Best Things to Do in Valletta, Malta (& Where to Stay, Eat)

Looking for the best things to do in Valletta, Malta? Explore these 20 top spots in Valletta, Malta for a well-rounded stay in Malta’s capital and beyond.

Valletta is a charming small city nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean on the island of Malta. Having been recognized as the European Capital of Culture a few years ago, a visit to this stunning city is essential for anyone touring the archipelago.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valletta has many iconic landmarks to explore during your stay such as the majestic Upper Barrakka Gardens and the breathtaking Grand Harbour, Valletta is brimming with exciting and captivating activities.

Keep reading as we unveil the best things to do in Valletta as well as where to stay and eat during your stay to help you make the most of your trip.

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How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Valletta?

Valletta, Malta is one of the smallest European capitals making it very manageable and easy to visit. While it’s small, it’s packed with attractions so you’ll need a few days to cover it all.

To explore Valletta thoroughly, including its historical sites, museums, restaurants, and nearby areas, it’s generally recommended to spend around 2 to 4 days in Valletta.

On a weekend trip to Valletta, you’ll be able to get to know the city itself really well. With 3 or 4 days you’ll also be able to take day trips from Valletta, perhaps to Comino for the day, to Mdina, or even beyond, to Gozo.

What to Do in Valletta, Malta

Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

In the heart of Valletta, you’ll find one of Malta’s most iconic historical sites, St John’s Co-Cathedral.

Originally built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, this baroque architectural marvel not only showcases an opulent interior but also houses Caravaggio’s masterpiece, ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.’

This painting, notable for its dramatic realism and emotional intensity, marks a pivotal moment in art history.

As you walk around the cathedral you’ll notice its intricate details, from its ornate floor tombs to the lavish decorations.

A visit to St John’s Co-Cathedral offers a profound glimpse into Malta’s storied past and artistic heritage. Make sure to grab an audio guide (included in the entrance ticket) to learn more about the history and significance of each part of the building.

Also, don’t miss heading up to the balcony at the foot of the cathedral where you’ll get a different vantage point of the cathedral’s interior.

Visiting St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the best things to do in Valletta in a day.

Take in the Grandmaster Palace Courtyard

The Grandmaster’s Palace Courtyard in Valletta, Malta, is one of the top places to visit in Valletta for anyone intrigued by the island’s storied past and architectural grandeur.

Serving as the administrative heart of Malta since the 16th century, this historic edifice once housed the ruling Grandmasters of the Knights of St. John, and today, it functions as the President’s office.

The courtyard itself, with its elegantly symmetrical design, offers a tranquil respite amidst the bustling city. You’ll be able to visit its opulent halls adorned with frescoes, armory, and artifacts that narrate tales of valor and governance.

The Grandmaster’s Palace Courtyard isn’t always open- in fact, it was closed on our first visit to Valletta- so make sure to check before heading over.

Go on a Valletta Highlights Walking Tour

Walking tours are one of the best ways to get to know a city and get your bearings. Valletta is no different.

Embarking on a Valletta Walking Tour is the quintessential way to discover the essence of Malta’s enchanting capital. Guided tours offer invaluable insights into Valletta’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture, weaving together stories of knights, sieges, and the city’s baroque beauty.

You’ll take in sights, you might otherwise miss when walking around by yourself and with an expert guide leading the way, you’ll access historical anecdotes and fun, local insights.

Most walking tours will take you to all the most famous sights in the city, so it’s a brilliant choice for those short on time.

I highly recommend The Original Valletta Walking Tour, which also has the smallest group size so you can enjoy the city with fewer crowds. Find out more here.

Take in a Sunrise at Upper Barrakka Gardens

Few would argue that Upper Barrakka Gardens has some of the best views in Valletta and catching a sunrise at Upper Barrakka Gardens offers an unparalleled start to the day.

Perched atop Valletta’s highest point, these gardens date back to the 16th century, originally serving as a private leisure space for the Knights of St. John. Today, they provide the public with breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.

As the first light of dawn illuminates the sky, the serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas create a moment of profound beauty and tranquility – you can also visit the gardens at sunset but it’s decisively more crowded.

The historical significance of the gardens, combined with the stunning backdrop, makes this experience a must-do for visitors seeking to connect with Malta’s natural beauty and storied past.

Alternatively, you can visit the gardens at midday, when the saluting battery just below, fires a cannon.

Go for a Cocktail

Valletta has a buzzing gastronomy scene and in recent years many superb dining options and bars have popped up amid its colorful streets.

As the sun goes down, one of the things to do in Valletta is to enjoy a cocktail (mocktails also available) at one of the superb cocktail bars.

