Brett Williams
Brett Williams
Exploring Valletta: A perfect day out in the historic capital and also a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is steeped in history, culture, and stunning architecture. It’s also a fortress city, which gives it a bit more of a ‘wow’ factor than most. Compact yet rich in attractions, it’s the perfect city to explore in a day.
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City Gate and Triton Fountain
Valletta’s grand entrance, where the striking City Gate and iconic Triton Fountain welcome you, is where most people start their journey into the historic city. The entrance has been re-worked, to make it more visually appealing and align with the relatively new parliament building.
Walking across the moat into the city is a unique experience. After all, it was designed to initially keep invaders out of the city.
Before you enter the city, grab a Pastizzi from the local shops near the fountain. Pastizzi are a traditional savory pastry from Malta that are often filled with ricotta cheese or peas, and are about the size of a Cornish pasty or samosa. It’s not health food, but you’re going to walk it off!
Republic Street, , Southern Harbour District, VLTUpper Barrakka Gardens
What started as a place for the Knights of Malta to congregate, is now a major stop on the tourist trail.
As you enter the city, head right, before the bombed out opera house.
Upper Barrakka Gardens has breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour. And it really is breathtaking, a much overused word, but fitting in this case. The harbour is unique in that it’s deep water and has dry dock facilities, remnants of the British colonial times when it was a major naval base.
See more about the British navy here and why Malta was a strategically vital island to the empire.
Time your visit for the noon Saluting Battery, where cannons are fired in a historic ceremony. I’m hard to ‘wow’ with tourist sights, but this is worth it. It’s quite a show.
, , Southern Harbour District, VLTSt. John’s Co-Cathedral
Head to this stunning Baroque masterpiece, famous for its opulent interiors and Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Allow time to admire the intricate marble tombstones beneath your feet.
Entry to the cathedral is paid, the entrance is around the corner from the main entrance. Follow the line of people.
Saint John’s Square, , Southern Harbour District, VLTRestaurant Area
Enjoy lunch or dinner at a local café or restaurant in this area. Try traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit stew or Submarine Sandwich, my personal favourite for inventive subs. It’s a lively atmosphere in Republic Street geared towards tourists. It is what it is. My tip is that it’s best to return when night falls. It’s much more pleasant than after midday.
Fort St. Elmo
Home to the National War Museum, learn about Valletta’s pivotal role during World War II. It’s still very much a part of the fabric of the island. It was bombed back to the Stone Age, with more bombs dropped here than anywhere in Europe (for its size). Find out the story about how the Allies found back and managed to save the island, on the brink of starvation.
For a cinematic overview, watch The Malta Experience, a 45-minute film that showcases the island’s rich history. Well worth it and will give you a deeper understanding of Malta and the people who live here.
You will find in the museum a video story of the Ohio fuel tanker, and how it saved Malta during WWII. The convoy is was sailing with, was a last ditch effort to break the Axis hold over the island and get desperately needed supplies in. The story really is something. Find out more here.
Triq il-Mediterran, , Southern Harbour District, VLTThe Grandmaster’s Palace
Not particularly interesting from the outside, this palace shows you looks can be deceiving. It’s opulent and off the charts. It’s so detailed and exquisite. Visit the former seat of the Knights of St. John, now housing the Office of the President. Explore its State Rooms and the Armory, where rows and rows of weapons and armor is displayed. The Knights weren’t just about show, they had the backing and technical skills to invade and defend in the name of Faith.
Find out more about the Knights here. These guys were the real deal.
It’s paid entry, you use an ATM-like machine to get a ticket. Staff are on hand to assist.
Republic Street, , Southern Harbour District, VLTNational Museum of Archaeology
Dive deeper into Malta’s ancient history at this museum, which features artifacts from the Neolithic period, including the famous Sleeping Lady. She’s only small but ancient.
One highlight for me was the ball room. The ornate ceiling was something else.
Stroll through the streets
Wander Valletta’s narrow streets, lined with colorful balconies and abandoned buildings. Yes, during summer it is very busy as the photo above conveys. Go one street over and the foot traffic drops off, making for a more pleasant experience.
Don’t be fooled by the outside. Inside some of these houses and apartments are richly decorated. The harsh climate and dust from Africa takes its toll on the buildings exterior, hence the reason why they aren’t more ornate.
Don’t miss Strait Street, one street down from the main and hectic thorough fare. Once a bustling nightlife hub, now home to quirky bars and eateries. It’s less touristy and a greater selection of foods to eat.
Travel tips for Valletta
Comfortable shoes
Valletta’s streets are hilly and paved with limestone. It’s also fairly uneven at times, which can be a challenge.
Time efficiency
The city is compact, you can see a lot in one day, so its perfect for exploring.
Seasonal tips
In summer, this place is super hot. Like Dante’s inferno hot. The harsh sun will make you sweat, so you are constantly drinking. If you don’t, you will feel unwell or pass out. I saw it several times on my last trip in 2024. Best to explore up to midday, have some lunch, retire to somewhere cool, then start exploring again after 5pm.
Final thoughts
In just one day, you will leave Valletta with a deeper appreciation of it’s complicated history, legacy footprints and where it’s going to. It’s a unique place to visit.
Happy travels
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