Things to do in Valletta and beyond

Things to do in Valletta

As a mere slip of a city, and a very walkable one at that, Valletta invites you to cram a lot into your time here. Excursions can take you north to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon but you have a whole itinerary of beautiful Mediterranean beaches ahead of you and with the Azure Window sadly no more, dedicate your time here to the city itself instead.

Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery

Start your day with a visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, one of Valletta’s most iconic spots. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua. The sandstone walls glow at sunset, making it a magical time to visit.

For something unique, head to the Saluting Battery below the gardens to see the cannons fired daily at 12 PM and 4 PM. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the lift down from the gardens to the waterfront and hop on a ferry or water taxi to the Three Cities.

Valletta Waterfront

The Valletta Waterfront, located near the Grand Harbour, is the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. You’ll find a mix of restaurants, cafes, and bars housed in restored 18th-century warehouses. Sit back with a cold Cisk (Malta’s local beer) while enjoying views of the harbour and passing ships.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

On the outside, St. John’s Co-Cathedral looks plain, but step inside, and you’ll be stunned by its opulent Baroque interiors. Gilded walls, marbled floors, and frescoed ceilings make this a must-see in Valletta. Don’t miss Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, housed in the oratory.

Before you go, remember that your knees and shoulders must be covered to enter the cathedral.

Lascaris War Rooms

For history enthusiasts, the Lascaris War Rooms are unmissable. Hidden beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens, this underground WWII command centre was where key military decisions were made. The network of tunnels and control rooms sheds light on Malta’s strategic role during the war. Guided tours at 10:30 AM and 1 PM provide fascinating insights into this chapter of history.

National Museum of Archaeology

Located on Republic Street, this museum is housed in a stunning Baroque building and features artefacts from Malta’s ancient history. Highlights include prehistoric statues from the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples.

Wander Valletta’s Backstreets

Valletta’s charm lies in its streets. Walk through narrow alleys lined with vintage shopfronts, colorful balconies, and centuries-old buildings. The city’s layout is easy to navigate, so you won’t get lost—eventually, every road leads to the sea. Don’t forget to grab a pastizzi (a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) from a local bakery as you explore.

Strait Street

Once known as “The Gut,” Strait Street was Valletta’s nightlife hub during its seafaring days. Today, it’s been transformed into a vibrant area filled with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Stop by TicoTico for retro vibes or head to The Pub, famous for being the site of actor Oliver Reed’s last drink.

Manoel Theatre

For a touch of culture, visit the Manoel Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest working theatres. Its ornate interiors and intimate size make it a great place to catch a performance or simply tour the building.

Excursions from Valletta

Malta’s small size means you can easily explore other attractions outside Valletta. Here are some top destinations to consider:

Popeye Village

Located in Mellieħa, Popeye Village was originally built as the set for the 1980 film Popeye. Today, it’s a quirky attraction with colourful wooden buildings, boat rides, and live shows. It’s particularly fun for families, though the seaside charm appeals to all ages.

Mdina – The Silent City

Mdina is a walled medieval city that offers a peaceful retreat from modern life. Its narrow streets, impressive palaces, and St. Paul’s Cathedral make it a must-visit. Cars are limited here, so the atmosphere is quiet and serene. Don’t miss the views from the city walls, which stretch across the island.

Mosta Dome

The Mosta Dome, or Rotunda of Mosta, is famous for its massive dome—the third largest in Europe. During WWII, a bomb fell through the dome during Mass but didn’t explode, a moment locals still commemorate. The church is a quick bus ride from Valletta.

Blue Lagoon (Comino)

The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is known for its crystal-clear waters and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Ferries to Comino leave from Cirkewwa, about an hour from Valletta. While the lagoon can get crowded in summer, its beauty makes it worth the trip.

Gozo

Gozo, Malta’s second-largest island, is a haven of natural beauty and history. Highlights include:

• Victoria (Rabat): The island’s capital, with a historic Citadel offering panoramic views.
• Ta’ Pinu Basilica: A peaceful pilgrimage site.
• Coastline: Gozo’s rugged shores and diving spots are perfect for nature lovers.

Take the ferry from Cirkewwa to Gozo, which runs regularly and takes 25 minutes.

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