Valletta
Malta’s 16th century walled capital of Valletta, with its Grand Harbour, is a treasure-chest bristling with Baroque architecture. This most scenic of ancient ports echoes the epic, heroic history of the tiny island it nestles on. Centuries of invasion and siege have brought the influence of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Crusaders and the British – all leaving an enduring mark on Valletta’s cultural heritage. Home to The Knights of Malta, an order created in the Middle Ages, the town is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.
Baroque landmarks include the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral; its opulent interior is crowned by Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John".[ReadMoreMob] Other noteworthy attractions include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th century Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and the military artefacts in the National War Museum.
The cityscape is probably one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean – the city’s sun-drenched stone walls have an almost permanent warm, honey hue, while colourful, decorative balconies overlook the worn and tethered streets below. Fine restaurants and shops leap out from side streets or are tucked away in charming courtyards.
Valletta is also well-situated to discover the silent city of Mdina, a fortified city in the Northern Region of Malta and home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Top Experiences
Mdina
Often referred to as the ‘Silent City’, due to its massive walls and hidden lanes, Mdina is the old capital of Malta. The mysterious city is inhabited by just 300 – a world apart from modern Malta – and is best explored on foot or via horse-drawn carriage.
St John’s Co-Cathedral & Knights of St John
Sir Walter Scott called the sumptuous Baroque interior, which includes a large Caravaggio painting of John the Baptist, the most striking he'd ever seen. Commissioned in 1572 as a church for the Knights of St John, this is one of Malta's greatest treasures.
War History
Malta was collectively awarded the George Cross for the country's bravery in the face of the devastating WWII blitz. Top war-related sites of interest include the National War Museum, the Lascaris War Rooms, and the remains of the Opera House.
Cruises to Valletta
Mediterranean Discovery with Malta • T2127
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Med
- Beautiful Malta is at the heart of this historic itinerary
- Ancient treasures await you in the Spanish city of Cartagena
Iconic Italy with the Venice Carnival • L2204
- Tranquillity of ancient towns & opulence of iconic cities
- Enjoy time in Venice, to catch carnival’s sights & sounds
- In Croatia, view the spectacular Adriatic coastline
Iconic Italy with the Venice Carnival • L2204SN
- The tranquillity of ancient towns & opulence of iconic cities
- Enjoy time in Venice, to catch carnival’s sights & sounds
- In Croatia, view the spectacular Adriatic coastline
Corinth Canal & Ancient Greece • M2212
- Sail the extremely narrow Corinth Canal
- Discover the archaeological site of Olympia
- Explore the Acropolis & Parthenon in Athens
Corinth Canal and Greek Islands • M22CC
- Sail through the narrowing cliffs of Greece’s remarkable Corinth Canal
- Uncover the captivating sights and sites of Greek islands
- Immerse yourself in the Mediterranean magic of stunning cities in Spain
Black Sea Discovery & Mediterranean Adventure • L2222
- Visiting five stunning cities in five different countries
- Take the chance to visit wine valleys in Russia
- You’ll also experience the best of the Mediterranean
World Cruise from Liverpool • S220107
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Marvel at Sydney’s Harbour Bridge
- Experience the contrasts between Singapore & Asian islands
World Cruise • S2202
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Sample paradise at unspoilt Pacific Islands
- Sail the remarkable Panama and Suez canals
Around the World, Southampton to Liverpool • S220207
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Marvel at Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge
- Experience the contrasts between Singapore & Asian islands