Choose from 30 Fun Things to Do in Valletta
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Tarxien Temples
Tarxien is the largest of the major overground megalithic temple sites open to visitors on Malta, which combined, form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just south of Valletta, the four interconnecting temples were built between 3,600 BC and 2,500 BC in honor of a mother-goddess of fertility. Today they are oxymoronically surrounded by modern housing but remain of importance thanks to their iconic spiral decorations and the central temple which comprises six apses.
The ancient temples are covered with carvings of domestic animals and evidence of animal sacrifice has been found here, including blades and bones. Some of the altars are still intact but many of the artifacts remaining such as the pottery bowls and urns are replica, as is the curious 'Fat Lady' statue, appearing to consist of a skirt and two dumpy legs. The originals are now ensconced in the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta for preservation. The spherical stones found in abundance at the site appear to suggest that the cornerstones of the temples were moved here on primitive rollers.
Practical Info
The Tarxien Temples are on bus routes 81 and 82 from Valletta bus station. If hiring a car, follow the signs to Paola and Tarxien; it is a 15-minute drive and there is plenty of parking near the site. The Paola Hypogeum, another great Maltese ancient site, is only a 10-minute walk away.
The Heritage Malta Multisite Pass covers entry to Tarxien. Take sun cream, water, and a hat if visiting in summer.
Address: Tarxien Temples, Tarxien, Malta
Hours: Open daily from 9am to 5pm
Admission: €6 (USD$8) for adults, €4.50 (USD$6) for youth and seniors, €3 (USD$4) for children
From $ 23
Ta'Xbiex
Overlooking Marsamxett harbor between Valletta and Sliema on the side of Msida Creek, well-to-do Ta’Xbiex is Malta’s diplomatic quarter. It’s chiefly notable for its number of embassies and high commissions, all housed in ocher-colored grand villas and palazzi along with an enclave of private mansions. Currently the UK, Ireland, France, Spain and Austria have their embassies here.
A seaside promenade runs from St Julian’s to Pieta, passing Ta’Xbiex marina, where sleek yachts bob in their berths. Along the walkway there are spectacular views over the harbor towards Valletta and the bastions of Floriana as well as a number of quality seafood restaurants. Standout among these is The Black Pearl, a wooden schooner dating from 1909 and now transformed into a fine-dining restaurant, which once had a starring role in the film Popeye along with Robin Williams.
A seaside promenade runs from St Julian’s to Pieta, passing Ta’Xbiex marina, where sleek yachts bob in their berths. Along the walkway there are spectacular views over the harbor towards Valletta and the bastions of Floriana as well as a number of quality seafood restaurants. Standout among these is The Black Pearl, a wooden schooner dating from 1909 and now transformed into a fine-dining restaurant, which once had a starring role in the film Popeye along with Robin Williams.
Practical Info
Take buses no. 12, 13 or 21 from Valletta bus station; the journey is around 15 minutes.
Address: Ta’Xbiex, Malta
From $ 36
Wignacourt Museum
The megalithic temples of Malta and Gozo are a big draw for visitors, and reveal the pre-Christian history of the islands dating back well over 5,000 years. But for a "newer" experience, dating back to the turn of the second millennium and going through WWII, a visit to the Wignacourt Museum is an absolute must.
There are two distinct features to the museum. First there is the former residence of the Chaplains of the Knights of Malta, which has been beautifully renovated into a two-story gallery with displays of Maltese and European artists' works in everything from paintings to coins and rare books. The second part "“ and many say, even more fascinating "“ is the underground level that includes the grotto of St Paul, where it is said that he brought Christianity to Malta, and includes catacombs; and several underground chambers and tunnel network, which was used by residents in WWII to hide from the fighting.
Practical Info
The Wignacourt Museum is located at Parish sir, College Str in Rabat. It is open seven days a week from 9:30am to 5pm. Admission to both the museum and the tunnels is €5, with discounts for students, kids and seniors; children under 6 are free. Audio guides are available in seven languages.
