Three Cities · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Exploring the Historic Gems: The Three Cities of Malta

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

The Three Cities of Malta, namely Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla), offer a unique glimpse into Malta’s rich history and culture. These fortified cities are some of the oldest areas on the island, with their origins dating back to medieval times. Each city has its own distinct charm and character, making them a must-visit for any traveler looking to delve deeper into Malta’s heritage. Vittoriosa, or Birgu, is often considered the jewel of the Three Cities. It was the first home of the Knights of St. John when they arrived in Malta in 1530. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll find historical landmarks such as the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St. Angelo. The city’s waterfront, known as the Cottonera Waterfront, is lined with traditional Maltese restaurants and cafes, offering stunning views of the Grand Harbour. Senglea, or Isla, is a small but picturesque city known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views. The Safe Haven Gardens provide a serene spot to relax, with vistas overlooking the Grand Harbour and Valletta. Senglea’s Basilica of Our Lady of Victories is another highlight, showcasing exquisite Baroque architecture. The city’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. Cospicua, or Bormla, is the largest of the Three Cities and boasts a rich maritime history. The city is home to the impressive Dockyard Creek, where you can see traditional Maltese boats, known as ‘dghajsa,’ bobbing in the water. The Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Maritime Museum are key attractions here. Cospicua is also known for its vibrant local festivals, particularly during the Easter season, when the city comes alive with processions and celebrations.

Floriana

Triton Fountain

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Mdina

St Paul's Cathedral

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Valletta

National Museum of Archaeology

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Valletta

Siege Bell War Memorial

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Valletta

Hastings Garden Malta

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Mdina

Domvs Romana

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Valletta

Saint-John's Cathedral Museum

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Floriana

Argotti Botanic Gardens and Resources Centre (University of Malta Section)

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

Valletta

Bażilika Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Karmnu

Discover the Three Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - where history, culture, and stunning views come together in perfect harmony.

When is the best time to go to Three Cities?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJul–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodOct–Mar

Explore places in Three Cities

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Three Cities sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Mdina Gate

    Explore Mdina Gate, a historical treasure in Malta, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage within the enchanting city of Mdina.

    Mdina Gate

    Upper Barrakka

    Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil beauty of Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, the perfect escape for tourists and nature lovers alike.

    Upper Barrakka

    Popeye Village

    Experience the charm of Popeye Village in Malta, a whimsical theme park celebrating the beloved sailor with fun attractions and stunning coastal views.

    Popeye Village

    City Gate

    Explore Valletta's rich history at City Gate, a stunning architectural landmark that welcomes visitors to Malta's vibrant capital.

    City Gate

    Lower Barrakka

    Explore the lush beauty and historical significance of Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, with breathtaking views and tranquil pathways.

    Lower Barrakka

    Mosta Rotunda

    Explore the awe-inspiring Mosta Rotunda, a Baroque masterpiece and one of Malta's most iconic landmarks, rich in history and architectural beauty.

    Mosta Rotunda

    St Paul’s Catacombs

    Discover the ancient burial grounds and rich history of St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat, Malta - a fascinating archaeological museum and tourist attraction.

    St Paul’s Catacombs

    Buġibba Square

    Discover the vibrant Buġibba Square in St. Paul's Bay, Malta, a lively event venue where local culture meets stunning Mediterranean views.

    Buġibba Square

    It-Tempji tal-Ġgantija

    Discover the ancient wonders of Ġgantija Temples, one of the oldest freestanding stone structures, nestled in the beautiful landscape of Gozo, Malta.

    It-Tempji tal-Ġgantija

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Triton Fountain

    Experience the enchanting Triton Fountain in Floriana, Malta—a historic landmark and a perfect blend of art and nature.

    Triton Fountain

    National Museum of Archaeology

    Explore the rich history of Malta at the National Museum of Archaeology, where ancient artifacts tell the story of the island's past.

