Things to Do in Valletta: 12 Best Sights in Malta’s Capital

Valletta is Malta’s capital and one of the smallest capitals in Europe, a walled city of honey-coloured stone built by the Knights of St John. You can cross it on foot in about 20 minutes, yet it is packed with palaces, churches, museums and views over the Grand Harbour. These are the best things to do in Valletta.

12 Best Things to Do in Valletta

1. Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

Plain on the outside and lavish inside, St John’s Co-Cathedral was the church of the Knights of St John. Its oratory holds Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the only painting he signed. Cover shoulders and knees, and buy tickets in advance in summer.

2. See the Noon Gun at the Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens have the best view in Malta, across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. Below the gardens, the Saluting Battery fires its cannon at noon and 4pm. Free to enter the gardens.

3. Ride the Barrakka Lift

The Barrakka Lift links the Upper Barrakka Gardens with the waterfront below, saving a steep walk. From the bottom you can catch a boat to the Three Cities.

4. Tour the Grandmaster’s Palace

The former seat of the Grand Masters, now run by Heritage Malta, has painted state rooms and the Palace Armoury, the Knights’ collection of arms and armour.

5. Explore Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum

The star-shaped fort at the tip of Valletta held out during the Great Siege of 1565. Its museum covers Malta’s military history, including the George Cross awarded to the island in 1942.

6. Go Underground at the Lascaris War Rooms

A network of tunnels below the Upper Barrakka Gardens, used as a command centre in the Second World War. A good choice on a hot or rainy day.

7. See the Sleeping Lady at the National Museum of Archaeology

Housed in the Auberge de Provence on Republic Street, the museum displays finds from Malta’s prehistoric temples, including the small Sleeping Lady figure.

8. Visit MUŻA, the National Art Museum

MUŻA in the Auberge d’Italie shows Maltese and European art from the medieval period to today.

9. Step Inside a Family Palazzo at Casa Rocca Piccola

A 16th-century palazzo still lived in by the de Piro family. Guided tours show the rooms, the family’s collections and a wartime shelter below the house.

10. Catch a Show at the Manoel Theatre

Built in 1731, the Manoel is one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. Book a performance or join a guided tour.

11. Have a Drink on Strait Street

Strait Street was once the bar and music hall district for sailors. Today its narrow stretch is lined with wine bars and restaurants, busy on summer evenings.

12. See Valletta from the Water

Take a Grand Harbour cruise or a traditional dgħajsa water taxi across to Birgu and the Three Cities. The view of the bastions from the sea is one of the best in Malta.

How to Get to Valletta

• By bus: Valletta is the hub of Malta’s bus network, with the main terminus just outside City Gate and direct buses from the airport.
• By ferry from Sliema: a short crossing over Marsamxett Harbour, often quicker than the road.
• From the Three Cities: ferries and dgħajsa water taxis cross the Grand Harbour.
• By car: the old city is mostly closed to traffic, so park outside the walls.

Where to Stay in Valletta

Staying in Valletta puts the sights on your doorstep and the city is lovely in the evening when the day-trippers leave. Most hotels are small boutique stays in converted townhouses. Expect steep streets and steps. Compare it with Sliema and St Julian’s in our where to stay in Malta guide.

Valletta Tours

A guided walking tour is the fastest way to understand Valletta’s history. Most last two to three hours and some include the Co-Cathedral. For the view from the water, add a harbour cruise.

Valletta FAQ

Is Valletta worth visiting?

Yes. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage city and holds many of Malta’s top sights, from St John’s Co-Cathedral to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, all within walking distance.

How long do you need in Valletta?

One full day covers the main sights. Two days let you add museums, a harbour cruise and an evening in the city.

Can you walk around Valletta?

Yes, the city is small and easiest on foot, but the streets are steep and some are stepped. Wear comfortable shoes.

Is it free to visit Valletta?

Walking the city, its bastions and gardens is free. Museums, the Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace charge entry.

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Sources: UNESCO: City of Valletta, Heritage Malta, St John’s Co-Cathedral, Saluting Battery (Wikipedia).