Holidays in Valletta

Benjamin Disraeli, the nineteenth century British Prime Minister, once described Malta's tiny coastal capital Valletta as being 'a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen'. With its glorious Baroque palaces, sublime churches and charming piazzas loosely strewn together via steeply sloping streets that lead to stunning harbour views, it is easy to see why Disraeli – and millions of other visitors – have fallen in love with this city's overwhelming elegance.

Valletta holidays: travel essentials

The fact that Malta is blessed with a typically Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters ensures there is never a bad time to visit Valletta. Give the choice, visitors tend to find spring and autumn are the best times to visit as the weather is fine and the crowds are less plentiful during these periods. Flights from the UK take just over three hours whilst airport transfers to the city take little more than 30 minutes. Valletta – like the rest of Malta – is one hour ahead of the UK (GMT +1).

Valletta holidays: highlights

Anyone who has even a passing appreciation of architecture, history and cultural heritage will be in their element with Valletta holidays. All the major sights, such as the Grand Masters' Palace, St John's Co-Cathedral, the National War Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, are located within walking distance of one another so visitors can see everything they want to under their own steam. When a break from strolling the city's narrow sixteenth century streets is required, sightseers will find the boat trips available from the Grand Harbour to be ideal as the views garnered from the sea are simply irresistible. Needless to say, Valletta's delights are equally impressive after dark, with all manner of restaurants serving up local and international delights and a wide range of bars and clubs providing plentiful opportunities to enjoy some al-fresco cocktails.