Port of Valletta

The Basics

Ancient forts and winding streets dot the hillside of Malta’s capital, and its multiple historic influences–notably Greek, Roman, and Arab—can be seen in the local architecture. While the area is easy to explore independently (most Maltese people are fluent in English), you’ll cover more ground in less time by joining a half- or full-day shore excursion, walking tour, or bike trip. Don’t miss highlights such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and Casa Rocca Piccola.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Valletta Cruise Port offers duty-free shopping, restrooms, and short-term luggage storage, as well as ATMs.

• Most of Valletta and its attractions are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; confirm accessibility for shore excursions with your tour operator.

• Make sure to get back to the terminal early—cruise ships generally don’t wait for stragglers.

How to Get to Valletta From the Valletta Cruise Port

Located southeast of the heart of Valletta, the cruise port is about a 15-minute walk to the City Gate. Buses and taxis are available for getting around the island, and local ferries connect Malta to nearby Gozo and Comino. The hop-on hop-off bus stops near the port and at a number of popular Maltese sights.

Port Information

Malta’s official languages are Maltese and English; Italian is also widely spoken. The local currency is the euro.

Ways to explore

Travelers can explore the Port of Valletta by land and water. It’s featured on many guided tours of the area, often combined with trips into Valletta’s ancient center. Scenic boat tours of the Grand Harbour take in key waterfront attractions, some with the option to get on and off the boat to explore independently. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, your first glimpse of the island is likely to be the Port of Valletta’s Pinto Wharf, lively with bars and restaurants.

Accessibility

The cruise port has wheelchair-friendly facilities, and some tours of the Port of Valletta are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layered clothing

Not allowed

While swimwear is great at the beach, it’s best to cover up in Valletta itself—bathing suits in the city might meet with disapproving looks from locals.

Amenities

Restrooms, short-term luggage storage

Address 

The Port of Valletta is southeast of central Valletta, about a 15-minute walk from the City Gate.

Driving

To reach the Port of Valletta from Malta International Airport, follow Route 1 to Route 6 in Marsa. Route 6 ends at the Port of Valletta, where free and paid parking is available.

Public transportation

Bus route 130 connects the Port of Valletta with the city center; some hop-on, hop-off bus routes also stop at the port. A short walk away, Lascaris Wharf is the departure point for ferries to Gozo.

Best times to visit

The historic cannons above the Port of Valletta give a formal salute each day at 12pm and 4pm. For a good view, try to arrive about 15 minutes early; buying tickets in advance is also recommended.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be quieter at the Port of Valletta. If you’re visiting on the weekend, keep in mind that some shops close early on Saturdays.

Best months to visit

The less-crowded shoulder seasons of spring and fall are wonderful times to visit Valletta, but hot weather in June, July, August, and September is ideal for trips to nearby beaches.

Special events

With masked balls, parades, and other cultural events, Malta buzzes in the Carnival season, taking place in February or March each year.