Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Entry Ticket

If you’re wandering through Valletta and craving something a bit different from the usual museums and churches, this Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Entry Ticket offers a rare peek into the lives of cloistered nuns who’ve called this place home for over 400 years. It’s a quiet, contemplative space that many visitors might overlook, but those who do visit often find it surprisingly moving and beautifully peaceful.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the chance to step inside a monastery that’s been closed to the public for centuries — an incredibly rare opportunity. Second, the serene secret garden provides a lovely escape from the busy streets of Valletta, offering lush views and a calming atmosphere. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that access is limited to a few low stone steps, so if mobility is an issue, it’s worth calling ahead.

This tour is especially well-suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in seeing a different side of Malta’s capital — one that’s rooted in quiet faith and simple living. It’s also perfect if you enjoy self-guided experiences with flexible timing, as it’s valid for an entire year and can be enjoyed at your leisure.

Key Points

• Unique access to a monastery closed to the public for 400 years
• Insightful audio tour available in eight languages
• Serene garden with beautiful architecture and a water fountain
• Crypt visit offers a glimpse into the final resting place of some of the nuns
• Flexible timing, valid for a full year, with easy download of the app
• Cost-effective at just $11, offering good value for a peaceful cultural experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Overview

We’ve all seen countless churches and historical sites in Malta, but this particular tour brings a quieter, more reflective side of Valletta to light. The tour is based at St Catherine’s Monastery, hidden away in the heart of the city, and it’s not just about admiring architecture — it’s about understanding the humble, dedicated life of the cloistered Augustinian nuns who’ve lived here for centuries.

Getting There and Entry

The entrance is comfortably located in St Christopher Street, making it easy to find on Google Maps. The process to get inside is straightforward — just a small step up over a low stone threshold, so it’s quite accessible for most. Plus, with a ticket costing only $11, it’s a very budget-friendly way to spend some quiet hours away from the hustle. The ticket includes an excellent audio tour, which is a highlight in itself, allowing visitors to learn about the space in their own time.

The Audio Tour and Information

The self-guided audio tour is available in eight languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, and Maltese. This makes it inclusive and convenient for international visitors. When you arrive, QR codes are placed at 15 information points around the complex — simply scan and listen on your phone. If you’re not into apps, the information boards are also available in English, providing a summarized version of the history.

The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, but you’re free to linger afterward in the garden or explore the cloisters at your own pace. We appreciated the way it’s designed to be flexible, so if you’re short on time, you can just do the tour and leave, or spend longer soaking in the tranquility.

Inside the Monastery: What Makes It Special

The architecture is a mix of simple yet profound beauty — stone walls, high ceilings, and quiet corners that seem to whisper stories of centuries past. What really stood out was the crypt, the final resting place of some of the nuns, which adds a contemplative dimension to the visit. The serenity of this space, combined with the gentle sound of water from the fountain in the garden, creates an atmosphere of peaceful reflection.

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The Secret Garden

The garden is a true highlight. As one reviewer put it, it’s a “beautiful garden” that offers a break from the busy streets of Valletta. The old vines, once cultivated for wine, climb towards the sun, adding a touch of rustic charm. The fountain’s soothing sounds give you a chance to quietly breathe and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s a rare green space in Valletta — gardens aren’t common in this historic city, making this spot an unexpected oasis.

The Nuns’ Life Today and Yesterday

Visitors seem to find the experience quite touching. One reviewer mentioned how “lovely it is to gain insight into how the nuns live today and in years gone by,” highlighting the authenticity and personal stories embedded in the space. Another pointed out how “the dedication of the nuns is truly remarkable,” which adds a layer of appreciation for their quiet, lifelong commitment.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour operates seven days a week, with hours from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., last entries around 4 or 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. The cost is a mere $11, which includes the self-guided audio tour — a steal considering the amount of history and tranquility on offer.

If you have mobility concerns, note that access is via low stone steps, so calling ahead might be advisable. Also, the entire experience is designed to foster a respectful, contemplative atmosphere, so it’s best suited for visitors looking for a quiet, reflective visit rather than a lively, bustling tour.

What We Loved and What Could Be Better

Positives:
– The authenticity of visiting a monastery that’s been closed for 400 years.
– The quality of the audio guide which brings the space alive with stories and context.
– The serene garden, a peaceful escape in the middle of Valletta.
– The opportunity to visit the crypt, which adds depth to understanding the nuns’ lives.

Possible downsides:
– Limited accessibility for those with mobility issues due to low stone steps.
– The experience is quite quiet and contemplative, so if you’re after something more lively, it might not be your vibe.
– It’s a relatively short experience (around 40 minutes with the tour), so don’t expect a full-day outing.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path activity that offers a glimpse into Malta’s spiritual side, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, architecture, or simply in finding a quiet spot to reflect amid the bustling city. The affordable price, combined with the cultural richness and flexible timing, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Valletta itinerary.

It’s not overly family-oriented, but older children and teenagers with an interest in history and architecture should find it intriguing. Just keep in mind the quiet nature of the place and the limited mobility access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
While there’s no specific mention of family-friendliness, older children interested in history or architecture might enjoy exploring the peaceful gardens and crypt. Just remember it’s a quiet, contemplative space, so it might not be ideal for very young kids who need more stimulation.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot online, especially since the experience is valid for a full year. Booking also guarantees entry during your preferred time.

Can I do the tour at my own pace?
Absolutely. The ticket is valid for 365 days, and the audio tour takes about 40 minutes, but you can spend as long as you want relaxing in the garden afterward.

Is there a guided tour option?
No, it’s a self-guided experience with an audio tour. That allows you to explore at your own speed and revisit information as needed.

What languages is the audio guide available in?
Eight languages, including English, Maltese, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Polish, and Russian.

Are there any physical limitations to access?
Access involves a few low stone steps, so if you need assistance or have mobility issues, it’s best to call ahead.

How much does it cost?
Just $11 per person, including the audio guide, making it an affordable cultural experience.

In the end, this Valletta tour offers a rare chance to see a hidden, peaceful corner of the city that many visitors might miss. It’s a quiet, contemplative space with a rich story, perfect for those wanting a break from the busy tourist spots and a chance to experience Malta’s spiritual heritage firsthand. For just a small investment, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the resilience and dedication of the nuns who have called this place home for centuries.

You can check availability for your dates here: