The 23 best free attractions in Sliema

Wandering through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time. Highlights include the impressive St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the tranquil Upper Barracca Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. The city is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

Our first real ‘wooh’ moment as we walked the city of Valetta was the Lower Barrakka. As you enter the gardens you feel the peacefulness of the area and the tranquil sound of the water fountain is calming. The views looking over the water are stunning and the colour off the buildings from the sun is beautiful.

The Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta are a tranquil, smaller counterpart to the Upper Gardens, offering beautiful views of the Grand Harbour. They are home to a prominent neoclassical monument dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball and a temple-like structure, providing a peaceful escape for a quiet stroll and a moment of reflection.

A very lively place with great views of sea and city . Unique variety of flowers and cute benches to sit in . The arches are very beautiful and makes great pictures . Overall stunning place with stunning view. Entry free

What a wonderful find and what a stunning green oasis on the edge of Valetta! Perfect for a quiet break from the hustle of the old city, with perfectly kept gardens and amazing views across the sea. The colourful flowerbeds and the turqoise waters make it a dream for photographers or instagram posters. Plus there is a public toilet here if you must!

Lovely views, unfortunately the siege bell tower was covered up for maintenance (presumably). There a cafe/restaurant on site and places to sit and rest for a while after all the hills/steps. Worth going via St Barbara Street for the classic balconied apartments look.

A nice and clean place. Quite peaceful, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops. It’s very safe, without undocumented individuals posing as doctors or engineers like in Western Europe.

It was my second time visiting the fountain it’s beautiful and definitely worth stopping by to admire this amazing piece of art. Highly recommend going very, very early to avoid the crowds, take a memorable photo, and enjoy the place more peacefully. the staff supervising the area is ABSURDLY rude. We witnessed them yelling at and insulting tourists. While the job might require a certain level of authority, that doesn’t justify the way they treat visitors. If you work in such a high-stress environment, patience should be part of the job.

A stunning monument that really takes you by surprise when you approach it by foot like I did. The craftsmanship of the figures and the surrounds is quality and the water flowing on a very hot day makes you feel cooler somehow. This is a main meeting point for a lot of people as it’s at the entrance to the city and makes great photos.

Iconic Fountain and Perfect Photo Spot The Tritons’ Fountain is one of Valletta’s most iconic landmarks. Beautifully restored, it looks especially impressive with the water flowing and the grand backdrop of the city gate. A great place to take photos, relax for a moment, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the entrance to Valletta.

Valletta is a city walk that feels like time travel—absolutely worth it. Legend says the Knights once stood their ground here, defending the island against the Ottoman siege. Beneath your feet lie hidden tunnels, only partly unearthed, whispering secrets from centuries past. On rooftops, bull horns hang—a forgotten charm against evil, still watching silently over the streets. Stroll along the city walls and the Mediterranean stretches out before you—vast, blue, eternal. Inside St. John’s Co-Cathedral, gold glimmers in every corner, as if the light itself were centuries old. The Grandmaster’s Palace holds an armory of over 5,000 weapons—silent witnesses to battles long faded. This ancient city blends Renaissance elegance with Baroque grandeur, like a living museum. Every corner holds a tale. Even the air seems laced with the spirit of the Knights.

Very beautiful monument. Rarely has a fountain fascinated me so much. The positioning and postures of the three statues form a magnificent composition. A beautiful piece to mark the entrance to such a beautiful city.

We have seen this restored fountain several times during daylight, but, until recently not at night. In the day, it is a stunningly beautiful fountain. At night, the lighting lifts it to another level.

The Tritons’ Fountain is a monumental landmark located just outside Valletta's City Gate. Designed by sculptor Vincent Apap and completed in 1959, the fountain features three bronze tritons—sea gods from Greek mythology—balancing a massive basin on their shoulders. This powerful work of art symbolizes Malta's deep connection to the sea and its maritime history. After years of disrepair, the fountain underwent an extensive and meticulous restoration, returning it to its former glory just in time for Valletta’s designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. It is now a stunning, iconic meeting point and a perfect photo opportunity for visitors entering the capital.

This represents the entrance of the fortified town of Valetta and the old houses and streets, leading to Fort St Elmo. You can see the 2 modern structures in big blocks of stone and the ancient ones. There is a huge place with a wonderful fountain in the center. There are some small food trucks on the side, where you can buy some affordable sandwiches, pastries and drinks of all sorts.

Valletta must be visited! Be prepared to do lots of walking up and down steep roads and lots of stairs. Filled with quaint cafes and shops. Also be ready for lots of tourists during the summer months.

The city gate is a great place to stay you wander around the old city of Valletta. The shear size and scale of the walls is so impressive. The gate has been made to accommodate all the visitors to the old city and it works very well with a wide bridge giving access to the city.

