Valletta, Malta

Cruises from Valletta

Valletta - the jewel of the Maltese archipelago and the smallest capital in the European Union. This is a fortress city built entirely from honey-coloured limestone, encircled by the mighty bastions of the Knights Hospitaller and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Perched on a rocky peninsula between two natural harbours — the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour — Valletta amazes visitors with the sheer density of its historic landmarks: more than 300 architectural sites are packed into an area of less than one square kilometre.
For a cruise traveller, Valletta is a convenient and compact gateway to the Central Mediterranean, from which almost any corner of the island can be reached with ease. In 2025, the Port of Valletta set a new record: 962,966 cruise passengers passed through — 2.3% more than the year before — while the number of ship calls reached 385, up 8% on 2024. These figures confirm Valletta's status as one of the most sought-after harbours in the Mediterranean. 🚢

📋 Before setting off on a cruise from Valletta or going ashore for a few hours during a port call, here's what you need to know:
🇲🇹 Country: Malta
📍 Island: Malta (the main island of the Maltese archipelago)
👥 Population: around 5,800 residents in Valletta itself (Greater Valletta agglomeration — over 400,000)
📐 Area: approximately 0.8 km² — the smallest capital city in the European Union
🗣️ Languages: Maltese and English (both official)
💶 Currency: euro (EUR)
🕐 Time zone: CET (UTC+1), CEST (UTC+2) in summer — one hour behind Kyiv
☀️ Climate: Mediterranean, with mild winters (+12…+16 °C) and hot summers (+28…+32 °C)
✈️ Nearest airport: Malta International Airport (MLA) — about 10 minutes from the cruise port
⚓ Official name of the cruise port: Valletta Cruise Port (Grand Harbour)
🗺️ Port waters: the Grand Harbour — one of the finest natural deep-water harbours in the Mediterranean

🏛️ History of Valletta — from a knights' fortress to a Mediterranean gem
⏳ Founding of the fortress city
The history of Valletta began in 1566, shortly after the Great Siege of Malta of 1565, when a small garrison of Knights Hospitaller of the Order of St John, together with the Maltese people, halted a massive fleet of the Ottoman Empire. To commemorate this victory and its hero — Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette — a new fortress capital was laid out on the Sciberras peninsula and named in his honour. The design of the city was entrusted to the Italian military engineer Francesco Laparelli, and construction followed a strict grid of streets — a rare example of sixteenth-century Renaissance town planning that survives almost unchanged to this day.
⚔️ From colony to the capital of an independent state
In 1798, Malta was seized by Napoleon's French forces, and just two years later, following an appeal by the Maltese for assistance, the island came under British control, becoming an important naval base for the empire. During the Second World War, Valletta and its harbours endured massive bombing raids by Italian and German aircraft — in recognition of the Maltese people's resilience, King George VI awarded the island the collective George Cross, an image of which still adorns the national flag of Malta. Malta gained independence in 1964, became a republic in 1974, and Valletta remained its capital. In 1980, the entire historic city was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, in 2004 Malta joined the European Union, and in 2018 Valletta was honoured with the title of European Capital of Culture.

⚓ The Port of Valletta — the heart of the Grand Harbour
📊 Scale and structure of the port
The cruise port of Valletta is located directly within the Grand Harbour — one of the world's most famous natural harbours, known to sailors since Phoenician times. Liners dock alongside Pinto Wharf, better known as the Valletta Waterfront — a row of 19 magnificent warehouses built in 1752 on the orders of Grand Master Manuel Pinto da Fonseca, to a design by the architect Andrea Belli. Today these centuries-old baroque buildings house restaurants, cafés, boutiques and the main passenger terminal — the historic Magazino Hall, equipped with modern check-in systems, Wi-Fi and duty-free shops. In total, the port has seven berths and three passenger terminals, and since 2023 five cruise berths have been fitted with a shore power supply system — a project worth around EUR 50 million that allows liners to switch off their engines while in port.

🚢 How many liners the port can accommodate
The natural deep-water harbour can accommodate vessels of virtually any size, but the port can berth up to three cruise liners at the same time. In 2025, the Port of Valletta set an all-time record: 385 ship calls and 962,966 passengers — 2.3% more than in the previous record year of 2024 (940,915 passengers). Of the total, 772,664 were transit passengers spending the day ashore, while 190,302 were turnaround passengers beginning or ending their cruise in Malta.

