Valletta is a fortified city on a hilly peninsula between two of Malta’s natural harbours. Its layout and history offer a distinctive introduction to the islands’ culture. From prehistoric sites to museums and fortifications, you’ll encounter very different layers of history here.

Valletta and the Prehistoric Sites

Valletta was founded after the Great Siege of Malta in 1566. The city covers 55 hectares and contains 320 monuments. Its cityscape is defined not only by individual buildings, but also by its fortified layout and position between the two harbours. Those interested in architecture and history will find a compelling introduction to Malta’s built heritage here.

The Maltese Islands are home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of them is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground burial site in Paola. It is considered the only known underground labyrinth in Europe dating from around 4000 to 2500 BC. The Hypogeum also contains the only known prehistoric wall paintings on the Maltese Islands. Its approximate dating and these two distinctive features give the site a unique historical dimension.

The Megalithic Temples of Malta comprise seven temples on Malta and Gozo and are among the world’s earliest freestanding stone structures. Their designs range from slabs with drilled holes to bas-reliefs depicting spirals, trees, plants and various animals. These decorations draw attention to the stone structures’ details, while their distribution across two islands reveals the wider geographical setting.

Museums, Fortifications and History

The collection at the National Museum of Archaeology spans from Malta’s Neolithic period, dated to 5900–2500 BC, to the early Phoenician period, from the 8th to the 6th century BC. The museum is housed in the Auberge de Provençe, a building dating from 1571. The site’s description thus brings together two different time periods: the collection’s long chronology and the age of its building.

The National War Museum covers 7,000 years of Maltese military history, from the Bronze Age to Malta’s accession to the European Union. The grounds of Fort St Elmo are also home to two chapels dedicated to Saint Anne. From Fort St Elmo, visitors can see both harbours around Valletta. History enthusiasts can explore different themes here: military development, the chapels’ religious dedication and views of the harbour landscape.

Experiences on Land and in the Water

Gozo also offers distinctive destinations with a range of attractions. The Citadel is an ancient fortified city in the heart of Gozo. For diving, Gozo offers submerged caves and tunnels; the Blue Hole at Dwejra is an internationally renowned dive site. The Blue Lagoon on Comino draws day-trippers, snorkellers and scuba divers. Conditions for visitors there can vary seasonally.

The Maltese Islands have more than 120 dive sites, all reachable from one another within minutes. Children aged ten and over can earn a PADI diving licence while on holiday in Malta. As participation requirements can change, check them before making plans. Malta’s coastline also has several Blue Flag beaches. The award recognises high standards in water quality and facilities; as certification status can change, it is worth checking the current listings if this is an important feature in your selection.

Malta’s village feasts include religious processions. The cuisine also reflects connections across the Mediterranean: it is influenced by Italy, especially Sicily, as well as by Arab and North African cuisine. The traditions behind crusty bread, oil, cheese and honey go back centuries. These cultural themes complement visits to historic sites with festivals and culinary traditions.

Travel Information

For arrival planning, Airport Direct TD4 connects Malta International Airport with Valletta and the Gozo Fast Ferry, with departures every 30 minutes. As the frequency can change, check the current timetable before travelling. The tallinja app offers journey planning with walking directions and public transport options. This lets you consider different ways to get around as you plan, while keeping cultural attractions and activities in view.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: San Lawrenz, Victoria, Xaghra, Xewkija, Xlendi, Bugibba, Sliema, Gzira, Zeitun, Mellieħa, Mgarr, Xemxija, Valletta, Attard, Kercem, Vittoriosa, St. Julians, Marsalforn, Mdina, Floriana, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Għasri, San Pawl Il-Baħar, Marsaskala, Naxxar, Pembroke, Santa Luċija, Marsaxlokk, Ta' Xbiex, Tarxien, San Ġwann, Mosta, Rabat, Munxar, Żabbar, Gozo, Żurrieq, Birkirkara, Swieqi, Birżebbuġa, Ħal Għaxaq, Qrendi, Għargħur, Dingli, Luqa, Mqabba, Santa Venera, Ghanjsielem, Ghammar, Gharb, Sannat, Nadur, Qala, Hal Kirkop, Paola, Iklin, Marsa, Fgura.

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