
CITY OF VALLETTA, MALTA
Are you planning a Malta city break? A few days in the ancient city of Valletta? Well, you’re in for a treat. Having just returned from 4 fab days there, we’re here to help you out with your travel plans. Which Valletta hotel to book, how to get around, where to eat, and a list of all the best things to see in Valletta during your trip. But first of all, a little background info…
The City Of Valletta, Malta
On a hilly peninsula, located between two natural harbours in the Mediterranean, the city of Valletta, Malta, is structurally shoehorned into impressive bastioned walls. This otherwise useless island, with no precious natural resources, no fertile soil, no tree’s higher than a bus stop and certainly no room to swing a cat, somehow managed to host a capital that prevailed as the centre of Mediterranean drama for centuries.
The city Valletta, established by the Knights of Jerusalem in the 16th century, is not only Europe’s smallest capital city but its most southernmost too. And its features don’t end there. This golden hued city is a Baroque masterpiece complete with palaces, auberges, a church for each day of the year and the colossal St John’s Cathedral. And that’s before you even begin with Valletta’s impressive military strongholds.

Add to all of those highlights the fact that Valletta in Malta gets over 300 days of sun each year, and temperatures rarely drop below 14 degrees in winter, you can see why a weekend in Valletta is a sound choice! So let’s get to the details…
Book This Boutique Hotel In Valletta…
On the advice of several family members, we chose a hotel in Valletta within the city walls. Whilst it is possible to stay across the water in Sliema and catch a regular ferry over to the old city of Valletta, you really would be missing out on the early morning quiet ease of the city and the late night buzz too.
The Embassy Valletta Hotel really does have it all and we were actually quite surprised at the extremely reasonable prices of the rooms. As regular readers will know, here at MyLifeLongHoliday we love a view! And this was what initially drew us in. But what we weren’t banking on was all of the hotel extra’s, its perfect location for Valletta-first-timers and the effortlessly stylish interiors. There’s a pool, a romantic rooftop restaurant, a gym and even a cinema room for movie nights. And on top of all of that, staff are extremely helpful and friendly. There was nothing to fault. For the best deals at the Embassy Valletta Hotel, click here.


The Embassy Hotel, Valletta, Malta.
Things To See In Valletta, Malta
There is ample sightseeing in Valletta. Malta has some exciting stories under its belt and exploring this beautiful city is a sure fire way of uncovering them.
Most of those stories involve the Knights of St John – a group of military monks (not 2 words that often go together) who were gifted the island of Malta as a military move. Previously, despite enabling the spread of Christianity into the Holy Lands, and quite accomplished in the art of acquiring riches from Muslims, these knights found themselves down on their luck and homeless. In comes King Charles V of Spain, who shrewdly believed that by donating them Malta, this strategically placed island could protect the west from Turkish invasion. Perhaps King Charles was the only man who still appreciated The Knights talents, or maybe he just has a strong aversion to cheap meat on a stick and fake handbags. Whatever his reasons, The Knights now had a new pad to furnish, and furnish it they did.
And, despite being severely bombed in the second world war, much of what The Knights created still remains intact today. And that, my friend, is why there is so much to see in the city of Valletta.
1. Visit St. John’s Co Cathedral
Why a co-cathedral? Because the daddy cathedral remains in Malta’s oldest capital city, Mdina, and is the official seat of the archbishop of Malta. But don’t let that delude you into thinking St John’s is a lesser specimen! And, actually, from the outside it’s so unassuming you could be forgiven for thinking so. However, its ornate innards betray its modest facade and your mouth will be opened in awe. It’s fair to say this is where the knights mostly chose to spend their ill-gotten gains from past privateering.
It’s especially cool that the marbled gravestones of dead knights shroud the floor with their macabre pictures. And, also that an actual Caravaggio painting hangs in the Oratory! Now that I was willing to part with €15 for. Caravaggio’s affairs with the city Valletta are a very interesting topic, so make sure you pick up the audio guide to hear all about that.


2. Visit The Grandmaster’s Palace
Once the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John, this palace is now the President of Malta’s office, and a fascinating museum. Inside, you’ll find elaborately decorated state rooms and historical artifacts. Then, in the famous Council Chamber, hang the artifacts that might be worth your ticket price – The Gobelin Tapestries. Intricate tapestries, 400 years old and preserved perfectly, created in France and depicting scenes from the supposed New World.


These 450 year old hallways ooze power, I just wish that more care had been taken to curate the museum a little better. Certain parts are currently closed for renovations, so check before you book your ticket. But hopefully, once they’re complete, you’ll be able to experience this beautiful building a bit better.
And if you think you may leave an internal visit to another time when the works are complete, at least give the palace a ‘walk-by’ courtesy.
3. Catch The Noonday Gun At The Upper Barrakka Gardens
Perched high above the Grand Harbour, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are a peaceful oasis. That is until the clock strikes 12 and the gun obnoxiously wakes you from your half-slumber. Seriously though, the midday spectacle is well worth securing a spot on the balcony for – it’s a tradition that has continued since the 16th century. And, if you’re really keen to see it up close, you can also purchase a ticket for the Saluting Battery Museum (Adults €3) below. (The gun also goes off at 4pm each day too)
Back in the Barrakka Gardens though, you can have a coffee on the terrace, enjoy the gardens and take in the sweeping views of Malta’s Three Cities. This spot has one of the best panoramic views in Valletta.

4. Take The Barrakka Lift To Enjoy The Waterfront At Valletta’s Grand Harbour
Built in 2012 to replace the old one, the Barrakka lift connects upper Valletta to lower Valletta. And you might be thinking ‘big deal’, but dropping 190 feet in a great glass elevator, with harbour views, for €1, beats the 282 stairs in my books. Then you arrive, sans-perspiration, at the picturesque promenade for some lunch or a cheeky Aperol.
The colourful 18th century warehouses are the backdrop to a bustling scene of bars and restaurants, especially come evening. And if you really want, it’s from here that you can pick up a water taxi, or dghajsa, to visit the nearby Three Cities.


5. Walk Through Valletta’s Streets and Squares
Built on a grid and rising to high point around St George’s Square in the centre, Valletta’s streets are not for the feeble-knee’d! But you’re going to want to take your time anyway since there are so many ornate wooden balconies and elaborate doorways to admire whilst you catch your breath.
Republic Street and Merchant Street are bustling with shops, cafes, and markets, while quieter alleys reveal hidden courtyards and centuries-old architecture. Iconic squares like St. George’s Square and the Great Siege Square are ideal for people-watching or grabbing a coffee.



Come evening we loved the buzz around the southern end of Valletta city – especially the Triq San Gwann and St Lucia’s Street steps. Restaurant’s and bars have precariously balanced tables and chairs on the smooth golden steps and there’s barely enough room to pass by. But no one seems deterred by the lack of space, and along with the views of the harbour below, the energetic chaos is a sight to behold and a joy to join in with.
Whilst wandering the streets be sure to keep your eyes peeled for clue’s to Valletta’s history. Apart from the fact they drive on the left in Malta, you’ll also notice a few red telephone and post boxes and lamp posts with the Royal insignia on them from when the British owned it as a colony. Plus, you can’t miss the statue of Queen Victoria in Republic Square. And, once a favourite with British officers and dignitaries, The Phoenicia Hotel near the City Gate still retains a strong British feel, with elegant afternoon tea service in its lounges. To be honest, if our budget stretched this far (£500 a night average), we would definitely love to stay here!


You’ll probably find your camera roll also fills up with copious amounts of posh door knockers, street shrines and decorative coats of arms owned by previous Grand Masters. There are so many interesting things to see in Valletta!



