Lascaris War Rooms
Step into Malta's WWII command center: atmospheric underground tunnels that orchestrated crucial wartime operations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Lascaris War Rooms
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Malta's WWII command center: atmospheric underground tunnels that orchestrated crucial wartime operations.
"Amazing museum, so much bigger than expected, full of information and artefacts.
"⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! You might need up to three hours to fully explore and absorb the history.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort for your exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

WWII Headquarters Tunnels
Underground complex
Step back in time in these atmospheric tunnels, crucial for Malta's defense in WWII. Imagine the wartime atmosphere.

The War Rooms Experience
Various chambers
Explore rooms that once housed vital military operations, offering a tangible connection to history.

Enthusiastic Guided Tours
Throughout the rooms
Guides like Luke and Pierina bring history to life with passion and detail, making the visit unforgettable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Historical sites - WW2
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! You might need up to three hours to fully explore and absorb the history.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort for your exploration.
Military Enthusiast Visiting Malta
Museum recommendations - Royal Navy
🤝 Consider a guided tour
Guides like Luke and Pierina offer fantastic insights and make history engaging.
💰 Look into a heritage pass
If visiting multiple sites, a pass can offer significant savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! You might need up to three hours to fully explore and absorb the history.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort for your exploration.
🤝 Consider a guided tour
Guides like Luke and Pierina offer fantastic insights and make history engaging.
💰 Look into a heritage pass
If visiting multiple sites, a pass can offer significant savings.
⚠️ Not for the claustrophobic
Tunnels can be tight. Be mindful if you have strong feelings about enclosed spaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lascaris War Rooms for their immense historical significance, particularly regarding WWII operations. The atmospheric underground tunnels and the passionate, informative guided tours are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the site is extensive and captivating, some find the tunnels to be a bit tight, and it's recommended to wear comfortable footwear for the extensive exploration.
"Firstly thanks Luke 👍our tour guide he was very enthusiastic which has to be the best start your tour and to escape the the sunshine on a very hot day.
Our tour was 75 minutes long great history lesson over the age's but mostly the second world war. You can only imagine all the other room's that you can see through little gaps and staircases we love exploring it's just like Gibraltar WW2 tunnels.
If you get the pass you you save quite a bit so get out there and explore!!"
Matthew Brooks
"A must visit site for history fans
Huge amount of history in this location for WW2
Take the time to absorb the atmosphere and learn about Malta during the war. Good information well presented.
Staff very helpful. Time gun museum also close by and the Saluting battery at noon and 4pm definitely worth a visit"
william willis
"We had a tour from the lovely and very enthusiastic guide Pierina, of the WW2 HQ tunnels (separate from the Lascaris war rooms) It was a really informative tour and great to see the historic tunnels and other areas outside that we wouldn’t have otherwise had access to. Well worth the €17 and one of our highlights so far."
Emma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lascaris War Rooms are located in Valletta, Malta's capital. They are easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If you're arriving by car, parking can be challenging in Valletta, so consider public transport or a taxi.
Parking in Valletta is limited and can be expensive. There are a few public car parks, but they fill up quickly. It's often easier to walk or use public transport to reach the War Rooms.
Yes, numerous bus routes serve Valletta. From the bus terminal, it's a pleasant walk to the Lascaris War Rooms. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
Due to the nature of the underground tunnels, full wheelchair accessibility can be limited. Some areas may be challenging to navigate. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information.
Many visitors find that walking into Valletta and exploring the city on foot is the best way to experience it. The War Rooms are centrally located within the historic city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around €17 for a guided tour, which is highly recommended. Check the official website for the most current pricing and tour options.
Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially for guided tours, as they are popular and can sell out. This ensures you get a spot and can plan your visit smoothly.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lascaris War Rooms website for the most up-to-date information on operating times and tour schedules.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended as they provide in-depth historical context. Some tours might cover specific aspects or areas within the complex.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular guided tours. Booking ahead is the safest option to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you opt for a guided tour. Some visitors have spent nearly three hours exploring the extensive collection.
The atmosphere is described as wet and atmospheric, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the wartime environment and imagine the conditions faced by soldiers.
Restroom facilities are typically available within the complex for visitors. It's always a good idea to use facilities before or after your tour if needed.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography is allowed, but check for any specific restrictions on flash or professional equipment.
While heavily focused on World War II, the tunnels also offer insights into Malta's defense strategies from the 1500s onwards, providing a broader historical perspective.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no dining facilities within the Lascaris War Rooms themselves. Visitors usually eat before or after their visit in Valletta.
Valletta offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional Maltese cuisine to international fare. You'll find many cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the historical exhibits. Check the venue's specific policy, but usually, it's not permitted inside the tunnels.
Yes, Valletta has various cafes and pastizzerias offering affordable snacks and light meals, perfect for a quick bite before or after your visit.
Look for dishes like Pastizzi (savory pastries), Ftira (Maltese bread with fillings), and Lampuki Pie (fish pie) when dining in Valletta.
📸 📸 Photography
The atmospheric tunnels, old maps, and preserved equipment offer unique photographic opportunities. Capture the sense of history and the confined spaces.
Policies on flash photography can vary. It's advisable to check signage or ask staff upon arrival. Often, flash is discouraged to protect artifacts and maintain the atmosphere.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial due to the underground setting. A wide-angle lens can help capture the confined spaces effectively.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited inside historical sites like the Lascaris War Rooms due to safety and preservation concerns.
Guides often point out key areas and historical details that make for compelling photographs. Listen to their insights for the best shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider booking a guided tour, as the guides can often tailor their explanations to be more engaging for younger audiences. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Be mindful that some tunnels can be narrow, which might be a consideration for very young children or those prone to feeling overwhelmed in enclosed spaces.
🏛️ History Buffs & WWII Enthusiasts
Recommendations for history buffs: Prioritize taking a guided tour to gain the deepest understanding of the strategic context and operational details. Allow ample time to explore each section thoroughly, and consider visiting nearby historical sites like the Saluting Battery for a more complete picture of Malta's wartime heritage.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo traveler tips: Opt for a guided tour to maximize your learning experience and potentially strike up conversations with fellow travelers. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a good amount of walking. The historical depth of the site ensures a rewarding solo adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of the Lascaris War Rooms
Beyond WWII, the tunnels have a longer history, with parts dating back to the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. This layered history adds another dimension to the site, showcasing Malta's enduring significance as a defensive bastion. The preservation of these tunnels allows us to understand the ingenuity and resilience of those who worked and fought within them, providing a powerful educational experience for history enthusiasts.
Experiencing the Atmosphere and Guided Tours
Guided tours are frequently praised as essential for a comprehensive visit. Enthusiastic guides like Luke and Pierina are noted for their ability to bring history to life, sharing detailed anecdotes and historical context that would be missed on a self-guided tour. These tours not only explain the military significance but also convey the human element of the war, making the experience more personal and impactful.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit