery of the knights. Discover how they defended against enemy attacks and how they managed to stand firm in the battle for Malta's independence.

10. Manoel Theatre

Entertainment and Pop Culture
silhouette of three performers on stage
Manoel Theatre / Kyle Head, Unsplash

The Manoel Theatre is one of the must-see attractions in Valletta. Built in 1731, it is one of the oldest theaters in Europe and continues to be an important cultural center today.

Its impressive architecture and beautifully decorated interior will transport you to another era. The theater offers a variety of shows such as operas, ballets, and concerts, providing a unique and exciting experience for art and culture lovers.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Manoel Theatre during your stay in Valletta. Discover its rich history and enjoy an unforgettable evening in this magnificent theater.

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