Excursion The best of malta tour at Valletta

Spend a day exploring the highlights of Malta during this scenic and informative sightseeing excursion through the city.

Tarxien Temples

Depart the pier for the approximately 20-minute drive to Tarxien, and a visit to the Tarxien Temples. Dating from 3600-2500 B.C., the Tarxien Temples is the most complex of all temple sites in Malta, and consists of four megalithic structures. They are renowned for their detailed carvings, which include domestic animals carved in relief, altars and screens, and decorated with spiral designs and other patterns.

Mdina

Next, re-board your coach and drive to Mdina. Known as the 'Silent City', or 'Citta Notabile', Mdina dates back to Roman times and was the first capital of Malta. Mdina's intriguing and secretive aura is depicted in its narrow, silent streets, where several of Malta's aristocratic old families still reside in stately mansions. A stroll through Mdina takes you to the bastions from which you can admire a stunning vista of Malta's northeast coast.

Mdina Cathedral

A visit is then made to the Mdina Cathedral to see the gilded carvings, ornamental side chapels and paintings that adorn the vault, apse and chapels. Many of the paintings and carvings illustrate scenes from the life of St. Paul; the finest is Mattia Pretti's mural, The Shipwreck of St. Paul, decorating the apse. From here, walk to the Palazzo Falson. This Medieval building houses a spectacular collection of antique paintings, silver, furniture, armour, and more.

Lunch at the Trattoria of Xara Palace

Following your visit, enjoy your 3 courses lunch at Xara Palace which is part of the Infinitely Xara Collection.  Re-board your coach and drive back to Valletta for a visit to the Upper Barracca Gardens, which offers a wonderful view of the grand harbour and the 'Three Cities'.

St. John's Co-Cathedral

In the afternoon, take a stroll down the main thoroughfare en route to St. John's Co-Cathedral. Upon arrival, a visit is made inside the church, which is renowned for its striking interior and a staggering collection of Malta's finest art treasures, including Caravaggio's famous work, The Beheading of St. John. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach for the short return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Valletta, Tarxien Temples, Mdina, Mdina Cathedral, Palazzo Falson, Upper Barracca Gardens, St. John's Co-Cathedral

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking on concrete or paved sidewalks, cobblestones and interior tile. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Conservative attire is required to enter St. John's Co-Cathedral and Mdina Cathedral; bare shoulders, bare knees and stiletto shoes are not permitted inside the churches. St. John's Co-Cathedral is closed on Saturday's afternoon, Sundays and public holidays.  On these days, a visit to Palace Armoury or Muza Fine Arts Museum will be substituted.  Additionally, Palazzo Falson may be closed on Mondays and will be substituted with Carmelite Priory instead. Mdina Cathedral is closed on sunday and visit will be external only.