Would you like to discover Valletta, Malta's dazzling capital? A sunny destination just a 3-hour flight from France, this city rich in history is ideal for an extended weekend. Take the time to stroll through the historic center, from the magnificent Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens to the vibrant Waterfront. For a day or two, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of a city steeped in history. An unforgettable Maltese adventure awaits you, with these 10 must-do things to do in Valletta!
1. Downtown Valletta from Republic Street
The heart of downtown Valletta is Republic Street, the city's lively, central thoroughfare. From boutiques to cafés and restaurants, you'll find everything you need on this lively street. Then, as you venture into the adjacent alleyways, you'll feel more of the charm of the past. Now you're ready to explore Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century house still inhabited by the Marquis of Piro. A fascinating tour reveals the secrets of local history and the Knights of the Order. As you stroll along, relax between terrace and culture, admiring the historic buildings all around you, such as the Manoel Theatre. Pure enchantment!
Click here to book your guided tour of Valletta and discover all the city's must-sees!
2. St. John's Co-Cathedral, Malta's shining light
Among Valletta's jewels, it's impossible to miss the st. John's Co-Cathedralthis Baroque masterpiece was built after the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.
A little anecdote : its name comes from those who financed it, the Knights of St. John. The tombs of 400 knights can be found within its walls.
Does the façade seem austere and uninviting? Don't be fooled, and dare to enter this historic building. The interior, adorned with gold and marble floors, is dazzlingly rich. Each side chapel, representing a language of the Order, is adorned with symbolic motifs. Simply splendid!
3. Place du Palais, an invitation to travel back in time
A must-see historic landmark in the Maltese capital, Palace Square, or St George's Square, is the backdrop to the Presidential Palace in Valletta. Don't miss the 25-minute Changing of the Guard: an astonishing spectacle! In the square, the musical fountain, with its synchronized jets of water, is a delight for young and old alike. After admiring the splendor of the square, it's time to visit the Palace of the Grand Masters, a historic focal point of Maltese government.
4. The Palace of the Grand Masters of Malta
Everywhere you go, the same is true: Valletta is a capital of culture, and the Palace of the Grand Masters is no exception! Originally the residence of Jean Parisot de Valette, the city's founder, it is now the seat of Malta's Parliament and Presidential Office.
Your visit takes you through sumptuously decorated rooms, including the Throne Room and the Tapestry Room, which house works of art dating from the 1700s. In theArmory, you can admire a fine collection of armor and weapons used by the Knights of Malta. If you only have a limited number of sights to see in Valletta, make sure you put this building on your to-do list!
5. Valletta Waterfront, The Place To Be
Set course for Valletta Waterfront at Grand Harbour, one of Europe's largest natural harbors. It too was built by the Knights of Malta 250 years ago. Today, this emblematic Valletta landmark is a must for the city's nightlife and social scene. No fewer than 19 former warehouses have been converted into restaurants, cafés and boutiques. The result is an unusual, astonishing and, at the same time, utterly charming place. The buildings, with their colorful doors set against honey-colored stone, create a striking backdrop. All this can be seen on the recently laid-out pedestrian promenade, a perfect place to sample local specialties and enjoy the lively terraces.
Don't forget a famous jazz festival is held on the Waterfront every summer in July.
6. Valletta's covered market gets a facelift
This covered market is quite a story! Named Is-Suq Tal-Belt, this historic site has reopened after major renovations. Built between 1859 and 1861, it was unfortunately damaged during the Second World War. Now, to the delight of Maltese and vacationing visitors alike, it has been transformed into a modern space on three levels:
- a high-end supermarket in the basement, the Valletta Food Market,
- food stalls on the first floor
- a relaxation area upstairs, which also hosts cultural events.
Looking for an unusual experience? At Valletta's indoor market, you can cook for yourself with fresh produce. Open every day, this market is a must for discovering Malta's culinary culture. Gourmet friends, this is an address not to be missed!
We recommend that you discover Valletta through its food and drink on this guided walking tour. You'll be immersed in local history and culture as you sample local specialties.
7. Upper Barrakka Gardens, between relaxation and history
It's this kind of magical place that makes Malta a favorite family destination this year! At the Gardens of Upper Barrakka, located atop the bastions of Valletta, you can enjoy a superb view of the natural harbor and the Three Cities. Created in 1661 for the Knights, these gardens served as a place for training and relaxation. That's right, you're literally walking in the footsteps of those famous great knights, who can be found everywhere in Valletta!
This beautiful stroll allows you to stroll among a variety of tree species, while admiring the beautiful sculptures. Fellow Instagrammers and photo enthusiasts will capture panoramic views of the cities of Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua, as well as sites such as Fort Ricasoli and the Paola Mosque.
8. The gardens of Lower Barrakka, an enchanting green setting
Nearby, at the Lower Barrakka Gardens, let yourself be charmed by the Siege Bell Memorial, a monumental 10-ton bronze bell. From here, you can admire some of the most beautiful scenery in the Mediterranean, for a complete change of scenery. The gardens are also home to a Doric temple dedicated to Alexander Ball, a 13th-century British admiral. The floral decor is richer than ever, especially in summer with the hibiscus in bloom!
We particularly recommend this visit on a spring trip, when nature is more beautiful than ever. The mosaic of colors is dazzling!
9. A boat trip on the Mediterranean
Discover one of the world's 15 most beautiful capitals from the sea, on a relaxing excursion on the blue waters of the Mediterranean that you can book right here. From Valletta, you'll board a boat to explore the surrounding area on the waves. This type of excursion offers the chance to discover the Three Cities - Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa. Or would you prefer a more "natural" getaway? Head for Xrobb l-Għaġin, where the remains of a megalithic temple stand alongside impressive cliffs sculpted by the sea. Simply enchanting, magical, sensational!
10. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology
Take a trip back in time, from 5000 BC to the Bronze Age! At Malta's National Museum of Archaeology, you can relive Maltese history through a collection that traces the ancient civilizations that inhabited the islands. Housed in a historic Baroque building, itself well worth a visit, it was once an inn for the Knights of the Order of St. John (them again!). Here you'll see everyday, artistic and architectural objects from local excavations:
- statues
- pottery,
- daggers,
- decorative objects, etc.
Want to learn more? Discover 5 fascinating anecdotes about Malta before you leave on your trip. If you're planning a longer stay, take a look at these 15 must-do things to do in Malta, to discover the island in all its glory.
Where to stay in Valletta?
By staying close to the city center, you'll have easy access to all amenities. Along the harbor, you'll also have a great view to enjoy during your stay!
- The most prestigious
Luxury is everywhere at the Phoenicia, a recently renovated luxury hotel. As you can see by booking herethese renovations have not marred the period charm of this unusual hotel.
- The best view
Waking up to a view of the port and Fort Manoel is what awaits you at the Grand Hotel Excelsior. Add to this the hotel's top-of-the-range services, and you have a 100% successful stay in Valletta. Book your stay here.
- The best location
Located just off Upper Barraca, the Grand Harbour Hotel boasts a privileged view of the surrounding area from its rooftop terrace. An excellent compromise to be booked here, to enjoy quality services at an affordable price.
It's official: Malta and Gozo are the must-see fashion destinations of the moment! You may have found the perfect destination for your summer vacations, not far from France. Prefer to avoid the crowds? Good news, Malta is a perfect destination in November, or for a trip in April, still bathed in sunshine, but less crowded than in midsummer. Have a good trip and be as smart as a fox: leave at the right time, taking care to discover all our travel tips before the big departure!
Book in advance below for the hottest things to do in Valletta:
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