Malta’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by bus, and its cities are packed with colorful history, stunning architecture, and picturesque streets. Whether you’re strolling through Valletta’s grand palaces or wandering Mdina’s quiet alleys, Malta offers a variety of city tours that suit every interest and pace. We especially love some of the immersive walking tours, like the Valletta City Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which combines storytelling with the chance to see Malta’s iconic sites. For those short on time, the Valletta City of the Knights tour packs a lot into a few hours, while the hop-on hop-off bus gives you the flexibility to explore at your own speed.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best city tours in Malta, comparing their highlights, price, and overall value. Whether you want an in-depth guided experience, a private tour focused on local legends, or a quick overview by bus, you’ll find options suited to your schedule and interests.
1. Valletta City Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral (optional)
This half-day walking tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with Malta’s capital. At around 3 hours, it offers a manageable pace and plenty of sights, starting with a meeting point in front of Valletta’s New Parliament building. The tour guides you through narrow streets lined with palaces, churches, and gardens that reflect Valletta’s history as a fortified city built by the Knights of St John. The highlight is a guided tour of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which, at an extra cost for admission, reveals some of the finest baroque architecture in Europe and houses Caravaggio’s famous “The Beheading of St. John.”
This tour is well-loved, earning a perfect 5-star rating from 51 reviews, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides like Nadine and Marisa. What makes it stand out is the combination of a leisurely walk and a visit to one of the world’s most beautiful cathedrals. It’s perfect for history lovers who want an insightful introduction to Valletta’s role as a fortress, a cultural hub, and a home to the Knights.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced, affordable tour ideal for first-time visitors. It’s especially good if you want a detailed overview of Valletta’s architecture and history with the option to see St. John’s Co-Cathedral at your own pace.
2. Mysteries of Mdina: Semi-private Tour of the Ancient City
For around $55, this 2.5-hour semi-private tour takes you into Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital. The tour starts at the dramatic Main Gate, leading you through winding cobblestone streets to discover what makes Mdina special. Your guide shares stories of knights, royalty, and secret intrigues that once played out behind the city’s fortified walls. You’ll visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, a stunning blend of Baroque and Neo-Classical architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from Bastion Square, where your camera will thank you.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the less-polished, more personal stories of Mdina’s past, making it feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend. Tour guides like Ani get high praise for their storytelling skills and local knowledge. Plus, visiting film locations used in Game of Thrones and other movies adds a fun twist.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in history with a cinematic touch and like exploring quietly regal streets, this tour offers a great combination of storytelling, scenery, and exclusive insights.
3. Valletta City of the Knights 3.5-Hour Walking Tour
At number 3, this 4-hour guided tour dives deep into Valletta’s role as the “City of the Knights”. It’s a comprehensive tour for those who want to see the major highlights, including a visit to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with its stunning Caravaggio paintings, and the Grand Master’s Palace, home of the President of Malta. The tour also includes a walk through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, and a visit to the Malta Experience audiovisual show that brings Malta’s past to life.
Rated 4 stars from 15 reviews, this tour is praised for its well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Valletta’s most iconic sites in one go. The price provides good value considering the inclusion of admission to key sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a thorough introduction to Valletta’s highlights within a manageable timeframe, especially if you’re keen on seeing the Grand Master’s Palace and the Co-Cathedral.
4. Valletta Private Walking Tour: Sins in the City
For a more intimate look at Valletta’s darker side, this 2-hour private tour is a fascinating choice. Your dedicated guide takes you through stories of seven deadly sins and the scandals that brought down the Knights of St. John. You’ll explore the Monument to Jean de Valette, learn about the scandals behind Il-Berga ta’ Kastilja, and uncover misdeeds involving Caravaggio during his Malta stay. The tour also visits Strait Street, once notorious for its nightlife and shady dealings, and stories about past Grandmasters in St George Square.
Rated 4 stars from 5 reviews, the private format means you’ll get tailored stories and flexible scheduling. It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of mischief and local lore. The price (around $225 for a group of up to five) reflects its exclusivity and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: A unique, storytelling-focused tour perfect for history buffs or those interested in Valletta’s less-glamorous past. It’s a good pick if you want a private experience and don’t mind paying a bit more.
5. Valletta City of Gentlemen Guided Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour is a light, social introduction to Valletta’s key landmarks. Starting at the iconic Triton Fountain, it takes you past the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens, and the Grandmaster’s Palace. The guide shares insights into the city’s architecture, focusing on the elegant buildings and historical figures that shaped Valletta’s reputation as a city of refinement.
Rated 3.5 stars from only 3 reviews, it’s best for travelers wanting a quick, relaxed overview without extensive walking or deep historical dives. The small group size ensures a more personal touch and easy photo stops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a gentle, introductory walk around Valletta, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more casual tour style.
$23.23 per person
6. City Sightseeing Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
For maximum flexibility, the hop-on hop-off bus is a practical choice. Priced at just $9, it offers a 3.5-hour route covering key attractions like the Three Cities, Rabat, Mosta, and Castille. You can hop on and off at 35 stops, giving you control over what you see and when. The onboard audio commentary adds context to Malta’s sights, and a 1- or 2-day pass allows you to explore at your own pace.
Rated 2 stars from 565 reviews, its popularity hinges on convenience rather than depth. While it’s less personal and lacks the detailed storytelling of guided tours, it’s excellent for budget travelers or those wanting a broad overview without committing hours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a flexible, easy way to see Malta’s main sights, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with a group.
$9
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Malta
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you love detailed history and architecture, the Valletta City Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral or the Valletta City of the Knights will satisfy your curiosity. For a more personalized story, the private Sins in the City is great, especially if you’re traveling with a small group. Those on tight schedules or with a limited budget might prefer the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which offers a broad overview at a very low cost.
If you’re interested in exploring Mdina’s quiet streets and film locations, then the Mysteries of Mdina offers an intimate experience. Think about your fitness level and whether you prefer walking or sitting on a bus, and choose accordingly. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Malta offers a wonderful spectrum of city tours, from leisurely walks to hop-on hop-off buses, perfect for different travel styles. For those seeking in-depth stories and historical architecture, Tours #1 and #3 are excellent choices. For a more personalized experience, Tours #2 and #4 stand out, especially if you want a private or semi-private touch. Budget travelers will appreciate the simplicity and affordability of the bus tour, while those with limited time can enjoy a quick but rundown.
No matter what you pick, these tours will help you unearth Malta’s stories, secrets, and stunning sights. Remember to book ahead, especially during busy months, and enjoy discovering this fascinating island city by city.