From ancient temples and medieval cities to glittering harbors and sunlit coastlines, Valletta offers a deep dive into Malta’s richly layered past. Shore excursions from this UNESCO-listed capital reveal a small island with an outsized history — where Baroque palaces meet prehistoric ruins and local kitchens serve up centuries-old culinary traditions. Whether you’re exploring sea caves, learning to cook Maltese dishes or walking through the fortified cities of the Knights of St. John, Malta’s blend of culture and coastal beauty is impossible to resist.
Here are some of the most popular Valletta excursions from seaside markets and noble estates to archaeological marvels and local cuisine.
Explore Valletta on Foot
Walking tours reveal the capital’s Baroque grandeur and layered past.
For those who want to dive straight into the heart of Malta, guided walking tours through Valletta offer a fascinating look at the city’s noble roots and architectural beauty. You’ll stroll past honey-colored limestone buildings, visit elegant gardens with sweeping harbor views and step inside iconic landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral — famed for its opulent interior and Caravaggio masterpieces.
Along the way, guides share stories of the city’s founding by the Knights of St. John, the resilience shown during WWII and the vibrant local life still pulsing through its narrow alleys today. Some tours also explore Valletta’s aristocratic heritage, stopping at noble palaces that reveal how Malta’s elite once lived.
Step Inside the Walled City of Mdina
Cultural excursions take you through Malta’s medieval “Silent City.”
Just inland from Valletta lies Mdina — a hilltop city frozen in time. Surrounded by towering bastions and narrow cobblestone streets, Mdina once served as the capital of Malta and still radiates a quiet nobility. Guided tours often include a visit to the island’s first official Catholic museum and an aristocratic palazzo dating back to the 13th century.
Some excursions pair this visit with a scenic drive through Malta’s countryside and a stop at a boutique winery. At the estate, you’ll sip local varietals while learning about Malta’s unique grape-growing conditions and winemaking techniques.
Visit the Temples, Sea Caves & Fishing Villages
Full-day excursions showcase Malta’s ancient sites and natural beauty.
Malta’s southern coast is a treasure trove of history and scenery, with excursions that blend archaeology, coastal charm and local color. You might begin your day in Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village famous for its colorful boats and open-air market. From there, you’ll head to Hagar Qim and Mnajdra — two prehistoric temple complexes older than the Egyptian pyramids and still remarkably intact.
Before returning to port, you’ll often stop at the Blue Grotto, where sea caverns glow electric blue as sunlight hits the water. Weather permitting, optional boat rides offer a closer look inside these otherworldly formations carved by centuries of waves.
Discover Malta’s Wartime Legacy
Historical tours shed light on Malta’s heroic role in WWII.
Few places tell the story of wartime resilience like Malta. Shore excursions focused on this era bring you to well-preserved war museums and underground shelters, where you’ll walk through dimly lit corridors that once protected civilians and soldiers alike. Along the way, you’ll hear how Malta withstood one of the most intense bombing campaigns of the war — earning the entire island the George Cross for bravery.
Many of these excursions wrap up with a chance to sample local treats and chat with guides about how the war shaped modern Maltese identity.
Take a Maltese Cooking Class
Hands-on culinary tours celebrate local flavors and family traditions.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, a cooking class in a local village offers a flavorful way to connect with Maltese culture. You’ll start by meeting your hosts — often in a family-run restaurant — and learning about traditional ingredients like sheep’s cheese, olives, tomatoes and fresh-caught seafood.
With aprons on and cutting boards in hand, you’ll prepare dishes like ftira (Maltese flatbread), rabbit stew or ricotta-filled pastries. Afterward, everyone sits down to enjoy the meal together — a warm, welcoming end to a delicious day.
FAQs About Valletta Shore Excursions:
1. What are the best excursions in Valletta for first-time visitors?
First-timers should consider walking tours of Valletta or visits to Mdina. These options provide a strong introduction to Malta’s noble history, architectural beauty and centuries of cultural influence.
2. Are there food-focused excursions in Malta?
Yes. Several shore excursions include hands-on cooking classes where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Maltese dishes in a village setting. These often include tastings, family stories and a full sit-down meal.
3. Can I visit ancient sites in Malta from the cruise port?
Absolutely. Many excursions visit Hagar Qim and Mnajdra — megalithic temples more than 5,000 years old. These archaeological sites are just a short drive from Valletta and are often combined with stops at coastal villages or the Blue Grotto.
4. Are there winery tours near Valletta?
Yes. Some excursions venture inland to boutique wineries set on private estates. These visits typically include vineyard tours, tastings and insights into Malta’s wine production methods.
5. How long do Valletta excursions typically last?
Most shore excursions range from 4 to 6 hours, with some full-day options for those interested in exploring multiple regions or experiences. All include roundtrip transport and knowledgeable local guides.
