Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a city that practically breathes history, with its fortress walls, grand palaces, and baroque architecture. It’s a place where walking is the best way to soak up its atmosphere, and every corner reveals a story. We love Valletta’s guided tours because they blend expert storytelling with the charm of narrow streets, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks like the Barrakka Gardens. Whether you’re after a classic overview or something more intimate, Valletta offers a variety of city tours that cater to different interests and travel styles.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of classic walking tours, small group experiences, and even a lively street show that brings Valletta’s wartime past to life. Each tour offers a different lens on the city’s unique character—from the grandeur of the Grandmaster’s Palace to the lively stories of Strait Street. We’ve included tours that suit a range of budgets, timeframes, and curiosity levels, making sure you find a perfect fit for your Malta visit.
Below, you’ll see detailed descriptions of the six best city tours in Valletta—covering everything from historic walks to immersive cultural performances. Our goal is to help you choose the experience that makes your trip memorable and authentic.
1. Valletta: Guided City Walking Tour
At number 1, this Valletta: Guided City Walking Tour offers an engaging 2.5-hour overview of Malta’s capital that’s perfect for first-timers. Priced at just $23 per person, the tour features an expert guide who highlights Valletta’s most important sites, from Barracca Gardens to the main squares and lesser-known alleys. The tour’s strength lies in its ability to balance main landmarks with stories about Valletta’s past, making history come alive in a relaxed walking pace.
Guests especially praise the guide’s knowledge and approachable style. One reviewer called Nadine a “great guide,” noting she shared Malta’s history with humor and patience. The tour also allows plenty of time for questions, which is crucial when you want to dig deeper into local stories. With a good mix of sights and storytelling, this tour offers fantastic value for its duration and price.
If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction, this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a lively, informed walk and want a solid foundation before exploring on your own.
Bottom Line: An affordable, comprehensive tour led by enthusiastic guides, perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick but meaningful overview.
2. Valletta: City Walking Tour in a Small Group
For those who prefer a more intimate experience, the Valletta: City Walking Tour in a Small Group is a top choice. Also priced at $23, this 2.5-hour tour limits the group size, which means more personalized attention from your guide. This tour is perfect for travelers who love engaging conversations and want to explore Valletta’s less touristy corners alongside the highlights.
The itinerary includes visits to Republic Square, St. George’s Square, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the Parliament building, among others. Reviewers love the guide Karl, describing him as “brilliant,” with a knack for storytelling and humor. The small group format allows for easier questions and a more relaxed pace, which many find enhances the experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on both grand architecture and hidden streets, giving you a deeper feel for the city’s character. The tour ends at the magnificent Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering fantastic views over the Grand Harbour.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for travelers who want a personal touch and the chance to ask questions in a small, friendly group.
3. Valletta City Walking Tour
Number 3 on our list, this Valletta City Walking Tour offers a 2-hour 30-minute journey into the city’s most iconic sights, starting from Freedom Square. Costing around $23.17, it’s slightly more detailed in its focus on Valletta’s main landmarks like the Grandmaster’s Palace, Barrakka Gardens, and the historic streets along Republic Street.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to get up close to the UNESCO-listed architecture and learn about Valletta’s history through lively commentary. The guide’s storytelling makes the buildings’ pasts tangible, and the tour’s pace ensures you have enough time for photos and questions.
Guests appreciate the balanced approach: seeing the grand sights while also hearing the stories behind them. The tour ends near the Grandmaster’s Palace, making it easy to continue exploring independently afterward. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Valletta’s highlights in a relaxed walk.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a rich, detailed introduction to Valletta’s most impressive sites.
4. Mdina and Rabat – City Walking Tour
While technically outside Valletta, the Mdina and Rabat City Walking Tour lands here because it’s a superb day-trip for history enthusiasts. Priced at $23.70, this 2-hour tour explores Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina, famous for its baroque buildings and palaces. It starts at Mdina’s Main Gate, where your guide takes you past the key sites, including churches, courtyards, and traditional Maltese homes.
What makes this tour special is the atmosphere. Mdina’s quiet, narrow streets feel like stepping back in time—without the crowds of the city below. The tour protocol includes a walk into nearby Rabat, where you’ll see its old quarter and learn about its historical significance. The guide shares stories of Malta’s past, including the Knights’ influence and local legends.
Guests praise the guide’s depth of knowledge, describing her as “very knowledgeable” and “worth booking return Uber” for ease of access. The tour is best suited for history lovers and travelers eager to see Malta’s old capital and its neighboring town.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an immersive experience in Malta’s ancient heart, combined with a walk through beautiful streets and historic sites.
5. Sailors in the City: Songs & Tales of Valletta’s Backstreets
Stepping outside the typical walking tour, Sailors in the City offers a lively 1-hour show set in a WWII-era bar. It’s a different way to experience Valletta’s wartime stories, combining theatre, music, and history in an engaging performance. Enter Strait Street, once known as Malta’s red-light district, and listen to tales of sailors, mischief, and resilience.
This show is perfect if you’re interested in Malta’s social history rather than just the buildings. Performers sing wartime classics and share stories that make Malta’s WWII past feel immediate and real. The atmosphere is casual, with a first drink on the house, making it a fun, relaxed cultural experience.
While it’s a shorter and less traditional city tour, it provides a memorable glimpse into Valletta’s backstreets and wartime spirit. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for entertainment with a historical twist.
Bottom Line: A lively, interactive way to experience Malta’s wartime legends that’s perfect if you want a show instead of a walk.
6. Valletta: Half-Day City Discovery Walking Tour
Finally, the Valletta: Half-Day City Discovery Walking Tour offers a three-hour deep dive into the city’s most notable sights. Priced at $22, it covers landmarks like the Auberge de Castille, the Royal Opera House site, and the National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo.
This tour is best suited for travelers with a bit more time who want a comprehensive look at Valletta’s architecture, history, and viewpoints. The tour includes a stop at Upper Barrakka Gardens for stunning views over the Grand Harbour, plus free time to explore St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Museum afterward.
Guests comment on the interesting overview and the knowledgeable guide. The longer duration means you’ll get to see more of the city at a relaxed pace—ideal if you’re a history or culture enthusiast wanting in-depth insight.
Bottom Line: A great option for travelers who want a full, well-rounded experience of Valletta’s highlights over half a day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a Valletta city tour, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after a broad overview, the guided city walk or the half-day discovery offer great value. For a more intimate experience, the small group tour provides personal attention. If you’re interested in Malta’s wartime stories, the Sailors in the City show gives a lively cultural twist.
Think about your physical comfort and how much walking you want to do—most tours are around 2 to 3 hours walking, with opportunities for photos and questions. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure a spot on popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Valletta is a city that invites exploration, whether through its grand palaces or lively streets. For a comprehensive introduction, the Valletta: Guided City Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more personal touch, the small group experience adds a friendly vibe. History buffs might love the Mdina and Rabat tour for its depth, while those craving a cultural performance can’t miss the Sailors in the City show.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Valletta’s charm is best appreciated when you dive into its stories and streets—so pick the tour that suits your style and enjoy Malta’s capital to the fullest.