Back to ExplorePlan a trip
Valletta, Malta

Destination Guide

Valletta

Malta

Best things to do in Valletta

28 curated attractions in Valletta, Malta. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

20°C/68°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Generally safe

About Valletta

Valletta, Malta's capital, is one of the smallest capitals in the world, but it holds a vast amount of history within its fortified walls. Established by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, the city's layout is a grid of narrow streets lined with baroque architecture and storied sites, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, where Caravaggio's works draw art lovers. The Grandmaster's Palace stands as a reminder of military and political power, while the National War Museum provides insights into Malta's complex past. Though it may be compact, it draws visitors for its rich array of cultural sites and waterfront views, making it a place where history is not just seen but also felt.

Who it's for

Great for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a city you can walk across in a day. It's less ideal for those seeking modern shopping or nightlife, as the evenings can feel quieter than expected. If you prefer sprawling parks over stone streets, Valletta might not meet your expectations.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The entire city can be walked in about thirty minutes, from the Upper Barracca Gardens to the Grandmaster's Palace
  • Buses from the airport take about twenty minutes to reach Valletta, making it relatively convenient to get there
  • Public transport is reliable, but many streets are too narrow for larger vehicles
  • Expect to encounter steps and slopes, so wear comfortable shoes
The Great Siege Tunnels

The Great Siege Tunnels

Forts & citadels
The Carmelite Church

The Carmelite Church

Churches & cathedrals
Saluting Battery

Saluting Battery

Forts & citadels
Republic Square

Republic Square

Historical Attractions
Casa Rocca Piccola

Casa Rocca Piccola

Historic houses & mansions
Malta Maritime Museum

Malta Maritime Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Lascaris War Rooms

Lascaris War Rooms

Battlefields & military sites
Saint Lucia Street

Saint Lucia Street

Cultural
Royal Opera House Site

Royal Opera House Site

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Upper Barrakka Gardens

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Formal & Japanese gardens
Siege Bell Memorial

Siege Bell Memorial

Monuments & memorials
Fort St. Elmo

Fort St. Elmo

Forts & citadels
Valletta City Gate

Valletta City Gate

Glaciers & fjords
Grandmaster's Palace

Grandmaster's Palace

Castles & palaces
City Gate

City Gate

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
National Museum of Archaeology

National Museum of Archaeology

History museums
The Malta Experience

The Malta Experience

Film studios & cinemas
St. John's Co-Cathedral

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Lower Barrakka Gardens

Lower Barrakka Gardens

Formal & Japanese gardens
Triton Fountain

Triton Fountain

Historical Attractions
National Library of Malta

National Library of Malta

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Hastings Gardens

Hastings Gardens

Urban Attractions
Manoel Theatre

Manoel Theatre

Theatres & opera houses
Valletta Waterfront

Valletta Waterfront

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
National War Museum

National War Museum

History museums
Royal Opera House Ruins

Royal Opera House Ruins

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck

Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck

Churches & cathedrals
Fortifications Interpretation Centre

Fortifications Interpretation Centre

History museums

Where to eat in Valletta

The places worth planning a meal around.

All'Antico Vinaio

All'Antico Vinaio

Maltese, Italian · $$

★ 4.4 · 134 reviews

San Paolo Naufrago

San Paolo Naufrago

Maltese, Seafood · $20–$40

Travel Tools

Check visa for MaltaEstimate costs for VallettaCompare Valletta with another cityPacking list for Valletta

AI Travel Planner

Planning a trip to Valletta?

Get a personalized itinerary built around your travel personality — with optimized routes, hidden gems, and insider tips.

Take the quiz — it's free →