A nice and clean place. Quite peaceful, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops. It’s very safe, without undocumented individuals posing as doctors or engineers like in Western Europe.

Panoramic views of the Triton fountain, Phonecia building, Valletta walls and all year long tourism traffic making it the most vibrant place. Landmark of Valletta and Malta overall.

The Valletta City Gate is the main entrance to Malta’s capital and the perfect starting point for exploring the city. As soon as you pass through, you get a mix of history and modern design, since the gate itself is a contemporary structure by architect Renzo Piano, blending seamlessly with the old fortifications of Valletta. The contrast between the massive stone walls and the sleek, minimalist gate makes it a unique landmark. It’s impressive both during the day and at night when it’s softly lit. Right after entering, you’re greeted by Republic Street, the city’s main road, leading to some of Valletta’s most important sites. The whole area around the gate is lively, with plenty of spots to take great photos. It’s also a great place to just pause and admire the scale of Valletta’s fortifications before heading further into the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, walking through the City Gate always feels like stepping into history. Definitely worth taking a moment to appreciate!

When i visted Valletta is a stunning city rich in history and culture. The city walls and most was excellent walking across the bridge.The magnificent St. John's Co-Cathedral is a visual feast and definitely overwhelming, i visited the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, making it a must-visit spot. The city is quite hilly, Amazing views looking down the streets, flags, shops and beautiful buildings. Pletty of cafes, places to stay, can be a bit hilly walking around. The city is total amazing, so much to see.

So worth a visit, only €3 a person and it included a tour afterwards (30-45 mins) where you learn all about the different types of guns and the history surrounding them. Well worth it. The tour guide (nicknamed sidearm) was brilliant. Very funny and kept us entertained. Also had brilliant views of the three cities and grand harbour.

The Saluting Battery was well worth a visit and great value at just €3 per person. We visited just before the noon cannon salute and stayed for the 25-minute tour afterwards. Our guide and cannon expert, Joseph, fired the noon cannon, but first explained how it worked. In the tour afterwards he explained the history of the Grand Harbour and its importance to Valletta and Europe. Joseph’s knowledge was excellent and his passion evident to see. Highly recommend a visit.

We recently had a team dinner at Saluting Battery in Valletta, and it was an exceptional experience. The venue offers a truly unique setting overlooking the Grand Harbour, with stunning evening views that add a special touch to any event. The highlight of the evening was the firing of the historic cannons, a fascinating and memorable tradition that gave the dinner a distinctive Maltese flair. The atmosphere was both elegant and relaxed, making it perfect for a team gathering. The food and service were excellent — well-presented dishes, attentive staff, and a smooth dining experience throughout. The blend of history, fine dining, and scenic views made this an unforgettable occasion. Highly recommended for corporate events, special dinners, or anyone wanting to enjoy a piece of Malta’s living history in style.

Love this place! Fantastic views across to the 3 cities and fort StAngelo. If you plan to get the ferry across the water then the lift is here down to the terminal. 1€ per person for all day access to the lift. It's a nice walk down the hill, otherwise. Plus a long hot and sweaty walk back up when you return. Im fit as a fiddle, but highly recommend using the lift.

Definitely a must the cannon is fired at 12 noon and 1600 hours .it does bring a good crowd you can pay to be nearer the gun there is explained by the gun crew the history about why they fire the gun . But you can stay at the upper viewing point for free and still get a good view..better to pay i would say or of you have the heritage pass you are sorted it's included .

Saw the 4pm saluting battery on Saturday. Was well worth the €3. If you get there early then they run you through a demonstration, you can see the saluting battery up close and watch them fire it and then there’s a further talk afterwards going through all the bits that they use for the guns. Kyle was the guard who told us all about it and carried out the firing of the gun. Really good information and he made it amusing too!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Saluting Battery in Valletta is an unforgettable experience and a true gem of Maltese history! Perched just below the Upper Barrakka Gardens, it offers breathtaking views over the Grand Harbour — some of the best in all of Malta. The highlight, of course, is the daily cannon firing at noon, which is executed with impressive precision and a sense of historical ceremony. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing fascinating insights into the island’s military past. It’s both educational and visually stunning. Make sure to arrive a bit early for the best spot. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Valletta!

With all the historic buildings, this part of the city is a great attraction for everyone. Not only many historical buildings creating an amazing view, but also works of architecture and super yachts that you are unlikely to see in most European ports.

We went here to see the Malta Fireworks Festival. And oh boy were we impressed… in fact that’s an understatement!!! BEST fireworks I’ve ever seen, I think I would like to come here for NYE if this is their standard 😁

Superb place, With its position in central Mediterranean, Malta has always attracted the attention of reigning supremacies. This deep natural harbour has been regarded as a safe refuge since ancient times. With its breathtaking views of Fort St. Angelo, Fort Ricasoli and the historic Three Cities (Bormla also known as Cospicua, Birgu or Vittoriosa and Isla, otherwise known as Senglea) on one side and the magnificent re-developed Pinto Vaults on the other, Malta’s Grand Harbour commands the respect of many seafarers, tourists and historians of all nationalities. The physical features of the harbour did not change much over the centuries but when comparing the fortifications and amenities introduced through time, one will notice the changes that occurred during its long history. Early and medieval times Historical evidence shows that the Grand Harbour was used as a main port since at least the Roman period. Medieval times in Malta were characterised by continual conflicts at sea, with Malta changing its feudal lords quite often. Foreign overlords had their own ships which visited the Grand Harbour on a regular basis. The Order of St. John On 26 October 1530, Philippe Villiers de l'Isle-Adam, Grand Master of the Knights, sailed into Malta's Grand Harbour to take claim of the island, which had been granted to the Knights by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Seven years earlier, the Knights had been forced from their Rhodes base by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. In the 15th century the entrance to the Grand Harbour was not defended. There were hardly any dwellings on the Xebb ir-Ras peninsula and the left-hand side of the entrance, now occupied by Fort Ricasoli, was not yet fortified. Birgu was then more or less a hamlet but it provided certain services along its wharf. It was the centre for all transactions involving administration, trading and handling of sea vessels. Elsewhere the harbour area was deserted, while a few people lived in Bormla and Isla. The Grand Harbour provided shelter for all types of vessels in its creeks. Fresh drinking water was available at the innermost end of the harbour in the Marsa area. However, large areas of the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett were still too exposed to the elements. Probably the berthing of ships was confined to the creeks where they would find safety and deep waters for anchorages. Once the Order decided to remain in Malta all attention was focused on upgrading the harbour area. All present fortifications, most of the warehouses and a good number of manmade quays were conceived by the Knights, who eventually along with the rest of mainland Europe, came to appreciate Malta as a stronghold against Muslim territorial expansion. The island's position in the centre of the Mediterranean made it a strategically crucial gateway between East and West, especially as the corsairs increased their forays into the western Mediterranean throughout the 1540s and 1550s. Following the siege on the island of Gozo in 1551, another Ottoman invasion was expected within a year. Grand Master Juan de Homedes, ordered the strengthening of Fort St. Angelo at the tip of Birgu, as well as the construction of two new forts, Fort St. Michael on the Senglea promontory and Fort St. Elmo at the seaward end of Xebb ir-Ras. The two new forts were built in the remarkably short period of six months in 1552. All three forts proved crucial during the Great Siege (1565). The Turkish armada arrived at dawn on Friday 18 May 1565, but did not at once make land. The fleet sailed up the southern coast of the island and anchored at Marsaxlokk harbour, nearly 10 kilometres from the Great Port, as the Grand Harbour was then known. From the ramparts of Fort St. Angelo Grand Master La Vallette directed all major battles against the Turks. Fort St. Elmo was manned by around 100 knights and 500 soldiers but La Vallette ordered them to fight to the last, intending to hold out for a relief promised by Don Garcia, Viceroy of Sicily.

Visiting Valletta, the capital of Malta, back in April 2019. Our cruise ship docked near the Grand Harbor. Beautiful views from the upper gardens and the weather was great in April. We were so lucky to have watched the performance of the Saluting Battery with crowds of visitors.

God loved that place as he created it... As a family we enjoyed romantic walks in that part of city, it is really beutiful. Looking forward to come back again.

Majestic harbour providing shelter to boats, towns and the capital city Valletta. Cross the grand harbour from Valletta to the three cities by boat. All bastion walls were built by the Knights and the Maltese in the 1500s and recently restored to their formal glory.

One of the most beautiful places I have visited frequently each year. So much to see. Beautiful surroundings and natural settings. Glorious food and wine and wonderful people who have always been so welcoming.

My Experience at St. John’s Co-Cathedral Even after living in Malta for twenty years, every time I enter St. John’s Co-Cathedral, I feel the same sense of wonder, as if I am stepping into a sacred dream. This place is truly gem; it holds a presence that is both powerful and peaceful. The golden walls shimmer with history, and the silence feels alive, filled with centuries of faith and devotion. The pavimento, with its intricate marble inlays, tells another story beneath my feet rest the tombs of the Knights and the clerics of the Order. Each stone is like a chapter of history, each symbol a reminder of honor, sacrifice, and belief. It feels as though their spirits still guard this holy place. And then, there is Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. No matter how many times I stand before it, I am always struck by its intensity. The light and darkness, the raw humanity, the silence that follows the violence it all reaches deep into the soul. It’s not just a painting; it’s a revelation in each single detail. As an Italian who has called Malta home for two decades, this cathedral feels like a bridge between my origins and my adopted island. Every visit reminds me that beauty, faith, and art can transcend time and language. St. John’s Co-Cathedral is not only a monument it is a living, breathing miracle.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is an **absolutely majestic and lavish masterpiece**. From the moment you step inside, you're surrounded by **ornate baroque architecture, gilded details, and stunning frescoes** that reflect the grandeur of Malta’s rich history. The site is **exceptionally well maintained**, and every corner tells a story. The **audio guide is available directly on your smartphone**, making the visit smooth and informative. It’s a great way to explore at your own pace while learning about the cathedral’s fascinating background. ⏳ **Tip**: Be sure to **buy your tickets online** in advance — it helps you **skip the queue at the entrance**, especially during peak hours. A must-see in Valletta for anyone interested in art, history, or simply breathtaking architecture!

One of the best place to visit when you are in Malta. I recommend buying tickets in advance (skip the line one). Ticket for children under 12 is free. There is audio guide available at each section. Once you scan the qr code, you can listen to it. For few sections photography is prohibited so be wary of that. Most sections can be photographed with flash turned off at all times. My favourite section was the Caravaggio one. His paintings are hauntingly beautiful and you get to understand the composition, technique etc of the art. The Caravaggio show is only held on few dates so check and book in advance is recommended.

A stunning 16th century cathedral with every part of the floor made of marble and virtually everything else covered in gold! There are two paintings by the classical artist Caravaggio, The Beheading of St John the Baptist and the painting of St Jerome, the first person to translate the Greek New Testament into Latin. The audio guide is excellent so have your phone with you as you’ll use that to listen (recommended you have AirPods or similar) It’s worth booking in advance and avoiding the middle of the day as there are large groups from the cruise ships so you’ll end up queueing for a while. Absolutely worth the visit, it’s a must-see in Valletta.

Magnificent cathedral. THE must-visit of Malta. Its opulence is comparable to the Vatican. The level of details is baffling. The chapels per language of the Knights also brings an interesting competition between various part. I highly recommend doing the Bell Tour tour.

An absolute must-see! St John’s Co‑Cathedral in Valletta is breathtaking—from the richly decorated Baroque interior to the incredible Caravaggio masterpiece. The visitor experience is well-organized and immersive. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Malta!

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is truly breathtaking and a must-see in Valletta. The exterior is elegant but modest, hiding an absolutely stunning interior filled with intricate Baroque details, golden walls, and awe-inspiring frescoes. Every corner is rich with history, and the audio guide adds so much depth to the visit. The Caravaggio paintings are a highlight and worth the trip on their own. It’s not just a church, it’s a masterpiece of art, architecture, and craftsmanship.

Free entry but donations are accepted. They have odd hours fyi. I forgot to take a photo of their schedule. Saint Pauls arm is here, along with the stump. Beautiful, quiet, and a must see!

Such a beautiful church to visit and attend Mass. This is a small facade, so don't walk too quickly down the street or you'll miss it! You can see the relic of the column on which St. Paul was beheaded and similar architectural style to the more well-known St. John's Cocathedral. You can also ask to use the restroom.

Amazing archtecture as a tribute to St Paul, but I wish these elaborately crafted churches were alive with worship rather than remaining a historical relic.

Certainly one of Malta’s most exquisitely designed and decorated Church interiors, the street outside here in Valetta suggests little of how profoundly gorgeous the inside of this Catholic house of worship truly is! I was moved, impressed and delighted by the peaceful and prayerful inside of this somewhat hidden church. What an extraordinary place! Please stop to see it while in Malta! It is easily accessible and barely off on the beaten path of many well known and touristy streets in this city. God Bless You!

We went to visit St. Paul of the Shipwreck Church today during the visitor hours that were posted online (Saturday morning, 7:30 am - 10:30 am). We arrived around 8:45 am and were "greeted" by an elderly gentlemen who told us that a private mass was being held and that we needed to return after 9:30 am. We went to a nearby coffee shop and returned to the church shortly after 9:30 am. The same man told us that another private mass was taking place. I reminded him that he had asked us to return after 9:30 am. He became very irate and began yelling "Go! Go! Go!" At that time, another few people arrived and asked very politely if they could pray in the church for a few minutes. "We need to pray. Please let us pray for a few minutes." The greeter started yelling at them and began to physically shove the woman in the group. It was horrifying. We all came to the church wanting to pray, wanting to be close to God, to light a candle, to admire the beauty, to make a donation and we were not only denied entry, we were treated like trespassers and a woman was physically mistreated. Shame on the church leadership for allowing this to happen. That "greeter" should be removed from his position immediately. He is volatile and unstable. There was another woman who then arrived, appearantly a tour guide. She very kindly attempted to intervene on our behalf by speaking in Maltese to the greeter, to no avail. At that point, the greeter became even more livid and was shouting at all of us. Shockingly unChristian behavior. The tour guide apologized and told us to come back on Monday at 9:30 am. We will certainly try. If the church posts visitor hours on line it would be nice if they actually honored them. At a time when the church in Europe is dying, when 90% of Europe's churches sit empty or have been abandoned altogether or have been turned into wine bars or dance clubs or yoga studios, those of us who made a point of coming to a church, of wanting to connect with and experience the church, were a) lied to and b) treated atrociously. The church should be welcoming us, not pushing us out. We left feeling very shaken and distraught. As someone who returned to church life six years ago, after decades away, this was a very triggering experience. Review Part Two - Two days after our first two attempts to visit the church, we returned during the hours posted online as open to visitors (Mondays, 7:30 am - 12 noon). We were met by the same hateful "greeter" who said the church was closed to visitors. This time he kept shouting at us, "No! No! No!" Apparently, once again, there was a scheduled event. Why the church lists visitor hours online that they do not honor is beyond me. We are very sorry to miss out on seeing St. Paul of the Shipwreck Church. In total, we've made three attempts to visit (two on Saturday, one on Monday). All I can conclude is that the church leadership are very poor stewards of this important church. They should be ashamed of themselves, but charlatans rarely are.

So beautiful! A wonderful place to stop, reflect and absorb the beauty and history.

Impressive architecture with rich ornaments and since it is off the normal tourist streets, it's a quite silent and calm place. The church is mostly open dueing the morning hours.

Beautiful panoramic point inside the Valletta di Malta. This bell commemorates all the people who died in an attempt to defend Malta's freedom during World War II. It plays every day at 12, starting in 1992. On one side of the memorial stands out an inscription in Latin: "Obumbrasti super caput meum in die belli" ("You protected me in wartime").

The Siege Bell War Memorial features a recumbent bronze figure opposite Fort Ricasoli at the entrance to Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta. A plaque here reads: "At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them."

Wonderful view of the coastline. Not much to do but you get a more close up view of the coastline than viewing from the gardens. It’s also just a short walk from the lower barrakka.

You can see great views of the Grand Harbor from this point. There will be lots of steep downhill side streets that you’ll need to take if coming from the center of Valletta, but well worth the walk. When you arrive, climb the steps to the top of the memorial and stand south of the bell to see the best views the place has to offer. You’ll also be able to get a good view of outside of the Valletta peninsula as well.

Another Great viewing location War Seige Memorial the history of the place is fantastic great location for walking round, there is a small outdoor cafe. the place is so relaxing its ideal to chill out under the trees enjoying coffee or tea. You can watch pigeons taking bird bath or drop few crumbs watch them snap them up. Good location great views well worth visit.

It’s well worth climbing the flight of steps to walk round this monument, if only for the views over the harbour. It was very windy during my visit and that’s when you realise how exposed it is but taking in the history is a real treat.

Nice place with a great view to the sea and the area around. A little bit windy but worth visiting because of the great scenery it offers for the visitors. There are good restaurants nearby and a little bit away from the bell monument there is nice garden with a lot of benches for relaxing and enjoying the great view.

A nice and clean place. Quite peaceful, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops. It’s very safe, without undocumented individuals posing as doctors or engineers like in Western Europe.

Awesome pls echo spend evening . Lot of action & people enjoying life . with food & drink options this is good place to enjoy with family with cool breeze in the evening

Beautiful square full architecture and history. Lovely fountain ⛲️ in the middle.

Beautiful large square in the heart of Valletta. Great gathering spot to meet friends or just enjoy quiet time alone. St. George's Square is the heart of Valletta and is right in the centre of the city, in an area that has been recently pedestrianized. The square is surrounded by numerous buildings, old and modern. On one side of the square is the presidential palace, and on the opposite side of the square are the Main Guard and the Chancellery. We visited the first week of May and had the pleasure of visiting a large garden display filled with beautiful trees, multiple plantings and all colors of the rainbow of petunia.

Hopefully it won't be covered by scaffolding when you visit But a lovely square

Large and central square of Valletta. Surrounded by various important buildings, with modern fountain and memorial statue in one of the corners. It is nice to wander around this square and absorbing the unique Maltese atmosphere which in Valletta has a touch of very rich history. Another nice stop when visiting Valletta.

Historic Amazing A must-watch square in Valetta, next to public square. Very cheap parking is available just next to the entrance of the city, but slots are limited. There is a 30-minute train trip starting from Triq San Gwann; the address is 7 St. John Square, Valletta, Malta.

We were really pleased with the food. We ordered from both the Asian and Italian menus and everything was delicious. The variety of dishes was excellent.

Love it here for snacks and a food shop for self catering! We got a delicious pizza from one outlet (ricotta, spinach, honey and walnuts) and timpana from another stall. Both delicious and washed down with a couple of pints of ice cold Cisk! 🤩

Toilets are top floor top right and you need to purchase food to get the code for the loo door,, which is guarded by the Knights of Delhi.. You can't just pop in here for a pee folks. We didn't we actually went for the food.... So many top choices in lovely air con environment. Will get very busy but is a great place for all around the world foods.. Top little venue.

Love this place air conditioned plenty of food to choose not too expensive games upstairs for kids or grown adults to play everest is a very nice Indian and bar inside

The food market has a lot of different restaurants with a variety of cuisines to offer, and we opted for the Konak kebab place. It was something worth trying for the flavor and the price. The lamb meat they offer tasted amazing.

Amazing place but not everyone knows about it. P.S. toilets not for free

The octopus in garlic was great. Momo from Nepalese corner too. Good air conditioned place to eat. Kinda food court.

An unexpected highlight of our Malta stay. If you've ever been confused as to the difference between a ravelin and a curtain wall, or a bastion and a keep, or a glacis and a faussebraye, this is the place for you. The intricacies and minutiae of fortifications are explained in full, with Malta as a prime example. Engrossing.

Small museum about the historic military fortifications of Malta. It's worth a quick stop.

So interesting! Only €2 pp. If you are interested in Malta's fortification walls, towers and the history there of, this is the place to go. Give yourself at least an hour to walk through and read all the interesting details. Very well presented. Open Tue and Fridays. Close to Valletta ferries on your walk up to the city. Well worth the visit if you are interested in architecture, medieval times, and history.

Only open on a Tuesday & Friday but well worth a visit. The history of Malta through fortifications may sound unusual but the story is well told.

I loved it. Simple but fascinating. An excellent 30 minutes. Value for money.

Nice, interesting and informative. I do not regret visiting it. It does not take more than an hour of your time and you learn a lot and you get an idea what else might be interesting for you to visit if you are a fan of the fortresses. It is a nice place to hide from the sun. Good to know it is open just Tuesdays and Fridays.

I went in March, and there were not a lot of things to see. There was a video at the beginning, and some exhibits upstairs. Some wood models and other type of models of the forts as well as history and context. Overall, I would advise people to check out Fort St. Elmo instead.

Its most significant holdings are the invaluable Archives of the Order of St. John, a treasure trove of documents spanning centuries of the Order's history in Malta and beyond. The library also houses an unparalleled "Melitensia" collection, which is the most comprehensive compilation of works related to Malta, written by Maltese authors, or published in the Maltese language. This makes it an essential resource for anyone studying Maltese history, culture, and genealogy. The Bibliotheca stands as a testament to the nation's rich literary and historical heritage, acting as a crucial guardian of Malta's collective memory. Plenty of outlets cafes and restaurants outside.

Very lovely library , with grand building . Reached a bit late so could not have time to see it but definitely a place to visit . Opens at 8.30 Monday to Saturday ! If you like books do visit & even if not still for architecture you may

Built in 1766 and as beautiful as ever close to restaurants, cafes, shopping streets and more. Full of maltese culture, history and heritage and adorned with as nice of a statue close to the entrance.

Definitely worth popping in when exploring Valletta. So long as you have ID tourists can access a small portion of the library just to get a feel for the place. The library is ornately decorated and incredibly serene and has some interesting books and maps to review. Shouldn't take you more than 15-20 mins in and out but it's worth it. When outside check out the statue of Queen Victoria; if you look closely you can see how the plinth and statue are about 1cm out of line. This is the result of a WW2 bomb which landed very close by, destroying much of the immediate area but left old Queen Vic almost unscathed!

The library outside is the typical architecture of Malta. Majestic building, clean and with many visitors. The alleys around it are easy to walk and always packed with people.

It is really nice inside and you can take a walk and check how it looks like. Staff is really nice and friendly and will explain all the rules. It is worth to visit if you are a book lover. It is not allowed to take pictures inside the library. There is no entrance fee but you need to get a visitor card at the entrance.

Although we entered within the visiting hours (Friday 1/12/23 , 13.35) the reception staff denied us to enter further coz it's only for the non visitors as he said. I referred to the sign on the door but he insisted we didn't enter. Did i miss something or he was just bored to serve?