🏢 Which cruise lines operate from Valletta
The Port of Valletta welcomes liners from the world's leading cruise brands: MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Silversea, Azamara, TUI Cruises, Marella Cruises, Fred Olsen and many others. The airport's proximity — just 10 minutes away — makes Valletta especially attractive for turnaround operations. 🌍

💡 Interesting facts about Valletta and its port
Getting to know the city is even more rewarding with a few lesser-known details:
🏰 Valletta is the world's most concentrated fortified city, built to a single plan over a single period. The entire city is, in effect, one continuous fortress.
🏆 In 1999, Valletta became the first fortress city to be fully inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List — a status first granted back in 1980, confirming the uniqueness of its Renaissance town planning.
⛪ St John's Co-Cathedral looks austere from the outside, yet inside it boasts the richest baroque decoration in Europe — it is home to Caravaggio's famous painting “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” the artist's only signed work.
🛡️ The George Cross, awarded to the Maltese people for their resilience during the Second World War, is still depicted in the upper left corner of Malta's national flag.
🚢 The Port of Valletta is managed by Global Ports Holding — the world's largest cruise terminal operator, with ports across four continents.
🏛️ Valletta is home to more than 320 monuments within an area of less than one square kilometre — one of the highest concentrations of historic sites anywhere in the world.
🌊 For centuries, the Grand Harbour served as the main base of the British Royal Navy in the Mediterranean, and today it remains one of the most important cruise hubs in the Central Mediterranean.

📍 Top landmarks in Valletta — must-sees for cruise visitors
A cruise ship call in Valletta usually lasts between 8 and 12 hours, and the city's compact size means most major landmarks can be reached on foot. A detailed list with photos, addresses and opening hours can be found in the “Landmarks and Attractions” section, while below is a brief overview of the iconic locations that define the city.
⛪ St John's Co-Cathedral — the principal church of the Knights Hospitaller, a masterpiece of baroque art with a floor covered in marble tombstones of knights and home to Caravaggio's celebrated painting.
🏛️ Grand Master's Palace — the former residence of the Order's Grand Masters and today the official residence of the President of Malta, with state rooms and a collection of historic armoury.
🌳 Upper Barrakka Gardens — Valletta's best viewpoint, with panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, from where the traditional midday cannon salute is fired every day.
🏘️ Valletta Waterfront (Pinto Wharf) — restored eighteenth-century warehouses right next to the cruise berth, lined with restaurants, cafés and shops — every cruise visitor's first impression of the city.
🏰 Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum — a stronghold at the very tip of the peninsula, which became a symbol of heroic resistance during the Great Siege of 1565 and the bombing raids of the Second World War.
🚣 The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, Cospicua) — historic harbour towns on the opposite shore of the Grand Harbour, reachable by traditional Maltese boat, the “dgħajsa” — a wonderful vantage point for admiring Valletta's fortifications from the water.
🏛️ Mdina — the island's former capital, a “silent city” of narrow medieval streets and St Paul's Cathedral, located about 30 minutes' drive from the port.
🏝️ Blue Lagoon (Comino) — a popular destination for boat excursions, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for passengers with a longer port call.

✨ Why choose a cruise from Valletta
Valletta is a compact yet remarkably rewarding port, perfectly suited for both turnaround calls and a single day in port.
First, the logistics are exceptionally convenient: Malta International Airport is just 10 minutes from the berth, keeping transfer times to a minimum. ✈️
Second, all the island's major sights — from Valletta's baroque palaces to the beaches of Sliema, Mdina and the Blue Lagoon — are within a short drive, so even a brief time ashore can be used to the fullest. 🌊
Third, Valletta itself is an open-air museum: stepping off the ship onto the Valletta Waterfront, climbing up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens and strolling through streets of honey-coloured stone is all it takes to feel the unmistakable atmosphere of the city of knights. 🏰

The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group will help you choose the ideal ship, itinerary and cabin, take care of airport transfer details, and offer exclusive rates from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean and other leading brands with whom we cooperate as a priority partner in Ukraine. 🤝

ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please consult a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the relevant venues.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals

How to Get to the Cruise Terminal in Valletta

Valletta is one of Europe's most picturesque and compact capitals, which makes it one of the most convenient cruise ports in the Mediterranean. Ships dock right in the heart of the Grand Harbour, just steps from the historic centre, so most passengers don't need complicated transfers. Still, there are several ways to reach the terminal — from the airport, from your hotel, or from another part of the island — and each has its own nuances. Below is a verified, step-by-step guide with up-to-date prices and tips from the cruise specialists at Four Gates Group. 

📍 Where exactly is the Valletta cruise port located
The Valletta Cruise Port is located directly within Valletta Waterfront — a promenade of restored 18th-century port warehouses at the foot of the capital's bastions.

