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Planning a trip to Valletta and trying to find the best things to do? You’ve come to the right place!
We have visited this sun-soaked island a handful of times, and each time it’s just as magical. The problem is that it’s a popular destination, and popular destinations are flooded with overpriced tours that underdeliver and put a damper on what should be a dream vacation.
Since we have been here multiple times, we put together a list of the best tours we’ve done. Sightseeing, ancient ruins, history, adventure, and even snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon—this list has it all! So keep reading for the nine best things to do in Valletta.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Valletta is this private full-day tour of Malta! You’ll see everything from the colorful boats of Marsaxlokk to the ancient Hagar Qim temples and stunning Dingli Cliffs. It’s totally customizable, too!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Valletta
- 1. Tuk tuk around Gozo and see off-the-beaten-path sights
- 2. See all of Malta on a private, customizable tour
- 3. Take a cruise to Comino Island and a Jeep tour around Gozo
- 4. Ride a Segway through Valletta
- 5. Explore Gozo’s iconic sights in a Jeep
- 6. See prehistoric Maltese ruins and fishing villages on a self-guided tour with a private driver
- 7. Learn about Valletta on a private walking tour
- 8. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Gozo
- 9. Taste your way around Valletta and learn about its ancient history
- Where to Stay in Valletta, Malta
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Valletta
1. Tuk tuk around Gozo and see off-the-beaten-path sights
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Visit Gozo’s most beautiful and historic sites by tuk tuk with a local guide, enjoy a traditional lunch, and swim in a crystal clear lagoon
- Inclusions: Multilingual guide, return transfer from Malta and Gozo, ferry ticket to Gozo and back, lunch
- Rating: 4.7 stars check 1,460+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Just about every visitor to Malta makes the trip to Gozo, but a lot of folks only hit the highlights and miss the hidden gems. That’s why we put this full-day trip to Gozo at the top of the list, because it takes you to the must-see spots and then some!
After taking a beautiful ferry ride over to Gozo, we jumped into our own private tuk-tuk and began exploring the island. The first stop of the day was Sanap Cliffs, where we were treated to stunning views of the area.
Just down the road was my favorite stop, the Ggantija Temples (ticket not included). These are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, even older than the pyramids in Egypt, which I thought was mind-boggling!
The Citadel is another architectural wonder from the medieval period that, as history buffs, we thought was super cool. It was built to protect people from pirates back in the day, but the area where it sits has been inhabited for over 7,000 years.
But it’s not all old buildings and history. This tour had us snapping photos left and right of the island’s beautiful landscape around every turn. The views at Dwejra Bay, Xwejni Salt Pans, and Blue Lagoon were all jaw-dropping. Just don’t forget your swimsuit so you can take a dip in the lagoon after a full day of adventure!
Check availability and book this epic tour to Gozo here!
2. See all of Malta on a private, customizable tour
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 7:30 am–12 pm
- Highlights: Explore Malta with a private guide and an itinerary tailored to your interests, get more out of each stop with a local guide who can answer all of your questions about the island
- Inclusions: Private guide, return transportation to your hotel, air-conditioned vehicle
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 420+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We absolutely loved this private tour of Malta and think it’s hands-down the best way to experience the island for newcomers. A private guide means no rigid schedules or big bus crowds. Just you, your interests, and a knowledgeable local showing you all the highlights, plus some hidden gems!
One of our favorite stops on this tour is the ancient walled city of Mdina. Walking its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, it’s no wonder it’s nicknamed the “Silent City.” We also recommend stopping at nearby Fontanella Tea Garden for a slice of their chocolate cake with some stunning panoramic views.
Our guide, Joseph, was full of fun facts and had a deep understanding of Malta’s history. Did you know Malta has more historic sites per square mile than any other country? Seriously, it’s like a living museum! This tour is the perfect way to uncover that rich history, from Valletta’s grand architecture to charming fishing villages and beyond.
We love that this tour lets you choose what you want to see most—beaches, local food, ancient ruins, or all of the above. It’s a stress-free experience that shows you the very best of what the island has to offer! But don’t just take our word for it, check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why travelers say this was the highlight of their trip!
Book our top tour pick for Malta here!