    National Museum of Archaeology

    St Paul's Cathedral

    Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of St Paul's Cathedral in Mdina, Malta's stunning Baroque masterpiece.

    St Paul's Cathedral

    Hastings Garden Malta

    Explore Hastings Garden, Valletta: a serene park offering stunning views, lush greenery, and rich historical charm in the heart of Malta's capital.

    Hastings Garden Malta

    Domvs Romana

    Discover the captivating history of ancient Malta at Domvs Romana, where stunning mosaics and artifacts bring the Roman era to life.

    Domvs Romana

    Argotti Botanic Gardens and Resources Centre (University of Malta Section)

    Explore the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Argotti Botanic Gardens, a serene haven for nature lovers in Floriana, Malta.

    Argotti Botanic Gardens and Resources Centre (University of Malta Section)

    Bażilika Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Karmnu

    Explore the majestic Baśilika Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Karmnu, a stunning baroque church in Valletta, rich in history and spiritual beauty.

    Bażilika Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Karmnu

    Siege Bell War Memorial

    Explore the Siege Bell War Memorial in Valletta, a poignant tribute to Malta's WWII heroes with stunning views and rich historical significance.

    Siege Bell War Memorial

    Saint-John's Cathedral Museum

    Explore Malta's artistic heritage at Saint-John's Cathedral Museum, home to stunning Baroque masterpieces and historical treasures in Valletta.

    Saint-John's Cathedral Museum

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    The Point Shopping Mall

    Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, Malta, featuring top brands and breathtaking views.

    The Point Shopping Mall

    PAMA Shopping Mall

    Explore PAMA Shopping Mall in Mosta, Malta - a vibrant shopping center offering diverse retail experiences, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

    PAMA Shopping Mall

    Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market

    Discover Is-Suq Tal-Belt, Valletta's vibrant food market, where local delicacies, gourmet treats, and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

    Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market

    SmartCity

    Explore SmartCity, Malta's innovative technology park offering a blend of modern architecture, local cuisine, and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.

    SmartCity

    Tigné Point centre

    Discover Tigné Point Centre in Sliema: a premier shopping mall offering fashion, dining, and breathtaking coastal views in Malta.

    Tigné Point centre

    The Plaza Shopping Centre

    Explore the vibrant Plaza Shopping Centre in Sliema, Malta - a destination for shopping, dining, and discovering local culture.

    The Plaza Shopping Centre

    Main Street Shopping Complex, Paola

    Discover the Main Street Shopping Complex in Paola - a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

    Main Street Shopping Complex, Paola

    Arkadia Commercial Centre

    Explore the Arkadia Commercial Centre in Victoria, Gozo – a shopping paradise with diverse stores, delectable dining, and a lively atmosphere.

    Arkadia Commercial Centre

    The Capital Souvenir Shop

    Discover the perfect blend of luggage storage and unique Maltese gifts at The Capital Souvenir Shop in Valletta.

    The Capital Souvenir Shop
    File:Cityscape of Valletta, Malta, Mediterranean Sea.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Destination guide

    More about Malta

    Discover Malta's crystal-clear waters, rich history, and vibrant culture. From ancient temples to modern nightlife, this Mediterranean gem offers something for everyone.

    Tell me more about Malta
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    Explore Three Cities in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Fort St Angelo in Birgu.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Malta-senglea-sunset.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Malta - Birgu - Triq il-Mina l-Kbira - Inquisitor's Palace - Courtyard  07 ies.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Armstrong-Kanone Malta 0138.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Malta Maritime Museum from Senglea.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Malta - Senglea - Gardjola Gardens - La Guardiola Safe Haven Gardens -  Echaugette (reconstructed) 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Malta - Senglea - Triq il-Vitorja - Basilica of the Nativity of Mary,  Senglea 1580-1743 by Vittorio Cassar 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Nicpmi-01561-1-bormla cottonera lines st clement bastion.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby country regions around Three Cities, from connected city edges to neighbouring counties, coastlines, and countryside escapes.

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