15 Best Places You Must See in Valletta, Malta

1. St. John's Co-Cathedral – A Baroque Masterpiece

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is an iconic baroque church, renowned for its stunning interior and historical significance. Completed in 1577, this co-cathedral features intricate carvings, beautiful frescoes, and masterpieces by Caravaggio. A visit here is like stepping into a living piece of history.

Visit Info
• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets 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

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2. Upper Barracca Gardens – Scenic Views of the Grand Harbour

The Upper Barracca Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and the surrounding landscapes. A peaceful oasis in the heart of Valletta, this garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll or to enjoy the picturesque vistas.

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

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3. The Grand Master’s Palace – A Historical Marvel

The Grand Master’s Palace was the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John. Today, it serves as the office of the President of Malta and a museum. It showcases grand rooms, historical artefacts, and beautiful courtyards.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Morning for fewer crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets 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

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4. The National War Museum – Discover Malta’s Military History

Located within Fort St. Elmo, the National War Museum tells the story of Malta’s military history, from the Knights of St. John to World War II. With its vast collection of artefacts, it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Malta’s strategic importance.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Afternoon, when it’s less crowded
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets 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

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5. The Lower Barracca Gardens – A Quiet Escape

The Lower Barracca Gardens, located just beneath the Upper Barracca Gardens, offer a more tranquil atmosphere. While the views may not be as grand, the lush greenery and peaceful environment make it a perfect spot for reflection.

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

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6. Manoel Theatre – Europe’s Third-Oldest Theatre

Manoel Theatre, completed in 1731, is one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. It boasts an elegant baroque design and hosts various performances throughout the year. Catching a show here is a unique way to experience the cultural life of Valletta.

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

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7. The National Museum of Archaeology – Malta’s Prehistoric Treasures

This museum houses some of the most important archaeological finds in Malta, including ancient statues, pottery, and tools from the prehistoric era. The Venus of Malta, a carved stone figure dating back to 3000 BC, is one of the museum’s highlights.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1 hour
• Best Time: Morning to avoid the crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets 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

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8. Barracca Lift – A Convenient Way to the Upper Barracca Gardens

The Barracca Lift connects the lower part of Valletta to the Upper Barracca Gardens, offering a quick and scenic ride up the steep hill. This modern lift makes visiting the gardens even more accessible.

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

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9. The Auberge de Castille – A Beautiful Building with a Storied Past

The Auberge de Castille, originally the residence of the Knights of the Order of St. John, is now the Prime Minister’s office. Its stunning architecture, perched high above the city, makes it one of Valletta’s most recognisable buildings.

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

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10. The Fortifications of Valletta – Walk Along History’s Walls

Valletta’s fortifications are one of the most impressive defensive structures in Europe. Walk along the city’s walls for a deep dive into its military history, with stunning views over the sea and surrounding islands.

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

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11. The Siege Bell Memorial – Honouring the Brave of WWII

The Siege Bell Memorial is a tribute to the Maltese people who showed extraordinary courage during the Great Siege of 1565 and WWII. The bell rings every day at noon in remembrance of those who lost their lives defending Malta.

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

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12. The National Library of Malta – A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

The National Library of Malta holds rare manuscripts, books, and documents dating back centuries. Though not always open to the public for browsing, guided tours offer a unique look into Malta’s scholarly history.

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

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13. Casa Rocca Piccola – A Noble Maltese Home

Casa Rocca Piccola is a 16th-century palace still lived in by a noble Maltese family. A guided tour reveals beautifully preserved rooms, family heirlooms, and even underground WWII shelters. It offers a personal look at aristocratic life in Valletta.

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

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14. MUŻA – Museum of Fine Arts in a Historic Auberge

MUŻA (Museum of Fine Arts) is located in the restored Auberge d’Italie. It showcases Maltese and European art, combining historical works with contemporary pieces. Its interactive and eco-friendly design makes it stand out among European museums.

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

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15. Strait Street – From Sin City to Culture Hub

Once infamous for its rowdy nightlife during the British naval era, Strait Street has reinvented itself as Valletta’s cultural artery. Today, it's home to boutique bars, jazz clubs, art spaces, and cafés tucked within its narrow, winding alley.

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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