Valletta Cruise Port

Valletta Overview

Valletta is dense, historic, and easy to walk. The port sits below the walls, so you climb either by stairs or a quick lift. Most cruisers split time between wandering streets, cathedral visits, and harbor views.

A Little History

The Knights of St. John built Valletta after the Great Siege of 1565. The grid layout, bastions, and Baroque buildings come from that era. British rule added balconies, gardens, and modern touches. Tourism and government offices shape today’s center.

Museums

St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum, the National Museum of Archaeology, Fort St Elmo (War Museum), and MUZA (art). Many close Monday. St John’s often uses timed entry.

• Tip: Visit St John’s early to avoid congestion.

Major Parks and Attractions

Upper Barrakka Gardens for harbor views, Grand Harbour lifts, cathedral, forts, and waterfront walks. Streets are steep; wear good shoes. Crowds build by noon near Republic Street.

Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)

Mdina (half day by bus/taxi), Three Cities by ferry (3–4 hours), Sliema waterfront (half day), and Blue Grotto (half day by taxi or tour).

Shopping

Republic and Merchant Streets have crafts, linens, and small boutiques. Food shops sell local oils and sweets.

• Note: Many places close early on Sunday.

Food and Drink

Rabbit dishes, pastizzi, seafood, and hearty Mediterranean plates. Cafes offer quick snacks. Dinner reservations help near the waterfront. Practical eating tips:

• Grab pastizzi if you want a fast, cheap bite.
• Lunch menus are usually better value than dinner.
• Avoid restaurant clusters right at the lift for better prices.

Currency, Payments, ATMs

Euro. Cards accepted everywhere. Bank ATMs around the city.

Opening Hours and Holidays

Shops 10:00–19:00. Museums close Monday. Holidays that may affect hours or services:

• Mar 31 (Freedom Day)
• Jun 7 (Sette Giugno)
• Sep 8 (Victory Day)
• Dec 13 (Republic Day)
• Dec 25 (Christmas)

Practical City Notes

Slopes are real; pace yourself. Ferries are fast and cheap. Taxis reliable. English is an official language.

Quick Plans

1. 3–4 hours: Upper Barrakka, cathedral, and a simple old town loop.
2. 6–8 hours: Add MUZA or Fort St Elmo plus a ferry to the Three Cities.
3. Full day: Mdina plus Valletta highlights.

Cruise Port Map

https://www.vallettacruiseport.com/