The last stop on our Silversea Mediterranean cruise was Malta’s picturesque capital city, Valletta. With just half a day there before catching our flight home, it was a fleeting visit of leisurely strolling and taking in the atmosphere of the city.
From the harbour, there is a steep hill climb to the centre of Valletta, so save yourself some energy and sweat and take the funicular (€1). Bypass the crowd of taxi drivers, as the funicular is so quick and simple, climbing
The funicular takes you right in front of the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer breathtaking panoramas over the Grand Harbour. The gardens are filled with beautiful statues, monuments and sculptures, depicting personalities and events in Maltese history. Despite being a tourist hotspot, the gardens remain tranquil and calm – perfect for a quiet rest.
Valletta has the most beautiful Baroque palaces and elegant piazzas with open-air cafes and fountains. Head to Republic Square to see the National Library of Malta and its statue of Queen Victoria, then enjoy a spot of people watching at the famous Cafe Cordina.
Also nearby is the Grandmaster’s Palace, including two museums – the Palace Armoury Museum and the Palace State Rooms. If you don’t have time to explore the museums, watch the changing of the guard and the water fountain display.
Valletta’s dusty, romantic side streets are just as interesting, with their tiny shops and pavement cafes. Step off the main streets and brave the countless steps to discover the quieter, charming side of Valletta.
Valletta is a small, manageable city that you can explore in a day or so. It’s a place that I’d love to visit again, to see inside the city’s museums and try some authentic Maltese food and wine.
Silversea’s Silver Wind departs on 9th August 2014 for a 9-day cruise from Venice to Rome and prices start from $4,450 per person. Calling at Venice, Koper, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Sorrento and Rome. For more information and booking, visit:www.silversea.com / tel: 0844 251 0837
Read more about my Silversea Cruise around the Mediterranean:
- What is a Silversea luxury cruise around the Mediterranean really like?
- A tour of Sorrento, Capri and Anacapri
- A day in the Sicilian city of Trapani and a countryside olive oil farm.
All photos by Chérie City
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