This section highlights recommended places to visit in Valletta, including historic landmarks, museums, gardens, waterfront attractions, and cultural sites that may be of interest to ITC Malta delegates during their stay.
Valletta is Malta’s historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage city. The compact city centre is easy to explore on foot and offers a wide range of cultural landmarks, museums, historic buildings, and scenic viewpoints.
Grand Master’s Palace and Courtyard
Located in the centre of Valletta, this historic palace now serves as the office of the President of Malta and is one of the most important landmarks in the city.
Manoel Theatre
One of the oldest working theatres in Europe, hosting concerts, theatre performances, and cultural events throughout the year.
Valletta Waterfront
A waterfront promenade with restaurants, cafés, and shops set within restored eighteenth century harbour buildings.
Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens
Public gardens offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Visitors can watch the Saluting Battery fire the ceremonial Noon Gun daily at 12:00 and 16:00, except Sundays.
St John’s Co Cathedral
A sixteenth century cathedral known for its extraordinary Baroque interior and historic art collection, including works by Caravaggio.
Casa Rocca Piccola
A historic aristocratic residence dating back to the 1580s. Guided tours provide insight into Maltese noble life and heritage.
National Museum of Archaeology
Located in the historic Auberge de Provence, the museum houses artefacts from Malta’s prehistoric temples and ancient civilisations.
Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum
A historic fort overlooking the harbour. The museum tells the story of Malta’s military history across more than seven thousand years.
MUŻA, the National Museum of Art
Malta’s national community art museum located in the historic Auberge d’Italie building.
Valletta is home to several museums that highlight Malta’s rich history, art, and cultural heritage. Many of them are located within historic buildings and can easily be visited while exploring the city.
National Museum of Archaeology
Located in the historic Auberge de Provence, this museum displays artefacts from Malta’s prehistoric temples and ancient civilisations, including objects dating back thousands of years.
National War Museum at Fort St Elmo
This museum tells the story of Malta’s military history, including the Great Siege of 1565 and the island’s role during the Second World War.
MUŻA, the National Museum of Art
Malta’s national art museum showcasing works from Maltese and international artists within the historic Auberge d’Italie building.
Valletta offers several scenic viewpoints overlooking the Grand Harbour and surrounding historic cities. These locations are ideal for photographs and short breaks while exploring the capital.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
One of the most popular viewpoints in Valletta, offering panoramic views across the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Visitors can also watch the ceremonial Noon Gun fired daily at 12:00 and 16:00, except Sundays.
Lower Barrakka Gardens
A quieter garden located closer to the harbour, offering peaceful views and a more relaxed atmosphere compared with the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Valletta Waterfront
A lively harbour promenade with restaurants and cafés set within restored historic buildings, offering views of the Grand Harbour and visiting cruise ships.
Yes. Valletta is a compact city and most of the main landmarks, museums, and viewpoints are located within walking distance of each other. Many visitors explore the city in a few hours while enjoying the historic streets, cafés, and harbour views.
The city’s grid layout makes it easy to navigate, and many streets lead directly to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Grand Harbour.
Valletta is approximately 7 kilometres from the Hilton Malta in St Julians and can be reached by taxi, ride sharing services, or public transport in around 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.