Address: Triq il-Kullegg, Ir-Rabat, Malta
Admission: €5
From $ 57
Mediterraneo Marine Park
As Malta's only marine park, the Mediterraneo Marine Park is one of the best spots to see the island's varied marine life and an important animal welfare education center. Highlights of any visit include the daily dolphin and sea lion presentations, during which experienced handlers showcase each animal's athletic and cognitive abilities, discuss their individual characteristics, and explain how they are cared for and trained in an interactive learning environment.
Visitors can also explore the Reptile House and Vivarium, home to a vast variety of turtles, tortoises, iguanas, snakes, frogs, and spiders, and enjoy the parrot presentation, featuring blue and gold macaws, orange-winged amazons, and green-winged macaws.
Practical Info
The Mediterraneo Marine Park is located on the north coast of Malta and is linked to the island's hotels and resorts by the Tul Il-Kosta coast road. The park is open daily from 10am to 5pm, and adult admission costs €15.90.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, the Mediterraneo Marine Park also offers the chance to swim with dolphins, plus interactive experiences with dolphins, sea lions, and parrots for an additional fee. Prices start from €120 for dolphin swims and €35 for interactive experiences. Reservations required.
Address: Tul-il-kosta, Naxxar 0938, Malta
Hours: Daily 10am"“5pm
Admission: Adult €15.90, child €9.90
From $ 18
Ta'Quali Craft Village
Situated on an abandoned WW2 airfield, Ta'Quali occupies a series of seemingly ramshackle Nissan huts "“ plans to spruce up Ta'Quali rear their heads from time to time, but so far no funding has been raised for the redevelopment. Don't be put off by their tattiness as they hide the best selection of authentic Maltese crafts found on the island.
This is the place to find delicate filigree silverware, handmade lace, hand-blown glass, leather, linen and cheery painted ceramics, all created by local artisans. Expect to pay a little more for your purchases, but be happy in the knowledge that you are buying a genuine piece of Maltese treasure. Even if you don't buy, there's the chance to watch skilled craftsmen at work in their stores.
Two standout stores are the glassworks, Phoenician Glassblowers and Mdina Glass; both produce highly colored quality glassware. Another of Malta's best buys is gold and silver work, and the making of intricate filigree jewelry is a national specialty. All Maltese silver and gold products should be certified and hallmarked. A design found across the island is the delicate interlaced Maltese cross, symbol of the Knights of St John who occupied Malta between 1530 and 1792.
This is the place to find delicate filigree silverware, handmade lace, hand-blown glass, leather, linen and cheery painted ceramics, all created by local artisans. Expect to pay a little more for your purchases, but be happy in the knowledge that you are buying a genuine piece of Maltese treasure. Even if you don't buy, there's the chance to watch skilled craftsmen at work in their stores.
Two standout stores are the glassworks, Phoenician Glassblowers and Mdina Glass; both produce highly colored quality glassware. Another of Malta's best buys is gold and silver work, and the making of intricate filigree jewelry is a national specialty. All Maltese silver and gold products should be certified and hallmarked. A design found across the island is the delicate interlaced Maltese cross, symbol of the Knights of St John who occupied Malta between 1530 and 1792.
Practical Info
Ta'Quali Craft Village is open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday 9am-12pm and is free to visit. It's near the National Stadium and Malta Aviation Museum on the outskirts of Attard; there are several direct buses from Valletta bus station, including nos. 52 and 53 and journey time should be around 30 minutes.
Address: Ta'Qali National Park, ā¦'Attard, Malta
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm
From $ 23
Valletta Cruise Port
There’s a reason the waterfront of Valletta is one of Europe’s most-visited cruise ports, and travelers to this historic town on the northeast coast of Malta will immediately understand why. Ancient forts, breathtaking buildings, and winding streets dot the hillside of the city that’s served as a backdrop of movies like Troy and Gladiator. Approaching its shores is like approaching another world, where modern-day amenities seem to disappear and the influence of Greek, Roman and Arab culture can be seen at every turn.
