15 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Valletta, Malta's Historic Capital
Valletta is the capital city of Malta built on centuries of history. I truly have not seen a city that looks like this one.
The architecture is very old and monochromatic, but the vibrant colors of the balconies bring the streets to life. There are endless things to do here, from taking in the history and culture of the city to swimming in the crystal clear waters, there is something for everyone in Valletta.
Here are 15 things to do in Valletta.
1. Fort St. Elmo
Fort St. Elmo was built by the knights in 1552 to defend the island country from invading forces.
You can explore the fort and take in the seaside views while reading about the historical background of the fort. Also included in the 10€ ticket is entry to the National War Museum. Malta was heavily involved in the World Wars and Valletta was considered the most bombed city in the world. This museum covers the entire timeline of Malta’s war history.
2. Upper Barraka Gardens
These gardens are a lovely place to take a walk or take a break from the narrow city streets.
This area overlooks the neighboring city of Birgu. Nearby you can visit the War Rooms, a popular historical attraction featuring an underground tunnel and operation system used during WWII. This system runs beneath the gardens and the saluting battery.
3. Cafe Society
Cafe society is known for their aesthetic outdoor seating along the stairs that lead down a narrow street to the sea. Enjoy a refreshing drink with a view and lovely scenery here. This area is the place to be for nightlife.
4. Saluting Battery
The saluting battery is as old as the city itself, providing some of the best vantage points in the city.
The battery was used to protect the city from attacks, as well as ceremonial welcomes and signals for the opening and closing of the city gates. Today, a cannon is fired Monday-Saturday at noon and 4pm to carry on the tradition, and you can watch from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
5. Maltese Dinner
Malta is known for its lively food scene and unique combination of flavors from nearby regions.
In Maltese food, you will find a mix of Italian, Arab, and North African flavors. The national dish is rabbit stew, and you can find it in many restaurants in Valletta. My favorite Maltese meal was from Ta’ Kris in Sliema right across the harbor.
6. History Tour
If you’re into history, Valletta is the right place to be.
Malta is very old, not as an independent country, but its history goes back for centuries from the knights, to the British, and eventually independence. See all of the important historical sites by joining a walking history tour.
7. Wander the Streets
Ditch the google maps and get lost in the old streets of Valletta.
I enjoyed roaming the streets and finding unique shops and bakeries along the way. Sometimes you find the coolest places without a map. I came across a really neat chocolate shop called Chocolate District while I was wandering. Also, don’t forget to look up and see the colorful balconies that line the streets with color.
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8. Triton's Fountain
Triton’s fountain is a beautiful fountain located right at the entrance of the city. It is one of the first things you would see if you were to enter the city from the inner part of the island. The three Tritons, sons of Poseidon in Greek mythology, symbolizes Malta’s links to the sea.
9. Visit an Old Church
St. John’s is the most popular church to visit due to its impressively detailed architecture and its historical background. However, I stumbled across St. Dominic’s church and I was wowed by the beauty of the interior of this church. I found it to be a great alternative that was half the price and I was the only one inside.
10. Lunch at the market
Cant decide what to eat?
You can find a large variety of international foods in the Valletta food market. Explore foods from several Asian countries, Mexico, local Maltese food, and more. There are 15 stalls to choose from, and plenty of seating inside.
Read this next: 10 Authentic Foods to Try During Your Trip to Malta
11. Visit Talkafe
Try an authentic Maltese coffee from talkafe.
This place is a beautiful little cafe tucked into an old building. This was one of the stops on my food walking tour, and it was very exciting to try a drink unique to Malta. I will admit I wasn’t a fan of the coffee, but the cafe is absolutely worth the visit, and maybe you will find that you enjoy Maltese coffee.
12. National Library
Right by St. John’s church is the national library. While the library is not open for tourists to visit, the outside is very impressive to look at. It also has a very cool alleyway with arches along the outer wall. You will likely pass by this library anyway since it is in the center of the city.
13. Victoria gate bridge
Stop by this bridge for a beautiful street view from above.
This is a great photo spot where you can see the narrow street with the colorful balconies. Nearby is the Bridge Bar which is known for its lively night scene and jazz music, as well as Victoria Gate which is the main entrance to the city from the Grand Harbour side.
14. Food Walking Tour
One of the best ways to experience the food culture is to take a food walking tour.
This allows you to learn about the history of the city as well as its food. And the best part is you won’t go hungry while you’re walking! I got to try samples of many traditional Maltese foods on my food tour.
15. take a boat ride
Escaping the busy streets of Valletta for a day and take a boat ride to Malta’s second island, Gozo.
You can take the ferry and plan your own trip, or you can book a trip with a company that will include transportation and a tour of several different locations like, Victoria, Santa Maria Caves, and the Blue Lagoon. I had never seen water so blue until I went to the lagoon.
Valletta is an incredible city where you can always find something fun to do.
The history and culture make this place really special and worth the visit. I recommend giving yourself 3 full days to experience the whole city and explore the nearby islands. You can also add it to a longer trip to Europe, as it is only a short flight from Italy and Greece.
I hope you get to experience the beauty of Malta’s capital city and check some of these items off of your bucket list! Safe travels!
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