⚓ Main passenger terminals:
• Magazino Hall — the port's main terminal, fully modernised, with electronic check-in and a capacity of at least 500 passengers per hour
• Pinto Terminal — an additional passenger terminal on Pinto Wharf
• Forni Terminal — a terminal within the Forni complex, surrounded by numerous waterfront cafés and restaurants
• The port has five cruise berths (including Boiler Wharf) equipped with shore power for vessels and can accommodate up to three large ships simultaneously
📌 GPS address: Pinto Wharf, Valletta Waterfront, Floriana FRN 1913, Malta
🚶 Distance to the city centre: about 1.2 km to City Gate — the main entrance to old Valletta, a 15–20 minute uphill walk

❗ Important: the exact terminal and berth for your ship are always indicated on your cruise voucher. Check this 48–72 hours before boarding — the berth can occasionally change depending on the port's schedule of other ship arrivals.

✈️ From Malta Airport (MLA) to the cruise terminal
Malta International Airport (code MLA) is located in Luqa, about 8 km from the Valletta cruise port. It is the country's only airport, receiving all international flights, including connections via major European hubs. Thanks to the short distance, the journey to the port takes just 10–25 minutes, depending on the mode of transport.

🚕 Taxi — the fastest and most convenient option
A counter for official taxis with fixed fares operates right in the arrivals hall, so you can buy your ticket in advance without negotiating with the driver.
• Travel time: 15–20 minutes (depending on traffic)
• Fixed fare to Valletta (as of 2026): around EUR 17–20
• Payment: cash or card at the taxi counter
• Apps: Bolt operates widely across Malta and is a convenient alternative to a traditional taxi
💡 Tip from Four Gates: ask the driver to drop you off directly at the Magazino Hall terminal on Valletta Waterfront — taxis have access to the port area.

🚐 Private transfer — the most comfortable option
If you're travelling with family, in a group, or with a lot of luggage, this is the best choice. A driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name board, help with your bags, and take you straight to the right terminal at the port.
• Travel time: 15–20 minutes
• Benefits: fixed price, English-speaking driver, flight monitoring, no waiting in line
🤝 Four Gates Group arranges private transfers for its clients — simply provide your flight number when booking your cruise.

🚌 TD4 bus (formerly known as X4) — the budget option
A direct bus route with a stop right at the airport terminal connects MLA to Valletta's main bus terminus.
• Route: from the stop in front of the arrivals terminal to the final stop — the Valletta bus terminus (City Gate)
• Travel time: 20–25 minutes depending on traffic
• Frequency: every 30 minutes, from early morning until late evening
• Cost: EUR 2 for a single ticket (cash to the driver) or EUR 2.50 for a ticket with transfers valid for 120 minutes
• Onward journey: from the bus terminus to the cruise port — a 15–20 minute downhill walk, or take circular bus route 130 to the “Waterfront” stop right by the terminal
⚠️ Important: buses have a designated luggage area, but a seat isn't guaranteed — during peak hours the bus can get crowded.

🚌 From other areas of Malta (Sliema, St Julian's) to the cruise terminal
If you spent the night before your cruise at a hotel in Sliema, St Julian's, or another coastal town, there are several ways to reach Valletta.

⛴️ Sliema–Valletta ferry (Marsamxett Ferry) — the fastest and most pleasant way across the harbour:
• Travel time: 5–10 minutes
• Cost: EUR 1.50–2.50 one way (depending on the time of day)
• Frequency: every 30 minutes throughout the day
❗ Important: the ferry arrives at the Marsamxett landing — on the opposite side of Valletta from the cruise port, which sits on the Grand Harbour. From the ferry landing to the cruise terminal you'll need either to walk through the city (15–20 minutes, partly along steep streets) or take circular bus route 130. This option is better suited for sightseeing than for a direct transfer with luggage to the ship.

🚌 Buses from coastal towns
Regular routes (including 13, 14, 15, 16, 21) connect Sliema and St Julian's to the Valletta bus terminus.
• Travel time: 20–25 minutes
• Cost: EUR 2 for a single ticket
• Onward journey: from the bus terminus to the port — a downhill walk, or bus route 130

🚕 Taxi or Bolt — the most convenient option with luggage: the driver will take you straight to the port terminal, with an estimated travel time of 15–20 minutes depending on the area.

🏙️ From central Valletta to the cruise terminal
If your hotel is located in Valletta itself, you can reach the ship on foot in just a few minutes.

🚶 On foot through Upper Barrakka Gardens
• Distance: about 1.2 km from City Gate to the terminal
• Time: 15–20 minutes, mostly downhill toward the port
• The route passes through Upper Barrakka Gardens, with panoramic views over the Grand Harbour

🚡 The Barrakka Lift — the quickest way to cover the change in elevation between the old town and the waterfront:
• Location: next to Upper Barrakka Gardens, about 300 metres from the port terminal
• Descent time: about 25 seconds
• Cost: EUR 1 one way
• Operating hours: daily, from morning until evening (until 21:00 in winter and until midnight in summer)
• Accessibility: the lift is suitable for passengers with reduced mobility and for those with luggage

🚌 Bus route 130 — a circular route around old Valletta with a “Waterfront” stop right by the port terminal, a convenient option for anyone who would rather not walk.

