Small Group: Valletta and Central Highlights

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1

  Our tour will start with a walk in Valletta, immersing ourselves in the capital city's wonderful art and architecture. From the splendid Baroque structures of the Auberge de Castille and the Grand Master's Palace to the contemporary allure of the Triton Fountain and the newly constructed Parliament building, each edifice we encounter serves as a testament to Valletta's multifaceted charm. Valletta also exists as an ideal enclave for delving into Malta's history, offering insights into the island nation's evolution from the time of the Order of St. John in 16th century, to Malta as a fortress colony of the British Empire in the 19th century, to the independent Republic of the present day.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 2
  St. John's Co-Cathedral

  The co-Cathedral is found in the heart of Valletta. We will be able to explore this sacred building, once the Temple of the Knights of St. John renowned for its exquisite Baroque artistry and rich historical significance. We will make our way through the co-cathedral's chapels, each a masterpiece in its own right. The church is adorned by priceless masterpieces by renowned artists like Caravaggio and Mattia Preti. From the solemn beauty of the nave to the opulent splendour of the Oratory, every corner of St. John's Co-Cathedral tells a story of faith, devotion, and artistic brilliance.

  50 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 3

  Free time for a lunch break

  45 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Republic Street

  Continue the final part of our Valletta tour as we make our way along the main thoroughfare to join our transport for the second part of this tour.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Mosta Rotunda

  Next up we will be making our way to the centre of the island, in the town of Mosta. Here we will make our way to the magnificent Mosta Basilica. This is one of the most iconic buildings in Malta with its magnificent dome, considered to be one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. But Mosta Dome is known to locals as the miracle church. During one of the frequent WWII air raids, a bomb pierced the dome, falling inside the church during a service, but failed to explode. The locals hailed this as a miracle. A replica of the bomb will can also be seen upon visiting the church. Travel time from Valletta to Mosta: 30 mins Time at Mosta Rotunda: 30 mins

  1 hour • Admission ticket included
• 6

  Our next stop is the old town of Rabat. The history of Rabat is linked to the period of the Romans (218 BC to 879 BC) and Saint Paul, who stayed for a short period after being shipwrecked, whilst on his way to be tried in Rome. During our visit of Rabat we will walk along the main street, which is adorned by typical village architecture. You will see quaint houses with traditional balconies and doors, small local shops, the band club premises and other important aspects of local village and town life. During our short walk a brief stop at 'Is-Sirkien' will be included, which is a well-known pastizzeria, where you will have the opportunity to taste our favourite street food called 'pastizzi'. These are diamond shaped filo pastry parcels filled with mashed peas or ricotta cheese. Travel time from Mosta to Rabat: 20 mins Time at Rabat: 55 mins

  1 hour 15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7

  Our final stop will be to an architectural gem, the Medieval Silent City of Mdina. It is built on a plateau in the centre of the island, and the city's old Baroque buildings, cathedral and magnificent fortifications dominate the rural skyline. Mdina, once the capital of Malta until the modern city of Valletta was built in 1566 has had many names including Melite (Roman occupation), Medina (Arabic occupation), Citta Notabile and Citta Vecchia (after Valletta was built). The only way to really experience and enjoy this city is on foot, explore the quaint alleys, narrow streets, ancient buildings and incredible far reaching views from the high bastion walls. Time in Mdina: 70 mins Travel to time from Mdina to Valletta: 30 mins

  1 hour 40 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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