Here are some of the best cocktail bars we found in the city, that deserve a visit.

Kamy Cocktail Bar Valletta– Come early to grab a table at this tiny cocktail bar. With a very flamboyant, kitsch style it’s a very alluring space for a drink. The cocktails are also superb with a very long menu of all the classics and house specialities.

Cafe Society– Small and dark, this is another fabulous spot for a drink. They specialise in their signature cocktails which are worth writing home about.

Visit Casa Rocca Piccola

Casa Rocca Piccola offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Maltese nobility and is a must-visit on any Valletta itinerary. This 16th-century palace, still inhabited by the noble de Piro family, allows visitors to explore a living museum, beautifully preserved across generations.

Each room tells a story, adorned with family heirlooms, antique furniture, and art that reflect the rich history and culture of Malta.

Notably, the underground bomb shelters provide a stark reminder of the island’s resilience during World War II. Touring Casa Rocca Piccola not only offers an intimate look at noble life but also serves as a journey through the pivotal moments that have shaped Malta.

Make sure not to miss this fabulous and insightful living museum, a must see in Valletta Malta.

Visit the Valletta Museums

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is not only rich in history and culture but also home to an impressive array of museums that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the best museums to seek out when visiting Valletta.

National Museum of Archaeology– an extensive collection of prehistoric artifacts, offering insights into the island’s ancient civilizations

MUŻA, the National Museum of Art– comprehensive display of Maltese and European art spanning several centuries.

The Lascaris War Rooms and the National War Museum– an immersive look into Malta’s strategic role in wartime, including the heroic defense in World War II. The National War Museum is housed at Fort St Elmo, an important heritage building.

Admire the Architecture of the New Parliament Building

The New Parliament Building in Valletta is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano.

Opened in 2015, this striking building is a symbol of Malta’s progress while respecting the historical context of its surroundings.

Piano’s design is characterized by its minimalist approach, featuring clean lines, geometric shapes, and the extensive use of local limestone, ensuring the building harmonizes with Valletta’s iconic cityscape.

The structure not only serves as the legislative heart of Malta but also as a bold statement of modernity and sustainability.

While you’re not able to visit the inside- it is a government building- you can walk around the outside and admire it from there.

Take a Walk down St Ursula Street and San Gwann Street

St Ursula Street and Republic Street are some of the prettiest and most photogenic streets in Valletta. These bustling thoroughfares are lined with a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a true sense of the city’s lively atmosphere.

The architecture along these streets is proof of Malta’s storied past, from baroque facades to the typical, colorful balconies of Maltese architecture. Taking a walk through these streets is a Valletta must see.

Other historic streets of interest include Republic Street and Strait Street, an old military nightspot turned nightlife hotspot.

Triton Fountain

Situated at the entrance to Valletta, the Triton Fountain acts as a grand welcome to all who visit Malta’s capital. This landmark, featuring three bronze Tritons balancing a large basin, is one of the best examples of modernist design and sculpture.

Inaugurated in 1959, it symbolizes the island’s connection to the sea. The fountain’s dynamic water displays and the surrounding open plaza offer quite the spectacle, especially when illuminated at night – if you’re in the area, make sure to swing by to take a look.

Visit Sliema

On the other side of Marsamxett Harbour, you’ll find Sliema, the modern opposite of historic Valletta.

This coastal town is a hub of activity and one of the island’s main commercial districts, blending sleek apartments, bustling shopping centers, and an array of dining options.

Sliema’s extensive promenade, stretching along its rocky coastline, offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the cityscape of Valletta. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists for morning jogs, leisurely walks, or simply watching the sunset.

For those looking to dive into local culture and cuisine, Sliema’s restaurants and cafes serve everything from traditional Maltese dishes to international fare. This is also the place to go shopping.

The town’s waterfront and beaches provide ample opportunities for water sports, swimming, relaxation and long lunches under the sun.

A visit to Sliema is a perfect blend of leisure, shopping, and scenic beauty, offering a comprehensive glimpse into contemporary Maltese life.

Take a walk around Fort Tigne

While on Sliema, don’t miss the opportunity to walk right to the tip of the peninsula to check out Fort Tigne. This historic fortification, built by the Knights of St. John in the late 18th century, is an exemplary piece of military architecture marking the era’s transition towards more modern defensive structures.

While the Fort isn’t open very often, the area surrounding it is lovely for a walk. You can also take a dip at Tigne Point if it’s warm enough. The views from here of Valletta and the harbour are gorgeous and it’s a good spot to just relax.

