Things to Do in Valletta, Malta: 15 Perfect Picks in the Capital 🏡

Looking for things to do in Valletta, Malta? You’re in the right place! Malta’s capital is small but seriously mighty, packed with golden-stone palaces, baroque churches, sunlit balconies, and more steps than your Fitbit can handle.

Hi! I’m Hazel, your slightly Malta-obsessed local travel blogger. I spent two separate weeks exploring every nook of this UNESCO-listed city, and these are the best bits you won’t want to miss.

1. Explore Valletta’s Historic Streets 🏠

The whole city is a living museum with dramatic facades, colourful balconies, and more character than you can shake a stick at.

Wander past St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grandmaster’s Palace, and the Auberge de Castille.

If you’re into facts (or fabulous photo ops), join a walking tour.

Just a heads-up: there are a lot of steps. But they’re ridiculously photogenic and home to some of Valletta’s best cafés and wine bars.

This area is a photographer’s dream – I took 200 photos just on the first day!

It’s the kind of place where you’ll be stopping every five minutes to take a photo, and then another five to grab a pastry.

2. Watch the Saluting Battery Fire 🔫

Every day at noon, cannons boom from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, echoing across the Grand Harbour. It’s loud, theatrical, and surprisingly moving.

And the best part? It’s free, and comes with panoramic views.

There’s a ceremonial flair to the whole thing, with uniformed staff and a sense of history in the air.

Try to catch it from the Saluting Battery level itself, or watch from above with an ice cream in hand.

3. Ride the Upper Barrakka Lift ⬆️

The lift whisks you from the waterfront up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens in seconds.

It’s only €3 for a return ticket, and honestly, the views alone are worth it. You go from sea level to skyline in just 25 seconds.

Perfect if you’ve just arrived by ferry or finished exploring the Three Cities. Plus, it saves your legs from tackling yet another hill.

4. Stroll Down Republic Street 🌎

This buzzing boulevard runs straight through Valletta and is lined with shops, street vendors, and grand historic buildings. From hand-stitched lace to bold Maltese souvenirs, it’s a shopper’s delight.

Swing by Caffe Cordina for a slice of cake and some people-watching, or pop into the National Museum of Archaeology for a glimpse of Malta’s prehistoric past.

Republic Street gets lively, especially mid-morning, so bring your best browsing energy.

5. Visit Fort St. Elmo & the National War Museum 🏰

This striking star-shaped fortress guards the tip of the peninsula and has played a key role in Malta’s defence for centuries.

Inside, you’ll find the National War Museum, with artefacts from Roman times through WWII.

You can walk along the ramparts, peek into medieval chapels, and even see the George Cross awarded to Malta for bravery.

It’s one of those places where the sea breeze and stone walls whisper stories.

6. Chill at the Lower Barrakka Gardens 🌿

Quieter than its big sister up the hill, this shady little garden is ideal when your feet need a break.

Being honest, I found all gardens in Malta to be quite small. They are more ‘garden’ than ‘gardens’. This one is no exception – but it is lovely.

There are curved benches, palms swaying in the breeze, and postcard-perfect views of the Siege Bell War Memorial.

Bring a snack or a good book and enjoy the laid-back vibe. It’s also a lovely stop on your way to Fort St. Elmo.

7. Snap the Triton Fountain 🌊

Right outside the City Gate, this iconic fountain features three bronze Tritons holding up a basin, surrounded by mist and movement. It’s become a bit of a local landmark.

Come early for people-free photos or visit at night when the lights give it an extra magical glow.

Bonus: there’s a few snack stands nearby if you fancy a quick bite (I can recommend the arancini balls!).

8. Visit the Three Cities 🏝️

Hop across the Grand Harbour to Malta’s lesser-known trio: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Known collectively as the Three Cities, they’re older than Valletta, full of fortress vibes, and blissfully crowd-free.

To get there, take the Barrakka Lift down to the ferry terminal and hop on a short boat ride for just a few euros.

You can also splash out on a colourful traditional dġajsa (Maltese boat) if you’re feeling fancy.

Once there, stroll the quiet lanes, take a guided tour, check out the new yacht marina, and stop for a coffee by the water. It feels like stepping back in time – with better snacks.

9. Pop into St. John’s Co-Cathedral ⛪

This might just be the most stunning cathedral you’ve ever stepped inside. Don’t let the plain exterior fool you – the baroque interior is dripping with gold leaf, marble, and art.

Caravaggio’s “Beheading of St. John the Baptist” is the star of the show. It’s a real jaw-dropper.

Entry includes an audio guide, which helps you appreciate all the opulence.

Fun fact: the term ‘Co-Cathedral’ means that St. John’s Co-Cathedral shares its responsibilities with St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina.

10. Have a Drink on the Waterfront 🍻

The Valletta Waterfront is where pastel warehouses meet glittering water. It’s full of cafes and bars, ideal for a sundowner or a late lunch.

If you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on which way you view it), there might even be a cruise ship docked, adding a touch of drama to your Aperol hour.

The vibe is very relaxed, especially in the golden hour.

11. Visit the Lascaris War Rooms 🔫

Tucked beneath Upper Barrakka Gardens, this underground network was once HQ for WWII operations. Think maps, bunkers, and slightly eerie silence.

From these chambers, generals orchestrated famous invasions, including the pivotal Sicily campaign of 1943. Preserved in their original state, the war rooms contain faded maps and bombing schedules,

You’ll get a real feel for how Malta held strong during the war. It’s surprisingly moving and a nice break from the heat above ground.

Top tip: If you don’t love war museums, skip the National War Museum and visit this one instead!

12. Try a Traditional Maltese Dinner 🍷

Valletta’s food scene is a glorious mix of Mediterranean and North African influences.

Try rabbit stew (fenkata), fresh octopus, and ftira bread, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.

Some restaurants also offer folklore dinner nights, with dancing, music, and generous portions. Come hungry.

13. Shop at Is-Suq Tal-Belt 🏪

The Is-Suq Tal Belt is Valletta’s covered market, and it’s a foodie haven.

You’ll find everything from sushi to pasta to traditional Maltese pastries, plus a supermarket tucked underneath (where I bought some great wines).

It’s a great pit stop if you’re sightseeing or craving something casual. I tried the pastizzi here and may never recover (in the best way).

14. Admire Maltese Balconies 🏡

Valletta’s wooden balconies are little works of art. Each one is different, painted in bright colours and perched above narrow streets.

The Maltese balconies were originally inspired in the 17th century by Italian and Spanish styles, but evolved to suit Malta’s climate and cultural preferences.

They’re lovely to photograph, but remember, people live here! So be careful not to offend any locals/use a bit of discretion.

15. Spot a Red Phone Box 📱

Keep an eye out for a nostalgic sight – British red phone boxes scattered throughout the city.

Remnants of Malta’s colonial past, these iconic phone booths serve as reminders of the island’s historical ties to Britain (this could be a good or bad thing, depending on your view).

FAQs about things to do in Valletta.

Below are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Valletta.

Map of things to do in Valletta

The Google map below shows the things to do in Valletta as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information about each place, or click the star to add to your own Google Maps.

Final Thoughts on Valletta ✨

Valletta may be one of Europe’s smallest capitals, but it packs a mighty punch.

Between the history, the harbour views, and the hip café culture, there are so many things to do in Valletta you could spend weeks here. Come hungry, bring comfy shoes, and prepare to be charmed.

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🌟 Ultimate Malta Travel Guide.
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🚢 Brilliant Things to do in Malta (including Gozo and Comino islands).

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