Valletta Malta Travel Guide
Valletta occupies a narrow peninsula, known as Mount Sciberras, which divides two large natural harbors: Marsamxett Harbour to the west and the Grand Harbour to the east. This strategic location has shaped the city's destiny, making it a powerful maritime fortress throughout history. The peninsula rises steeply from the sea, forming a naturally defensible position the Knights of St. John expertly fortified with formidable structures. These imposing bastions and walls continue to define Valletta's skyline.
Valletta owes its existence and character to the Knights Hospitaller of St. John. After the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, Grand Master Jean de Valette began building a new, strong capital city. The city, named in his honor, saw its first stone laid in 1566. Its design was advanced for its time, with a grid plan, sophisticated drainage, and robust fortifications by Francesco Laparelli.
For over two centuries, Valletta stood as the Knights' headquarters, a thriving European hub for art, architecture, and military power. Its churches, palaces, and auberges display opulent Baroque style. After the Knights departed in 1798, British rule shaped Valletta for 164 years, with distinct colonial additions. During World War II, the city faced extensive bombing but showed great endurance. Today, Valletta is a living museum, recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Valletta provides a captivating experience for every traveler. It features a blend of historical grandeur and modern vibrancy. Expect narrow, bustling streets, grand Baroque buildings, and stunning sea views. The atmosphere moves from lively daytime exploration to a more refined evening dining and cultural scene.
Roughly 5,700 residents live within the city walls, making it a compact capital. The daytime population grows with workers and visitors. Measuring about 1 kilometer by 600 meters, Valletta is easy to walk. Its compact nature means you discover many attractions without extensive travel.
Approx. 5,700 within city walls
Approx. 1 km x 600 m
Maltese, English (universally spoken)
Euro (€)
Mediterranean (hot, dry summers; mild, wet winters)
Walking is the best way to explore Valletta itself. A comprehensive public bus network links the city to the rest of Malta. Ferries offer quick access to Sliema and the Three Cities.
World-class sites include St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master's Palace, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Fort St. Elmo, and many museums and churches. The entire city, with its Baroque architecture, is an attraction.
A delicious blend of Mediterranean, Sicilian, and North African tastes awaits. Must-try items include pastizzi (savory pastries), fenek (rabbit stew), and ftira (Maltese bread).
Valletta serves as a gateway to Malta's unique identity. Its concentrated history and lively present create a welcoming environment for all visitors, promising a journey of discovery and delight.
This overview provides quick insights into Valletta's characteristics.
Connectivity is good with mobile networks and Wi-Fi readily available.
A safe and inviting environment for all visitors.
Walkable city with accessible public transit.
Photogenic streets and historic architecture.
Valletta maintains a very safe environment for visitors. General care, like awareness in crowded areas, is a good approach.
