Begin your tour at City Gate, Valletta’s grand entrance, a modern architectural marvel by Renzo Piano, leading into the UNESCO-listed capital. Admire the adjacent Triton Fountain and the view down Republic Street, Valletta’s main artery. Stroll east along Republic Street, a lively thoroughfare lined with baroque buildings, shops, and cafés, capturing the city’s historic Mediterranean charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Caffè Cordina (244 Republic Street), a historic café since 1837, with elegant interiors and a belle époque vibe. Enjoy a quick lunch of pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas) or a ftira sandwich, affordable, no reservations needed, but arrive early to avoid the local crowd. A Maltese coffee, infused with chicory, adds a unique touch.
Continue east to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a 16th-century baroque masterpiece with a plain façade hiding opulent interiors, including Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St. John. Pop in for a quick 20-minute visit (entry fee applies) to marvel at its gilded nave. Nearby, wander along Merchants Street, with its historic palazzi and boutique shops, evoking Valletta’s knightly past.
Head south towards Upper Barrakka Gardens, a serene terrace with panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Pause to watch the daily cannon salute (noon or 4 PM, adjust timing if needed) and admire the garden’s arches. From here, stroll west along Triq Il-Batterija to Fort St. Elmo, a star-shaped fortress guarding the harbour. A quick exterior view or a brief visit to the National War Museum (small fee) offers insight into Malta’s military history.
Loop north to Lower Barrakka Gardens, another scenic spot with a neoclassical monument and harbour views. Stop at Nenu The Artisan Baker (143 St. Dominic Street), a no-reservations eatery for a quick taste of Maltese rabbit stew or a lampuki pie (seasonal fish), arrive promptly to snag a table.
Continue west along Triq Santa Lucija to Auberge de Castille, the Prime Minister’s office, a stunning baroque building with golden stonework. Nearby, explore Triq Il-Merkanti, a street with high-end shops and cafés. For a sweet treat, visit Fontanella Tea Garden (1 Bastion Street), a beloved patisserie near the city walls, for a hot chocolate or coffee with a slice of qassatat (sweet ricotta pastry), no bookings needed, but expect a queue.
End your tour at Pjazza Teatru Rjal, an open-air theatre built on the ruins of a bombed opera house, surrounded by lively terraces. For a final treat, pop into Amorino (Republic Street, 250) for a gelato shaped like a flower or a creamy cappuccino, soaking up Valletta’s golden-hued charm. Alternatively, relax at StrEat Whisky Bar (Strait Street, 75), a historic haunt on Valletta’s once-rowdy nightlife strip, watching the city’s vibrant street life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Valletta’s baroque grandeur, Maltese cuisine, and harbourside allure, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the steep, cobbled streets and bring a light jacket for Valletta’s breezy waterfront weather
