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Upper Barrakka Gardens: Valletta's Panoramic Oasis

Breathtaking Grand Harbour views from Valletta's highest point, a historic garden oasis offering serenity and panoramic vistas.

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The Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta offer stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Originally a private garden for Knights of St. John, it's now a public space with monuments, a saluting battery, and serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Upper Barrakka

  • 292 Triq Sant' Orsla, Valletta, MT

Local tips

  • Arrive early for the midday or afternoon cannon firing at the Saluting Battery to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Take the Barrakka Lift for a quick and scenic route between the gardens and the Valletta Waterfront.
  • Explore the gardens in the evening for a different atmosphere and equally stunning views of the illuminated Grand Harbour.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Lower Barrakka Gardens for varied perspectives of the harbor.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Valletta's city center, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are easily accessible on foot. Walking from the main bus terminal takes approximately 5 minutes. Head straight through the City Gate, continue past the Parliament Building and take a right at the ruins of the Royal Opera House. Continue walking uphill to Castille Place; the gardens are located to the left of Auberge de Castille.

  • Public Transport

    Valletta is well-connected by public buses from across Malta. Numerous bus routes stop near the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Alight at the 'Lascaris' bus stop, which is a short 4-minute walk to the gardens. A single bus fare costs approximately €2.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop visitors directly at the entrance of the Upper Barrakka Gardens. A taxi ride from the Malta International Airport to the gardens typically costs between €16-€20 and takes about 10 minutes. A short taxi ride within Valletta should cost considerably less.

  • Barrakka Lift

    For those down by the Valletta Waterfront, the Barrakka Lift provides direct access to the gardens. The lift is located opposite the landing place for the harbor ferry crossing and about 500 meters from the Valletta Cruise Ferry Terminal. A standard return trip costs €1.00.

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Discover more about Upper Barrakka

Perched atop the historic city of Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide an unmissable vista of Malta's Grand Harbour, one of the most stunning natural harbors in the Mediterranean. These gardens, originally created in 1661 as a private retreat for the Knights of St. John, offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Initially, the gardens served as exercise grounds for the Knights of the Italian langue, but were opened to the public in 1800 following the end of the French occupation. The terraced arches, dating back to 1661 and designed by the Italian knight Fra Flaminio Balbiani, add to the garden's architectural charm. The gardens feature various monuments and memorials, including a bronze statue of Sir Alexander Ball and a bust of Sir Winston Churchill, commemorating significant figures in Malta's history. A replica of Antonio Sciortino's statue 'Les Gavroches' further enriches the gardens' cultural significance. One of the gardens' main attractions is the Saluting Battery, located on the terrace below. Here, cannons are fired daily at 12 pm and 4 pm in a ceremonial salute, echoing the site's historical role in protecting the city. The Barrakka Lift connects the gardens to the Grand Harbour, providing a swift descent and ascent. The gardens are open daily from 7 am to 10 pm, offering free admission. Whether seeking historical insights, breathtaking views, or a peaceful retreat, the Upper Barrakka Gardens encapsulate Valletta's charm.

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