How to Get to Valletta
Cruise ships dock in Pinto Warf, about a half mile from the main shopping district of Valletta. Visitors can explore the town on foot, in a carriage or by hiring a taxi. Buses can take travelers further into the island, while local ferries connect Malta to the nearby islands of Gozo and Comino.
One Day in Valletta
Start the day at the Merchant Street Flea Market. Open daily from 9 a.m. until noon, this lively bazaar is the perfect place to find great deals on Gozo glass, a local specialty. Then take a taxi to the village of Wied iz-Zurrieq and hop aboard a small wooden boat to spend the afternoon exploring the incredible Blue Grotto. This series of caves carved into the southwest coast of Malta is accessible only by water and is a must-see sight on this beautiful island.
How to Get to Valletta
Cruise ships dock in Pinto Warf, about a half mile from the main shopping district of Valletta. Visitors can explore the town on foot, in a carriage or by hiring a taxi. Buses can take travelers further into the island, while local ferries connect Malta to the nearby islands of Gozo and Comino.
One Day in Valletta
Start the day at the Merchant Street Flea Market. Open daily from 9 a.m. until noon, this lively bazaar is the perfect place to find great deals on Gozo glass, a local specialty. Then take a taxi to the village of Wied iz-Zurrieq and hop aboard a small wooden boat to spend the afternoon exploring the incredible Blue Grotto. This series of caves carved into the southwest coast of Malta is accessible only by water and is a must-see sight on this beautiful island.
Port Information
Cruise ships dock in the recently renovated Pinto Wharf in historic Valletta. English and Maltese are both widely spoken and the euro is the official currency of Malta. U.S. dollars aren’t accepted, but major credit cards can be used in some of the more touristy areas. ATMs are accessible in the cruise terminal, but can be difficult to find in the streets of Valletta.
Address: Pinto, Valletta, Malta
From $ 23
Three Cities
This grouping of three historic cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—look out to Valletta across the Grand Harbour. Originally enclosed by a line of fortification constructed by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, the dockside neighborhoods were the knights’ base from 1530 until the Valletta’s founding in 1570. Today, the cities provide a scenic backdrop to the Grand Harbour.
The Basics
The picturesque waterfronts of the Three Cities serve as a backdrop to the Grand Harbour, and a sightseeing cruise is a popular way to explore the area. Glide past the ancient fortresses of Senglea, Vittoriosa, and Cospicua as you learn more about the historic cities and the Knights of St. John from the onboard commentary.
Half- and full-day tours also take in the highlights of Three Cities by road. It’s possible to tour all three in one day, but the most visited is Vittoriosa, where top attractions include the Inquisitor's Palace, Malta Maritime Museum, and Fort St. Angelo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A combined ticket covers entry to Inquisitor's Palace and Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa and a local multi attraction pass can be used at the Inquisitor’s Palace.
- The museums, palaces, and churches in Vittoriosa are open daily, except the Malta at War Museum, which is closed on Monday. All the churches close at lunch for several hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the cities on foot—the streets are hilly and require lots of walking.
How to Get to There
Vittoriosa is around five miles (eight kilometers) from Valletta and can be accessed by bus services 1, 2, 4, or 6 from the bus terminus. Regular ferries and water taxis also run across the harbor to Vittoriosa—take the elevator from Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta to reach the port.
When to Get There
High season in Malta is July and August, when it’s advised to visit attractions early if you want to avoid crowds. Time your return for sunset so you can watch the sun across the harbour.
Museums and Monuments of Vittoriosa
Vittoriosa is the architectural masterpiece of the three cities, with attractions including the old Naval Bakery, now the Maritime Museum; Malta at War Museum; Church of St. Lawrence; and Fort St. Angelo, Knight headquarters during the 1565 Great Siege of Malta and an important fortification in World War II. Today’s residential backstreets warrant exploration. Stop by a former Knights of St. John hospital, now a Benedictine convent, and Inquisitor’s Palace, now Malta's Museum of Ethnography.