6. Visit Some Of Valletta’s Museums
There are multiple historical, art and military museums to visit during your weekend break to Malta. We’ve already mentioned the most popular one, The Grand Master’s Palace, but here is a list of the other museums in Valletta;
- The National Museum of Archaeology – €5
- Fort St Elmo – National War Museum – €10
- Casa Rocca Piccola (A traditional Maltese aristocrats palace) – €10
- The Lascaris War Rooms – €14
- The Saluting Battery at Upper Barrakka – €3
- Malta Postal Museum and Arts Hub – €7
- MUZA Art Museum – €10
- The Valletta Contemporary – FREE
7. Enjoy Valletta’s Green Spaces
The cheerful honey-coloured stone that built Valletta is easy on the eyes and warming to the soul, but sometimes you just need some green space. Especially if you’re done with crowds or the sun is bearing down. Thankfully there are a few pleasant parks in Valletta.
We’ve already mentioned the Barrakka Gardens where you can watch the 12 noon gun, and these are definitely worth stopping for. There’s a cute little cafe and the gardens are well landscaped and filled with curiosities such as statues and sculptures. Plus, it’s probably the best place for panoramic views of the city of Valletta.


Gnien Hastings, a more low-key park atop the city’s old fortification walls, is another place where the tree’s offer charitable cover. This park also offers some birdseye views of the harbour, and is a great place to take photographs of the ancient walls.
Probably my favourite though is a little hidden gem on the north-eastern point of Valletta, Lower Barrakka. Beautiful arches provide windows to different stretches of the city, a running fountain introduces a calm serene perspective, and a neoclassical temple dedicated to Sir Alexander Bell brings in the irony as folk sit on nearby benches and stare at their phones! Still, it’s all very cute.
8. Take Advantage of Valletta’s Cuisine
The first reason we ever became interested in a weekend break to Malta was because of a few food and cooking programmes we’d watched on TV. It was quite clear that centuries of foreign rule and being placed on a trade route had left its mark. The cuisine is rustic and fresh but concocted into a tasty fusion of Italian, Arabic, African, French and British delights, and we were up for trying them all.
Some Maltese Dishes To Try…
- Pastizzi. Flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas found in any decent bakery.
- Timpana. A baked macaroni pie.
- Kusksu. A broad bean and pasta soup with Arabic spices.
- Fenek. A slow-cooked rabbit stew – one of Malta’s national dishes and found on most menus.
- Lampuki Pie. A flaky pastry fish pie made with mahi-mahi and capers.
- Bigilla. A broad bean dip usually served with Maltese bread.
- Bragioli (Beef Olives). This slices of beef stuffed with eggs and breadcrumbs in a tomato-based sauce.
- Imqaret. A deep-fried date filled pastry.
- The Diplomatica. Only served at Caffe Cordina I think, but it’s a Maltese twist on a Sicilian Vanilla Slice. A rum-soaked sponge with a layer of green marzipan and cream between 2 layers of puff pastry.
Some great places to eat across the city…
- Caffe Cordina on Republic Square. Used in the movie Munich and possibly the best place for people watching, it’s a great spot day or night. Famous for its pastizzi, the Diplomatica, and the friendly waiters.
- Rampila. Part of the old ramparts and a gorgeous outdoor dining spot, even in winter. Expect high-class versions of all the Maltese favourites.
- Sotto Pinsa Romana. It’s been a while since we’ve had pizza this good. They’re famous for their carbonara pizza and authentic Italian hospitality.
- Legligin Restaurant. A great way to sample lots of Maltese dishes cooked to perfection with their 5 course taster lunch for €35.
- Zero Sei Trattoria Romana. A fantastic Italian restaurant recommended to us by a Maltese local.
9. Valletta Night-Life
Bar-hop through history as you drink your way around Valletta’s centuries-old streets, where a lot of venues are often housed in historic buildings. Unlike the larger, club-heavy nightlife of St Julian’s around the bay, Valletta’s social scene is a more intimate and stylish experience.
Some of our favourites were Yard 32 – a gin and tapas bar, Alchemy – a speakeasy cocktail bar, and Merchants Street where restaurants spill out onto the pavement and live music attracts a happy crowd. Triq San Gwann and St Lucia’s Street are also fun places to hang out, where bar owners have transformed the ancient limestone steps of sloping streets into open air seating beneath the glow of hanging lanterns.
Alternatively, you will definitely find some lively bars along Strait Street, also known as The Gut, the centre of debauchery and prostitution in olden-day Valletta. Reinvented as Valletta’s most vibrant street, you’ll find an eclectic mix of cocktail bars, cozy pubs and live music venues.
10. Hire A Car For The Day
We were in Valletta for 4 days and on our final day we hired a car for less than the cost of airport transfers (€10). One of us took the bus to the airport in the morning, picked up the car and circled back to collect the rest of the party after we’d checked out. Our flight wasn’t until 10pm so we thought we’d take advantage of some wheels and explore a bit more of Malta. Here are two places we can highly recommend visiting…
The Walled City Of Mdina
Known as the ‘Silent City’, Mdina used to be the capital city before the knights arrived, and it has a fascinating vibe. ‘Silent’ nowadays due to the strict ban on cars, but in bygone times the town fell into a kind of slumber and the only folk to remain, and not up-sticks to Valletta, were some noble families and aristocrats with a little more wisdom.


Perched on a hill, hemmed in by limestone walls, Mdina feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Or literally a Game of Thrones episode, as parts have been filmed here. And the panoramic views of Malta in every direction are the icing on the cake. Speaking of cake, be sure to have some local Mqaret (date cake) at Gustav’s Cafe – a little hidden gem and one of the highest points in the city.
While you’re there, don’t miss St. Paul’s Cathedral (the real one this time, none of this ‘co’ business). A breathtaking Baroque masterpiece that dominates the town’s skyline. Pop inside to marvel at the stunning ceiling frescoes and the intricate marble floor – you’ll feel cultured and refined in no time.
Getting To Medina : It’s only a half-hour drive from the city of Valletta by car if you’ve hired one, and a round trip taxi will cost you about €60. Alternatively, there are several buses leaving daily from Valletta and they drop you at Rabat, just outside of Mdina’s walls.




Have Lunch At Marsaxlokk
One of the highlights of our weekend in Malta was our final meal in Marsaxlokk. This charming and colourful fishing village, only 30 minutes south of Valletta and 15 minutes from the airport, couldn’t be anymore contrasting from Valletta and Mdina. The honey-toned colour pallette that you become accustomed to in the two capitals stands in stark contrast to the rainbow vibes of this traditional Phoenician harbour town.
The restaurant terraces that spill out to the waters edge are buzzing with local families dining out for lunch. Colourful luzzus (traditional Maltese fishing boats) bob about in the harbour, and fishermen mend their nets. But despite todays laid-back atmosphere, Marsaxlokk betrays a rather dramatic history. It was a very important harbour during Phoenician rule and later played a strategic role in Malta’s defense during the famous Ottoman landing during the Great Siege of 1565. Today, though, the town is better known for its Sunday fish market, where the freshest catch is unloaded straight from the boats – a tradition that has remained unchanged for generations.
The pace of life here is slow and unhurried, making it the perfect place to soak up Maltese culture, watch the world go by, and experience a side of the island that feels untouched by time.


Restaurant Tip
We had lunch at Harbour by Johann at the far end of the bay and were treated to some warm hospitality and the most incredible sea bass and sea food. We were even serenaded by Bivak for my parents anniversary – a highlight that created the perfect ending to our weekend in Malta.
So, there you have it – some Malta tips and all of the best places to visit in Valletta. And, don’t forget to take a look at our Valletta hotel recommendation, The Embassy, it really is the perfect location for first-timers to the city of Valletta, Malta.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our readers. Every time you make a booking through one of our links, we make a small commission at no extra cost to yourselves. This goes some way to covering the expenses of this blog and we are very grateful. So, Thank You.
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