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320 extraordinary monuments, concentrated in an area of just 55 hectares, testimony of the past and its illustrious founders.
Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and, of course, the Order of the Knights of St. John.
The city has developed in a harmonious way, despite events and vicissitudes, keeping the original fabric intact.
Today, the perfectly preserved historic center of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whether for a single day (too little), or a whole weekend, there is so much to see during a short visit of Valletta.
SHORT VISIT OF VALLETTA: A DAY IN THE CAPITAL
Having just one day, during your short visit of Valletta, here are some of the monuments, and attractions, that you will absolutely have to see.
Wake up early. A hearty breakfast and … let’s go. Almost certainly, with the sun marking your whole day.
The Triton Fountain, from which the bus lines pass, is the ideal starting point. An emblematic symbol of the city, it stands in the large square, in front of the walls, and at the entrance to the city. The latter has been restored to its former glory thanks to architect Renzo Piano.
Imposing and majestic, it is the worthy entrance of this splendid city.
The certainly does not go unnoticed Palace of the Parliament or, another work by Renzo Piano. Two structures, almost suspended in the air, that rise above the pillars. It integrates perfectly with the rest of the city.
Pass the Royal Theater, with the square of the same name, and the splendid Archaeological Museum, and reach the Co-Cathedral of St. John.
Magnificent, richly decorated and perfectly preserved, it is the top place for a vacation in Valletta.
It is considered the gem of Baroque art and architecture in Malta.
You can admire the tombs of the Knights of Malta, the dome, the chapels, and, above all, two paintings by Caravaggio, preserved in the sacristy.
Open Monday to Friday, from 09:30 to 16:30; Saturday, from 09:30 to 12:30. Closed on Sundays and holidays.
The full ticket costs 10.00€ per adult, 7.50€ reduced for children from 12 to 17 years, and over 65. Free for under 12 accompanied by a paying adult.
Not far, it’s worth taking a trip to nearby St George Square, where the President’s Palace, also Grand Master Palace. Fascinating, among fountains, and beautiful buildings, it is a really pleasant place.
Photo ©, Marie-Lan Nguyen
The Grand Master Palace it is one of the oldest buildings in the city, with sumptuous and decorated interiors. Lovers of the genre, can not miss a visit to the Armory, dating back to 1604. Here, ancient weapons and armor are kept, belonging to the Knights of St. John.
Open every day, from 09:00 to 17:00. Entry to the Armory only at 6€.
If you were on vacation in Malta the last
Friday of the month, don’t miss the suggestive changing of the guard, right in this square. It takes place at 10:30, every Friday of the month. You can watch the traditional show, very beautiful to see.
Even for a short visit of Valletta, find some time, and space, to shoot without half the fascinating narrow streets of the city. Only in this way, slowly crossing its wonderful historical center, without a destination, you will be able to appreciate its beauties in the best way.
You will come across, for example, in an incredible Toys museum, for the joy of children and adults!
Beyond the lively port, there are the splendid Barrakka Gardens, in a magnificent position overlooking the Three Cities. A long walk separates the Upper Barrakka Gardens, from the Lower Gardens.
The first, very crowded compared to the latter, are colonnaded gardens with a relaxing atmosphere, practically overlooking the sea. Spectacular in every direction, they rise on a particular platform, called The Saluting Battery. From the latter, every day, to 12:00 and 16:00 in point, gun shots are fired. Don’t worry about smoking: it’s just scenery!
The gardens can be visited, every day, including Sundays, from 07:00 to 22:00.
An extraordinary panoramic lift leads to the terminal where ferries leave for the three cities. To the latter, despite the proximity, we recommend that you dedicate at least half a day. In our opinion, it would be quite difficult during a short vacation in Valletta.
To use the lift, the descent is not charged, while, it is expected to pay 1€ per person for the climb.
In the case of a cruise to Malta, the ship should dock a few hundred meters from here.
Photo ©, Karelj
You need a scenic walk of about 10 minutes, from Upper Gardens, to reach the smaller gardens Lower Barrakka. Beautiful arches, evocative play of light and a small temple inside, for a place not to be missed during a short vacation in Valletta. They are open every day, from 08:00 to 21:00.
The gardens precede the suggestive Siege Bell War Memorial, a particularly significant monument from a historical point of view. To visit especially for the splendid view, ideal for splendid shots.