Great museum for kids and adults. The owner is displaying his wonderful collection of vintage toys. For some reason this was showing before as closed and we almost missed this hidden gem. It's actually open and is highly recommended.

Incredible place, children will love it and adults even more. Three levels of an authentic old Maltese house contain thousands of fantastic toys from all over the world, though mainly Europe. The friendly owner Vincent has time for everyone and makes you feel at home instantly. You can't visit Malta and Skip this place. Very easy too find.

A lovely little museum, perfect for children of all ages. The owner was friendly and interacted with the little ones, showing them working toys from the early 1900s. Would recommend the stop if you have the time.

Managed to see this museum and was fascinated with some of the toys I'd never seen before, and also by the ones I'd had as a child. A great reminiscence experience. Thank you.

Lots of old tinker toys. Has everything, including culturally insensitive dolls. It you like toys, this would interest you!

Really interesting and what a lovely gentleman who owns this fascinating museum .

Must see. Lovely host. Great collection.

Fort St. Elmo is an absolutely stunning and impressive site! The beauty and grandeur of the location are striking from the moment you arrive. The visit is very well designed, with a clearly documented and engaging route that guides you through Malta’s rich and complex history. It’s an ideal experience for anyone wanting to learn about the island’s past while exploring a truly picturesque and historic setting. Plan for at least two good hours to fully enjoy everything the fort has to offer. Highly recommended!

Fort St. Elmo is packed with history, and the National War Museum inside covers everything from the fort’s early days and the Great Siege to both World Wars. With so much to see, plan to spend at least two hours exploring. Don’t miss the stunning views from the fort’s walls - they overlook the Grand Harbour, Birgu, Valletta, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Very interesting Fort and War Museum. The location allows a stunning view over the Mediterranean sea and the different buildings of the Fort in excellent condition and very beautiful. The entrance costs only 10 euros and the visit will take you 1-2 hours depending on how long you spend in the museum. After the visit, you will know a lot about the history of Malta as well about european history.

One of the best attractions in Malta in terms of historical knowledge. I found the upper exhibitions especially interesting. There is a cross-section through the history of Malta. Nice place to take some photos as well. I recommend buying Valetta combo tickets and visit other heritage sites too. If you are interested in history and want to explore the whole museum thoroughly, sightseeing might take about 2 hrs. For me, it's the most convenient to visit it in the early hours so that there isn't a lot of people yet.

Great fort, well conserved and with beautiful panoramic views. It used to be a quarantine area for the visitors to Valetta during part, a hospital as well. Worth a visit!

So much history in one place. My boys enjoyed a lot. Everything super well explained with signs and movies where you can see how everything happened. It’s huge and you have to walk a lot, so if you are coming on a summer day, bring hat, sunscreen and water. They have a small store where they sell a few things like drinks and snacks.

Very informative tour, tons and tons to see, read and watch, possibly a tad too much. But pick and choose! Defo worth going

Great free beach filled with locals and students. It can get packed but if you come early you can find a place. At night people bbq and sing on the beach. The beach is filled with 20 somethings students in thong bikinis and the six pack abs, but no need to feel self conscious if you are alone. Everyone is really friendly and watches out for each other. If you are in the area or at L-Università ta' Malta (UM), this place is a must do for a nice swim to cool down on the hot days

A very beautiful place with crystal clean water,great views especially at night and it's deep enough for diving and jumping.

This is def a nice swimming place! i come from canada and i swim every single summer!! Im not a fan of swimming in oceans, but this one is sooo nice!! The fish look nice, i highly recommend swimming shoes tho, since its obviously rocky and might be slippery if you walk too fast 😊

I'm from the area, I grew up not far away. Until a few years ago, the Xatt ta Ta'Xbiex used to be a passable place to swim for a quick dip to lessen the summer heat, but after a recent visit after a break of a few years, the place has become overcrowded and absolutely disgusting. There is barely a place to lie down, and the rocks are littered with cigarette butts, husks of nuts and chicken bones left behind by the animals in human form that now frequent this place. This is in spite of the bins literally on the beach. No self-respecting person would swim here any more. Times are changing, and not for the better. However, on the positive side, if anyone has any historical interest, there are numerous early 19th century cannons embedded in the rocks and used as mooring bollards.

A fantastic place to go for a swim and staying in Valletta (Floriana) we find this to be our closest decent swimming spot. Great views of Manoel Island, Marsamxett Harbour and Valletta. It's also a nice area for walking or cycling along the promenade. The nearby Amigos and Irrerra restaurants seemed popular with the locals for food. The latter has a fabulous outdoor seating area with outstanding views.

