Saluting Battery
Witness history come alive with a daily cannon firing and enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure a good spot for noon firing
Saluting Battery
Best Time
Secure a good spot for noon firing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness history come alive with a daily cannon firing and enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.
"A must-do for anyone visiting Valletta, offering a unique blend of history and breathtaking views."
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Firing
Get there by 11:30 AM for the best free viewing spots. Paid options offer closer proximity.
💰 Small Fee for Big Impact
Pay the small entrance fee for a closer view and an excellent historical tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Noon Cannon Firing
Saluting Battery
Witness a historic daily ceremony with impressive precision and a loud, memorable boom over the Grand Harbour.

Grand Harbour Views
Saluting Battery viewing platforms
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, offering some of the best photo opportunities.

Historical Tour
Saluting Battery
Engaging and humorous tours explaining the history of the guns and Malta's military past by knowledgeable guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Cannon Firing
Value Beyond the Bang
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Firing of the cannons in Valetta
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Firing
Get there by 11:30 AM for the best free viewing spots. Paid options offer closer proximity.
💰 Small Fee for Big Impact
Pay the small entrance fee for a closer view and an excellent historical tour.
👂 Be Prepared for Loud Noise
The cannon firing is very loud; consider ear protection if sensitive.
📸 Stunning Harbor Views
The views of the Grand Harbour are spectacular, perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Firing
Get there by 11:30 AM for the best free viewing spots. Paid options offer closer proximity.
💰 Small Fee for Big Impact
Pay the small entrance fee for a closer view and an excellent historical tour.
👂 Be Prepared for Loud Noise
The cannon firing is very loud; consider ear protection if sensitive.
📸 Stunning Harbor Views
The views of the Grand Harbour are spectacular, perfect for photography.
🚶♀️ Explore the History
The guided tours are highly recommended for their engaging content and humor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Saluting Battery, highlighting its historical significance, engaging tours, and breathtaking Grand Harbour views. The daily cannon firing is a major draw, offering a memorable and loud spectacle. While the free viewing area can get crowded, the small fee for closer access and the excellent value of the guided tours make it a highly recommended experience for all.
"So worth a visit, only €3 a person and it included a tour afterwards (30-45 mins) where you learn all about the different types of guns and the history surrounding them. Well worth it. The tour guide (nicknamed sidearm) was brilliant. Very funny and kept us entertained. Also had brilliant views of the three cities and grand harbour."
Angelyna
"I recently visited the Saluting Battery in Malta and had an excellent time. The experience was truly enjoyable for our entire group. The staff were fantastic - knowledgeable, friendly, and very welcoming, which made the visit even more special. The cannon firing ceremony was impressive and steeped in history, providing a memorable moment. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Valletta, offering a unique blend of history and breathtaking views. We all left with great memories and a deeper appreciation for Malta's rich past. Highly recommended!"
ian ingall
"Definitely a must the cannon is fired at 12 noon and 1600 hours .it does bring a good crowd you can pay to be nearer the gun there is explained by the gun crew the history about why they fire the gun .
But you can stay at the upper viewing point for free and still get a good view..better to pay i would say or of you have the heritage pass you are sorted it's included ."
Matthew Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Saluting Battery is located just below the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta. You can easily walk there from most parts of the city. If arriving by ferry from Sliema, it's a short uphill walk.
Parking in Valletta is limited and can be expensive. It's best to use public transport or walk if staying in the city. The closest parking garages are MCP Valetta and St. James Cavalier.
Yes, numerous bus routes stop in Valletta. From the main bus terminal, it's a pleasant walk towards the Upper Barrakka Gardens, from where you can descend to the battery.
While the main viewing areas offer good vantage points, some parts of the battery might have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check accessibility directly with the venue if you have specific mobility concerns.
Many visitors combine a visit to the Saluting Battery with the Upper Barrakka Gardens. You can descend from the gardens directly to the battery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's a small entrance fee, typically around €3 per person, which often includes a guided tour. Some visitors mention that if you have a Heritage Malta Pass, entry is included.
Booking in advance is generally not required, especially for the free viewing areas. For paid access closer to the cannons, you can usually purchase tickets on arrival, but arriving early is recommended.
The Saluting Battery is typically open daily, with cannon firings at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, you can view the cannon firing from an upper viewing point for free. However, this area can get crowded, so arriving early is advised.
The ticket price usually includes access to the battery's viewing platforms and an informative guided tour that explains the history and operation of the cannons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cannons are fired daily at 12:00 PM (noon) and 4:00 PM.
To witness the noon firing, aim to arrive by 11:30 AM to secure a good spot. The afternoon firing at 4:00 PM is usually less crowded.
Absolutely! Visitors consistently praise the guides for being knowledgeable, funny, and engaging, making the historical insights very enjoyable.
The views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities are spectacular and considered some of the best in Valletta, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, the cannon firing is quite loud, especially if you are close to the cannons. Visitors recommend ear protection if you are sensitive to noise.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing platforms overlooking the Grand Harbour offer incredible panoramic shots. Try to capture the cannons themselves with the harbor in the background.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for photographing the harbor and the historic fortifications. The morning light is also good for capturing the details of the battery.
Yes, you can take photos during the cannon firing. Be prepared for the loud noise and the smoke that follows the discharge. Capturing the moment of firing can be very dramatic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbor views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant landmarks across the water. Don't forget a lens cloth for any sea spray!
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways or the firing area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early for the noon firing to secure a good spot, especially if you prefer not to pay for closer access. Consider bringing ear defenders for younger children who might be sensitive to the loud noise of the cannons. The stunning views of the harbor also provide a great backdrop for family photos.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the afternoon firing as it tends to be less crowded than the noon event. Combining this visit with a walk through Valletta and enjoying the free views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens makes for a fulfilling and affordable day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Saluting Battery: A Glimpse into Malta's Military Past
Today, the battery is meticulously maintained by Heritage Malta, offering visitors a tangible connection to Malta's rich military heritage. The daily cannon firing ceremony, held at noon and 4 PM, is a reenactment of historical traditions. This event is not just a spectacle; it's a carefully orchestrated display that educates visitors about the historical significance of artillery and naval salutes. The guides, often dressed in period attire, bring history to life with their engaging narratives and demonstrations.
Beyond the firing, the battery itself is a fascinating site to explore. Visitors can see various types of historical cannons, learn about their mechanics, and understand the strategic importance of this location. The breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from the battery's platforms are an added bonus, making it a must-visit for history buffs and sightseers alike.
Experiencing the Cannon Firing: Tips from Visitors
For those who want a more immersive experience and don't mind the significant noise, there's an option to pay a small fee (around €3) to stand on the same level as the cannons. This provides a closer perspective and a more intense sensory experience of the firing. Visitors emphasize that while the sound is loud, it's a memorable part of the visit. Ear protection might be advisable for those sensitive to loud noises. The guides often explain the historical context of the firing just before it happens, adding to the anticipation and understanding of the event.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit