Valletta, Malta Travel Guide

Discover Valletta, Malta's charming capital, where history, culture, and breathtaking views converge in a stunning Mediterranean setting.

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a rich past and vibrant present. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you'll encounter grand palaces, baroque churches, and charming squares that tell the story of its illustrious history. Valletta is home to some of Malta's most significant landmarks, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, which houses Caravaggio's masterpiece, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.' The city's fortifications, such as the impressive Fort St. Elmo, offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. Don't miss the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a serene oasis that provides breathtaking vistas and a moment of tranquility amid the bustling city. Beyond its historical allure, Valletta is a hub for contemporary culture. The city hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. With its array of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, Valletta offers a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, Valletta promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit St. John's Co-Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning interior in peace.
Take a ferry across the Grand Harbour for a unique perspective of Valletta and its fortifications.
Wear comfortable shoes as Valletta's streets are cobbled and can be steep in some areas.
Explore the city on foot to fully appreciate its architecture and hidden gems.
Try the local cuisine, including pastizzi, at one of the traditional Maltese cafes.
Check the schedule for the Saluting Battery at the Upper Barrakka Gardens to witness the historic cannon firing.

Explore Valletta: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Upper Barrakka

Discover Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta – a serene escape with breathtaking views, rich history, and vibrant flora, perfect for every traveler.

4.7

Triton Fountain

Discover the enchanting Triton Fountain in Floriana, Malta, a stunning blend of artistry and history, perfect for relaxation and photography.

4.7

Malta National Aquarium

Experience the magic of the sea at the Malta National Aquarium, where marine life comes alive in a stunning, immersive environment.

4.3

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta's Baroque masterpiece.

4.7

Best landmarks in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Upper Barrakka

Discover the stunning views and serene beauty of Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta's premier park overlooking the Grand Harbour.

4.7

Triton Fountain

Explore the Triton Fountain, a stunning Modernist masterpiece in Floriana, Malta, blending art, history, and culture in one captivating location.

4.7

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Discover the opulence and history of St. John's Co-Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece and a must-see tourist attraction in Valletta, Malta.

4.7

City Gate

Discover the stunning City Gate of Valletta, a historical landmark that embodies the rich culture and heritage of Malta, welcoming tourists with its breathtaking architecture.

4.6

Best restaurants in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Zero Sei Trattoria Romana

Savor authentic Italian flavors at Zero Sei Trattoria Romana in Valletta - where tradition meets modern dining.

4.5

Pastaus

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pastaus in Valletta – where every meal feels like a journey through Italy's culinary landscape.

4.4

Rampila Restaurant

Discover Mediterranean flavors at Rampila Restaurant in Valletta with stunning views and exquisite dishes for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

Palazzo Preca Restaurant

Savor the rich flavors of authentic Maltese cuisine at Valletta's premier fine dining destination - Palazzo Preca Restaurant.

4.7

Best bars in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

The Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Pub in Valletta, where great drinks, sports, and friendly locals await you.

4.5

The Queen Victoria City Pub, Valletta

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage of The Queen Victoria City Pub in Valletta, where locals and tourists gather for drinks and camaraderie.

4.4

The Bridge Bar

Discover the enchanting world of jazz at The Bridge Bar in Valletta, where live music and a vibrant atmosphere create memorable nights.

4.4

Cheeky Monkey Gastropub

Discover the ultimate dining experience at Cheeky Monkey Gastropub in Valletta, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for every palate.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

The Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Pub in Valletta, where great drinks and sports meet a lively atmosphere.

4.5

The Bridge Bar

Discover the heart of Valletta's nightlife at The Bridge Bar, where live jazz and a cozy ambiance create unforgettable memories.

4.4

Babel Bistro

Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and captivating jazz at Babel Bistro, Valletta's vibrant cultural hotspot.

4.5

Havana Club Malta

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Havana Club Malta, where music, dance, and cocktails collide for an unforgettable evening out.

3.4

Best shops in Valletta

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Marsaxlokk Open Market

Explore the bustling Marsaxlokk Open Market for a unique taste of Maltese culture, fresh produce, and vibrant local crafts in a picturesque seaside village.

4.2

The Point Shopping Mall

Explore The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, Malta, for an unparalleled shopping experience with breathtaking sea views and diverse dining options.

4.3

The Wembley Store

Discover gourmet delights and fine wines at The Wembley Store in Valletta, Malta's premier grocery destination for food enthusiasts.

4.0

Tommy Hilfiger Valletta

Discover stylish apparel at Tommy Hilfiger Valletta, where contemporary fashion meets the historic charm of Malta's capital.

4.6

Explore Valletta on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Valletta, mapped for you.

Valletta Essentials

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is accessible via Malta International Airport (MLA), located around 8 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, which takes approximately 20 minutes to reach Valletta. Alternatively, there are regular bus services (routes X4, X5, X7, and TD2) that connect the airport to Valletta. Ferries also operate from Sicily to Malta, docking at the Grand Harbour in Valletta.
Valletta is a compact city, and its attractions are easily reachable on foot. For longer distances, public buses are the primary mode of transportation, with an extensive network connecting Valletta to other parts of Malta. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Another unique option is the ferry service that connects Valletta to Sliema and the Three Cities. Renting a car is not recommended due to limited parking and narrow streets.
The official currency in Malta is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Valletta, and currency exchange services can be found at banks and exchange offices.
Valletta is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant. Be cautious in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas. The area around the bus terminus can be busier and may attract petty crime, so keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Valletta has several pharmacies for minor health issues, and the main public hospital, Mater Dei Hospital, is located in Msida, a short drive from Valletta. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Maltese dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Valletta like a local, visit the daily market at Merchant Street for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share stories about Malta’s history and culture. Don’t miss the traditional Maltese festa celebrations if your visit coincides with one. For a unique experience, attend a performance at the Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe.

When is the best time to visit Valletta?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Valletta

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Valletta. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerħba
  [merh-ba]
- GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
- YesIva
  [ee-va]
- NoLe
  [leh]
- Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yoj-bok]
- Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
- Excuse me/SorrySkuzani
  [skoo-za-nee]
- How are you?Kif int?
  [keef int]
- Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo int]
- Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliz?
  [tit-kel-lem bl-ing-lees]
- I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heems]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq nara l-menù, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyek na-ra l-men-oo, yekk yoj-bok]
- I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [ma nee-e-kolsh la-ham]
- Cheers!Sliem!
  [sleem]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyek in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]
- Help!Għajjat!
  [ay-yat]
- Go away!Mur!
  [moor]
- Call the Police!Ibgħat l-Pulizija!
  [ib-ghat pul-ee-zee-ya]
- Call a doctor!Ibgħat tabib!
  [ib-ghat ta-beeb]
- I'm lostInħallas
  [in-hal-las]
- I'm illJien morda
  [yien mor-da]
- I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nis-tyek ini-stree]
- I'm just lookingQed inħares biss
  [ked in-ha-res bis]
- How much is it?Kam jiswa?
  [kam yis-wa]
- That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq għoli
  [dan hoo-wa wees gho-lee]
- Can you lower the price?Tista' tgħallem il-prezz?
  [tis-ta t-al-lem il-prez]
- What time is it?X'ħin hu?
  [shin hoo]
- It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-wel see-ya]
- Half past (10)Noqghod fuq nofs
  [nodge fuq nofsh]
- MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-gho-doo]
- AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [war-an-of-sin-har]
- EveningFl-ewwel lejl
  [fl-ew-wel layl]
- YesterdayNoffsi
  [nof-see]
- TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
- TomorrowGħada
  [g-ha-da]
- 1Waħda
  [wa-da]
- 2Tnejn
  [tnejn]
- 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
- 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
- 5Ħamsa
  [hamsa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Sebgħa
  [sib-gha]
- 8Tmienja
  [tmi-en-ya]
- 9Disgħa
  [dis-gha]
- 10Għaxra
  [a-kh-ra]
- Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [fayne hemm]
- What's the address?X'hu l-indirizz?
  [shoo l-in-di-reez]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi lili (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta tu-ree lee-lee fooq il-map-pa]
- When's the next (bus)?Meta l-bus li ġej?
  [me-ta l-boos lee jay]
- A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yett al]

History of Valletta

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, was founded in 1566 by the Order of St. John after the Great Siege of Malta. Named after Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette, who led the defense against the Ottoman Empire, Valletta was designed as a fortress city, combining both military and civic functions.
The Great Siege of Malta in 1565 was a pivotal moment in the island's history. The Knights of St. John, along with the Maltese population, successfully defended the island against a massive Ottoman invasion. This victory not only ensured the survival of the Order but also led to the construction of Valletta as a fortified city.
St. John's Co-Cathedral, completed in 1577, is one of Valletta's most significant landmarks. Originally the conventual church of the Knights of St. John, its baroque interior is renowned for its elaborate decoration, including the famous Caravaggio painting 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist'.
In 1800, Malta voluntarily became part of the British Empire following the French occupation. Valletta served as a crucial naval base for the British, especially during the Napoleonic Wars. British influence is still evident in the city's architecture and infrastructure.
During World War II, Valletta played a crucial role due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean. The city endured intense aerial bombardment by Axis forces, leading to extensive damage. Despite the hardships, Valletta and its residents were awarded the George Cross for their bravery and resilience.
Malta gained independence from British rule on September 21, 1964. Valletta, as the capital city, became the political and administrative heart of the newly independent nation. The city has since developed into a vibrant cultural and economic hub.
In 1980, Valletta was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's unique baroque architecture, historical significance, and well-preserved fortifications contributed to this prestigious recognition, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
In 2018, Valletta was honored as the European Capital of Culture. This designation highlighted the city's rich cultural heritage and promoted various cultural events and initiatives, further enhancing its status as a vibrant cultural destination.