Fort St. Elmo: Guardian of Valletta
Explore centuries of Maltese military history at this iconic Valletta fort, offering stunning harbor views and a deep dive into the island's past.
Fort St. Elmo, standing at the tip of Valletta, Malta, has played a crucial role in the island's defense for centuries. Housing the National War Museum, it offers visitors a glimpse into Malta's military history from the Bronze Age to its EU accession.
A brief summary to St. Elmo
- St Elmo Bridge, Valletta, MT
- +35621233088
- Visit website
Local tips
- Allow at least 1.5 hours to explore both the fort and the National War Museum.
- Visit the Chapel of St. Anne, the final resting place of knights who died during the Great Siege.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like The Malta Experience and La Sacra Infermeria.
Getting There
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Walking
From Valletta City Gate, walk down Republic Street (Triq ir-Repubblika), the city's main street. Continue for about 15-20 minutes until you reach Fort St. Elmo at the tip of the peninsula. This is a straightforward and scenic walk through the heart of Valletta.
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Public Transport
All buses in Malta end their trips at the bus terminus just outside Valletta. From the terminus, follow the walking directions to Fort St. Elmo. A single bus fare costs around €1.50-€3. Bus 133 stops nearby.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Valletta. A short taxi ride from the city gate to Fort St. Elmo will take only a few minutes. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the ride.
Discover more about St. Elmo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Elmo
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Discover the beauty and history of St. Elmo Bridge in Valletta, Malta, where stunning architecture meets rich maritime heritage.
Nibbia Chapel
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Discover the serene beauty of Nibbia Chapel in Valletta, a hidden sanctuary offering tranquility amidst the vibrant history of Malta.
St. Lazarus Bastion
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Explore the historic St. Lazarus Bastion in Valletta, Malta, where stunning views meet rich history in a captivating coastal setting.
Reliving the Sacra Infermeria
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Discover the historical significance of healthcare at Reliving the Sacra Infermeria in Valletta, Malta, a museum that narrates the evolution of medicine.
Casa Rocca Piccola B&B
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Experience the charm of Valletta at Casa Rocca Piccola B&B, your cozy home in the heart of Malta's capital city.
Casa Rocca Piccola
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Explore the rich history and elegant architecture of Casa Rocca Piccola, Valletta's hidden gem showcasing Malta's aristocratic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
National War Museum - Fort St Elmo
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Explore the National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo, where Malta's rich military history and stunning views come together in a captivating experience.
St. Elmo Bridge
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Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of St. Elmo Bridge in Valletta, a picturesque gem in Malta's capital.
Boom-Defence
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Explore Boom-Defence, a historic site on St Elmo Bridge in Valletta, Malta, revealing the island's maritime defense legacy and breathtaking views.
HMS Maori Wreck
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Discover Malta's fascinating underwater history with a dive into the HMS Maori Wreck, a must-see for divers and history lovers alike.
The Knights Hospitallers
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Explore the rich history of Malta at The Knights Hospitallers museum, where the legacy of the Knights of St. John comes to life.
The Malta Experience
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Explore Malta's rich history and culture at The Malta Experience, an immersive audiovisual journey through the islands' fascinating past.
Mediterranean Conference Centre
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Experience the fusion of history and modernity at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, a premier venue for events and cultural gatherings.
Jews' Sally Port
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Explore Jews' Sally Port, a stunning historical landmark in Valletta offering breathtaking sea views and a deep dive into Malta's rich heritage.
Palazzo de La Salle
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Discover the artistic heart of Valletta at Palazzo de La Salle, a stunning art museum showcasing Malta's vibrant art scene and rich cultural heritage.
Basilica of Saint Dominic & Porto Salvo
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Discover the exquisite Basilica of Saint Dominic & Porto Salvo in Valletta, a Baroque masterpiece rich in history and spiritual ambiance.
Valletta Black Friars Experience
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Explore the Valletta Black Friars Experience, a museum that brings Malta's rich history to life through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
Essential places to dine
Noni
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Experience the fusion of traditional Maltese flavors and modern cuisine at Noni in Valletta – where every dish is a masterpiece.
Sally Port Pizzeria
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Experience the best of Italian cuisine with mouthwatering pizzas at Sally Port Pizzeria in Valletta.
Restaurant La Giara
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Experience authentic Sicilian flavors at La Giara in Valletta - where every meal is a celebration of Italian culinary traditions.
Nenu The Artisan Baker
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Experience authentic Maltese cuisine at Nenu The Artisan Baker in Valletta, where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
one80 St.Christopher Str. Valletta
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Experience exquisite Maltese cuisine with stunning views at One80 in Valletta - a perfect dining destination for every tourist.
Grain Street
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Experience the rich flavors of Malta at Grain Street - where local meets international cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Under Grain
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Experience the essence of fine dining at Under Grain in Valletta – where culinary artistry meets unparalleled service.
Kaiseki
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Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine at Kaiseki in Valletta - where culinary artistry meets tradition.
Da Pablo Trattoria di Mare
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Discover authentic Mediterranean seafood at Da Pablo Trattoria di Mare in Valletta - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors.
Aaron's Kitchen
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Experience the best of Maltese cuisine at Aaron's Kitchen in Valletta - where every dish tells a story.
Casa Sotto
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Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Casa Sotto in Valletta - where every pizza tells a story.
Il-Horza Restaurant
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Savor the essence of Malta at Il-Horza Restaurant – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Ambrosia Maltese Bistronomy
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Discover the flavors of Malta at Ambrosia Maltese Bistronomy – where tradition meets innovation in an unforgettable dining experience.
La Sfoglia
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Beati Paoli Restaurant
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Discover authentic Maltese flavors at Beati Paoli Restaurant in Valletta—a must-visit for food lovers exploring Malta.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
St Elmo’s Fire Jewellery
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Explore St Elmo’s Fire Jewellery for unique, handmade treasures that reflect Malta's rich cultural heritage in the heart of Valletta.
The Silversmith's Shop
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Explore exquisite handmade jewelry at The Silversmith's Shop in Valletta, where tradition meets modern elegance.
Artisans Centre
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Discover unique handmade crafts at Artisans Centre in Valletta, showcasing the rich heritage and creativity of Maltese artisans.
183, Merchant Street (Valletta)
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Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at this charming store on Merchant Street in the heart of Valletta, Malta.
The Gift Co
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Explore The Gift Co in Valletta for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Malta's vibrant culture.
280 Republic street
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Explore 280 Republic Street in Valletta for unique gifts and authentic Maltese crafts, perfect souvenirs for your visit to the picturesque island.
Franks
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Discover Franks in Valletta - a vibrant shopping mall specializing in cosmetics and lifestyle products, perfect for a delightful retail experience.
Marks and Spencer
0.6 km
Explore the splendid Marks and Spencer in Valletta for quality clothing and unique accessories, blending modern retail with historical charm.
Kenjo Boutique
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Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market
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Il-Ġimgħa Antiques & Collectibles
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Explore a charming antique store in Valletta, filled with unique collectibles and vintage treasures that capture Malta's rich history.
Go Bananas
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Explore the vibrant world of Go Bananas in Valletta, Malta's premier gift shop offering unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
Tango Boutique
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Pull & Bear
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wild Honey Beer House & Bistro
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131 City Lounge
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131 City Lounge: The perfect bar in Valletta for cocktails, coffee, and a cozy atmosphere, where locals and tourists come together.
Maori
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Gugar Hangout & BAR
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MaeWest
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Kennedy Bar and bistro
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The Little RED DOOR
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Sailors Paradise
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Silver Horse
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Lolita Bar Strait Street Valletta
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The Gunpost Bar
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Over Grain
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DOPO
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The Capitol City Bar
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Cheeky Monkey Gastropub
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Offbeat Music Bar
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discoteca
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Discover the heart of Valletta's nightlife at this dynamic disco club, where music and merriment create unforgettable nights.
Babel Bistro
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The Bridge Bar
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Mana Music Malta
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Discover the pulse of Valletta's nightlife at Mana Music Malta, where unforgettable nights and vibrant music collide.
Malta Jazz Festival
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Immerse yourself in the magic of jazz at the Malta Jazz Festival, a vibrant celebration of music set against the stunning backdrop of Valletta.
Michelangelo Cafe Lounge Valletta
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Cloudberry Club Sliema
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Cloudberry Club, a premier club on Sliema's stunning Tigné Seafront, perfect for music, dancing, and cocktails.
Changes
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Changes, a must-visit bar in Sliema, Malta, offering a great selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Bighi
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Experience unforgettable nights at Bighi, the premier night club in Kalkara, Malta, where vibrant music meets stunning Mediterranean views.
ABDULS hang out
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sliema at ABDULS Hang Out, where music and energy create unforgettable nights.
The Compass Lounge
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Discover The Compass Lounge in Sliema, where delicious cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking local flavors and relaxation.
Labour Party Club
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Discover the vibrant local culture at Labour Party Club, Sliema's favorite pub for drinks, entertainment, and socializing.
Stella Maris Band Club
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Experience Sliema's vibrant nightlife at Stella Maris Band Club, where delicious Pan-Asian cuisine meets lively bar culture.
Mable's Magic Roof Garden
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mable's Magic Roof Garden, Sliema's enchanting rooftop club that combines stunning views with great music.