🚗 By car — parking near the port
If you're arriving at the port by rental or private car, there are a few things to keep in mind.

🅿️ Parking within Valletta Waterfront — located right next to the port's passenger terminals, a convenient option for dropping off passengers and short-term parking. For current rates and booking conditions, check directly with the port operator's website at vallettacruiseport.com.

🛣️ GPS route: from most parts of the island, the easiest way is via Marsa and Floriana to Valletta Waterfront — the main roads to the port run through these areas, bypassing the pedestrian zone of the historic centre.

⚠️ Important: access for private cars into old Valletta itself is strictly limited (the paid Controlled Vehicular Access zone). If your hotel is in the old town, check the rules for vehicle access with the hotel in advance.

♿ Accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility
The Valletta cruise port is well adapted for travellers with reduced mobility:
✅ The main Magazino Hall terminal is fully modernised, equipped with lifts and ramps
✅ The Barrakka Lift is suitable for passengers in wheelchairs and with large luggage
✅ Bus route 130 and most Malta Public Transport routes have low floors and wheelchair spaces
✅ Staff are available at every terminal to assist with boarding — let your cruise line know about your needs in advance
✅ Bolt and local taxi operators in Malta offer vehicles adapted for wheelchair users — it's best to book in advance

⏰ When to arrive at the cruise terminal
Most cruise lines open check-in counters 3–4 hours before the ship's departure. Recommended arrival times:
🕐 MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises: 3–3.5 hours before departure
🕐 Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity: at your assigned check-in time (usually 30-minute windows)
🕐 Explora Journeys, Silversea, Seabourn (luxury segment): any time after the terminal opens
❗ Boarding deadline: typically 60–90 minutes before departure — arriving late means you'll only see the ship from the shore. All Four Gates Group vouchers include the exact boarding time for your specific cruise.

💡 Tips from the Four Gates Group experts
Over years of working with Malta, our cruise specialists have put together a set of tips to save you time, money, and stress:

🌅 Fly in a day before your cruise. Even a few hours' flight delay can cost you the entire cruise — the ship won't wait. Malta is well worth spending at least one night in before departure.

💼 Book your transfer in advance. The island is small, but on peak embarkation days the taxi queue at the airport can grow. A pre-booked transfer guarantees a fixed price and zero waiting time.

💶 Carry small euro notes and coins. Cash is handy for the TD4 bus and the ferry, although more and more operators now accept cards. Keep EUR 5–10 in small change.

🚡 Use the Barrakka Lift. For just EUR 1 you'll save time and energy, especially in hot weather or with luggage — the lift connects the port waterfront to Upper Barrakka Gardens in 25 seconds.

🎒 Leave your luggage at the hotel before boarding. If you have a free morning before boarding, most hotels in Malta will store your bags free of charge, even after check-out.

📱 Download these apps in advance: Bolt (taxis), Tallinja (Malta Public Transport bus schedules), and Google Maps with an offline map of Malta — this will make getting around the island much easier.

🏨 Choose a hotel in Valletta, Sliema, or St Julian's. From there it's only 10–25 minutes to the port, making it easy to plan activities both before and after your cruise.

📞 Valletta cruise port contacts
Valletta Cruise Port (general information):+356 2567 3000
Malta emergency services: 112
Four Gates Group cruise specialists (24/7 for clients):+38 097 653 05 53

Cruise logistics from Valletta are among the simplest in the Mediterranean: a compact island, a ship docked right in the heart of the capital, and convenient transfer options for any budget. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group help our clients with every stage — from choosing the best flight to Malta to arranging a private transfer with a name board in the arrivals hall. Contact our manager, and your cruise from Valletta will start completely stress-free. 🛳️✨

ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is for general guidance only and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please check with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the relevant providers.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals

Landmarks and Sights of Valletta: A Complete Guide for Cruise Travellers

Valletta is the smallest capital city in the European Union by area, entirely enclosed within fortified walls and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List back in 1980. Within a tiny peninsula of less than 1 km² there are more than 320 monuments — making it a true open-air museum city where almost everything can be reached on foot. The Valletta Waterfront cruise terminal sits literally beneath the capital's fortress walls, so even with a 7–9 hour stop you can see Malta's main landmarks, and if you wish, even venture out to ancient Mdina or the megalithic temples. Below is a tried-and-tested guide to the key sights, with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and precise directions from the port to each attraction. 🎯

⛪ 1. St John's Co-Cathedral
💡 Interesting facts and background:
From the outside it's a restrained, almost austere fortress-like building, while inside it holds one of the richest Baroque interiors in Europe. The contrast is so striking that first-time visitors are often left speechless. ✨
🔹 The cathedral's floor is one continuous marble carpet of over 400 inlaid tombstones of Knights of the Order of St John, decorated with multicoloured marble, coats of arms and allegorical scenes of death.
🔹 A side chapel houses two paintings by Caravaggio — “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” (the only work the artist ever signed) and “Saint Jerome Writing”.
🔹 Each of the Order's eight “Langues” (national chapters) had its own chapel and competed to decorate it more lavishly than its neighbour — hence the extraordinary density of gold, frescoes and sculpture.
🔹 The ceiling paintings were created by the Italian artist Mattia Preti, who worked on them for more than six years.

