Upper Barrakka, Grand Harbour Travel Guide

4.7 (30201)

Breathtaking Grand Harbour views from Valletta's highest point. A historic garden oasis with monuments, statues, and the Saluting Battery.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta offer stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Originally a private garden for the Knights of St. John in the 17th century, it's now a public garden featuring monuments, statues, and a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

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.

Arrive before 11:45 AM or 3:45 PM to secure a good viewing spot for the Saluting Battery cannon firing at noon and 4 PM.
Take the Barrakka Lift for a quick descent to the Valletta Waterfront, saving you a long walk down.
Visit in the evening to enjoy the city lights and a different atmosphere in the gardens.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Paul Boffa Monument

Victoria Gate

St. George’s Square

City Gate

Explore Upper Barrakka on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Upper Barrakka, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Valletta's city center, walk towards Castille Place and the Auberge de Castille. Pass through the main gate and continue along Triq Sant' Orsla. The gardens are a short walk on the right. No costs involved.
Public Transport

From the Valletta Bus Terminus, walk for approximately 5 minutes towards the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Several bus routes serve the terminus, including routes 13, 250, 45, 50, and 51. A single journey ticket costs €2.50, valid for 2 hours, allowing transfers. Free travel is available for Tallinja cardholders.
Barrakka Lift

From the Valletta Waterfront, take the Barrakka Lift to reach the gardens directly. The lift is located near the Lascaris Wharf. A round-trip ticket costs €1.00. The lift operates from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM (November to May) and 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM (June to October).

Discover more about Upper Barrakka

Perched atop the St. Peter & Paul Bastion, the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide an unhindered, panoramic view of the Grand Harbour, the only natural harbor in the Mediterranean. With the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua) as a backdrop, this location has dictated Malta's history for centuries.Created in 1661 by the Italian knight Fra Flaminio Balbiani, the gardens initially served as a private retreat for the Knights of St. John. The large limestone arches, dating back to 1661, were once roofed but had the ceiling removed after the Priests' Revolt in 1775. The gardens opened to the public in 1800 following the French occupation.Today, the Upper Barrakka Gardens feature a diverse array of Mediterranean flora, sculptures, memorials, and statues. Notable monuments include those dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball, Sir Thomas Maitland, Gerald Strickland, and Sir Winston Churchill. A replica of Antonio Sciortino's 'Les Gavroches' statue symbolizes the hardships faced by the Maltese population in the early 20th century.Don't miss the Saluting Battery located directly below the gardens, where cannons are fired daily at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. The Barrakka Lift connects the gardens to the Lascaris Wharf and Valletta Waterfront, offering a quick descent. Whether you're a local seeking a peaceful retreat or a tourist exploring Valletta, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a unique experience that highlights the charm and history of Malta.