Best Places To Visit In Valletta

Valletta is the capital city of Malta and is one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean. It is an historic city with a long and storied history, and it is full of incredible sights and attractions. It is also a great place to visit for food, art, and culture. In this blog post, we will take a look at the best places to visit in Valletta and all the activities that one can do when visiting the city.

Introduction

Valletta is a small city in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea and is the capital of Malta. It is a walled city with a long and storied history, and it has been the capital since the 16th century. The city is full of impressive architecture, beautiful churches, and fascinating museums. Valletta is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse culture, and delicious food. Valletta is a great destination for those looking to explore a unique city and experience a different culture.

Must-See Attractions

When visiting Valletta, the must-see attractions are the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the National Museum of Archaeology, the Manoel Theatre, and St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The Upper Barrakka Gardens are located on the Upper Barrakka Terrace and offer stunning views of the city, harbor, and the Mediterranean Sea. The National Museum of Archaeology is located in the Auberge de Provence and is a great place to learn about the country’s history and culture. The Manoel Theatre is the oldest still in use in the world and it is a great place to experience the culture and tradition of Valletta. Finally, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a beautiful and ornate cathedral with a fascinating history.

Activities

There are a number of popular activities that one can partake in when visiting Valletta. One of the most popular activities is a guided tour of the city. There are a number of tour companies that offer guided tours of the city, such as Viator tours and GetYourGuide tours. These tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the city. In addition to guided tours, visitors can also explore the city on their own and visit some of the many museums and monuments.

Other popular activities in Valletta include visiting the various markets located throughout the city. The Valletta Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products. In addition to the Valletta Market, there is also the Marsaxlokk Fish Market, where visitors can buy fresh fish and seafood. There are also a number of popular restaurants in Valletta where visitors can enjoy traditional Maltese cuisine.

Conclusion

Valletta is an incredible city with a long and storied history. It is full of interesting attractions, activities, and culture. Visitors can explore the city on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the city. There are also a number of markets, restaurants, and museums to explore. Valletta is a great place to visit for anyone looking for an exciting and unique experience.

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Valletta

Valletta is the small yet vibrant capital city of Malta, located in the heart of the Mediterranean. It is renowned for its rich culture, history, and picturesque architecture – a perfect destination for tourists seeking an exhilarating experience. In this insider’s guide, we will take you through the best places to visit in Valletta, from local attractions, dining experiences, cultural events, and off-the-beaten-path activities.

Local Attractions

Valletta is steeped in history and packed with stunning architecture and historical landmarks. Some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss include:

– St. John’s Co Cathedral- This 16th-century cathedral is a masterpiece of Baroque art, and its ornate interior features stunning works of art and sculptures, including a magnificent fresco by Caravaggio.
– Upper Barrakka Gardens- These gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Don’t miss the firing of the midday cannon – a century-old tradition.
– The National Museum of Archaeology- Home to a significant collection of prehistoric artefacts and fascinating exhibits that show the island’s rich cultural heritage stretching back thousands of years.
– The Malta Experience- A must-visit attraction that provides a fascinating overview of Malta’s history and culture through a 45-minute audio-visual presentation.

Dining Spots

Foodies will love Valletta’s culinary scene, thanks to the city’s diverse food culture and influence from Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some of the best dining spots to experience:

– Capistrano- A stylish and refined dining spot situated within the walls of Valletta. Offers incredible views coupled with Mediterranean dishes, including locally sourced fish and seafood.
– Nenu the Artisan Bakery- A delightful bakery that bakes delicious bread, savoury pastries, and sweets. The restaurant also serves traditional Maltese dishes, such as rabbit stew.
– Piadina Caffe- A casual dining spot that serves Italian-inspired dishes like piadina, a form of flatbread served with different fillings.
– Rustico- A small restaurant that provides a wide variety of gourmet pizzas and authentic pasta plates.

Cultural Experiences

Valletta boasts a plethora of cultural offerings, from events showcasing local talent to annual festivals that attract visitors from all over the world. Here’s a few cultural experiences that can’t be missed in Valletta:

– Valletta International Baroque Festival – held annually, it showcases various international musicians on local interest venues.
– Lascaris War Rooms- A set of underground tunnels utilised during the World War II are now a museum worth visiting to glimpse history.
– Malta Arts Festival- A summer festival that brings together the best contemporary and traditional-traditional local acts from all over the world.
– Teatru Manuél- A 1731-built theatre that holds contemporary performances and local events held in Valletta.

Local History

One could always lose themselves wandering around Valletta’s narrow streets, decorated with impressive architecture and landmarks of great historical value. Here are some of the historic sites that are not to be missed:

– Fort St Elmo- A stunning fortification strategically placed at the tip of Valletta overlooking the Grand Harbour.
– Casa Rocca Piccola- A fascinating mansion built in 1580, it’s still home to the noble family who originally built it. One can see remnants showcasing various historical events, like World War II.
– Valletta Waterfront- With over 300 years of history, it’s a historical promenade that plays host to cafes, restaurants, and bars.
– Grand Master’s Palace- A palace that has been around since the 1570s, it was once the seat of government in Malta. It houses various impressive painted ceilings and murals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowd and explore Valletta like a local, these suggestions will undoubtedly pique your interest:

– Is-Suq Tal-Belt – A hidden market within the city, it offers unique local produce and various artisanal goods.
– St. Paul’s Anglican Pro-Cathedral- A gothic-style cathedral built-in 1839 features remarkable stained-glass windows and a charming courtyard.
– The Valletta City Gate- A modernist design led by Italian architect Renee Gaehtgens, the Valletta City Gate offers stunning views of the harbor and an iconic landscape that has recently been added to the UNESCO Heritage list.
– Malta Experience 5D/7D- An audio/visual journey that takes visitors on an interactive time-traveler experience through Malta’s history.

In conclusion, Valletta is a city that has something for everyone. From history to its culinary scene, Valletta is a city that can be explored in one day or a week, and tourists will undoubtedly enjoy discovering its many delights. The recommended attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path suggestions provide a well-rounded itinerary for everyone.