📜 History:
The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1578 to a design by architect Girolamo Cassar as the main conventual church of the Order of St John, on the initiative of Grand Master Jean de la Cassière. The interior was originally modest, but in the second half of the 17th century the Knights set out to rival the splendour of Rome's churches — resulting in gilded carvings, marble inlay and Preti's frescoes.
In 1607–1608, Caravaggio arrived on Malta while fleeing a murder charge. He was admitted to the Order as a knight and painted “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” for the cathedral's oratory, but was soon imprisoned for assaulting another knight and fled the island. Today the cathedral is a UNESCO site and the country's foremost religious landmark.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• On foot: 10–15 minutes. From the terminal, take the Barrakka Lift (1 EUR return) up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, then walk through St George's Square along Republic Street
• Without the lift: climb the steps past the bastions, about 15–20 minutes
• Taxi: hardly necessary given the short distance, but a ride costs roughly 8–10 EUR

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Adults: 15 EUR (including audio guide)
• Students, seniors 65+: 12 EUR
• Children under 12: free when accompanied by an adult
• Belfry climb: additional 5 EUR
• Opening hours (2026): Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m.–4:45 p.m. (last admission 4:00 p.m.). Sundays and religious holidays — closed to tourist visits
⚠️ IMPORTANT: the cathedral museum is currently closed for refurbishment. A strict dress code applies — shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts and beachwear are not permitted.

🏛️ 2. Grand Master's Palace
💡 Interesting facts and background:
This was the first major building erected in the new capital immediately after its founding in 1566, and it remains one of the seats of power in the country today. 🏰
🔹 The Palace Armoury houses one of the world's largest collections of armour, swords, crossbows and firearms from the 16th to 18th centuries.
🔹 The state apartments display the world's only complete set of 18th-century French Gobelins tapestries, “Les Tentures des Indes”, depicting the exotic flora and fauna of the New World.
🔹 The corridors are decorated with frescoes by Matteo Perez d'Aleccio illustrating scenes from the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 — a 16th-century “comic strip” rendered in fine art.
🔹 Today the palace serves as the official residence of the President of Malta, and in 1921 it hosted the island's first constitutional parliament.

📜 History:
Construction began immediately after Valletta was founded by Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette. The site originally housed the “Auberge d'Italie”, the residence of the Order's Italian chapter, but two neighbouring villas were soon merged into a single Magistral Palace. Under British rule the building became the Governor's Palace, and after independence it became the residence of the head of state. Following extensive restoration, around 85% of the building is now open to visitors, including the restored Throne Room, the Grand Master's Study and the Ambassadors' Room.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• On foot: 10–15 minutes — take the Barrakka Lift (1 EUR) up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, then walk along Republic Street to St George's Square
• From St John's Co-Cathedral, it is just a 2-minute walk along the same street

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Adults (18+): 12 EUR
• Youths (12–17): 10 EUR
• Seniors (60+): 10 EUR
• Children (6–11): 8 EUR
• Children under 6: free
• Opening hours (2026): daily 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (last admission 30 minutes before closing)
⚠️ Please note: on days of state events, part of the Throne Room may be closed to visitors, depending on the President's Office schedule.

🌳 3. Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery (Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens, Saluting Battery)
💡 Interesting facts and background:
The Upper Barrakka Gardens sit on Valletta's highest bastion, offering the city's most famous panorama over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities on the opposite shore. 📸
🔹 Twice a day, at noon and at 4:00 p.m., the historic Saluting Battery fires a genuine cannon salute — a tradition dating back to the time of the Knights and continuing to this day.
🔹 A panoramic lift, the Barrakka Lift, runs from the gardens straight down to the waterfront — costing 1 EUR return, it is the fastest way down to the cruise port or the ferry quay.
🔹 The Lower Barrakka Gardens are home to the Siege Bell War Memorial, a huge bell commemorating those who died defending Malta during the Second World War, which is rung every day at exactly noon.

