Malta’s compact size makes it an ideal place for walking tours. Its streets are rich with history, stunning architecture, and local flavors, all easily explored on foot. I’ve especially enjoyed tours that combine cultural insights with local cuisine, like the Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour — a lively three-hour walk that pairs Malta’s tasty street eats with fascinating stories about the city’s past. The Private Valletta Walking Tour offers personalized insight into the city’s top sights, perfect for those wanting a tailored experience. And for a darker twist, the Dark History of Valletta reveals the city’s haunted corners and gruesome stories, ideal for thrill-seekers.
In this list, I’ve included a variety of walking experiences—from food-focused jaunts and private guided walks to themed tours exploring Malta’s war history, mysteries, and medieval towns. Whether you want to taste Malta’s iconic past with Valletta Food and Culture Tours, uncover hidden corners in Mdina, or stroll through Vittoriosa’s Three Cities with entrance to Inquisitor’s Palace, this guide will help you decide which walks suit your curiosity and pace.
1. The Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour
At number 1, this Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour captures the essence of Malta’s capital. For about $63.72, in just over three hours, you’ll sample an array of local street foods like pastizzi and Ftira, while learning about Maltese culture and history. Your guide walks you past gardens, landmarks, and markets, blending culinary delights with stories of Valletta’s past. It’s especially popular, with a perfect 5-star rating from over 600 reviews, thanks to its friendly guides and authentic food tastings. Many travelers love how it’s a relaxed, sociable way to get to know the city without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for food lovers and first-timers wanting an affordable, lively introduction to Valletta. It’s a great way to combine casual eating with local history.
2. Valletta Private Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Valletta Private Walking Tour, perfect for those craving a customized experience. For $325.60 per group (up to 4 people), this 3-hour tour offers deep dives into Valletta’s UNESCO-listed architecture, less-visited corners, and fascinating stories about the city’s founding. Your guide provides personalized attention, allowing you to focus on your particular interests—whether that’s the Fortifications, palaces, or hidden alleys. The reviews rave about the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making it a flexible and enriching way to see the city at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prefer a tailored experience, want to avoid crowds, and appreciate in-depth stories with a personal touch.
3. Valletta: Guided Walking Tour with Optional Cathedral Tour
Number 3 offers an Extended Guided Tour of Valletta, lasting around four hours and providing a rundown. It covers major sights like Castille Square, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with the option to visit the cathedral at your own expense. This tour appeals to those wanting a slightly longer, more in-depth walk through Malta’s baroque architecture and historical landmarks. The reviews highlight the guide’s engaging storytelling and the chance to see Valletta’s most iconic sights at a comfortable pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting detailed stories and a full introduction to Valletta — especially if they plan to explore the cathedral separately.
4. Valletta City Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral (Optional)
Number 4 is the Valletta City Walking Tour, offering a balanced 3-hour experience for just $25.54. It covers more of the city’s key sights, including palaces, gardens, and the UNESCO-listed St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where you can admire Caravaggio’s masterpiece. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and knowledgeable guide, making it ideal for those who want a focused introduction to Valletta’s history with an optional cathedral visit. Reviewers mention how well the tour balances history, art, and architecture.
Bottom Line: Great for visitors on a budget who want a concentrated overview with the option to see the cathedral at their leisure.
5. Three Cities walking tour incl. entrance to Inquisitor’s Palace
Number 5 is a [Vittoriosa (Birgu)] tour that explores the Three Cities with a focus on history and architecture. Priced at $28.66 per person, this 2.5-hour tour includes access to the Inquisitor’s Palace, Fort St. Angelo, and St. Lawrence Church. It’s limited to just 15 participants, so you get a more intimate experience. The guide’s storytelling is highly praised, and the tour covers historic landmarks with engaging details about Malta’s medieval and wartime past.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and those wanting to explore Vittoriosa’s most significant sites in a small, friendly group.
6. The Dark History of Valletta – Walking Tour
Number 6, The Dark History of Valletta, takes a different route—literally. For just $23.13 and in about two hours, this tour uncovers Malta’s hidden, sometimes grisly stories. You’ll learn about Jean de Valette, ghosts of knights, and grotesque statues. It’s perfect for those interested in the mysterious and macabre side of Valletta, with reviewers noting how the guide’s storytelling makes history come alive. This tour is especially suitable for night owls or anyone curious about the darker tales behind Malta’s charming facade.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in the spooky or less conventional stories of Valletta.
7. Valletta World War II Private Walking Tour
Number 7 is the WWII Private Walking Tour, focusing on Malta’s resilience during the war. For $323.80 per group, this 3-hour tour visits Fort St. Elmo, the Siege Bell monument, and wartime tunnels. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts with a specific interest in military history. The guide’s passion shines through, and visitors praise the personalized attention and detailed stories about Malta’s heroic role in WWII. Reviews mention how it’s a deep dive into Malta’s wartime experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for war history fans willing to invest in a private, immersive experience.
8. Best of Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour
Number 8, the Mdina and Rabat Tour, at only $21.34 offers a concise 2-hour stroll in Malta’s Silent City. You’ll explore medieval palaces, the main gate, and Game of Thrones filming locations. The guide’s stories about medieval life and local legends give this tour a lively edge. Reviewers highlight the guide’s knowledge and the well-paced itinerary, making it a solid choice for those short on time but eager to see Mdina’s fascinating architecture.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, focused introduction perfect for travelers wanting a quick taste of Malta’s medieval charm.
9. Best of Valletta Walking Tour
Number 9 is a Best of Valletta that covers key sites in 2.5 hours for only $23.72. It includes St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Fort St. Elmo, and Republic Square, with engaging commentary that brings Valletta’s Knights’ stories alive. Reviewers appreciate the interesting facts and the comfortable pace. The tour is excellent for first-time visitors who want a solid overview without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: An affordable, well-rounded tour for those wanting a quick, insightful introduction.
10. Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu
Number 10 explores Malta’s supernatural side with Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu. For $23.72 and about two hours, you’ll hear stories about witches, ghosts, and legendary bloody events. The tour visits Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St. Angelo, highlighting dark legends and supernatural tales that make it stand out. Reviewers mention the interesting stories and atmospheric locations.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in Malta’s mystical legends and haunting tales.
11. Mysteries and Histories of Mdina
Number 11, Mysteries and Histories of Mdina, offers a 2-hour look into Mdina’s secret stories. For just $21, it covers strange statues, miracles, and buried treasure. The guide shares colorful tales about ghosts, crimes, and legendary figures. Reviewers love the engaging storytelling and the atmospheric route.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in mystery, legends, and the supernatural intertwined with Malta’s medieval past.
12. Discover Valletta Private Walking Tour – Insider Tour
Number 12 is the Insider Private Tour, offering an intimate exploration of Valletta. For $85.98 per person, this 3-hour tour includes hidden gems, offbeat stories, and local insights. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible itinerary and personalized tips on where to eat and shop. Reviewers praise the guide’s deep knowledge and the ability to customize the experience.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers seeking a bespoke, in-depth look at Valletta’s lesser-known stories.
13. Discover Mdina & Rabat Private Walking Tour
Number 13 is a flexible Mdina & Rabat Private Walk. Up to 15 people can customize this 2-3 hour tour, focusing on hidden spots and favorite sites in both towns. The personalized guide provides detailed stories about medieval life and local traditions. Reviewers find it excellent for relaxed pacing and local insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to shape their own itinerary and explore at their own speed.
14. Private Valletta Ghost Walking Tour
Number 14 is a Ghost Tour that explores Valletta’s haunted corners at night. For $332.03, up to 5 people walk through spooky sites and hear ghostly tales. It’s best suited for those interested in supernatural stories and eerie atmospheres. Reviewers enjoy the personalized storytelling and the atmospheric locations.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls or anyone curious about Malta’s ghostly legends.
15. Valletta’s Historic Charm: A Guided Walking Tour
Finally, the Valletta’s Historic Charm offers a 2-hour stroll for just $245.63 per person, covering key sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Fort St. Elmo. It’s a private tour, so you can enjoy a laid-back experience tailored to your interests. Reviews highlight the depth of knowledge and the ease of pacing—a good fit for travelers wanting depth over breadth.
Bottom Line: Recommended for those seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of Valletta’s main attractions.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Malta
When selecting the right tour, consider what interests you most: Are you a food lover? The Valletta Street Food and Culture Tour is hard to beat. Want a personalized experience? The Private Valletta Tour or Insider Tour could be perfect. Interested in Malta’s dark secrets or WWII history? Tours like Dark Valletta and WWII Tour are your best bets.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at tours like Mdina & Rabat and Witchcraft & Blood, which offer rich experiences at lower prices. For those with limited time, shorter walks like the Best of Valletta offer a quick yet insightful overview.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on popular tours and ensure you get your preferred times.
Malta’s small size hides big surprises—from lively food markets to haunted streets and ancient fortresses. Whether you want a culinary adventure, a private exploration, or a spooky night walk, this list covers the best options for every traveler. Consider your interests, budget, and fitness level, then pick a tour that promises memorable stories and authentic Maltese experiences. Booking ahead is always wise—Malta’s charm waits for no one.