Things to Do in Valletta: 3 Unique Tours to See the Best of the City

Booking a Valletta walking tour is the most stunning way to unlock the secrets of the “City of Palaces” without getting lost in its steep limestone streets. Valletta is often described as an “open-air museum,” a fortress city built by the Knights of St. John that manages to feel both ancient and vibrantly alive. As the smallest capital in the European Union, every limestone corner hides a story of sieges, baroque masterpieces, and Mediterranean charm.

However, don’t let its size fool you. The steep hills and narrow side streets can be a maze for first-timers. Whether you are arriving by cruise ship for a few hours or staying for a week, choosing the right Valletta walking tour is the key to unlocking the secrets of the “City of Palaces.” In this guide, we’ll dive into the history of this stunning capital and review the three best ways to experience it today.

📂 Valletta Guide: Table of Contents ▼

• 📜 History of Valletta
• 👟 The 3 Best Valletta Walking Tours
• 🏨 Where to Stay in Valletta
• ❓ FAQ

History of Valletta: The City Built by Gentlemen

Valletta’s story began in 1566, following the Great Siege of Malta. Grand Master Jean de Valette realized the Order of St. John needed a more fortified position to defend against the Ottoman Empire. Unlike most European cities that grew organically over centuries, Valletta was meticulously planned on a grid system, making it one of the earliest examples of modern urban planning.

The city was built “by gentlemen for gentlemen,” resulting in the stunning Baroque architecture and majestic auberges (inns) you see today. In 2026, the city remains a living monument, but it’s the layers of history—from the WWII shelters to the British-era red phone boxes—that make a Valletta walking tour so uniquely fascinating.

What to Do: The Stunning Highlights

Before you set off on your tour, make sure these “must-see” spots are on your list:

• Upper Barrakka Gardens: For the best panoramic view of the Grand Harbour.
• St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Don’t let the plain exterior fool you; the inside is a gold-leafed explosion of Baroque art.
• Republic Street: The bustling spine of the city, perfect for shopping and people-watching.
• The Saluting Battery: Catch the cannon fire at noon or 4 PM daily.
• Triton Fountain: Valletta’s most iconic meeting point

The 3 Best Tours

👟 Tour 1: The Original Valletta Walking Tour

If you want a comprehensive look at the city, this is the definitive Valletta walking tour. It covers all the major historical highlights, including the Auberges of the Knights and the main squares. It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into the stories behind the stone.

🥘 Tour 2: The Valletta Food Tour

For the “foodie” traveler, there is no better way to learn about Malta than through its stomach. This tour takes you through the backstreets to sample local delicacies like pastizzi (flaky pea or ricotta pastries), Maltese sourdough, and local wine. It’s a stunning blend of culture and calories!

🛴 Tour 3: The Segway Experience

Valletta is famous for its hills. If you want to see everything from the Fort St. Elmo to the lower gardens without breaking a sweat, the Segway tour is a blast. It’s a modern way to see an ancient city and is great for families or groups looking for something a bit more adventurous.

Valletta FAQ

Is Valletta walkable? Yes, it is very compact. However, it has many steep stairs and hills, so those with mobility issues should consider the Segway tour or the local “Karozzins” (horse carriages).

How much time do I need in Valletta? You can see the main highlights in about 3 to 4 hours, which is why a half-day Valletta walking tour is so popular.

What is the best time to visit? Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) offer the most stunning weather for walking tours.