Fort St. Elmo is a striking historic coastal fortress on the sea and it was built in the 16th century to help protecting the area from Ottoman invasions. Fort St. Elmo is also well-known for housing the National War Museum, which focuses on the modern Maltese battles (WWI and WWII) against the Italian and German attempts to conquer it.

Built as a secret complex of tunnels during the WWII resistance, these rooms have been recently turned into one of the most interesting war museums in the whole Europe.

The 16th century is considered to be a golden age for Maltese architecture, and the baroque St. John Co-Cathedral probably represents its greatest achievement in religious art. Interiors and exteriors widely contrast in this work, juxtaposing serious military elements with beautiful decorations. The church is also famous for its marble tombstones and especially for a beautiful painting by Caravagio.

Although Valletta itself does not have proper beaches, Malta is renowned for having excellent ones and many are simply reachable by bus from the capital city of this tiny island. The farthest beaches can be reached in less than one hour so make sure you explore the most beautiful ones.

The Valletta waterfront is generally the first Maltese attraction seen by visitors coming on a cruise ship, as it serves as terminal. However, this is just one of the many functions of this wharf, built in baroque style 300 years ago and recently modernized and renovated. Several bars and restaurants are located in the area; make sure to check the events, as different musical and cultural festivals are held there.

Sometimes small museums can be as charming as their larger counterparts. This may be the case of the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta, reflecting the rich history of the island with artifacts spanning across 7 millennia.

The entrance to the church from Valletta streets may not be one of the most impressive ones, but the interiors are surely a cut above. Built in baroque style, this church features a stunning marble altar, fine paintings, a wooden statue and a piece of the column on which St. Paul was executed.

This 18th century gardens are another great place for relaxing and having a stroll. The view from them is absolutely awe-inspiring and you will have the chance to spot the Great Harbour and different bastions alongside with medieval towns and Valletta itself. Try to be there at noon, as at this time cannons are fired in a traditional celebration.

This ship was bombed during the WWII and sunk few meters far from Valletta’s shore. Today, this wreck has become an increasingly popular diving site because of its ease of access (the wreck is located at a depth of 8-16 m) and it has become home to several species of fish and other marine life.

There are several boat trips available in Valletta that will take you aboard typical Maltese boats to show you the majestic Great Harbour from the sea.