Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Guided Tour

Explore Valletta’s Hidden Monastery and Secret Garden for a Unique Cultural Experience

When you think of Valletta, the baroque architecture, bustling streets, and historic landmarks probably come to mind. But there’s a quiet, almost secret side of this city that remains largely unseen by visitors — and that’s where the Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Guided Tour shines. For just $23 per person, you gain access to a cloistered monastery that has been closed to the public for over 450 years and enjoy a glimpse into the secluded life of the cloistered nuns. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 1.5-hour experience takes you beyond the usual tourist spots and into a peaceful world of history, architecture, and spiritual serenity.

What we love about this tour is its intimate access — you’ll explore parts of the monastery normally off-limits, like the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine. It’s a rare chance to see a side of Valletta that’s been hidden from outsiders for centuries. Plus, the serene atmosphere of the cloisters and lush secret garden offers a perfect escape from the busy city streets, making it an ideal short break for those seeking quiet reflection and authentic history.

A possible consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the building’s age and layout. But for most able-bodied travelers curious about Malta’s lesser-known treasures, this experience offers a deeply rewarding peek into a secluded religious community.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy historical authenticity, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and those interested in religious architecture and life. It’s particularly perfect for visitors who appreciate a tranquil setting and want to see Valletta from a different perspective — away from the crowds and into a world of quiet reverence.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit rooms normally closed to the public, including the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine.
• Historical Insight: Learn about the monastery’s 450-year history and the lives of cloistered nuns.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy the serenity of the cloisters and secret garden, a stark contrast to Valletta’s busy streets.
• Architectural Beauty: Discover the monastery’s architecture and how it has evolved over centuries.
• Crypt Visit: Pay respects at the crypt, the final resting place of the nuns.
• Value for Money: At $23, this tour offers a rare, intimate experience that combines history, architecture, and spirituality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Valletta Monastery and Secret Garden Tour

Getting to Know the Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins outside the entrance to Mysterium Fidei, where your guide, Fabi, will be waiting. The meeting point is central and easy to find, making it convenient for most travelers staying in Valletta. The tour ends back at the same spot, providing a seamless experience without the hassle of additional transportation. Since the monastery is closed to the public for centuries, your guide’s role is to bring this secret world to life, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Tour Itinerary Breakdown

Start: Entrance to Mysterium Fidei
Your journey begins with a brief introduction to the history of the monastery. The guide will set the scene, explaining why the monastery was closed for so long and how it has only recently opened its doors. Expect to hear about the lives of the cloistered nuns, who have lived in seclusion, devoted to prayer and community, for centuries.

Cloisters and Secret Garden
Walking through the cloisters, you’ll notice the simple yet elegant architecture, with stone arches and quiet courtyards that echo centuries of contemplative life. The secret garden is a highlight — a lush, peaceful space filled with plants and flowers, often hidden from outsider view. We loved the way this garden feels like a private oasis, perfect for quiet reflection or snapping photos without the usual crowds.

Exclusive Rooms: Visitor Area & Chapel
What makes this experience truly special is access to rooms normally off-limits to the public — the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine. These spaces offer insight into the daily routines and spiritual life of the cloistered community. The visitor room, in particular, provides a rare glimpse into how the nuns communicated with outsiders, a delicate balance between seclusion and community outreach.

Crypt Visit
Descending into the crypt, you’ll find a peaceful resting place of the nuns. The atmosphere here is quiet and respectful, offering a moment of reflection. It’s a meaningful part of the tour, emphasizing the spiritual aspect of this secluded monastery.

Free Time & Photography
After the guided portion, you’ll have time to wander freely around the cloisters and garden. We recommend taking advantage of this quiet moment to soak in the surroundings, take photos, or simply sit in contemplation. The garden’s tranquility is surprisingly restorative, a perfect spot to pause before returning to the busy city.

The Guide and the Experience

As CJ mentioned in the only review so far, “Fabi our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. The monastery is a great hidden historical spot.” Having a guide who can share detailed stories and answer questions makes this experience more meaningful. Their insights help you understand the architectural choices, the lives of the nuns, and the monastery’s historical significance.

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Practical Details and Value

At $23, this tour offers significant value. It combines guided storytelling, exclusive access, and time for personal reflection. The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the visit to areas normally closed to the public makes it stand out from typical sightseeing tours. The entry ticket is included in the price, so there are no additional costs.

Keep in mind, reservations are essential since availability is limited. You can book with flexible payment options, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment — a helpful feature if your plans are still flexible.

Considerations for Travelers

While this tour is packed with unique experiences, it’s not suited for wheelchair users due to the building’s age and layout. Also, since it’s primarily a spiritual and contemplative space, it’s best suited to those who appreciate quiet environments and are respectful of religious settings.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re someone who loves uncovering hidden stories and exploring less touristy sites, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or those simply seeking a peaceful retreat within the city. The opportunity to see rooms normally off-limits and to stand in the crypt makes this a memorable, meaningful experience that enriches your understanding of Valletta’s complex history.

Plus, the guide’s evident knowledge and friendliness — as praised in reviews — help make the visit engaging and informative, ensuring you walk away with more than just pretty pictures but a real sense of the monastery’s spiritual and historical significance.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is generally suited for adults and older children who can appreciate the quiet, contemplative atmosphere and are respectful of religious spaces. The tour might not be ideal for very young children due to the solemn nature of the crypt and the serene environment.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 1.5 hours, including guided exploring and free time at the end for photos and reflection.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided tour, entry to the monastery, access to the cloisters, secret garden, specific rooms, and the crypt.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the monastery isn’t wheelchair accessible, mainly because of the building’s age and layout.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. Limited spots make advance booking essential, especially since this is a popular and unique experience.

Final Thoughts

This Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Guided Tour offers a rare peek into a world few get to see — the quiet, cloistered life of nuns living in seclusion for centuries. For just $23, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to rooms normally closed to the public, learn about the monastery’s fascinating history, and experience a peaceful corner of Valletta away from the city’s hustle.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and have a curiosity about religious life and architecture. The guide’s friendly and knowledgeable approach ensures you won’t just see these spaces — you’ll understand their stories, significance, and the lives of those who call it home.

If you’re after a meaningful, quiet, and insightful addition to your Malta trip, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to book ahead, bring your respect, and prepare for a contemplative journey through a centuries-old hidden gem.

Enjoy discovering the unseen side of Valletta — a quiet world of beauty, history, and spiritual reflection awaiting your exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: