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15 Best Places You Must See in Valletta, Malta
15 Best Places You Must See in Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, stunning architecture, and charming streets.
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Last Update
19 Dec 2023
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5
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1. St. John's Co-Cathedral – A Baroque Masterpiece
Right in the heart of Valletta, St. John’s Co-Cathedral stands as a breathtaking symbol of Malta’s rich religious and artistic heritage. From the outside, it appears rather austere a simple limestone facade that almost disguises the splendour within. But once inside, visitors are met with a visual explosion of baroque art: gilded columns, intricate carvings, vivid frescoes, and sweeping vaulted ceilings that speak to centuries of devotion and craftsmanship.
Commissioned by the Knights of St. John in the late 16th century, the cathedral was completed in 1577 and dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, the order’s patron saint. Each of the eight chapels along the nave represents one of the "langues" or national divisions of the Knights, each decorated to reflect their cultural identity and religious passion.
The highlight for many is Caravaggio’s dramatic painting, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, which hangs in the Oratory. It's the only painting Caravaggio ever signed, and its raw intensity leaves a lasting impression. The cathedral’s marble floor, too, is a work of art, essentially a vast mosaic of tombstones, each one commemorating a knight with elaborate coats of arms and epitaphs in Latin.
Visit Info
• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available at the entrance or online
• Tickets: €10 for adults, €7 for students
• Tip: Don’t miss Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St. John the Baptist
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The ornate baroque interior of the church
• The view of the cathedral’s façade from the square
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Museum of the Cathedral: Explore more of the cathedral's treasures
• Upper Barracca Gardens: Stunning views of the Grand Harbour
Address: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, St. John Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
2. Upper Barracca Gardens – Scenic Views of the Grand Harbour
Just a short walk uphill from the bustling streets of Valletta, the Upper Barracca Gardens offer one of the most captivating views in all of Malta. Perched atop the city’s historic bastions, these gardens are more than just a green retreat they are a window into the island’s dramatic past and picturesque present.
Created as a private garden for Italian Knights of the Order of St. John in the 17th century, the Upper Barracca Gardens have since been opened to the public and transformed into a peaceful, elevated space shaded by arcaded terraces and peppered with sculptures, fountains, and flowering trees.
The star attraction, without a doubt, is the panoramic view. From the terrace, visitors can gaze out over the Grand Harbour and the iconic Three Cities Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua. Ships glide in and out of the harbour, and on a clear day, the blue of the sea stretches out toward the horizon like a shimmering ribbon. It’s a favourite spot for photographers and romantics alike.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Best Time: Late afternoon for beautiful sunset views
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Free to visit
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Visit around noon when the cannons are fired for a dramatic touch
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The view from the gardens overlooking the Grand Harbour
• The baroque design and lush greenery
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Lower Barracca Gardens: A quieter spot for a peaceful escape
• The Grand Harbour: Take a boat ride for a different view of the area
Address: Upper Barracca Gardens, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
3. The Grand Master’s Palace – A Historical Marvel
At the heart of Valletta stands a building that has shaped Malta’s history for over four centuries: The Grand Master’s Palace. As the former residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John, and now the seat of the President of Malta, the palace blends baroque magnificence with deep historical resonance.
From its grand courtyards to the opulently adorned staterooms, every inch of this palace whispers stories of diplomacy, governance, and grandeur. Inside, the Hall of St. Michael and St. George dazzles visitors with its ornate ceilings and imposing chandeliers. Painted murals by Italian artist Matteo Perez d’Aleccio illustrate pivotal naval battles and glorify the Order’s feats.
Perhaps the most compelling feature is the Palace Armoury, which houses one of the largest collections of arms and armour still housed in its original location. From elaborately decorated suits of armour to fearsome weapons, it’s a walk through the martial legacy of the knights who once defended Malta against invaders.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Morning for fewer crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available on-site
• Tickets: €10 for adults, €7 for students
• Tip: Don’t miss the Armoury, which houses an impressive collection of weapons
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The stunning entrance to the palace
• The Hall of Mirrors, with its opulent design
Hidden Gems Nearby
• St. George’s Square: A beautiful piazza just outside the palace
• Casa Rocca Piccola: A noble residence showcasing Maltese aristocracy
Address: The Grand Master’s Palace, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
4. The National War Museum – Discover Malta’s Military History
Nestled within the stone ramparts of Fort St. Elmo, the National War Museum offers an immersive journey through Malta’s turbulent military history. From the crusading days of the Knights of St. John to the aerial bombardments of World War II, this museum is a monument to Maltese resilience.
The exhibitions are thoughtfully arranged across various periods, each section enriched with artefacts, personal stories, photographs, and interactive displays. Particularly poignant are the displays dedicated to the Second World War an era during which Malta was awarded the George Cross by King George VI in recognition of the islanders' exceptional bravery.
Highlights include wartime diaries, air raid shelters, and one of the original George Cross medals. The setting inside the ancient fort adds another layer of authenticity, reminding visitors that these walls once bore witness to the very events on display.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Afternoon, when it’s less crowded
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available on-site
• Tickets: €10 for adults
• Tip: Explore the extensive collection of WWII exhibits
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The fortress walls and views from Fort St. Elmo
• Historic weapons and military artefacts inside the museum
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Fort St. Elmo: The fort itself is worth exploring
• The Siege Bell Memorial: A tribute to the bravery of the Maltese during WWII
Address: Fort St. Elmo, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
5. The Lower Barracca Gardens – A Quiet Escape
While its better-known sibling, the Upper Barracca Gardens, draws the crowds and cameras, the Lower Barracca Gardens offer a gentler, more reflective escape. Perched on the edge of Valletta’s eastern bastions, this small garden is a hidden gem where Mediterranean flora meets sweeping views.
The focal point is the neo-classical monument to Sir Alexander Ball, one of the leaders of the Maltese rebellion against Napoleonic rule. Surrounded by flowering shrubs, ancient stone benches, and shade-giving trees, it’s a favourite spot for locals seeking quiet contemplation or a lunch break in nature.
From its stone balustrades, visitors are treated to uninterrupted views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, all set against a backdrop of glistening blue. It’s particularly charming in the early morning or just before sunset, when the light softens and the city begins to glow.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Best Time: Morning or early afternoon
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Free to visit
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Perfect for a short, relaxing break
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Mediterranean flora and peaceful pathways
• The views towards the Three Cities and Grand Harbour
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Grand Harbour: Take a boat tour from the nearby pier
Address: Lower Barracca Gardens, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
6. Manoel Theatre – Europe’s Third-Oldest Theatre
Step back into 18th-century elegance at Manoel Theatre, Europe’s third-oldest working theatre and a jewel of Valletta’s cultural scene. Completed in 1731 and named after Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, the theatre was envisioned as a cultural gift to the Maltese people and it remains exactly that today.
With its ornate wooden balconies, plush red velvet seats, and sparkling crystal chandeliers, the Manoel Theatre is a feast for the eyes even when the stage is empty. But it truly comes alive during performances whether it’s a classical concert, opera, drama, or contemporary Maltese play.
The theatre also houses a small but fascinating museum where visitors can learn about its history, from early productions to wartime closures and post-war revivals. Guided tours are available, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the life of the theatre and its architectural wonders.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time: Check the schedule for performances
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available on the official website
• Tickets: Varies by performance
• Tip: Visit the theatre for a guided tour to learn about its rich history
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The ornate interior with its gold details and plush red velvet seats
• The view of the theatre from the outside square
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Republic Street: Valletta’s main shopping and dining street
• The Palace Armoury: Visit after the theatre to learn more about Malta’s past
Address: Manoel Theatre, Old Theatre Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
7. The National Museum of Archaeology – Malta’s Prehistoric Treasures
Tucked inside the grand Auberge de Provence on Republic Street, the National Museum of Archaeology offers an astonishing look at Malta’s ancient past. While Valletta is often celebrated for its baroque splendour and military heritage, this museum takes visitors far deeper, back to the Neolithic age, to a time when the Maltese islands were home to one of the world’s oldest known civilisations.
The museum’s collection is not only vast but emotionally resonant. You’ll find finely carved stone idols like the famous “Sleeping Lady,” whose curled form suggests spiritual symbolism, or the “Venus of Malta,” a figure of feminine beauty and fertility dating back to 3000 BC. These aren't just archaeological relics; they’re glimpses into the minds and lives of a prehistoric people.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1 hour
• Best Time: Morning to avoid the crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available on-site
• Tickets: €10 for adults, €5 for students
• Tip: Don’t miss the Venus of Malta and the ancient pottery displays
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The prehistoric artefacts and stone tools
• The Venus of Malta statue
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Grand Harbour: Take a boat ride after visiting the museum
• St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Visit nearby for more historical exploration
Address: National Museum of Archaeology, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
8. Barracca Lift – A Convenient Way to the Upper Barracca Gardens
One of Valletta’s most modern and most convenient additions is the Barracca Lift. It may only take a few seconds to ride, but it offers a thrilling vertical journey between the historic Grand Harbour and the majestic Upper Barracca Gardens. Opened in 2012 as a 21st-century reimagining of an older industrial lift, it’s now an essential part of Valletta’s urban experience.
At 58 meters tall, the glass-and-steel structure zips you from the waterfront, where ferries and traditional dgħajsa boats dock, straight up the bastion walls. As you ascend, the view over the harbour unfurls dramatically behind you, making this lift not just a shortcut, but a scenic moment worth capturing.
Visit Info
• Duration: 5 minutes
• Best Time: Anytime during daylight
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available at the lift station
• Tickets: €1.00
• Tip: Take the lift for a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The panoramic views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour from the lift
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Upper Barracca Gardens: Explore right after your lift ride
Address: Barracca Lift, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
9. The Auberge de Castille – A Beautiful Building with a Storied Past
Commanding one of the highest points in Valletta, the Auberge de Castille is an architectural showstopper. Originally built in the 1570s as a residence for the Spanish knights of the Order of St. John, it was later rebuilt in the 1740s into the ornate baroque beauty you see today. Its symmetry, limestone facade, and decorative sculptures reflect Malta’s golden age of architecture.
Today, it houses the office of the Prime Minister of Malta, so it’s not open to the public for interior tours. However, the exterior alone is worth the visit, especially when the sunlight hits its warm stone surface, casting sharp shadows and bringing out the intricate details.
The adjacent Castille Square is a great place to sit and admire the building or take photos with the bustling city as your backdrop. The Auberge’s position also provides panoramic views of the Grand Harbour area if you wander just a few steps around the corner.
Visit Info
• Duration: 20–30 minutes (outside view)
• Best Time: Any time during the day
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Free to visit (outdoor view)
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Take a photo from Castille Square for a perfect shot
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The grand façade and surrounding cityscape
• Castille Square with the auberge as the focal point
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Lower Barracca Gardens: A short walk from the Auberge de Castille
Address: Auberge de Castille, Castille Square, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
10. The Fortifications of Valletta – Walk Along History’s Walls
Valletta’s massive stone fortifications are among the most defining features of the city, and for good reason. Constructed in the aftermath of the Great Siege of 1565, these bastions, walls, and ramparts were designed to make Valletta an impenetrable fortress. Today, walking along them offers not only stunning views but a sense of awe at the scale of human ambition and engineering.
The best way to explore them is by starting at City Gate and following the path along the outer walls. Each turn reveals something new: lookout towers with cannon ports, dramatic views of the Mediterranean, or glimpses into the dry ditches that once deterred invaders.
The fortifications are not just static stone, they’re alive with stories. You’ll see plaques, monuments, and even the occasional re-enactment that brings the military history of Malta to life.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1 hour
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Free to explore
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s history and significance
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The panoramic views from the city’s ramparts
• The historic gates and bastions
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Fort St. Elmo: Explore the fort and its museum after walking the walls
Address: Fortifications of Valletta, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
11. The Siege Bell Memorial – Honouring the Brave of WWII
Standing proudly on a promontory overlooking the Grand Harbour, the Siege Bell Memorial is one of Valletta’s most poignant landmarks. Erected in 1992 to honour those who died during the Siege of Malta in World War II, the monument consists of a bronze bell set within a neoclassical colonnade, flanked by the figure of a grieving woman sculpted in limestone.
Each day at noon, the bell tolls across the harbour a solemn, resonant sound that carries far over the water. It’s a moment of remembrance, and standing there as the sound washes over the landscape is both moving and humbling.
The location also offers one of the most spectacular vantage points in Valletta. From this quiet terrace, you can see the mouth of the Grand Harbour, the open sea beyond, and the limestone architecture of the Three Cities across the water.
Visit Info
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Best Time: Noon for the bell’s daily ring
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Free to visit
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Visit at noon to hear the bell ring
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The impressive bell overlooking the harbour
• The Memorial with its striking architecture
Hidden Gems Nearby
• The Upper Barracca Gardens for more stunning views
Address: Siege Bell Memorial, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
12. The National Library of Malta – A Treasure Trove of Knowledge
Nestled on Republic Square, the National Library of Malta is one of the country’s most underappreciated gems. While other attractions may dazzle with gold and marble, this place captivates through silence, scholarship, and centuries of stories.
Founded in 1776 by Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc, the library contains a priceless collection of manuscripts, maps, and books that chronicle Malta’s political, cultural, and ecclesiastical history. Among its most treasured possessions are original documents from the Knights of St. John, including detailed records, correspondence, and property deeds.