📜 History:
The gardens on this bastion were laid out in the 1560s by an Italian knight as a retreat for members of the Order, and opened to the public in 1824 under British rule. The Saluting Battery was used to signal ships entering the harbour and for ceremonial salutes in honour of distinguished visitors — a role it still fulfils today, having become one of the island's most photographed traditions.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• Barrakka Lift: located right at the port exit, the ride takes under a minute and costs 1 EUR return — the most convenient option
• On foot: via the steps past the bastions, 10–15 minutes

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens: free, open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Saluting Battery (guided visit with audio guide): adults — 3 EUR, children under 16 — 1 EUR
• Heritage Multi-Site Pass (Saluting Battery, Lascaris War Rooms, Malta at War Museum, Fort Rinella): 25 EUR
⚠️ Tip: plan to be in the gardens before noon so you can catch both the Saluting Battery's cannon fire and the bell in the Lower Gardens.

🏰 4. Mdina — the “Silent City”
💡 Interesting facts and background:
Mdina is Malta's former capital, predating the founding of Valletta by centuries. Its nickname, the “Silent City”, comes from the hushed atmosphere of its narrow medieval streets, where motor traffic is almost entirely absent. 🤫
🔹 The name derives from the Arabic word “medina”, meaning “city”, which became attached to the settlement during Arab rule in the 9th–11th centuries.
🔹 According to tradition, it was here that the Apostle Paul, after being shipwrecked off Malta in AD 60, met the island's Roman governor Publius — and St Paul's Cathedral was later built on the site.
🔹 Mdina became world-famous as one of the main filming locations for “Game of Thrones”, with its streets standing in for King's Landing in the first season. 🎬
🔹 Descendants of the Maltese nobility still live here, and the permanent population numbers only a few hundred people.

📜 History:
A settlement existed on this hilltop as far back as Phoenician and Roman times, under the name Melite. During Arab rule (870–1091), the city was walled and renamed Mdina, with the surrounding suburb — today's Rabat — separated off. Mdina remained the island's administrative capital until the arrival of the Knights of St John in the 16th century, who moved the seat of power first to Birgu and later to the newly built Valletta. The 1693 earthquake badly damaged the cathedral, which was subsequently rebuilt in Baroque style to a design by architect Lorenzo Gafà.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• Taxi: 20–25 minutes, approximately 20–30 EUR one way
• Public bus: from the main bus terminus near the Triton Fountain (a 10-minute uphill walk from the port), routes 51, 52 or 53 to the Rabat stop — about 25 minutes, fare approximately 2 EUR
• Ride-hailing apps (Bolt, eCabs) are often cheaper than a taxi from the port

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Walking through the old town: free, open around the clock
• St Paul's Cathedral: approximately 5 EUR, open daily (except during services)
• Mdina's museums and dungeons: separate admission fees apply, check prices on site
⚠️ Tip: given the travel time, allow at least 3–4 hours for a visit to Mdina, including the round-trip transfer.

⛵ 5. The Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua
💡 Interesting facts and background:
The Three Cities — Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla) — occupy peninsulas directly across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. They see far fewer tourists, but the atmosphere is just as authentic. 🚤
🔹 Before Valletta was built, Birgu served as the headquarters of the Order of St John from 1530, and the massive Fort St Angelo still stands here.
🔹 In Senglea, a bastion tower known as “Gardjola” bears carved symbols of an eye and an ear — representing the constant vigilance of the watchmen.
🔹 The Three Cities are linked by the vast Cottonera Lines fortifications, one of the largest continuous defensive systems in the world.
🔹 The Grand Harbour can be crossed aboard a traditional wooden “dgħajsa” — a historic Maltese water taxi, brightly painted with an “eye” on its bow. 👁️

📜 History:
After the victorious Great Siege of 1565, Birgu was given the honorary name “Vittoriosa” — the “victorious city”. It remained the residence of the Grand Masters until Valletta was completed in 1571. The Three Cities later became the heart of the British naval base, where Royal Navy ships were built and repaired — which made the area a heavy target for bombing during the Second World War.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• Ferry / water taxi (dgħajsa): from Lascaris Wharf (below the Upper Barrakka Gardens, reached via the Barrakka Lift) to Birgu — the crossing takes 10–15 minutes
• Bus: from the main bus terminus to Cospicua or Birgu, 20–25 minutes
• Taxi: 10–15 minutes around the harbour

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Ferry / water taxi: 2 EUR one way per person
• Harbour boat tour with a boatman: approximately 8–15 EUR for 30 minutes
• Walking through the Three Cities: free
• Fort St Angelo and other museums: admission charges apply, check prices on site

🗿 6. The Megalithic Temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra
💡 Interesting facts and background:
These are among the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world — older than the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. 🪨
🔹 Both complexes date from around 3600–3000 BC and form part of the UNESCO “Megalithic Temples of Malta” listing.
🔹 Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are linked by a scenic coastal path roughly 500 metres long, with views over rugged cliffs and the islet of Filfla.
🔹 In Mnajdra's southern temple, one opening is aligned so that during the solstices and equinoxes a beam of sunlight enters the inner chamber — a phenomenon that draws researchers and visitors every year.
🔹 Protective canopies have been erected over the temples, and the visitor centre shows a short film about the daily life of the island's prehistoric inhabitants.

📜 History:
The temples were built by Malta's ancient “temple culture” long before the island had a written language. Their exact purpose remains a subject of scholarly debate, though they were most likely used for religious rites and ceremonies. Excavations took place throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and the site is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing alongside the Tarxien Temples and Ġgantija on Gozo.

🚢 How to get there from Valletta Waterfront cruise port:
• Taxi: about 30 minutes one way, approximately 25–35 EUR
• Bus: there is no direct route from the port, so a taxi or a pre-booked excursion is the more practical option
• Located near the village of Qrendi on the island's southern coast, about 15 km from Valletta

💶 Price and opening hours:
• Combined ticket for both temples: 10 EUR (adults), with discounts for children, students and visitors 65+
• Heritage Multi-Site Pass (5 archaeological sites, including Tarxien): 25 EUR
• Opening hours (2026): daily, approximately 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. in summer and 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. in winter, last admission 30 minutes before closing
⚠️ Tip: given the distance and travel time, it's worth combining this excursion with a stop along the coast — for example, at the Blue Grotto.

🎨 7. Other Sights Worth Visiting
• 🕳️ Lascaris War Rooms — the underground Second World War command centre from which Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily, was coordinated. Admission is approximately 15 EUR, with guided tunnel tours available for an additional 17 EUR.
• 🏠 Casa Rocca Piccola (Republic Street) — a 16th-century Maltese noble family palace with original interiors and underground air-raid shelters.
• ⚔️ Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum — at the very tip of the peninsula, dedicated to Malta's defence during the Great Siege of 1565 and the Second World War.
• 🔔 The Siege Bell War Memorial in the Lower Barrakka Gardens — honours those who died after Malta was awarded the George Cross in 1942.
• 🖼️ MUŻA (Auberge d'Italie) — the national community art museum, with free or nominal admission.
• 🕯️ The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum — a unique underground Neolithic sanctuary located in Paola, outside Valletta; ticket numbers are strictly limited, so booking online well in advance is essential.

🗺️ Three Self-Guided Routes Around Valletta in 8 Hours
A cruise call at Valletta typically lasts 7–9 hours. Because the port sits right beneath the city walls, even a budget route lets you see Malta's main landmarks without rushing. Below are three options depending on your budget and preferences.

🥉 Route 1. Budget — up to 15 EUR per person
⏱️ Total time: 8 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: 10–15 EUR + food

🕘 9:00 a.m. — Leave the Valletta Waterfront cruise terminal
Take the Barrakka Lift (1 EUR) up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

🕘 9:10–10:00 a.m. — Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery
Enjoy the panoramic view of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Optionally, visit the Saluting Battery (3 EUR) for the noon cannon fire (you can return later).

🕙 10:00–11:00 a.m. — Republic Street and St George's Square
Stroll along Valletta's pedestrian main street — street cafés, local shops, and a photo stop at the Grand Master's Palace (exterior — free).

🕚 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — St John's Co-Cathedral (exterior visit)
Walk around the cathedral and photograph the façade. Optionally, go inside (15 EUR) to see Caravaggio's masterpieces.

🕛 12:00 p.m. — The bell at the Lower Barrakka Gardens
Walk down to the Lower Barrakka Gardens (10 minutes) to hear the Siege Bell War Memorial ring at exactly noon. Free.

🕐 12:30–1:30 p.m. — Lunch at one of Valletta's cafés
Local dishes (pastizzi, fish menus) — approximately 10–18 EUR.

🕝 1:30–3:30 p.m. — Free time along the bastions and waterfront
A walk along the fortifications with sea views, free of charge.

🕞 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Take the lift down to the port and return to the ship
Barrakka Lift (1 EUR), then check in on board.

💰 Cost breakdown:
• Barrakka Lift (return): 1 EUR
• Saluting Battery (optional): 3 EUR
• Lunch: 10–18 EUR
💸 TOTAL: 11–22 EUR per person (excluding the cathedral admission ticket)

🥈 Route 2. Optimal — 50–70 EUR per person
⏱️ Total time: 8 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: 55–65 EUR + food

🕘 9:00 a.m. — Leave the port, take the Barrakka Lift (1 EUR) to the Upper Barrakka Gardens

🕘 9:10–10:00 a.m. — Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery
Visit the Saluting Battery with an audio guide — 3 EUR.

🕙 10:00–11:15 a.m. — St John's Co-Cathedral
Full visit with audio guide — 15 EUR. See Caravaggio's masterpieces and the marble memorial floor.

