Upper Barrakka Gardens: Valletta's Panoramic Oasis

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Breathtaking views of Valletta's Grand Harbour from a historic garden oasis. A serene escape with stunning panoramas and rich history.

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Upper Barrakka

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

Monday 7 am-10 pm
Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
Thursday 7 am-10 pm
Friday 7 am-10 pm
Saturday 7 am-10 pm
Sunday 7 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Upper Barrakka.

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.

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Getting There

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.
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).
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

Perched atop the Grand Harbour in Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a tranquil escape with breathtaking views. Built in 1661 by the Italian knight Fra Flaminio Balbiani, these gardens were initially a private retreat for the Knights of St. John. The arcades, once roofed, had their ceilings removed in 1775 due to concerns about conspiratorial meetings. The gardens opened to the public in 1800 following the French occupation.Today, the Upper Barrakka Gardens feature a central fountain surrounded by colorful flowers and numerous monuments and statues. Among these are a sculpture of Lord Gerald Strickland by Antonio Sciortino and a bust of Sir Winston Churchill. The replica of Sciortino's 'Les Gavroches' statue symbolizes the hardships faced by the Maltese population in the early 20th century.The garden's terrace offers unobstructed views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua), and the shipyard. Below the gardens lies the Saluting Battery, where cannons once fired salutes to visiting naval vessels. This tradition continues with a ceremonial firing that occurs daily. The Barrakka Lift connects the gardens to the Lascaris Wharf and Valletta Waterfront, offering a quick descent. The original lift, built in 1905, was replaced in 2012. The Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and panoramic vistas, making it a must-visit destination in Valletta.