The Chophouse, right next to the Fort is also a brilliant spot for some waterside dining.

Go for a Wine Tasting at Marsovin Winery

Malta has long-established wine growing traditions that go back centuries. Marsovin Winery, established in 1919, is a family-run winery that dedicated itself to crafting premium wines, embodying the unique character and flavor of the local grape varieties.

We spent a good few weeks in Malta, sampling some of the best wines, and found that the ones from Marsovin might have been our favorites, so I highly recommend a visit here, if you have time to visit just one winery.

The winery is located just outside Valletta, and offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of wine, from vineyard tours that highlight the meticulous care of grape cultivation to wine tastings that showcase the winery’s diverse portfolio.

At a tasting, you’ll be able to learn more about Maltese wine profiles, about Marsovin itself as well as taste some of their best wines.

Wine tastings need to be booked in advance which you can do via the Marsovin Winery website.

Visit the Three Cities

The Three Cities – Vittoriosa or Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua – located across from Valletta Harbour, are a lovely place to spend an afternoon and some of the top Valletta places to visit. With their maze of narrow streets, ancient fortifications, churches, and the deep maritime history there’s plenty to explore here.

In Birgu, the most popular of the three Cities, you can explore the historic Fort St. Angelo, which offers an unparalleled view of the harbour, or wander through the Maritime Museum to delve into the island’s seafaring past.

You can also visit the gorgeous St Laurence Church before having a long lunch at Don Berto which offers beautiful harbour views.

Senglea’s iconic watchtower, known as Il-Gardjola, provides stunning vistas of the harbour and Valletta’s skyline, while Cospicua, the largest of the three, boasts a wealth of baroque architecture.

Walking tours through these cities reveal hidden gems, from quaint cafes serving traditional Maltese cuisine to artisan shops. A visit to the Three Cities is a journey through time, offering a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

To visit the three cities you can take a traditional Dgħajsa Grand Harbour Boat which departs from the Lascaris Water Taxi station in Valletta (here on Google Maps). Alternatively, right next to this, you’ll find the ferry service that heads to Birgu for a few euros for the return trip.

Have you’re camera ready as the views from the boat are gorgeous.

Eat Your Way Through Is-Suq Tal-Belt – Valletta Food Market

Housed in a restored 19th-century cast-iron building, Is-Suq Tal-Belt is a vibrant food market offering a diverse range of local and international delicacies.

It’s best for international foods but there’s also a bar here where you can grab a drink and admire the building.

Relax at Lower Barrakka Gardens

While Upper Barrakka Gardens, has some of the best views of the Three Cities, Lower Barrakka Gardens offers an alternative view of Valletta Harbour from a very different vantage point.

With shaded benches running up its perimeter it’s an ideal spot to relax, rest your legs, and admire the stunning view. It’s one of the top Valletta attractions so make sure to pop in as you explore the city.

Not only are the views spectacular, especially at sunrise, but the gardens themselves are incredibly picturesque- a serene oasis of green among a very ochre city.

Lined with classical statues and dedicated memorials, including the monument to Sir Alexander Ball, these gardens blend natural beauty with historical significance- one of the top places of interest in Valletta.

Engage in Maltese History at The Malta Experience

For history buffs and those wanting to know a little more about Malta’s rich history, the Malta Experience is one of the best places to visit in Valletta.

Recommend to us by many locals and expats in Malta, The Malta Experience is an audio-visual spectacle that presents a comprehensive overview of the island’s 7,000-year history in an immersive 45-minute presentation.

From the earliest settlers to the Knights of St. John, and through both World Wars to modern times, the show encapsulates the pivotal events that have shaped Malta.

Using stunning visuals and a compelling narrative there isn’t a better way to learn about the history of the entire island nation in under an hour at one of the top tourist attractions in Valletta.

Take a Day Trip to Gozo

For those staying in Valletta a little longer, and longing to explore more outside of the Valletta Peninsula, taking a day trip to Gozo is a great idea.

While Gozo is somewhere you’ll want to stay for longer than just a day, if that’s all you have it’s better than nothing. Gozo is less busy than Malta and has more of a rustic feel to it, a beautiful coastline, amazing beaches and historical little cities. There’s plenty there to keep you busy.

For the full Gozo guide read: Top Things to Do in Gozo, Malta + Insider Intel & Tips

There are two different ways to get to Gozo. You can either take the fast ferry from Valletta which will get you to Mgarr harbour in about 45 minutes. From here you can continue to a few different points on the island by bus or Uber.

You can then rent a car in Victoria for the day to explore on your terms.