The building’s neoclassical architecture reflects Enlightenment ideals of reason and learning, and stepping inside is like entering a sanctuary of knowledge. Rows of tall wooden shelves, globes, and faded leather-bound books exude an atmosphere of old-world elegance. It’s not uncommon to see researchers poring over 17th-century texts under warm reading lamps.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Best Time: Morning
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Contact ahead for tour availability
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Check for occasional exhibitions and public access days
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The historic reading room and vintage decor
• The façade from Republic Street
Hidden Gems Nearby
• St. George’s Square and its surrounding cafes
Address: National Library of Malta, Republic Square, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, accessible by foot or bus
13. Casa Rocca Piccola – A Noble Maltese Home
In a city built by knights and shaped by war, Casa Rocca Piccola stands out for offering something far more personal: a glimpse into the private world of Maltese nobility. Still lived in by the same family for generations, this 16th-century palace has been carefully preserved and opened to visitors through guided tours that are as engaging as they are informative.
Every room tells a story. The dining hall, with its silverware and antique china, feels ready for a banquet. The library contains hundreds of old volumes, while the chapel shows the deep religiosity of Malta’s upper class. The walls are adorned with portraits, heirlooms, and letters from days long gone, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and lived-in.
Visit Info
• Duration: 45–60 minutes (guided tour recommended)
• Best Time: Late morning or early afternoon
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official website or at the door
• Tickets: €10 for adults, includes guided tour
• Tip: Ask questions during the tour, it's often led by the owner or a family member
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The grand dining room and antique furniture
• The charming courtyard with potted citrus trees
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Strait Street: Once Valletta’s red-light district, now a lively bar and dining hub
• Church of St. Catherine of Italy: An underrated gem nearby
Address: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, easily walkable
14. MUŻA – Museum of Fine Arts in a Historic Auberge
Housed within the restored Auberge d’Italie, MUŻA (the National Museum of Art) is where past and present Malta meet on canvas. It’s not just a museum, it’s a statement about who the Maltese are, where they’ve been, and how they see themselves today.
The name MUŻA comes from the Maltese word for inspiration and also reflects the museum’s role as a hub for both national and European artistic heritage. Inside, you’ll find everything from 16th-century altarpieces and religious icons to contemporary photography and installations. The works span Maltese, Italian, and Flemish schools, arranged not chronologically but thematically, making for a more intuitive and personal experience.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Weekday afternoons
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official website or ticket counter
• Tickets: €10 for adults, free on select public holidays
• Tip: Use the museum’s app for an enhanced guided experience
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The museum’s inner courtyard and staircase
• Classic paintings paired with minimalist lighting
Hidden Gems Nearby
• St. Paul’s Shipwreck Church: One of Valletta’s oldest and most beautiful churches
Address: Auberge d’Italie, Merchants Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, central and easily walkable
15. Strait Street – From Sin City to Culture Hub
Winding its way like a sly grin through the heart of Valletta, Strait Street (known locally as “Strada Stretta”) is both infamous and irresistible. Once the city’s red-light district, filled with sailors, jazz, and bar brawls, this narrow alley has seen more than its fair share of drama.
Today, Strait Street has been reborn as a cultural hub where history, nightlife, and artistry collide. During the day, you can explore quirky shops, tucked-away art galleries, and cafés where creatives gather to discuss everything from literature to politics. As the sun sets, the mood shifts: string lights flicker on, live music fills the air, and the bars come alive.
This renaissance hasn't erased the past it celebrates it. Some of the bars proudly wear their vintage roots, with décor inspired by 1950s music halls or maritime dive bars. Others offer a more modern take, serving craft cocktails and fusion tapas in intimate, dimly lit settings.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–2 hours (or longer for nightlife)
• Best Time: Early evening to late night
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: No booking needed, just walk in
• Tickets: Free to explore, drinks and dining vary
• Tip: Visit Tico Tico or The Rootz for local cocktails and live music
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The narrow cobbled lane lit with vintage lanterns
• Outdoor seating areas perfect for reels and moody photography
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Splendid – an old building turned arts venue
• The Bridge Bar – Live jazz every Friday under the stars
Address: Strait Street, Valletta, Malta
Metro: No metro, located in the heart of Valletta
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About Me
The Atlas Aura
Welcome to The Atlas Aura – I’m Antares, the storyteller behind the journey. Alongside my husband and our little son, we explore the world together, turning everyday moments into lasting memories. With a deep passion for uncovering hidden corners of the world, we craft cinematic travel experiences that blend culture, authenticity, and wonder.