Don't expect your conventional beach, it is what it says a Rock beach but still stunning views

Nice and quiet place, and the sea here is clear and clean. One of my favorite places to go for a swim especially in the morning when the place is sunny, in the afternoon the sun turns behind.

(Translated by Google) Carnival in Valletta is worth seeing. We had purchased tickets and seats. 3 hours of total show. It is worth seeing this unusual spectacle. (Original) Karnawał w Vallettcie wart obejrzenia. Mieliśmy wykupione bilety, miejsca siedzące. 3 godziny totalnego show. Warto zobaczyć to niecodzienne widowisko.

My name is sarwar alam from india

(Translated by Google) Excellent (Original) Excelente

Excellent site to see the Grand Harbour of Malta. Peaceful place of flowering beauty to quiet the mind. At the overlook you can witness the Saluting Battery-traditional firing of a single canon at Noon and 4pm daily. It is impressive and loud! The firing was once used to welcome and set time for vessels in the harbour.

⸻ 💥 Saluting Battery – Valletta 💥 The cannon firing at the Saluting Battery in Valletta is absolutely awesome and a must-see! It’s a brilliant glimpse into Malta’s rich history and naval traditions, brought to life with precision and ceremony. The setting overlooking the Grand Harbour makes it even more impressive – you can really feel the history echo through the city. Definitely one to add to your list when visiting Valletta! However, I do urge you to arrive at least an hour before the midday and 1600 cannon salutes because the crowds tend to gather early, and you’ll find yourself jostling for a decent view. The views from the gardens are worth a visit alone! The surround area has a really nice vibe to it as well.

Upper Barrakka Gardens is absolutely breathtaking! The panoramic views over the Grand Harbour are simply unforgettable, especially during sunset. The gardens are beautifully maintained, peaceful, and full of history. Watching the Saluting Battery was a highlight of the visit. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Malta. Highly recommended!

Beautiful! Not very big. If you go at 12 and 4 pm they shoot the cannons which is cool. You can pay extra to go to the lower level and be right up close.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a truly beautiful and peaceful place to visit while in Valletta. With stunning views over the Grand Harbour and across to the Three Cities, it’s an ideal spot for photos, relaxing, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. The architecture and layout of the gardens are impressive, and there’s a certain charm in the combination of nature and history that makes this place special. However, it’s important to keep in mind that during the high season, the gardens can get quite crowded, especially around midday when most tourists arrive. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. One detail worth noting is that the traditional cannon firing ceremony, which normally happens daily at noon, does not take place on Sundays. So if that’s something you were looking forward to, plan accordingly. Also, while the Upper Barrakka Gardens are beautiful, don’t forget to check out the Lower Barrakka Gardens as well. They are just as lovely, offer equally impressive views, and tend to be less crowded. It’s a great alternative if you’re hoping to avoid the tourist rush and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere in the heart of Valletta.

It was an interesting visit to this beautiful and historic public garden known for their panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. History: Originally a private garden for the Knights of Saint John in the 16th century, they became a public garden in 1800. Views: Situated at the highest point of the city walls, they offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and the shipyard. Saluting Battery: Below the gardens is the Saluting Battery, where cannons are fired daily at noon and 4 pm (except Sundays) as a ceremonial salute. Notable Features: The gardens feature terraced arches dating back to 1661, as well as various monuments, memorials (including one for Sir Winston Churchill), and a replica of the "Les Gavroches" statue.

Very nice terrace that dominates the port of Valleta. If you came via the port, you can just walk to the zebra cross and go via the tunnel to get the lift ticket (1€). A little bit crowded but still interesting 👍

It is a small park with a children's playground and a section that houses street cats. A lot of people come down to pet the cats and they look like they are well fed and cared for. Well worth a visit.

Very nice and green park inhabitated with many cats. Restaurants, bars, and public bathrooms nearby. Good access to sea.

A nice cool park to go with the kid, in the autumn you get amazing sunsets from this place ! Some amazing restaurants close by and I totally recommend the gelateria across the street.

The best place for cats lovers, spiritual in front of the sea, nice place to have a relaxing moment with some cats, I tryed to find a figure, magnetic or another type of gift of the cat statue but was impossible. Maybe in the future we can buy it.

Very sweet place. Toilets are REALLY clean and good. I was surprised by the cats and birds together. There were also rusters and chicks. I recommend coming here, cats are nice.

Fantastic experience seeing all the cute cats and chickens! Nearby water to have a good swim when the waves aren't too high. Also there are bathrooms which are really clean too. I would recommend bringing some tuna or cat food for the best experience!

Spectacular views towards the sea and the coast, lovely gardens and playgrounds, great views towards the cityscape. Totally worth walking either day or night!