Valletta, Malta: Europe's Most Underrated Capital – A Hidden Gem Guide
When Lonely Planet named its Top 10 cities for 2015, I was lukewarm on most choices—I touched on this briefly in a previous article—but Valletta earned my full endorsement.
This architectural gem is often overlooked, a mistake I once made too. While I've shared my Malta experiences, including road trips, medieval Mdina, and Maltese cuisine, I spent the most time in Valletta, the island nation's compact capital.
Named European Capital of Culture for 2018, Valletta is undergoing restorations and developments that enhance its allure, positioning it among Europe's most charming capitals.
By 2018, no one will call it underrated.
Join me on a photo journey through Valletta—essential even if staying at Malta's beach resorts, just as you shouldn't miss Gozo.
I've never seen a capital so small yet captivating. With just over 6,000 residents, it's Europe's second-smallest after Vaduz, Liechtenstein, boasting picturesque buildings that enchanted me endlessly. The colorful wooden balconies, emerging in the 18th century from Arab muxrabiya designs via North African trade, add unique charm.
Perched on a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, Valletta's harbors—Grand Harbour and Marsamxett—highlight its 16th-17th century Mediterranean trade importance.
Well-preserved buildings from the Knights Hospitallers era reflect past wealth, many still inhabited.
Spanning only 0.5 square miles (1.3 sq km), it's impossible to get lost—wander freely until reaching the old city walls.
Europe's first planned city, its grid layout contrasts medieval mazes elsewhere in Malta or Europe. Hilltop location means workouts uphill, rewarded by azure sea views.
Republic Street measures 1 km (0.62 miles) north-south; the peninsula is 600 m (0.37 miles) wide—steep but scenic.
Ocher houses glow at golden hour; visit Upper Barrakka Gardens for sunset views over the Three Cities (Senglea, Cospicua, Vittoriosa) and yacht harbor, coffee in hand.
Stroll Merchant or Republic Street past the unassuming Co-Cathedral of St. John.
Inside, marvel at Caravaggio murals (including his largest), ornate details, and marble knight tombstones.
Open Mon-Fri 9:30am-4:30pm, Sat 9:30am-12:30pm; cover shoulders/knees, no high heels.
St. Paul's Shipwreck Church dazzles with elaborate interiors, tombs, and dome. The recently renovated Grand Master's Palace, now parliament seat, gleams with marble, gilt, and coats-of-arms.
Skip museums for street wandering and café stops like historic Caffè Cordina—peek inside its ornate 200-year-old interior.
Early morning runs along walls offered ocean breezes and blues before heat peaked.
Ideal off-season escape: mild weather, low crowds/prices (check Air Malta deals), all to yourself.
Where to Eat in Valletta
The Grassy Hopper
Vegan spot near Grand Master's Palace: smoothies with chia, wheatgrass, maca; burgers (beet/bean, chickpea), salads. Also a waterfront food truck.
Address: 123 Old Theatre Street; Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat 9am-2pm.
Caffè Cordina
Established 1837 institution for people-watching, pastries, Maltese ravioli, rabbit.
Address: 244 Republic St; Mon-Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 8am-3pm.
Café Jubilee
Time-capsule charm with memorabilia; breakfasts, dinners, top pastizzi, evening drinks.
Address: Konvoj Ta’ Sta Marija; daily 8am-1am.
Badass Burger
Epic burgers (Obama, Daddy, Rocky), veggie options, indulgent salads, stellar banoffee pie/shake.
Address: Old Theatre Street.
La Mère
Maltese-Indian-Mediterranean-Arab fusion, veggie-friendly: thalis, salads.
Address: 174 Merchant Street.
Where to Stay in Valletta
Palazzo Prince d’Orange: 17th-century baroque palazzo with chic apartments blending history and modern luxury (rooftop terraces, kitchens). Central location, e.g., €350/3 nights for 2.
