To Do Valletta – A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Valletta is a small city-state located in the Mediterranean Sea, on the island of Malta. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, who come to explore its unique architecture, rich history, and stunning views. This guide will provide you with all the information you need for a perfect holiday in Valletta.

General Introduction to Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta, as well as its smallest city-state. Founded in 1566, it is a city filled with history and culture. It is home to numerous monuments, churches, and palaces, which testify to the city’s long and interesting past. In 2018, Valletta was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture.

The city is a great place to explore on foot. Its old town is filled with narrow cobbled streets, plazas, and charming squares. It is also a great place for shopping and dining, with plenty of restaurants and shops offering local specialties.

Valletta is also home to many museums and galleries, which allow visitors to delve into the city’s history and culture. The city’s churches and cathedrals are also a great draw for visitors, with many of them housing stunning works of art.

Valletta’s location in the Mediterranean Sea also makes it a great spot for watersports and beach activities. There are numerous beaches and coves to explore, as well as plenty of boats and yachts available for rent.

Popular Activities in Valletta

Valletta is home to many popular activities for visitors. One of the most popular is to take a boat ride and explore the city from the sea. There are many boat tours available, from half-day trips to sunset cruises.

A visit to Valletta also wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. This is a beautiful public garden with stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the city. It is also home to a number of statues, monuments, and fountains, providing a great spot for a relaxing stroll.

For the more adventurous, Valletta also offers plenty of watersports and beach activities. There are numerous beaches and coves to explore, as well as plenty of boats and yachts available for rent. There are also plenty of diving schools, providing lessons and tours for those looking to explore the underwater world around Valletta.

Finally, Valletta is also home to many museums and galleries. The National Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit, as it is home to some of the most important archaeological finds in the Mediterranean. The National War Museum is also a great spot for those looking to explore Valletta’s history.

The Best Tours in Valletta

Valletta is home to many great tours for visitors, from walking tours to boat tours. Here are some of the best tours in Valletta:

1. Valletta City Tour
2. Grand Harbour Cruise
3. Valletta Old City Walking Tour
4. Valletta Architectural Tour
5. Malta’s Southern Coast and Valletta Tour

Additional Tips for Tourists

When travelling to Valletta, there are a few tips that can help make your trip more enjoyable. Firstly, it is important to bring the right clothes for the weather. Valletta has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. It is also important to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be very strong in Valletta.

It is also important to have the right currency when travelling to Valletta. Malta uses the Euro, so it is important to make sure you have enough of the currency before you arrive. It is also important to have a valid passport, as visitors from some countries will require a visa to enter Malta.

Finally, it is important to take the time to explore Valletta’s many attractions. There are plenty of great places to visit in Valletta, including museums, galleries, churches, and monuments. Taking the time to explore these attractions will help you get the most out of your visit to Valletta.

Conclusion

Valletta is a beautiful city-state with a long and rich history. It is a great place to explore, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. This guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Valletta, from popular activities to the best tours in the city. With the right preparation, Valletta can be a perfect holiday destination for everyone.

The Insider’s Guide to Valletta: Uncovering Hidden Gems for Tourists

Valletta, the stunning capital city of Malta, is a hub of culture, history, and beautiful architecture. Beyond the typical tourist hotspots, there is a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored by visitors. Allow me to be your guide as we uncover unique experiences that only locals know about.

Discovering Local Attractions

While the Grand Harbour, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and St. John’s Co-Cathedral are must-visit attractions in Valletta, there are other hidden gems that are worth exploring. A great option for history buffs is the National War Museum, housed in Fort Saint Elmo, which offers an excellent display of Malta’s military history.

If you’re looking to get a taste of local life and culture, visit the small fishing village of Marsaxlokk, south of Valletta. Here, you’ll be met by an array of multicolored traditional Maltese fishing boats, surrounded by an active fish market.

Another favorite of the locals is the Valletta Waterfront. The old warehouses of the 18th-century are now home to fashionable restaurants, boutiques, and bars, making it the perfect place for an evening stroll admiring the boats docked in the Grand Harbour.

The Culinary Experience in Valletta

Valletta hosts a variety of Maltese and Mediterranean influenced cuisine that caters to different tastes and budgets.

For a unique dining experience, visit Il-Merill Restaurant in Valletta. The restaurant is situated in one of the narrow Valletta streets and offers Mediterranean/Maltese cuisine to die for. The décor is stylishly vintage and the ambiance encapsulates the best of the old and the new Malta.

If you’re a seafood lover, Ta’ Kris is the perfect spot, located in a backstreet of Sliema, not far from Valletta. The restaurant offers several delicious seafood dishes that are a favorite among locals. Their octopus stew, calamari, and swordfish are definitely worth a try.

Immersing in Local Culture

Maltese culture and traditions are quite unique and are celebrated throughout the year in Valletta. One of the significant Maltese events is the Carnival which takes place just before Lent. The carnival is a colorful and lively celebration, and it attracts locals and tourists alike.

In June, Valletta hosts the Malta Arts Festival, an annual event celebrating the arts, theater, and music. It’s an incredible week filled with concerts, exhibitions, and performances.

One of the oldest and most popular traditions is the Maltese Festa, a religious celebration that honors the patron saint of each town or village. In Valletta, the Festa of Our Lady of Victories takes place in August. The church is adorned with lights and decorations, and the streets come alive with food stalls, parades, and fireworks.

Valletta’s Fascinating History

Valletta’s unique history and culture are what make it so special. One of the most fascinating stories dates back to 16th century Malta when the Ottoman Empire attempted to invade the island.

The Great Siege of Malta, which lasted from May to September 1565, was a significant battle fought by the Knights of Malta and their supporters against the Ottoman Empire. The Siege is an incredible story of bravery and heroism and is a must-visit for history lovers.

The Malta Experience is another engaging way to learn about the island’s history. Located in Valletta, the museum provides an interactive experience that tells the story of Malta’s rich and diverse past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an unforgettable experience, try taking a boat ride to the nearby island of Comino, home to the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing.

If you’re into art and culture, don’t miss an opportunity to visit Casa Rocca Piccola, Valletta’s oldest noble house which is still inhabited by its original owners. The house is filled with antique furnishings, paintings, and tapestries, and is a unique way of experiencing Maltese living in the 20th century.

Finally, for something a little different, take a stroll through the streets of Valletta after midnight. The quiet and stillness of the streets offer a completely different perspective, and a chance to soak in the history and beauty of the city in the silence.

In conclusion, Valletta is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and character. As you explore the hidden gems and indulge in the mouthwatering food, you’re sure to fall in love with the beauty and charm of this unique city.