Alternatively, you can also rent a car in Malta, ideally in Valletta, drive to Cirkewwa Terminal, and take the car ferry over to Gozo. You’ll then have your wheels for Gozo which means more flexibility around the island.

If you only have a day and prefer to take the hassle out of renting a car, organizing the ferry, buses, Ubers, etc, another fantastic option is to book a tour. This Gozo Full Day Quad Tour takes you to all of Gozo’s most iconic sites by quad.

Otherwise, this Gozo Full Day Jeep Tour is a superb alternative.

Visit the Beaches

From the historic city of Valletta, a short journey can lead you to some of Malta’s most beautiful beaches, each offering a unique seaside experience.

For those seeking golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Mellieha Bay is a must-visit, renowned for its shallow waters making it perfect for families.

Alternatively, the picturesque St George’s Bay in St Julian’s provides beach experience not too far from Valletta, with its clear waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

For a more vibrant scene, Golden Bay offers lively beachside bars and water sports activities, set against the backdrop of stunning sunsets.

Not to be overlooked, the rocky shores of St. Peter’s Pool present a natural swimming pool experience, favored by locals for its clear waters and serene ambiance.

Each of these beaches, while they might seem far on a map are accessible from Valletta and best visited in an Uber, taxi, or even a local bus.

Take a Trip to the Blue Lagoon

For the ultimate beach experience, don’t miss the opportunity to see some of Europe’s bluest water at the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino.

This idyllic spot is nestled between the tiny island of Comino and the islet of Cominotto, offering visitors an escape with its crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy seabed. It’s a truly postcard-perfect setting.

The best way to visit the Blue Lagoon from Valletta is either on a day sailing tour or by taking the Gozo fast ferry to Mgarr, on Gozo, and from there transferring onto a small, local boat service to the Blue Lagoon. It’s a fairly easy trip, you’ll just need to keep an eye on ferry times.

Top Tip: The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most popular spots so make sure to get there early to enjoy it without the crowds, at least for a little while.

If you’re going on a tour you might want to skip the ‘booze-cruise’ style large boats and instead opt for a small, private sailing tour or a catamaran for a more pleasant experience. This is the Blue Lagoon sailing tour we recommend.

Where to Stay in Valletta, Malta

Valletta has an impressive range of accommodations for all budgets and interests. Here are our top choices that beautifully combine design, comfort, and location.

Iniala Harbour House– Without a doubt, the best place to stay in Valletta, Iniala Harbour House is a luxury boutique hotel with stunning harbour views, split over three historical townhouses.

With a blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance, each room and suite is uniquely designed, combining Maltese architectural heritage with modern design and comfort.

Guests can indulge in upscale amenities, including a world-class spa, a fine dining restaurant, and personalized services. Book your stay here.

Casa Ellul– Another of my favorite stays in Valletta, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, Casa Ellul offers an intimate stay, with beautifully designed suites that combine modern amenities with classical Maltese architecture. Find out more and book here.

The Saint John– A lovely boutique hotel that merges retro-inspired design elements with the authentic features of a 17th-century Maltese residence. The vibe is very much retro, gentleman’s country club. Book a stay here.

Palais Le Brun– A classical Baroque palace, turned boutique hotel. Beautiful, classic interiors, great breakfast, service and location. This is where we stayed for some of our time in Valletta. Book a stay here.

Where to Eat in Valletta, Malta

Top Restaurants in Valletta

Noni– Impeccable service and food that embodies a modern take on Maltese classics. The ultimate Michelin-starred Malta dining experience.

Rubino – Superb Maltese/ Italian that’s a must.

Nenu The Artisan Baker – Brilliant atmosphere and wholesome traditional food- one of the best spots to try Maltese rabbit.

N Japanese Bistrot– Fantastic Japanese izakaya experience in Valletta.

The Harbour Club– Fantastic restaurant and bar right by the water, serving modern European food. it’s also a great option for pre-dinner or post-dinner drinks.

Best Cafes, Casual Eats, and Bars in Valletta

Lot 61 Coffee Roasters – One of the best coffees in town.

Coffee Circus Hub– Another top stop for coffee.

Caffe Cordina – A legendary historical cafe that’s a must for a coffee and snack. Come early or for breakfast for better service.

Museum Cafe– Simple but tasty and affordable meals in a historical cafe that’s a huge draw for locals working nearby. Ideal for a quick, local lunch.

One Twenty– A wine store on San Gwann Street, which is also open for happy hour drinks. A perfect spot for a pre-dinner apperivo and a chance to try some local wines.

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So what are the best things to do in Valletta you’ll be adding to your itinerary? Let me know in the comments below, I always love hearing from you.

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