Valletta Waterfront - Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valetta Malta
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Valletta Waterfront

4.6
·12k reviews·Il-Furjana, Malta

Historic port warehouses transformed into a vibrant waterfront with global dining, bars, and stunning Grand Harbour views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to evening

Sunset views and dining ambiance

CrowdMedium
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Valletta Waterfront - Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valetta Malta

Valletta Waterfront

Best Time

Late afternoon to evening

Sunset views and dining ambiance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic port warehouses transformed into a vibrant waterfront with global dining, bars, and stunning Grand Harbour views.

4.6
(12k reviews)

"Valletta / Malta is a superb hidden gem of a stop."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍝 Savor Italian Flavors

Don't miss San Paolo Naufrago for incredible lasagna and tiramisu!

🛥️ Budget Boat Trip

Take a Dgħajsa for a scenic and cheap ride to the Three Cities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Harbour Views

Grand Harbour Views

Valletta Waterfront promenade

Savor delicious meals with breathtaking vistas of historic fortifications and bustling cruise ships.

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

Various restaurants along the waterfront

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, from divine lasagna to creamy tiramisu, at highly-rated eateries.

Dgħajsa Boat Ride

Dgħajsa Boat Ride

Harbour crossing from Valletta to the Three Cities

Experience a scenic and budget-friendly traditional boat trip across the Grand Harbour.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Charm

Valletta Waterfront offers a vibrant mix of dining and scenic views. Arrive early to snag a prime spot at popular restaurants, especially during peak season. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the Grand Harbour.

Getting Around Valletta

While Valletta itself is walkable, the waterfront is a great starting point for exploring the Three Cities via a traditional Dgħajsa boat. This budget-friendly option offers stunning harbor views and a unique cultural experience.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to evening
Why
Sunset views and dining ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Malta must-do! Still have DREAMS about this lasagna! #malta #valletta #travel #london
@alex.and.aimee
158.7K likes • 2.3M views

🍝 Savor Italian Flavors

Don't miss San Paolo Naufrago for incredible lasagna and tiramisu! TikTok+2

🛥️ Budget Boat Trip

Take a Dgħajsa for a scenic and cheap ride to the Three Cities. TikTok+1

Finally got to try out the famous San Paulo Naufrago. The best restaurant in Valletta - can say for certain that the scenery did not disappoint 🌞💃💫 #malta #valletta #food #Foodie #travel #traveltok #fyp #foryou
@jasmineamber99
82.1K likes • 1.3M views
☀️ Are you ready for the APS Summer Festival? 🎼 4 weeks of cultural activities staged along the Valletta Waterfront will provide an eclectic and joyful artistic combination, with different genres of #music, #comedy, #dance, #poetry and visual arts. ✅ The #APSSummerFestival is co-produced by the @vallettacruiseport and the @maltaphilharmonicorchestra and supported by the @maltatourismauthority, @st...
aps.bank
80 likes • 0 views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The waterfront is a prime spot for stunning sunset views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Charm

Valletta is very walkable, but be prepared for hills! Reddit

🎬 Enjoy outdoor #cinema nights under the stars with the APS Summer Festival! Featuring local and international #films against the backdrop of historic fortifications and the majestic Grand Harbour. 🎥 Filmed in Malta Sundays - #Simshar Sunday 28th June @ 20:30 🎭 Drama Films Mondays - #AmericanSniper Monday 29th June @ 20:30 💎 Classic Films Tuesdays - #PulpFiction Tuesday 30th June @ 20:30 🎵 Musical...
aps.bank
39 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍝 Savor Italian Flavors

Don't miss San Paolo Naufrago for incredible lasagna and tiramisu! TikTok+2

🛥️ Budget Boat Trip

Take a Dgħajsa for a scenic and cheap ride to the Three Cities. TikTok+1

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The waterfront is a prime spot for stunning sunset views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Charm

Valletta is very walkable, but be prepared for hills! Reddit

🎶 Summer Festival Vibes

Check out the APS Summer Festival for music, comedy, and more. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Valletta Waterfront for its stunning Grand Harbour views, excellent dining options, and walkable charm. The Dgħajsa boat ride is a highlight for its scenic beauty and affordability. While generally positive, some find it can get busy during peak times.

"Very clean and walkable city (gonna get some your elevation and steps in!).

We started at the cruise port, headed to midtown, walked to the harbor and finished off past the fountain, with random stops along the way.

Valletta / Malta is a superb hidden gem of a stop."

Joseph Smith

"Water was beautiful. Several places for food and beverages. Water doesn't get deep fast so perfect for children of all ages."

jason goodell

"One of our many visits to Malta and year after year it never lets us down with sheer old world charm and beauty. Take your time walking around and look up!!!!! The buildings are breathtaking in many places."

Paul Haynes

What People Like

Beautiful harbor views
Delicious Italian food
Walkable promenade

What People Dislike

Can get busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Valletta Waterfront is easily accessible by foot from the city center or by bus. Many cruise ships dock here, making it a convenient starting point. For a scenic journey, consider a traditional Dgħajsa boat ride from Valletta to the Three Cities, which offers stunning harbor views. TikTok+2

Yes, Valletta itself is a very walkable city, though it has some inclines. The waterfront promenade is flat and pleasant for strolling. Reddit

Taxis are available throughout Malta, including to Valletta Waterfront. However, for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, consider the Dgħajsa boat. TikTok

The most recommended and scenic way is by taking a traditional Dgħajsa boat. It's affordable and offers fantastic views of the Grand Harbour. TikTok+2

Yes, Valletta has a central bus station, and many routes will take you close to the waterfront area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Valletta Waterfront promenade and general areas is free. You only pay for food, drinks, or specific events like the APS Summer Festival. Instagram

The waterfront promenade is generally accessible throughout the day and evening, with restaurants and shops having their own operating hours. Many venues stay open late. Reddit

The Valletta Waterfront itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. TikTok

The Dgħajsa boat ride is very budget-friendly, often costing around €2-€3 per person for a crossing. TikTok

Yes, the APS Summer Festival features various cultural activities like music, comedy, and cinema nights. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

San Paolo Naufrago is highly recommended for its authentic Italian dishes, especially lasagna and tiramisu. TikTok+2 Zero Sei Restaurant is also praised for its tiramisu. TikTok Brown's restaurant is noted for its quality food and cheese garlic and honey bread. Reddit

Many restaurants offer a variety of dishes, and it's common to find vegetarian options. It's best to check menus or ask staff for specific vegan choices. Reddit

Dining prices can vary, but expect mid-range to slightly higher prices due to the prime location and views. Reddit

Some restaurants accept reservations, while others, like the one with tables on street steps, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It's advisable to check with individual establishments. TikTok

While known for its restaurants, the waterfront also has cafes and bars. For a market experience, explore other parts of Valletta. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the Grand Harbour, the historic fortifications, and the docked cruise ships. The promenade offers great angles for sunset photography. Reddit

Absolutely! The waterfront provides a beautiful backdrop for sunset photos, especially from spring to summer. Reddit

Yes, taking photos from the Dgħajsa boats is a fantastic way to capture the scale of the Grand Harbour and the Valletta skyline. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be mindful of private property and individuals. TikTok

The golden hour before sunset offers beautiful lighting. Mid-day can be bright, but the harbor activity provides constant visual interest. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Valletta Waterfront is a great spot for families. The promenade is flat and easy to navigate, and the water doesn't get deep quickly, making it safe for children to be near. Reddit Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing kids to enjoy the sea breeze. The Dgħajsa boat ride to the Three Cities is also a fun and engaging activity for younger travelers, offering a unique perspective of the harbor. TikTok+1

Look for restaurants with varied menus that can cater to picky eaters. While not a dedicated playground, the open space and the visual interest of the boats and harbor provide plenty of entertainment. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Valletta Waterfront offers several budget-friendly options. The most significant is the Dgħajsa boat ride to the Three Cities, which is incredibly affordable and offers stunning views. TikTok+1 Walking along the promenade and enjoying the harbor views is completely free. TikTok For dining, look for cafes or bistros rather than high-end restaurants. While some popular spots like San Paolo Naufrago are highly rated, exploring menus and prices can help you find value. TikTok+1

Many of the attractions in Valletta itself, such as gardens and historical streets, are free to explore. TikTok Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on costs throughout the day. The overall experience of the waterfront, with its ambiance and views, can be enjoyed without significant spending. Reddit

couples

Valletta Waterfront offers a romantic setting, especially in the evening. Enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring delicious food with breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour. Reddit The ambiance is enhanced by the gentle sea breeze and the sight of boats docked for the night. Reddit A stroll along the promenade hand-in-hand as the lights twinkle on the water creates a perfect romantic experience. Reddit

Consider taking a Dgħajsa boat ride at dusk for a charming and intimate journey across the harbor. TikTok+1 Many of the restaurants offer a sophisticated dining experience, making it ideal for a special occasion or a memorable date night. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Grand Harbour by Dgħajsa

A quintessential Valletta experience is taking a ride on a traditional Maltese boat called a Dgħajsa across the Grand Harbour. These small, colorful boats offer a unique and budget-friendly way to travel between Valletta and the historic Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua). The journey itself is a highlight, providing unparalleled views of the imposing fortifications, Valletta's skyline, and the bustling port activity. It's a far more engaging and scenic alternative to taxis or buses for this crossing. TikTok+2

Many travelers rave about the affordability and charm of this mode of transport. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about immersing yourself in Malta's maritime heritage. The boatmen are often locals with stories to share, adding a personal touch to the experience. For photographers, the Dgħajsa offers a fantastic vantage point to capture the grandeur of the Grand Harbour. TikTok+1

When planning your Dgħajsa trip, remember that they operate from various points along the Valletta waterfront and harbor. The cost is typically very low, making it an accessible activity for all travelers, including those on a budget. It's a must-do for anyone wanting to experience Malta from its most iconic waterway. TikTok+1

Culinary Gems at Valletta Waterfront

Valletta Waterfront is a haven for food lovers, boasting a selection of restaurants that cater to diverse palates. Among the most celebrated is San Paolo Naufrago, frequently lauded for its exceptional Italian cuisine. TikTok creators and visitors alike have shared their delight over dishes like their dreamy lasagna and perfectly creamy tiramisu. TikTok+2 Another spot, Zero Sei Restaurant, is also highlighted for its authentic tiramisu, offering a sweet conclusion to a meal. TikTok

Beyond Italian fare, Brown's restaurant is recommended for its quality food, with a specific mention of their delicious cheese garlic and honey bread. Reddit The waterfront's ambiance, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating, allows diners to enjoy the ocean breeze and views of docked boats, especially during the beautiful sunset hours. Reddit While some establishments, like those with tables on street steps, operate on a first-come, first-served basis and may have a short wait, the culinary rewards are often worth it. TikTok

For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere, the APS Summer Festival occasionally transforms the waterfront into a hub of cultural activity, including outdoor cinema nights. Instagram+1 This adds another layer to the dining experience, combining delicious food with entertainment. When choosing a restaurant, consider the stunning backdrop of the Grand Harbour as part of your dining experience. TikTokReddit

Valletta Waterfront as a Hub

Valletta Waterfront serves as more than just a dining destination; it's a dynamic hub that connects visitors to various aspects of Maltese life and history. Its location along the Grand Harbour makes it a prime spot for observing the comings and goings of cruise ships, offering a unique perspective on maritime activity. Reddit The waterfront's historic 1700s port warehouses have been beautifully converted, retaining their charm while housing a modern array of global restaurants and bars. TikTok

This area is also a gateway to exploring the Three Cities via the traditional Dgħajsa boats, a short and scenic trip that immerses you in Malta's rich naval past. TikTok+2 Furthermore, the waterfront is a venue for cultural events, such as the APS Summer Festival, which features music, comedy, and outdoor cinema nights against the backdrop of historic fortifications. Instagram+1 This makes it a lively spot, especially during the summer months, offering entertainment alongside its culinary attractions. Reddit

For those interested in the broader context of Valletta, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. TikTok The waterfront provides a pleasant starting or ending point for exploring the capital, offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere before or after delving into the city's historical sites. Reddit

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