Background

Barrakka Lift: Valletta's Vertical Gateway

4.5 (783)

Reach Valletta's heart in seconds! The Barrakka Lift offers stunning views and quick access from the Grand Harbour.

The Barrakka Lift in Valletta, Malta, provides a swift connection between the Grand Harbour and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Rebuilt in 2012 on the site of a historic lift, it offers panoramic views and easy access to the city center.

A brief summary to Barrakka Lift

  • Monday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Thursday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Friday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Saturday 6:30 am-12 am
  • Sunday 6:30 am-12 am
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Ride the lift during the summer months (June to October) to enjoy extended operating hours until midnight.
  • Combine your lift ticket with a ferry crossing to the Three Cities for free access to the lift.
  • Check out the views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, located at the top of the lift.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Unlock the Best of Barrakka Lift

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Valletta Waterfront, follow the signs towards the Barrakka Lift. Walk along the waterfront promenade, passing the Valletta Cruise Port. The lift entrance is located at the end of the promenade, near the Old Customs House. A short walk through a tunnel leads to the lift. Cost: Free.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus terminus outside City Gate in Valletta, walk towards the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Follow signs for the Gardens, which are a 5-10 minute walk from the bus station. The lift is located at the far end of the gardens, behind a large monument. Cost: A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50 - €2.00.

  • Ferry

    Arriving by ferry from Sliema or the Three Cities, disembark at the Valletta Ferry Terminal. From there, walk along the waterfront towards the Barrakka Lift, following the signs. The lift is a short walk from the ferry terminal. Ferry users are entitled to free same-day use of the lift. Ferry cost: Approximately €2.80 for a single trip.

Discover more about Barrakka Lift

The Barrakka Lift is a modern elevator that bridges Valletta's Grand Harbour and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering a quick and convenient way to ascend the city's fortifications. The original lift operated from 1905 to 1973, serving British military personnel and dockyard employees. After being dismantled in 1983 due to high maintenance costs, the lift was rebuilt and reopened in 2012.The lift rises 58 meters (190 feet) and consists of a concrete structure enclosed in an aluminum mesh. Two cabins can each carry up to 21 passengers, transporting approximately 800 people per hour. The ride takes about 23 seconds. The lift connects Lascaris Wharf to St. Peter and Paul Bastion and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. It provides easy access from the Grand Harbour to Valletta, especially for cruise ship passengers and those using the Gozo Fast Ferry. A staircase is also available.The Barrakka Lift provides panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the surrounding city. It is a practical and scenic alternative to climbing the steep streets of Valletta.

Explore the best of what Barrakka Lift has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Grand Harbour

File:Fort St Angelo in Birgu.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Discover the timeless beauty and vibrant culture of Grand Harbour in Malta, where history, architecture, and breathtaking views come together in a stunning Mediterranean setting.

Tell me more about Grand Harbour

Select Currency