Valletta, Malta

Welcome to Valletta, Malta – A Mediterranean Treasure

Valletta, the stunning capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere. Visiting Valletta with a cruise is an incredible option to experience its splendid Baroque buildings, picturesque harbours, and captivating history. Fun fact: Valletta is one of the smallest capitals in the world but is packed with fascinating landmarks, making it a perfect destination for exploration!

Activities and Attractions in Valletta, Malta

As your cruise ship docks in Valletta, you’ll find a wealth of experiences waiting for you:

• Discover St. John’s Co-Cathedral: A marvel of Baroque architecture, this cathedral is home to stunning frescoes by Caravaggio and intricately decorated chapels. Be sure to explore the magnificent interior and the famed Knight’s tombs.
• Wander the Upper Barracca Gardens: Offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, these lush gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy the well-maintained gardens and some of the best views of the Three Cities.
• Visit the National Museum of Archaeology: Dive into Malta’s fascinating history by exploring ancient artifacts and archaeological treasures, including the impressive collection of prehistoric tools and figurines.
• Explore the Historic Grand Harbour: Take a scenic boat tour of Valletta’s Grand Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world, rich in maritime history and lined with historic fortifications.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Sample delicious Maltese dishes in local restaurants—don't miss trying the famous pastizzi or fresh seafood dishes that showcase the island's culinary delights!

Nearby Harbours to Explore on Your Cruise

Your cruise itinerary may include these fascinating ports, enriching your overall experience:

• Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy: A city brimming with history, visit iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum. Be prepared to immerse yourself in centuries of art and culture.
• Naples, Italy: Known for its vibrant street life and delicious cuisine, don’t miss the chance to explore nearby Pompeii and the stunning Amalfi Coast during your stop in Naples.
• Piraeus (Athens), Greece: The port city serving Athens, Piraeus is a gateway to ancient wonders. Visit the Acropolis, stroll through the picturesque Plaka neighbourhood, and indulge in traditional Greek cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: A whirlwind of creativity and culture, Barcelona is famous for Gaudí’s masterpieces, such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and savour tapas in the bustling city.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: This picturesque coastal town, famously known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Take a walk along the city walls and explore its charming Old Town.

Regions Accessible When Visiting Valletta, Malta

By cruising to Valletta, you’ll have the chance to explore the following captivating regions:

• Mediterranean: Renowned for its stunning coastlines and rich history, cruising the Mediterranean allows you to experience diverse cultures, fascinating history, and remarkable landscapes.
• Western Mediterranean: This vibrant region features beautiful ports in Spain, France, and Italy, offering cruises filled with culinary delights, remarkable architecture, and stunning natural beauty.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Experience the diverse cultures and ancient history with a cruise through the Eastern Mediterranean, visiting beautiful islands and historical sites in countries such as Greece and Turkey.
• Greek Islands: Famous for their stunning beauty and historical significance, the Greek Islands offer crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and lovely white-washed buildings in a picturesque setting.
• Croatia: Known for its pristine coastline and rich history, cruising to Croatia allows you to explore ancient towns, dramatic landscapes, and delicious local cuisine.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Valletta, Malta

• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, Azura and Aurora are among the five ships that visit Valletta. P&O Cruises are known for their British charm and diverse onboard experiences, typically departing from Valletta or Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Costa Cruises: Operating a fleet of 9, Costa Fascinosa and Costa Fortuna offer itineraries that include Valletta. Famous for their Italian hospitality and dining, these cruises often depart from Athens or Savone.
• Cunard: With 4 ships in the fleet, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne frequently visit Valletta. Renowned for their luxurious experiences and impeccable service, Cunard cruises usually depart from Trieste or Rome.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC World Europa and MSC Magnifica include Valletta in their itineraries. Known for their modern ships and family-friendly atmosphere, these cruises typically depart from Barcelona or Marseille.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in the fleet, Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam include Valletta on their itineraries. Known for their focus on exploration and culinary excellence, these cruises depart frequently from Athens or Barcelona.

Luxury and Small Ship Options for Valletta, Malta

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Nautica and Allura offer itineraries that include Valletta. Renowned for their fine dining and emphasised destination immersion, these cruises predominantly depart from Rome or Athens.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating a fleet of 6, Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Splendor offer luxurious itineraries to Valletta. Known for their all-inclusive experiences and exceptional service, they typically depart from Rome or Athens.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 4, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn both visit Valletta. Recognised for their intimate ship size and personalised service, these cruises usually depart from Barcelona or Monte Carlo.
• Fred Olsen: With a fleet of 3, Balmoral and Bolette offer itineraries to Valletta. Focused on cultural immersion and exploration, these cruises frequently depart from Rhodes or Dubrovnik.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward visit Valletta. Celebrated for their immersive experiences and longer port stays, these cruises typically depart from Athens or Málaga.

Visiting Valletta, Malta Throughout the Year

Valletta offers wonderful experiences throughout the seasons. Here’s what to expect during your visit:

• Spring (March, April, May): With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), spring is a delightful time to witness blooming flowers and enjoy outdoor festivals, perfect for exploring the city’s gardens and attractions.
• Summer (June, July, August): Warm temperatures typically reach 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Summer is bustling in Valletta, great for beach activities and outdoor dining, especially during the lively Maltese festas.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Cooler temperatures drop to 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F). Autumn is mild and pleasantly warm, ideal for city tours, exploration of historic sites, and enjoying cultural events.
• Winter (December, January, February): Cold temperatures can range from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). While cooler, winters are mild compared to other regions, making it great for sightseeing without the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions about Valletta, Malta

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

A one-week cruise visiting Valletta generally ranges from £800 to £2,200 for standard options, while luxury cruises often vary from £1,500 to £5,000. A two-week cruise could range between £1,600 and £4,000 for standard itineraries.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Most meals on board are included; however, specialty dining can cost between £20 and £60 per person. Expect drink prices to range from £6 to £12 for cocktails or local wines.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Onboard dining offers a mix of international and local Maltese dishes. In Valletta, you’ll find a vibrant dining scene with diverse restaurants, serving everything from traditional Maltese cuisine to fresh seafood.

What are transportation options?

Upon docking in Valletta, the area is easily explored on foot, with many attractions conveniently located. Local buses and taxis are available for reaching further destinations.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, having some cash for smaller purchases in local shops and markets is advisable.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Valletta is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to stay vigilant with your belongings in crowded areas. Familiarising yourself with local health guidelines can further enhance your experience.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official languages are Maltese and English, so communication is generally easy. Knowing a few basic phrases in Maltese can be a friendly way to connect with the locals.

Are you ready to explore the rich history, stunning architecture, and gastronomic delights of Valletta, Malta? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today, and embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting Mediterranean city!