Guide to Spending a weekend in Valletta, Malta
Pocket-sized, charming, and largely unforgettable, Malta’s capital has always flown under the radar when it comes to European destinations. Perched on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbors in the Mediterranean, Valletta is a city squeezed into formidable bastioned walls. Founded in the 16th century by the Knights of Jerusalem, Valletta is both Europe’s smallest and southernmost capital.
Its tall, balcony-fronted townhouses rise like cliffs on the Sceberras Peninsula, overlooking the twin harbors. Though heavily bombed during the Second World War, Valletta was carefully restored and continued as Malta’s administrative center. Here’s our guide to spending a weekend in Valletta;
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Best Time to Visit Valletta
The best time to visit Valletta is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. During these windows, the city offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and more reasonable prices compared to the summer peak. From April to June, temperatures hover between 15°C and 25°C, the sun shines generously, and rainfall is rare.
These conditions make it ideal for wandering the streets, taking walking tours, or lingering at outdoor cafes. The city comes alive with historic architecture basking in soft spring sunlight, offering plenty of opportunities for photography. Autumn (September and October) brings slightly cooler temperatures from 20°C to 25°C and occasional light rain.
These conditions create a comfortable atmosphere for exploring Valletta’s historical sites and enjoying the city without the intense summer heat. Summer brings hot and dry conditions with temperatures climbing to 32°C. It is perfect for sun-seekers and water activities, though visitors should expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Winter months (November through March) are milder and can be rainy, especially in November. However, the season brings a unique charm with festive lights and celebrations, even if outdoor sightseeing is somewhat limited.
Also Read: Top Things to Do in Malta.
Top Things to Do in Valletta
Explore The Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Upper Barrakka Gardens is a must-see when exploring Valletta, and luckily, they are only a few minutes’ walk from the city center. The gardens themselves are charming, with small patios, fountains, and a relaxed atmosphere where musicians often provide a pleasant soundtrack to your stroll.
You can pause at the outdoor café for a coffee or just soak in the surroundings. The real highlight, however, is the breathtaking view from the far end of the gardens, beneath the arches. Here, the Grand Harbour stretches out before you and the Three Cities sit across the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Upper Barrakka lift will take you down to the ferry port.
For a memorable experience, plan to be there at noon when a gun is fired at the Saluting Battery. This is a daily re-enactment of the historic signal once used to mark sailing times. The thrill of going back in time is bound to elevate your experience here.
Check Out St. John’s Co-Cathedral
St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a study in delightful contradictions. Why a co-cathedral, you ask? Well, the “main” cathedral is in Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina, and serves as the official seat of the archbishop. But don’t let that fool you—St. John’s is far from second-rate. From the street, its exterior is modest, almost shy, and you might walk past without a second glance.
Step inside and you’re immediately hit with a display of opulence that reveals exactly where the knights spent their hard-earned—or ill-gotten—treasures. The marbled gravestones of deceased knights cover the floor with intricate, sometimes macabre designs, giving the space a uniquely tangible sense of history.
For art enthusiasts, the Oratory houses an actual Caravaggio painting. Admission into St. John’s Co-Cathedral is €15 per person. You’ll be provided an audio guide is well that paints a vivid picture about the history of the place.
Sail to the Three Cities
From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you can gaze across the Grand Harbour and spot Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua, the trio of towns aptly termed the Three Cities. Birgu, the oldest and most significant of the three, once served as the island’s administrative centre before Valletta was built. Once there, you can explore the medieval streets and landmarks like the Inquisitor’s Palace, Church of St. Lawrence, and others.
To get there, hop on the public ferry, which departs every half hour. If you’re starting from the city centre, take the Barrakka lift down to the ferry port for just €1, then cross the road and turn left to find the docking station. The boat trip lasts around 20 minutes and costs €2.80 return. Alternatively, you can opt for this guided harbour tour for a deeper dive into the history of these remarkable towns.
Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace
Once the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John, the palace is now the office of the President of Malta. It also doubles as a museum. Inside, elaborately decorated state rooms and historical artifacts tell stories of power and prestige, but the real showstoppers are the Gobelin Tapestries in the Council Chamber.
These intricate 400-year-old masterpieces are a rare glimpse into history preserved with remarkable care. Wandering the 450-year-old hallways, you can feel the echoes of centuries of authority. Even if you don’t go inside, a stroll past this majestic building is well worth a few moments of admiration.
Check Out Valletta’s National Museum of Archaeology
The museum occupies the former headquarters of the Provence langue. It’s a slightly weathered yet beautifully frescoed structure dating back to 1571. Inside, Malta’s richest archaeological treasures unfold, starting with Neolithic relics from the Għar Dalam cave era, including stone tools dating as far back as 5200 BCE.
Among the most captivating exhibits are the prehistoric figurines like the Sleeping Lady from the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum from around 5000 years ago. You can also marvel at intricately dimpled stones from Tarxien, a detailed temple model from Ta’Ħaġrat, and the Phoenician gallery, which showcases pottery artifacts and protective amulets.
Conclusion
Valletta is small, but it packs a punch. In 2-3 days, you’ll eat, explore, and photograph so much that you’ll start using words like “baroque” and “fortifications” in casual conversation. It’s the ideal weekend getaway packed with history, whimsical, and adventure all in one.
