Upper Barrakka Gardens: Valletta's Panoramic Oasis
Breathtaking views of Valletta's Grand Harbour from a historic garden oasis. A serene escape with stunning panoramas and rich history.
The Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta offer stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Originally built in 1661 as a private garden for the Knights of St. John, it's now a public garden featuring monuments, flowers, and a serene atmosphere.
A brief summary to Upper Barrakka
- 292 Triq Sant' Orsla, Valletta, MT
Local tips
- Visit during the late morning or early afternoon to witness the firing of the Saluting Battery cannon.
- Take the Barrakka Lift down to the Valletta Waterfront for easy access and stunning views.
- Explore the gardens to discover various monuments and statues that commemorate significant figures in Maltese history.
- Enjoy a picnic or a quiet moment on one of the benches to soak in the serene atmosphere and panoramic views.
Getting There
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Walking
From Valletta's city center, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the Grand Harbour. The gardens are located near the Malta Stock Exchange, a short walk from Castille Place. The entrance is marked by a large gate.
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Public Transport
Valletta is well-served by public buses. Several bus routes stop within a short walking distance of the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Check for routes that stop at the Valletta terminal or near Lascaris Wharf. From the bus terminal, walk east towards the gardens. A single bus journey costs €2.50 during the summer fare period (June 14 to October 18, 2025).
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Barrakka Lift
For those arriving from the Valletta Waterfront or the Three Cities via ferry, the Barrakka Lift provides direct access to the gardens. The lift is located near Lascaris Wharf and ascends directly to the upper platform of the gardens. A standard return trip on the lift costs €1.00. A ride on the Barrakka Lift is free for holders of a personalized Tallinja card.
Discover more about Upper Barrakka
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gorg Borg Olivier Monument
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Saluting Battery
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Mirador New Huevones - Los Cañones de Castalla
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Thomas Fremantle Memorial
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Auberge de Castille (Castile)
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Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja
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Dom Mintoff Monument
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Palazzo Parisio
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Unmissable attractions to see
Upper Barrakka fountain
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Mitsos
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The Lascaris War Rooms
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Barrakka Lift
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Schody Trig Batterija
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China Cultural Centre in Malta
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Fort Lascaris
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Church of Our Lady of Victory
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Knisja Santa Katerina tal-Italja
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MUŻA - The National Community Art Museum
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Underground Valletta
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Spazju Kreattiv
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Pjazza Jean de Vallette
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Stairs Triq Sant' Orsla
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Nice Orange Cat
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Essential places to dine
The Harbour Club
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MUŻA Restaurant
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Anglo-Maltese Restaurant
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Galea's kitchen
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TRIBE Malta
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Grana Cucina - Valletta
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Mezzodi Restaurant
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ION Harbour By Simon Rogan
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Taste
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La Pira Maltese Kitchen
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Trabuxu Bistro
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Il Ristorantino Italiano
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King's Own Band Club Bar And Restaurant
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Rampila Restaurant
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Old Bakery's Pizza e Pasta
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CityStore Castille
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Ċekċik
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Mela Ta
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Promod Valletta
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il-Ħanut l-Arka
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Next Valletta
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Opera Antiques Valletta
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Island Paradise Boutique
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White Shop
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MUY Collection
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Montblanc Boutique
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Souvenirs That Don't Suck - Valletta
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Perruche
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Thun
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Stone Market Valletta
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Society
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Route 88 Caffee Bar
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Da Gino lounge
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Vino's Cafe Bar
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The Bridge Bar
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33 Steps
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Cheers
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La Bottega
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Trabuxu Wine Bar
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The Rootz Bar
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The Ordnance Pub & Restaurant
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The Queen Victoria City Pub, Valletta
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Fat City Bar
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The ARTfull Dodger
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Yard 32 Gin & Tapas Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Malta Jazz Festival
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Mana Music Malta
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The Pub
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Babel Bistro
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Lolita Bar Strait Street Valletta
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Michelangelo Cafe Lounge Valletta
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discoteca
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Offbeat Music Bar
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Bighi
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Old City Pub
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Cloudberry Club Sliema
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Prince of Wales Own Band Club
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The Prince Bar & Lounge
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Changes
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ABDULS hang out
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