Address: Malta
Admission: Varies
From $ 36
Upper Barrakka Gardens
These beautifully landscaped gardens complete with follies, a statue of Sir Winston Churchill, a café and benches under shady trees, were created in 1775 on a bastion at the highest point on Valletta’s fortifications. Originally the private property of the Italian members of the Knight of St John, they are twinned with Lower Barrakka Gardens (currently under renovation but with views over the Siege Memorial) on Barriera Wharf. From their position on the south side of the city walls, the gardens provide the perfect vantage point for views over the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, including views across the Grand Harbour.
Take an afternoon stroll around the walls of Valletta before catching the new elevator, which ascends in seconds to the gardens, to watch the sunset before returning to waterfront with choices of quality bars and restaurants.
In the footsteps of one of Malta's great seafaring traditions, the Noon Day Gun was fired daily from the Saluting Battery above the gardens so all nearby shipping could calibrate their time. The tradition still continues today, with all the necessary military rigmarole, and can be combined with a public talk on the history of the gardens.
Practical Info
Upper Barrakka Gardens are in a pedestrianized area of the city, a five minute walk from Valletta bus station. For drivers, there is designated parking outside the City Gate.
The Noon Day Gun is fired daily and for a small fee, visitors can access the Saluting Battery to see the canon firing and enjoy a public talk on the history of Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Address: Battery Street, Valletta, Malta
Hours: Open daily
From $ 29
Splash & Fun Water Park
The Splash & Fun Water Park is one of several water parks in Malta, offering fun and adventure for all ages. The park includes several swimming pools, a wave pool, a lazy river and water slides, such as the Black Hole, a 120-meter long tube slide that drops from a height of 12 meters high. Activities are offered throughout the day for visitors of all ages, such as dancing, aqua aerobics, face painting and a variety of games and competitions both in and out of the water. In the evening, the park offers themed entertainment and on Sundays, it hosts a buffet lunch with live music. The park is open even in the winter months, with indoor and outdoor play areas for toddlers through pre-teens.
Practical Info
The Splash & Fun Water Park sits next to the Mediterraneo Marine Park along Malta's coast. It is accessible by multiple bus lines, including the 13, 212, 222, N11 and N31, stopping at the Splash or Evangelista bus stops.
Address: Coast Road (Tull-il-Kosta), Bahar Ic Caghaq, Malta
Hours: May 14 to October 9, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
Admission: 22 Euro full-day ticket; 15 Euro half-day (after 3 p.m.)
From $ 23
Casa Rocca Piccola
This miniature stately home was built in the 1680s for a Knight of St John and has subsequently been occupied by many aristocratic Maltese families. Today it is open daily for guided tours that showcase both the architectural development of the mansion and the archive of fabulous wealth held by the current owner, the Marquis de Piro. In addition to the wonderful collection of 18th- and 19th-century costumes, the 50-room (around 12 are open to the public) palace contains priceless silverware, great paintings and antique furniture alongside private photos and other signs of family life.
The interior of the palace is surprisingly light and airy; a tour includes the Palladian family chapel, an Art Nouveau dining room laid out for a banquet with marble floors, bedrooms with carved four-poster beds and a series of themed rooms exhibiting porcelain and major artworks. Also on the itinerary are the cramped bomb shelters carved out of the old cisterns during the heavy bombardment of Malta in World War II.
Practical Info
Casa Rocca Piccola is found on Republic Street in pedestrianized Valletta and is a 5-minute walk from the bus terminus. For drivers, there is designated parking outside the City Gate.
The palace is open from Monday to Saturday for guided tours, which take an hour. Friday evening Champagne tours kick off at 7pm and are usually led by Marquis de Piro himself.
Address: 74 Republic St, Valletta VLT1117, Malta
Hours: Open daily from 10am to 4pm; closed on Sundays
Admission: €9 (USD$12) for adults, €5 (USD$7) for students and free for children below 14 years
From $ 61