Valletta is one of the most appealing ports in the Mediterranean, with its compact, walkable streets packed with history, stunning harbors, and lively cafes. For travelers arriving on a cruise, Valletta offers a fantastic mix of quick, insightful tours and more in-depth explorations. I personally love the private guided Malta shore excursion because it combines flexibility with personalized attention, making it easy to tailor your visit to what interests you most. Plus, the luxury transport ensures you see the highlights comfortably, with hassle-free port pickup and drop-off.
Among the variety of options, you’ll find everything from half-day city tours to full-day explorations that include nearby Mdina. Whether you’re short on time or want a comprehensive experience, these tours are designed to fit different interests and budgets. To help you decide, I’ve ranked the top five excursions based on reviews, uniqueness, and value—so you can make the most of your visit to Malta.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours that made the list: private guided half-day and full-day tours, semi-private sightseeing experiences, and comprehensive excursions combining Malta’s historic cities. Each offers unique ways to experience Valletta and beyond.
1. Private guided Malta shore excursion with a professional guide and transport
At number one, this private, customized shore excursion stands out for its flexibility and personal touch. For around $628.49 per group (up to 3), you get a private guide, a chauffeur-driven luxury air-conditioned vehicle, and the ability to tailor your itinerary. This tour suits travelers short on time but eager to see Malta’s most important sights without feeling rushed.
It’s perfect if you want a hassle-free experience—the guide takes care of logistics, and you focus on sightseeing. The tour can last between 4 to 8 hours, giving ample time to explore Valletta, Mdina, or other nearby highlights. The itinerary is customizable, so you can opt for museums, historical sites, or scenic drives. Reviews praise the guide’s passion and knowledge, with one saying Fabrizia made them want to plan a return visit just for Malta.
The main downside is the price—it’s more expensive than other options—and entrance tickets to museums are not included, which requires some planning. This tour is best suited for small groups who value comfort and exclusivity, and those wanting to get the most personalized experience possible.
Bottom Line: If you appreciate tailored itineraries, private guides, and seamless logistics, this tour offers top-quality service—worth the investment for a memorable day.
2. Malta Shore Excursion: Malta in One Day Private Sightseeing Tour
At number two, this half-day private tour provides a swift yet thorough overview of Malta’s highlights. For about $353.70 per person, you’ll travel with your own driver-guide in a private vehicle, making the experience both comfortable and efficient.
This tour delves into Malta’s top sights, like Valletta’s Grandmaster’s Palace and Upper Barrakka Gardens, with options to explore at your own pace afterward. A notable feature is the visit to Marsaxlokk, the colorful fishing village where you can browse local markets and photograph traditional luzzus. The tour mix includes both sightseeing and free time, which makes it adaptable for different interests.
Guests have praised guides like Roberta, who is described as knowledgeable and friendly, tailoring the day to preferences. The tour hits key landmarks without feeling rushed, and the private nature ensures your group’s comfort. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a quick, personalized overview of Malta without sacrificing depth.
One aspect to consider is the higher per-person cost, which may be steep for some, but it includes private transport and a dedicated guide. It’s ideal for those with limited time who want a comprehensive, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: This tour balances efficiency with quality, perfect for travelers eager to see Malta’s best in a short window.
3. Shore Excursion: Private Full-Day Tour of Valletta & Mdina
Number three offers a full-day private excursion, combining Malta’s capital and its ancient walled city. For about $433.81 per group (up to 2), this tour emphasizes personalized exploration of Valletta and Mdina, two of Malta’s most iconic sites.
Your day begins with detailed walks through Valletta’s UNESCO-listed streets, accompanied by a guide who shares stories about the city’s fortifications, palaces, and churches. Then, you’ll transfer to Mdina, the “Silent City,” where narrow alleys and medieval architecture transport you back in time. The guide ensures you see key sights like the Mdina Cathedral and offers panoramic views from the city walls.
This tour is praised for its customization and expert guidance. One reviewer noted their guide Angela, who spoke five languages and tailored stops to their interests, making it a very enriching experience. The private vehicle makes it easy to hop between cities, and the entire day is built around your preferences.
The main limitation is the cost—this tour is best suited for couples or small groups looking for an in-depth, intimate experience. It’s ideal for lovers of history and architecture who want a flexible schedule and comfortable transport.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, personalized day with expert storytelling, this tour is a top pick.
4. Malta: Sightseeing Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
At number four, this guided tour from Mdina to Valletta provides a well-rounded taste of Malta’s highlights in about 4 hours. Priced at $112 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option designed for cruise travelers with limited time.
This semi-private tour includes visits to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Palazzo Testaferrata, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, alongside guided walks through Mdina and Valletta. The tour features a comfortable coach transfer, with guided commentary to help you understand the significance of each site. The itinerary is packed, with stops at major landmarks, although it involves some walking.
Reviewers appreciate the expert guides and the efficient schedule, especially for those on a tight timeline. One reviewer mentions the guide Jeremy, who was very informative and made the experience enjoyable despite the short duration.
However, since the tour involves multiple city visits, it’s more a snapshot than an in-depth exploration. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, informative overview without the cost of a private tour.
Bottom Line: A solid, budget-conscious choice for cruise passengers seeking a structured, guided experience in Malta.
5. Majestic Malta: Shore Excursion for cruise passengers
Rounding out the list, this 4-hour tour from Mdina to Valletta offers a shorter, yet charming experience. For $165 per person, it emphasizes history and art, especially highlighting Caravaggio’s influence, with an optional extended stay.
This tour starts at the cruise port and takes you to both Mdina and Valletta with a focus on historic sights and cultural highlights. The itinerary is flexible enough to include art, architecture, and scenic views, making it an enriching experience. The emphasis on art of Caravaggio and the scenic Barrakka Gardens appeals to those interested in Malta’s cultural heritage.
Guests value the comfortable transportation and the local guides’ ability to enhance the experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want a short but meaningful visit, with the option to extend their stay in Valletta or Mdina afterward.
The main consideration is the shorter duration, which means less time for thorough exploration. Still, it covers the essentials efficiently.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors who want a focused overview of Malta’s cultural highlights in a compact tour.
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion
When selecting a Malta shore excursion, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a luxurious, fully personalized experience, the private guided tour (Tour #1) offers unmatched comfort and customization. For those with limited time but who still want depth, the half-day private tour (Tour #2) hits the sweet spot. If your goal is to see both Valletta and Mdina with ease, then the full-day private tour (Tour #3) provides a thorough, flexible experience.
On a tighter schedule, the sightseeing tour for cruise passengers (Tour #4) offers a cost-effective way to see the key highlights. And if your focus is on art and culture, the Majestic Malta tour (Tour #5) gives a curated, artistic perspective.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your preferred date and ensure smooth logistics. Think about whether you want a private experience or are happy with a group tour, and match your choice accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Valletta offers a variety of shore excursions to suit different tastes and time constraints. For luxury and personalized attention, the private guided tours are hard to beat. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, the half-day private tour is a smart pick. For those wanting a cost-effective yet insightful experience, the guided cruise tour fits the bill.
No matter which option you choose, Malta’s charm is undeniable, and these excursions ensure you’ll get a good taste of its history, architecture, and culture. To avoid missing out, consider booking your preferred tour early—Malta’s cruise ports are popular, and availability can fill quickly.
Enjoy your time in Valletta — it’s a city that makes even a short visit memorable.