Valletta Things To Do: A Detailed Guide For Tourists

Valletta is the bustling capital city of Malta, and its history and culture span centuries of different influences. The city is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea, its many historical sites, and its warm climate. This guide will provide detailed information about the many things to do in Valletta, from its popular tourist attractions to its unique experiences.

Overview of Valletta

Valletta is a city with a long and varied history. Founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th Century, it has been a major port city in the Mediterranean for centuries. It was occupied by the French in 1798 and later by the British in 1800. The city suffered greatly during World War II, but it has since been restored to its former glory. Today, Valletta boasts a thriving economy, a population of over 6,000 people, and a vibrant culture.

Valletta is known for its many historical sites, including the Grand Harbour, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Barrakka Gardens. The city is also home to several museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology, the National War Museum, and the National Maritime Museum. Additionally, Valletta is known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants. There are also plenty of cultural events and activities taking place throughout the year.

Popular Attractions in Valletta

Valletta is full of attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Grand Harbour

Grand Harbour is one of Valletta’s most iconic sights. Located at the entrance to Valletta’s harbour, this sprawling body of water is home to some of the world’s biggest cruise ships and yachts. Visitors can take a boat tour or simply admire the view from a café or restaurant along the harbour’s waterfront.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of Valletta’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, this beautiful Baroque-style building is home to some of Malta’s most famous works of art. Visitors can explore the ornately decorated interior and admire its stunning frescoes and sculptures.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are one of Valletta’s most popular attractions. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Grand Harbour, this picturesque garden offers stunning views of the harbour, as well as a number of historic monuments and statues. Visitors can also take in views of Fort St. Elmo and the Three Cities from here.

National Museum of Archaeology

The National Museum of Archaeology is one of Valletta’s must-see attractions. Located inside the Auberge d’Italie building, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Malta’s earliest inhabitants, as well as various works of art from different eras. Visitors can learn about Malta’s rich history and culture at this museum.

National War Museum

The National War Museum is one of Valletta’s most popular attractions. Located inside Fort St Elmo, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and objects related to Malta’s long and varied history, including weaponry, uniforms, vehicles, and documents from different wars throughout history. Visitors can learn about Malta’s military history at this museum.

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is one of Valletta’s premier attractions. Located inside Fort St Angelo, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts related to Malta’s maritime history, including models of ships, navigational instruments, maps, and more. Visitors can learn about Malta’s maritime past at this museum.

Unique Experiences in Valletta

Valletta is full of unique experiences that visitors can enjoy while in the city. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Cooking Class

A cooking class is a great way to experience Valletta’s local cuisine. Local chefs will teach you how to make traditional Maltese dishes such as bragioli (beef roulades), timpana (pasta pie), and qassatat (pastry filled with ricotta). At the end of the class, you can enjoy your creations with a glass of local wine.

Wine Tasting

Valletta is home to some of Malta’s best wineries, so why not take a tour and sample some local wines? You can enjoy tastings at several wineries around Valletta, as well as learn about the region’s winemaking history and culture.

Sailing Trip

A sailing trip around Grand Harbour is one of Valletta’s most popular activities. Enjoy views of the city skyline and the Three Cities while sailing around the harbor on a traditional Maltese boat. This is a great way to experience Valletta like a local.

Fort Tour

Valletta is home to several historic forts that were built by the Knights of St John during the 16th century. Take a tour of these forts and learn about their history and significance to Valletta’s past.

Popular Tours in Valletta:

Valletta has many different types of tours available for visitors to enjoy. Here are two popular ones:

Valletta Walking Tour

Take a guided tour through Valletta’s vibrant streets and explore the city’s many sights and attractions while learning about its fascinating history and culture from an expert guide. This tour will take you past St John’s Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Fort St Elmo, and more. You’ll also get an opportunity to sample some local delicacies along the way!

Valletta Food Tour

Experience Valletta like a local on this food tour through its bustling streets! Taste your way through some of the city’s most beloved dishes while learning about local customs and traditions from your expert guide. Enjoy samples of traditional Maltese dishes such as bragioli (beef roulades), timpana (pastry filled with ricotta), and more!