Malta Shore Excursion: Malta in One Day Private Sightseeing Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
While you’re in port in Malta, explore this beautiful island on a private sightseeing shore excursion. With your own driver to chauffeur you around, you’ll see the best of this fabulous, world-famous travel destination. Discover the capital city, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich with culture and history. You’ll see the Upper Barrakka Gardens and many other attractions while you relax in your comfortable private vehicle. You will also have free time to shop, eat or explore on your own.
Available options
Malta Shore Excursion: Malta in One Day Private Sightseeing Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private vehicle
Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Port pickup and drop-off
Private tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit the characteristic fishing village of Marsaxlokk – bobbing luzzus in the harbour, lace tablecloths fluttering in the breeze and the daily ritual of mending nets. Here they will have some free time for to take photos and wonder round a small local open air market.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
This large and imposing Church was built by voluntary labour and donations, and is said to be the third largest in the world. Higher internally than the Pantheon in Rome and larger in diameter than the Dome of St. Paul’s in London. During the Second World War a large bomb came through the dome while the church was full, but fortunately failed to explode.
3
Stop 3
Formally the abode of the Grand Master’s this now house’s the offices of the President. Designed by Girolamo Cassar, the building was completed in 1574. The building houses many suits of armour, 16th and 17th century paintings and frescoes.
4
Stop 4
From these gardens you can enjoy unrivalled views across one of the world's largest and deepest natural harbours, Grand Harbour, and over to the Three Cities.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
21 reviews
5★
15
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
2.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
At time of booking, Cruise Ship passengers must provide the following details under Special Requirements: Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Clients will need to wear face masks in transport and museums.
Important notes
• If parliamentary and/or presidential functions interfered with your visit to the Magisterial Palace, the Palace Armory or the Archaeological Museum would be visited instead
• Please note the order of sights visited may vary
• Please note all museums are closed on the 24th, 25th and 31st December, the 1st January and on Good Friday
• Entrance fee to Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms is included
• Please note certain sites of interest may be closed or have restricted entrance hours on certain days, in which case the utmost will be done to replace the visit with another site of interest
Opening hours are:
08:30 - 13:00 Monday to Friday
13:45 - 17:00 Monday to Friday
About Valletta
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. This fortified city offers a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque influences, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking Mediterranean charm.
Top Attractions
St. John's Co-Cathedral
A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, St. John's Co-Cathedral is one of Valletta's most iconic landmarks. It was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and features stunning interiors, including Caravaggio's famous painting 'The Beheading of St. John the Baptist'.
Religious/Historical
1-2 hours
€10
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Located on the highest point of Valletta's fortifications, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The gardens are a peaceful retreat and a perfect spot to enjoy the city's skyline and maritime heritage.
Nature/Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
Grandmaster's Palace
The Grandmaster's Palace served as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John. Today, it houses the Maltese Parliament and the Palace State Rooms, which are open to the public. The palace is a prime example of Maltese Baroque architecture and offers a glimpse into the island's rich history.
Historical/Museum
1-2 hours
€10 for the State Rooms and Armory
The National Museum of Archaeology
Housed in the historic Auberge de Provence, the National Museum of Archaeology showcases Malta's prehistoric heritage, including artifacts from the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods. The museum's highlights include the famous 'Sleeping Lady' figurine and the Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni replicas.
Museum
1-2 hours
€5
Valletta Waterfront
The Valletta Waterfront is a vibrant area located along the Grand Harbour. It features a mix of historic buildings, restaurants, bars, and shops. The waterfront is a popular spot for dining, leisurely walks, and enjoying the city's maritime atmosphere.
Entertainment/Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, varying costs for dining and activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ftira
A traditional Maltese bread roll, often filled with tuna, olives, capers, and fresh tomatoes. It is a popular breakfast or snack item.
Breakfast/Snack
Can be made vegetarian by omitting the tuna.
Pastizzi
A flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or peas. Pastizzi are a popular street food item and can be found in bakeries throughout Malta.
Snack
Vegetarian.
Rabbit Stew (Fenek)
A traditional Maltese dish made with rabbit, wine, garlic, and herbs. It is often served with potatoes and is a staple of Maltese cuisine.
Dinner
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Stuffed Squid (Kappunata)
A popular seafood dish made with squid stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then cooked in a tomato sauce.
Dinner
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Boat tours
Snorkeling and diving
Hiking and nature walks
Beach hopping
Sunbathing
Enjoying a spa day
Exploring historic sites
Visiting museums and cathedrals
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Valletta is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the summer peak season. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
18-30°C
64-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Maltese, English
- Widely spoken: English, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Valletta is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is essential to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions
Getting there
By air
- Malta International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from Valletta
By bus
Valletta Bus Terminus
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Valletta and Malta. The network is well-connected, affordable, and frequent. Buses are equipped with modern facilities and are accessible for passengers with disabilities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: eBolt, eCabs
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Three Cities
Sliema
Floriana
Day trips
Mdina
20 km (12 miles) from Valletta • Half day to full day
Mdina, also known as the 'Silent City,' is a medieval walled city located in the center of Malta. It is known for its historic architecture, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Mdina is a popular day trip destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a glimpse into Malta's past.
Blue Grotto
10 km (6 miles) from Valletta • Half day
The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caves located on the southern coast of Malta. It is known for its stunning blue waters, dramatic rock formations, and the opportunity to take a boat tour into the caves. The Blue Grotto is a popular day trip destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Gozo
50 km (31 miles) from Valletta • Full day or overnight
Gozo is a small island located northwest of Malta, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular day trip or overnight destination for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace and a chance to explore Malta's rural charm.
Festivals
Malta Arts Festival • July
Valletta International Baroque Festival • January
Notte Bianca • October
Pro tips
- Visit Valletta during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices
- Explore the city's historic sites and attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
- Use public transport, walk, or rent a bicycle to get around Valletta and the surrounding areas
- Try local dishes and specialties, such as pastizzi, ftira, and rabbit stew, at traditional bakeries, markets, and restaurants
- Take a boat tour or ferry to explore the surrounding islands and regions, such as Gozo, Comino, and the Three Cities
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
