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Valletta hotels: Discover Valletta in a weekend!
Covering just over one square kilometre (0.39 square miles), Valletta might seem like a small destination that you could explore within only a few hours. Yet within its walls lies the beating heart of a magical island: government offices, cosy cafés and lively restaurants that keep the city vibrant at all hours. Don’t be fooled, as the density of life, history and culture in Valletta far exceeds that of many large European cities!
Join us for an unmissable tour and explore its charm step by step, starting from the details: a decorated balcony, a narrow alley opening onto a breathtaking view and the sound of church bells echoing between golden walls. Ready to go?
The Valletta tour in six stops
As soon as you arrive in Valletta, you’ll notice that every corner hides a fascinating detail. Here’s a perfect itinerary to make the most of Malta’s capital over a weekend.
From Triton Fountain to City Gate
Our journey starts at Triton Fountain, an imposing bronze sculpture of three tritons holding up a large shell. It’s one of Malta’s symbols and the perfect starting point for your visit. Crossing the pedestrian bridge, you’ll come face to face with Renzo Piano’s City Gate, the entrance to the city. Despite its modern design, it serves the same purpose it has for centuries: welcoming visitors into fortified Valletta.
St John’s Co-Cathedral
Don’t be misled by its modest exterior: St John’s Co-Cathedral is a triumph of baroque art. Inside, you’ll find a dazzling display of inlaid marble, frescoes and golden decorations, which were commissioned by the Knights of Malta to showcase their power. The cathedral also houses two masterpieces by Caravaggio, including the famous Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the only signed work by the artist.
The Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery
A short walk from the cathedral will bring you to the stunning Upper Barrakka Gardens, one of Valletta’s most beautiful viewpoints. From here, you can admire the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, a view straight out of a painting.
The real spectacle, however, is the Saluting Battery: every day at noon and 4 PM, a cannon shot echoes across the bay, recalling Malta’s military traditions. It’s a must-see experience that adds a historic touch to your visit.
The Grandmaster’s Palace
This magnificent palace was once the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Malta, later the seat of the British governor, and now houses the Office of the President. Inside, you can admire sumptuous rooms adorned with Flemish tapestries, frescoed ceilings and period furnishings. The real highlight is the Palace Armoury, a remarkable collection of armour and weapons, including those once belonging to the legendary knights.
The underground tunnels
Beneath Valletta lies an intricate maze of tunnels, cisterns and military shelters. Dug over centuries for hydraulic and defensive purposes, they were used as air-raid shelters during the war. Today, you can explore some of these fascinating passages on guided tours.
The Three Cities
Just steps from Valletta, you can visit the Three Cities for a truly authentic glimpse of Malta. Vittoriosa–Birgu, the most historic, played a key role during the Great Siege of 1565. Strolling through its medieval streets, don’t miss Fort St Angelo, offering stunning views over the harbour. Cospicua–Bormla, the largest, is known for its fortified walls and tranquil atmosphere. Finally, Senglea–Isla, small and picturesque, provides spectacular views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour.
Travel tips for Valletta holidays
Here are some practical tips to help you plan your holidays to Valletta.
When to go
The island has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, avoiding the intense heat of the summer months. Rain is scarce and mostly confined to winter, while the sun shines most of the year.
How to get there
The city is well connected by direct flights to Valletta from the UK, as well as many other cities throughout Europe and abroad. From the airport in Valletta, you can reach the city centre by bus or taxi. If you’re travelling from Sicily, there are ferry connections that will get you to Malta in just a few hours.
What to eat in Valletta
Maltese cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Be sure to try pastizzi, savoury pastries filled with ricotta or peas. There’s also lampuki pie, a typical fish pie, as well as kapunata, which is similar to Sicilian caponata.
Where to stay in Valletta hotels
The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from boutique Valletta hotels in historic buildings to holiday homes overlooking the harbour. If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider guest houses or B&Bs in nearby neighbourhoods, which are still well connected to the city centre.
Valletta holidays FAQs
Is Valletta a good holiday destination?
Valletta is not directly on a beach, but you’ll find popular swimming spots nearby, including St George’s Bay and Tigné Point, which are just 15-20 minutes away by bus or car. The island’s small size means beaches are always within easy reach.
How far is Valletta from the beach?
A: Valletta is not directly on a beach, but you’ll find popular swimming spots like St George’s Bay or Tigné Point, just 15-20 minutes away by bus or car. The island’s small size means beaches are always within easy reach.
Is Valletta a beach holiday?
While Valletta itself is more of a cultural and historical destination, Malta overall offers great beach options nearby. You can easily combine sightseeing in Valletta with beach days elsewhere on the island.
How many days is enough for Valletta?
Two to three days is ideal to explore Valletta’s main attractions at a relaxed pace. If you plan to visit the nearby Three Cities or take a day trip, consider adding an extra day.
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