3. Take a cruise to Comino Island and a Jeep tour around Gozo
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 8 am (dates vary)
- Highlights: Take a scenic cruise around the island of Comino and swim/snorkel at the famous Blue Lagoon, take an off-road tour by Jeep to all of Gozo’s top sights with a guide
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, return transportation from select hotels, lunch with unlimited drinks, boat trip, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re craving adventure and want to see the wilder side of Malta, this Blue Lagoon and Gozo Jeep Safari combo should be at the top of your list. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and thrill for a day packed with stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path exploring. The best part? It’s accessible for people of all ages!
We loved how this tour kicks off with a boat ride to the famous Blue Lagoon. It was perfect for swimming, soaking up the sun, and even some snorkeling. But the real adventure begins in Gozo, where you’ll hop into a 4×4 Jeep and head off-road to uncover the island’s hidden gems. Expect dramatic cliffs, winding country roads, and local villages that most tourists don’t see.
One of the most interesting stops was the Basilica of the National Shrine. Known for its neo-Romanesque architecture, the basilica attracts both pilgrims and curious travelers. It is known to be the site of many miracles, one of which dates back to 1883 when a local woman heard the Virgin Mary speak to her at this very spot.
Gozo is known for its rugged coastline and secret beaches, so we were thrilled at how often our guide pulled over to show us dramatic viewpoints of the island. Some of which had secluded villages sitting down by the water, with locals fishing and going about their day.
Want to see Malta’s must-visit spots and add a bit of adventure to your day? This tour is just the ticket!
You can book this action-packed tour here!
4. Ride a Segway through Valletta
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Time: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm
- Highlights: Get the perfect introduction to Valletta on a Segway as you see the city’s top sights, learn its history, and get recommendations from a local guide
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Segway training, helmet
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 340+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to get your bearings in Valletta, this Segway tour is the perfect place to start! We loved how effortless it was to glide through the charming streets and see the highlights of Malta’s capital without breaking a sweat. It’s a short tour that fits perfectly into any itinerary, leaving you plenty of time to explore more on your own.
One of our favorite stops was the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where we enjoyed the panoramic views over the Grand Harbour, a must-see when visiting Valletta! There was also the fascinating Pjazza Teatru Rjal theatre, which was bombed during WWII and then partially rebuilt from the ruins by a famed Italian architect.
What really made this tour special was our guide. Not only was he super friendly and knowledgeable, but he also gave us fantastic recommendations on where to eat and what to see during the rest of our stay. That local insight made our entire trip even better!
We think this Segway tour is a fantastic introduction to Valletta, whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re just short on time. It’s fun, easy for any traveler, and a great way to kick off your Maltese adventure!
Check availability and book this Segway tour here!
5. Explore Gozo’s iconic sights in a Jeep
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9:15 am
- Highlights: Take a jeep tour of Gozo to see its most iconic historical, architectural, and natural wonders, including a private boat ride to and from Gozo
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, return transportation to select hotels, lunch
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 1,050+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a fun, off-road adventure that also hits all the must-see sights on Gozo, this Jeep tour is the perfect choice! We loved how it combined the thrill of exploring rugged landscapes with long stops at some of Gozo’s top attractions. Compared to the other Jeep tour we have above, this one goes to different locations and for longer since it skips the Blue Lagoon.
We loved getting to spend an hour at the Citadel in Victoria, where we wandered the ancient fortress walls and took in panoramic views of the island. It was wild to look out and think that at one point, this fortress was used to repel pirates! From there, we continue on to places like Dwejra Bay, home of the Inland Sea and dramatic cliffs, which are great for spotting local wildlife.
What sets this tour apart is that, while it covers the main highlights that every visitor wants to see, it also weaves in off-road sections that keep the adventure alive. We had a blast bouncing down country tracks and discovering hidden corners of the island.
Our guide was also fantastic, sharing stories about Gozo’s history and local culture along the way. It’s the ideal tour if you want a bit of everything—classic sights, off-road fun, and plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of Gozo.
You can book this Gozo Jeep expedition here!
6. See prehistoric Maltese ruins and fishing villages on a self-guided tour with a private driver
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Conveniently visit Malta’s ancient temples, ruins, and monuments with a private driver, but explore each at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour
- Inclusions: Private air-conditioned transportation from your hotel to all sites, entry into each location, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check the 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to set your own pace, this self-guided tour of Malta’s ancient sites is the perfect choice. With private transport included, you can explore the island’s most fascinating prehistoric sites—from ancient temples to mysterious ruins—without the hassle of navigating on your own or sticking to a rigid group schedule.
We loved how this tour let us fully immerse ourselves in each stop without feeling like we were being pushed through, like you sometimes are on a group tour. From the awe-inspiring Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples to the incredible Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, you’ll have the freedom to linger as long as you like.
Plus, entrance fees are included, so there’s no waiting in line or hidden fees, which is always a big deal for us!
One of the best parts? Our driver was super friendly and knowledgeable. He shared extra insights and local tidbits at each stop, giving us context we might have missed on our own. Plus, he was always ready and waiting whenever we were finished, making the whole experience seamless and stress-free.
We also loved the stop at Marsaxlokk, a quaint fishing village with colorful boats and a local market. A perfect way to experience the local and slower-paced way of Maltese life.
If you’re an independent traveler who prefers to explore at your own pace, this tour is the ultimate way to dive into Malta’s ancient past with a little extra comfort along the way.
Book this prehistoric experience here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Learn about Valletta on a private walking tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–6 pm
- Highlights: Get the most out of the history and culture of Valletta on a private walking tour of the city, visit iconic sights, see UNESCO-listed baroque architecture, and explore local hidden gems only an experienced guide can show you
- Inclusions: Private tour, English-speaking guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re the kind of traveler who wants more than just some nice pictures, this private walking tour of Valletta is the best way to uncover the city’s ancient and fascinating history. We were blown away by our guide, Alizea. Her knowledge of the city’s architecture and its often overlooked history gave us a deeper understanding than any other tour we’ve done in Malta.
One fact that stuck with us is that Valletta was one of the first planned cities in Europe and was laid out in a strict grid system after the Great Siege of 1565, to make it easier to defend. Once we learned this, we could really appreciate the city’s perfectly straight streets and admire its impressive bastions that have been used to defend its inhabitants for hundreds of years.
Some of our favorite stops included the Upper Barrakka Gardens with their incredible harbor views and the magnificent St. John’s Cathedral, which Alizea brought to life with stories of the Knights of St. John and their impact on Malta’s history.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to understand the significance of Valletta and not just see it as another postcard destination. With Alizea’s insights, every corner of the city felt like a window into Malta’s past. It’s a tour that leaves you with more than just photos; it leaves you with a true appreciation of Malta’s incredible heritage!
You can book this five-star history walking tour here
Related Read: If you’d like the perfect getaway to Malta all planned for you, check out our 5-day Malta itinerary!
8. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Gozo
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: See Gozo’s stunning coastal landscape by ATV and make stops at its most iconic natural wonders
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, hotel pick up/drop-off, private boat ride to Gozo, helmets, lunch
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 570+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves adventure and a healthy dose of adrenaline, this Gozo ATV tour is the ultimate way to explore the island and see its most beautiful areas. Combining the thrill of going off-road with seeing some of Gozo’s most stunning spots, it’s an experience we think anyone will appreciate.
From the rugged cliffs of Wied il-Ghasri to the sweeping views at the Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, this tour takes you to the Gozo you’ve dreamed of. And let’s not forget the Xwejni Salt Pans, where salt has been harvested for centuries. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Gozo’s past while also enjoying its natural beauty.
One of the best parts is the ride itself, as you bounce along dusty tracks and admire the Mediterranean. It’s the kind of freedom you can’t get on most tours, and it makes getting to every stop not only an adventure, but a beautiful one to boot.
We think this is perfect for anyone who wants to combine the best of Gozo’s natural beauty with an adventurous spirit.
Trust us, there’s no better way to see the island’s highlights than from the seat of an ATV! And we aren’t the only ones who feel this way—read glowing five-star reviews here to see why this is a must-do experience in Valletta!
Book this ATV adventure tour now!
9. Taste your way around Valletta and learn about its ancient history
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am (dates vary)
- Highlights: Enjoy the best Maltese food Valletta has to offer as you eat at local snacks and learn how its cuisine has been shaped by the island’s unique history
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, all food tastings, water
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
They say the best way to understand a country’s culture is through its food, but here in Valletta, every cobblestone street has a story to tell, too. This walking tour combines both, making it the perfect choice for travelers who want to dive deep into the city’s lesser-known history while sampling some of its most delicious local snacks.
We loved how this tour didn’t just cover the usual highlights. Instead, it took us through hidden alleys and overlooked corners where centuries of history have left their mark on secret gardens and ancient trade routes that helped shape the city’s culture. Along the way, our guide shared fascinating tales of sieges, knights, merchants, and pirates, painting a vivid picture of Valletta’s often chaotic past.
Of course, no exploration of Valletta would be complete without tasting its culinary heritage. One of our favorite stops was for pastizzi, a warm, flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese—a staple of Maltese street food! Learning how these snacks evolved from local bakeries into an everyday staple food was a treat.
We also learned that Valletta’s position as a Mediterranean crossroads brought flavors from North Africa, Italy, and beyond, creating a unique culinary melting pot that still thrives today.
This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to learn about Valletta’s past while sampling its best snacks along the way!
Book this history and food tour here!
Related Read: If you plan to explore outside of Valletta, have a look at our favorite things to do in all of Malta here!
Where to Stay in Valletta, Malta
Now that you’ve got a feel for all the best things to do in Valletta, it’s time to sort out where to stay in this incredible city. With Valletta’s UNESCO World Heritage status, you’ll be surrounded by stunning architecture, winding streets, and loads of charm no matter where you end up.
What we love most about Valletta is how walkable it is—staying here means you’re never far from the city’s vibrant energy and hidden gems. To make it easier for you to choose the perfect spot, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite hotels in Valletta, catering to every budget. If any of these still have rooms available, trust us—they’re all excellent picks!
Luxury – $$$
The Phoenicia Malta is a luxurious five-star hotel located just outside the gates of Valletta, offering stunning views over the Grand Harbour, historic city walls, and its own 7 acres of private gardens. Yes, really!
This iconic hotel combines timeless elegance with top-tier service. The rooms are beautifully designed with Mediterranean tiles and lots of natural light, but our favorite part of the hotel is the infinity pool, which is set against the ancient bastion walls and overlooks the harbor below. I also love the Himalayan salt sauna!
Standard double rooms here cost between €400 and €650 per night. View prices and book your stay here!
Mid-range – $$
The Gomerino Hotel is a beautiful four-star property in the heart of Valletta, just a short walk from popular sights like the Upper Barrakka Gardens and Valletta Waterfront. The rooftop pool is a definite highlight of this place, as it offers panoramic views of the city and harbour, but there’s a sumptuous heated indoor pool, too.
The rooms here are gorgeous, with a classical, elegant feel and private balconies. We also love the stylish on-site bar, which has a great selection of drinks, and a delicious breakfast buffet is included every morning. Double rooms here cost between €345 and €415 per night during peak season. Check availability and reserve your stay on Booking.com!
Budget – $
Casa Asti is a charming boutique inn tucked away in the heart of Valletta, just a short stroll from Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Valletta Waterfront. What makes this spot truly special is its old-world charm. The property’s original stone walls and traditional Maltese architecture really make it feel like you’re stepping back in time!
The rooms here are quite compact, but thanks to the stone walls and chandeliers, they still feel glamorous. On-site, there’s a cozy Mediterranean restaurant serving brunch, lunch, and even high tea, along with a bar where you can unwind after a day exploring the city.
Double rooms here cost around €175 per night, which we think is excellent value for money. See available rooms and book your stay here!
You can check out all of the listed hotels in Valletta here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Valletta truly captured our hearts with its rich history, lively streets, and breathtaking coastal views. I hope this guide has given you a great starting point for planning your own Maltese adventure! Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, diving into the vibrant food scene, or just soaking in the Mediterranean sun, I’m sure Valletta will leave you as enchanted as it left us.
If you’re dreaming of more European travels or just need a bit of wanderlust inspiration, be sure to take a peek at our other Europe blogs here. We’ve shared our favorite tips, stories, and hidden gems from our time exploring this amazing part of the world. Or check out some of our favorites below!
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