🇲🇹 Valletta, Malta — Cruise Port Guide
Malta's golden capital is a fortified Baroque gem packed with knights' history, grand harbors, and the dazzling St. John's Co-Cathedral.
Updated September 2026
Quick facts
Getting ashore
When to visit Valletta
Best in April-May or September-October; July-August is hot and dry (30s°C) while winters are mild but can be windy and rainy.
Getting back to the ship on time
If you head independently to Mdina, Gozo, or the Three Cities by bus or ferry, pad your return time generously since Maltese public transport and Gozo ferry schedules can run late.
All-aboard is ship's time — check it in the daily programme, and set your watch to it.
Things to do in Valletta
St. John's Co-Cathedral
Marvel at an opulent Baroque interior and Caravaggio's masterpiece paintings.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Enjoy sweeping views over the Grand Harbour and the saluting battery.
Explore Valletta's streets
Wander grid-planned Baroque lanes, squares, and fortified bastions.
Grand Harbour boat tour
Cruise the historic harbor and Three Cities by traditional Maltese boat.
Day trip to Mdina
Explore the medieval walled 'Silent City' and its cathedral.
Marsaxlokk fishing village
Stroll a colorful harbor of luzzu boats and seafood stalls.
What to eat
- Fenek (rabbit stew)
- Pastizzi
- Lampuki pie
- Bragioli
- Ftira
Weather by month
Best time to visit: Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 59° | 50° | 3.5" |
| Feb | 59° | 49° | 2.4" |
| Mar | 62° | 51° | 1.6" |
| Apr | 67° | 55° | 0.9" |
| May | 74° | 61° | 0.4" |
| Jun | 82° | 68° | 0.2" |
| Jul | 88° | 73° | 0" |
| Aug | 88° | 74° | 0.3" |
| Sep | 82° | 70° | 1.6" |
| Oct | 75° | 64° | 3" |
| Nov | 68° | 58° | 3.6" |
| Dec | 62° | 53° | 4.3" |
Local phrases
A little history
The Knights of St. John built Valletta after the 1565 Great Siege of Malta.
Maltese and English are both official languages; English is widely spoken.
Tipping about 10% is appreciated for good restaurant service.
Dress modestly in churches; shoulders and knees should be covered.