Sette Giugno Monument
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Strait Street: Valletta's infamous 'Gut' reborn
Explore Valletta's legendary Strait Street: from notorious red-light district to vibrant nightlife and culinary hotspot.
Once Valletta's notorious red-light district, Strait Street, or 'The Gut,' is now a vibrant hub of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Its narrow passage holds a rich history of sailors, jazz, and debauchery, now replaced with a trendy nightlife scene and culinary experiences.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Strait St
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Valletta, MT
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Getting There
Walking
Strait Street is centrally located in Valletta and easily accessible on foot from most points within the city. From City Gate, walk straight down Republic Street, then turn right onto St. Lucia Street. Strait Street will be the first street on your left. Alternatively, from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, walk down Merchants Street and turn left onto St. Nicholas Street. Strait Street will be on your right. No costs involved.
Public Transport
Valletta is the main terminus for buses in Malta. Numerous bus routes connect to City Gate. From the bus terminus, walk straight down Republic Street, then turn right onto St. Lucia Street. Strait Street will be the first street on your left. A single bus journey costs €2 in summer and €1.50 in winter and is valid for two hours, allowing for transfers.
Ferry
Ferries connect Valletta to Sliema and the Three Cities (Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa). From the Sliema ferry landing, Route 133 connects the ferry quays with the center of Valletta. From the Three Cities ferry, a ticket for the Upper Barrakka lift is provided, offering complimentary access to Valletta's center. From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, walk down Merchants Street and turn left onto St. Nicholas Street. Strait Street will be on your right. Ferry fares are approximately €1.50 single or €2.80 return.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi from the Malta International Airport to Valletta costs approximately €20-30. From anywhere in Valletta, a taxi to Strait Street will be a short ride with a flat fare of €5 for up to three people using the electric mini cabs.
Parking
Parking in Valletta can be challenging. The MCP Floriana car park is located just outside Valletta and offers a convenient option. From there, it's a short walk into the city. Parking costs €4-5 for a flat rate. Alternatively, the Valletta Waterfront offers parking at a flat rate of €4-5. Parking within Valletta is subject to the Controlled Vehicular Access (CVA) system, with fees applicable during certain hours. Free access after 2 PM between Monday and Friday, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays.
Local tips
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Visit in the evening to experience the lively atmosphere with music and entertainment.
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Try local delicacies at the various eateries along the street, especially pastizzi.
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Explore the small shops that sell unique Maltese crafts and souvenirs.
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Look out for the historical plaques that provide insights into the street's past.
Discover more about Strait St
Strait Street, known as Strada Stretta in Maltese, cuts through the heart of Valletta, carrying a scandalous past and a revitalized present. During the 19th and mid-20th centuries, it was the city's red-light district, teeming with bars, music halls, and brothels, earning it the nickname 'The Gut' from British sailors. In its heyday, Strait Street was a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, where Maltese locals mingled with British and American servicemen. Jazz music filled the air, and the street became a hub for entertainment and nightlife. However, with Malta's independence and the decline of British naval presence, Strait Street fell into disrepair.Today, Strait Street has undergone a remarkable regeneration, transforming into a trendy destination with a vibrant atmosphere. While echoes of its past remain, it now boasts a diverse array of bars, restaurants, and live music venues, attracting locals and tourists alike. The street's narrow passage, only 3.5 to 4 meters wide, adds to its unique character and creates an intimate setting for enjoying the nightlife.Visitors can explore Strait Street's culinary scene, sampling Maltese wine and local delicacies like pastizzi. The street comes alive in the evenings, with music spilling out from the bars and restaurants. Historical plaques offer glimpses into the street's past, while the beautifully preserved architecture reflects Valletta's rich history.
A brief summary to Strait St
Use Strait St as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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