Malta’s capital, Valletta, is one of Europe’s smallest cities, yet it is densely packed with historical landmarks. Located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, the city is a popular destination not only because of its strategic location but also thanks to its unique architecture, museums, and special atmosphere. Disembarking from the Victoria Cruises Line ship, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the city within minutes – where every street is woven with centuries of stories.
Language: Malta’s official languages are Maltese and English, and 50% of the population also speaks Italian, making communication simple and seamless.
Credit Cards + Cash: Bring both cash and a bank card with you.
Did you know? The city has been a filming location for many productions – including iconic scenes from Game of Thrones.
A city dreamed up by knights
Valletta was founded by the famous Order of St. John in 1566, directly after the victorious siege against the Ottomans. The city is named in honor of Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valette, who defended the island from enemy forces. The planning was far from ordinary: Valletta was the first modern European city to be built with a grid street system, strict defense plans, and grand public buildings. To this day, the city preserves this heritage – and is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see in Valletta – digging deeper than the surface
Valletta is small – less than 1 square kilometer – yet it offers so much that even a whole day may not be enough to take it all in.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Modest on the outside, yet dazzlingly baroque on the inside. Gilded carvings, marble floors, and the cathedral’s true treasure: Caravaggio’s monumental painting The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist – his only signed work.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
These beautiful gardens offer fantastic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. At noon, the Saluting Battery’s cannon fire evokes the memory of the British Royal Navy – a special experience not to be missed.
Grand Master’s Palace
Strolling through Valletta, it’s easy to forget that this was once a place where strategic decisions about Europe’s fate were made. The Palace, which now serves as the President’s office and a museum, offers insight into the daily life of the Knights.
Republic Street and Merchant Street
The city’s lifelines, where modern boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and galleries alternate. Here, the old and the new live in perfect harmony.
TIP: 📸 Popeye Village – not just for kids!
Although the entrance fee is a bit steep and the village is primarily a family-oriented theme park, it’s still worth visiting – if only for the view! From the lookout point above the village, you’ll have a fantastic panorama of the bay and the fairy-tale colored houses, making it one of Malta’s most photogenic spots. If you love unique places and good photos, don’t miss this stop!
🗺️ Exploring beyond Valletta
🚖 Taxis: The Maltese islands are small, so using a taxi is convenient and relatively affordable. Be sure to choose only official white taxis, and always ask the driver to turn on the meter!
🚌 Public transport: Bus services are reliable, and you can reach most attractions easily. If you plan to use them more often, it’s worth buying a card for €15, valid for 12 rides – a better value.
⛴️ Ferry: If you’d like to visit the islands of Comino or Gozo, choose the ferries departing from the Cirkewwa port! Services are frequent (up to hourly), and the trip generally takes less than 30 minutes. A return ticket typically costs under €10.
🚶♀️ Walking: Love walking? Then you’ll enjoy Malta’s and Gozo’s coastal trails! Various hiking routes offer stunning sea views – a great chance to connect with nature. 🌅
Looking beyond Valletta – discovering the surroundings
⚓ The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua
Across from Valletta’s harbor, on the far side of the Grand Harbour, lie three of Malta’s historic towns: Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla). These towns are among the oldest settlements on the island and are a perfect choice if you want to escape Valletta’s bustle. The ferry from Valletta Waterfront takes just 5–10 minutes to cross. Here, narrow cobbled streets, impressive fortifications, and authentic taverns await – all in a much calmer, more local setting. Ideal for a half- or full-day trip.
🏰 Mdina – the Silent City
If you want to travel back in time, head to Mdina, Malta’s former capital! This medieval fortified city is located inland and can be reached from Valletta by bus or taxi in about 30–40 minutes. The peaceful atmosphere, near-total silence, and the strong presence of history on every corner create a unique ambiance. Stone-built palaces, narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and breathtaking views from the city walls await. Mdina is called the “Silent City” for good reason – time really does slow down here.
🎣 Marsaxlokk – fishermen, markets, and the scent of the sea
Marsaxlokk (pronounced “marsaslok”) is a picturesque fishing village in southeastern Malta, popular among locals and tourists alike – especially on Sundays, when its famous fish market comes to life. The town is about 40 minutes from Valletta and easily accessible by bus. Here you can still see the classic, colorful Maltese fishing boats, the luzzus, often decorated with the “Eye of Osiris” – an ancient Phoenician protective symbol. In Marsaxlokk, seaside walks, fresh seafood restaurants, and the authentic village atmosphere offer a truly unique experience.
🌿 Gozo – the island of tranquility
Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, is a true hidden gem. Though smaller than the main island, it is full of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and an authentic, rural atmosphere. From Valletta, you can reach Gozo in about an hour and a half: first by bus or taxi to Cirkewwa port (approx. 50 minutes), then a 25-minute ferry ride to the port of Mgarr.
TIP: malta-gozo-comino-islands-blue-lagoon-seacaves-tour
The island is best explored by renting a car or joining an organized tour. Be sure to see the Citadel in the town of Victoria, standing tall in the center of the island with breathtaking views. Dwejra Bay was once known for the Azure Window, and although the rock arch collapsed in 2017, the area remains a stunning natural sight. Don’t miss the Ggantija Temples either – older than the pyramids and considered among the world’s oldest man-made stone structures.
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Gozo is perfect for a day trip, but many choose to stay for one or two nights to fully relax. If you’re looking for a slower, nature-connected experience after Malta’s hustle and bustle, Gozo is the perfect choice.
Valletta is not just a city – it’s an experience where the past and present walk hand in hand. As you stroll through its sunlit streets, it feels like you’re part of the historic chronicles. This city teaches you to slow down, pay attention, and appreciate what centuries have preserved for us.
As a passenger of Victoria Cruises Line, it’s a privilege to approach Valletta from the sea – just like the knights once did. Only now, we do it from the elegant deck of our ship, with a glass of wine in hand and the full Mediterranean spirit in our hearts.