🕚 11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Grand Master's Palace
Admission to the State Rooms and the Armoury — 12 EUR.

🕧 12:30–1:30 p.m. — Lunch on Republic Street or at Valletta Waterfront
Approximately 15–20 EUR for a main course with a drink.

🕐 1:30–2:00 p.m. — Walk down to Lascaris Wharf
Take the Barrakka Lift (1 EUR) down to the waterfront.

🕝 2:00–3:30 p.m. — Crossing to the Three Cities (Birgu)
Ferry or water taxi (2 EUR one way), then a walk through Vittoriosa and an exterior view of Fort St Angelo.

🕒 3:30–4:00 p.m. — Return ferry to Valletta (2 EUR)

🕓 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Walk along the waterfront back to the cruise terminal

💰 Cost breakdown:
• Barrakka Lift (2 trips): 2 EUR
• Saluting Battery: 3 EUR
• St John's Co-Cathedral: 15 EUR
• Grand Master's Palace: 12 EUR
• Ferry to the Three Cities and back: 4 EUR
• Lunch: 15–20 EUR
💸 TOTAL: 51–56 EUR per person
💡 If you swap the Grand Master's Palace for a visit to the Lascaris War Rooms (15 EUR), the total cost stays almost the same — but the experience will be quite different.

🥇 Route 3. Premium — private excursion from 300 EUR per person
⏱️ Total time: 8 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: 300–450 EUR + tickets

🏆 What's included:
• ✅ Private driver meeting you with a name sign right at the ship's gangway
• ✅ A comfortable car/minivan for the whole day
• ✅ A professional, licensed Ukrainian-speaking or English-speaking guide
• ✅ Skip-the-line tickets to the main attractions (no waiting)
• ✅ Restaurant table reservations
• ✅ A flexible itinerary — adjusted on the go

You can book through your cruise concierge, or contact us directly through any convenient channel:

Phone numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell):    +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar):   +380 97 653 05 53

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🕘 8:30 a.m. — Meet your driver and guide at the terminal

🕘 9:00–10:30 a.m. — Private tour of Valletta
St John's Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master's Palace with skip-the-line access, plus the Barrakka Gardens.

🕚 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Mdina, the “Silent City”
Drive (20–25 minutes). A private walk through the medieval streets, St Paul's Cathedral, and views from the city walls.

🕧 12:45–2:15 p.m. — Lunch at a charming restaurant in or near Mdina
Traditional Maltese cuisine in historic surroundings — from approximately 40 EUR per person. The reservation is handled by your guide.

🕝 2:30–3:45 p.m. — The megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra
Drive (20 minutes). Skip-the-line entry, with a walk along the coastal path between the two temple complexes.

🕞 4:00–5:00 p.m. — The Three Cities (Birgu) with your guide
A private walk around Fort St Angelo and through the streets of Vittoriosa, with a possible short boat crossing back to Valletta.

🕟 5:15 p.m. — Return to the port in a comfortable car

💰 Cost breakdown:
• Private guide (8 hours): from 200 EUR
• Driver with car (8 hours): from 150 EUR
• Skip-the-line tickets (Cathedral + Palace + Ħaġar Qim/Mnajdra): from 35 EUR
• Lunch at a themed restaurant: from 40 EUR
💸 TOTAL: from 425 EUR per person (for 2 or more people — this is a group price, not per person)

🤝 Four Gates Group arranges private excursions around Valletta and the island of Malta with licensed guides, transfers from the ship's gangway, and a guaranteed return on board. Contact your cruise specialist, and your day in Valletta will be tailored perfectly to your tastes. 🛳️✨

⚠️ Good to know before you go ashore
🕐 The “all aboard” rule: you must be back on board at least 60 minutes before departure. If you're late, the ship will not wait, and catching up with it at the next port will be at your own expense.
🪪 Documents: bring a photocopy of your passport and your cruise Ship Card.
💶 Cash: carry 30–50 EUR in cash for small expenses (restrooms, the lift, the ferry, cafés).
👟 Clothing and footwear: wear comfortable closed shoes — the cobblestones in Valletta and Mdina are very uneven and become slippery after rain. For St John's Co-Cathedral, shoulders and knees must be covered.
📱 Internet: free Wi-Fi is available at the port and in central Valletta. Download an offline Google Maps map in advance for navigation.
🔐 Safety: Malta is one of the safest countries in the Mediterranean, though normal precautions in crowded areas are still advisable.
☀️ Sun protection: even outside peak season, the sun on the island is quite strong. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
🚫 Sundays and holidays: the Grand Master's Palace and the cathedral may have reduced or altered opening hours on religious holidays — check the schedule in advance.

ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant attractions.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals