Malta is a perfect destination for shore excursions — small enough to explore thoroughly in a few hours, but packed with sights that make every minute worthwhile. Its compact size means you can see UNESCO World Heritage sites like Valletta and Mdina, walk through historic streets, and soak in stunning views all in a single day. Plus, the island’s rich architecture, art, and unique coastal scenery mean there’s plenty to keep any traveler engaged. We especially like tours that blend history, authentic local experiences, and flexibility — like the private Valletta and 3 Cities private 4-hour shore excursion or the Best of Valletta insider tour. These options offer intimate experiences and deep dives into Malta’s cultural gems, perfect for avoiding the crowds and getting personalized insights.
Malta’s shore excursions span a variety of formats, from private guided walks to hop-on hop-off bus tours. Whether you want a quick snapshot of Valletta, a scenic drive with stops at Mdina, or a flexible day exploring at your own pace, there’s a tour tailored for your interests. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of our top picks to help you choose the best Malta experience for your cruise.
1. Valletta and 3 Cities Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion
At number one, this private tour offers an intimate 4-hour exploration of Malta’s capital Valletta and the historic 3 Cities area. Starting from the Valletta cruise port, your guide will take you inside St John’s Co-Cathedral, where you can admire masterpieces by Caravaggio—an absolute highlight for art lovers. From there, you’ll cross the harbor to explore the Inquisitor’s Palace and walk through the narrow, charming streets of Vittoriosa, one of the Three Cities.
This tour shines because of its personalized approach. The small group and private guide ensure you get plenty of time at key sites, plus insider tips on local dining and hidden corners. The reviews highlight the quality of guides, like Julia, who made the experience feel like visiting a knowledgeable friend. For a compact but meaningful taste of Malta’s history and architecture, this tour provides exceptional value at $250 per person. Expect to see UNESCO monuments and walk through historic streets, all tailored to your pace.
Bottom Line: If you want a deep, private experience with expert guidance that covers Valletta’s treasures and the Three Cities’ charm, this is hard to beat.
2. Shore Excursion, Best of Valletta, An Insider’s View
For those seeking a more relaxed, personalized walking experience, the Best of Valletta insider tour is a top choice. This 3-hour private guided walk departs directly from the cruise port, making it hassle-free. You’ll stroll through Valletta’s wide city squares and intricate architecture, while your guide shares stories about Malta’s past and present.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Valletta’s architectural highlights like the Upper Barracca Gardens and the Grandmaster’s Palace exterior (entrance not included). You have the option to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral if you wish, which is an excellent way to see world-renowned art and baroque design. The small group size (up to 4 people) ensures a personal experience that’s easy to customize.
Guests praise the ease of port pickup and the wealth of local insights. For under $350, the group gets an immersive, well-paced introduction to Malta’s capital, perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. It’s ideal if you want an in-depth but flexible tour with a local guide.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a tailored, walk-focused tour of Valletta’s architectural and historic highlights with minimal fuss.
3. Shore Excursion of Malta including Mdina and Valletta
If you’re looking for a full island highlights tour, the Malta including Mdina and Valletta covers the major sights in a single 4-hour trip. Designed especially for cruisers, this tour combines stops at Mdina, Malta’s ancient “Silent City,” with its medieval streets and panoramic views, alongside Valletta’s key sites.
What makes this tour special is the door-to-door service — your pickup from the cruise port is included, and the itinerary is carefully timed to match cruise schedules. The group visits Mdina’s serpentine lanes and the Grandmasters’ Palace in Valletta, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the atmosphere without rushing. Resting your feet during transfers between sites is a big plus, especially if you dislike long walks or busy crowds.
Guests report that the tour offers a “stress-free” way to see Malta’s top attractions while meeting like-minded travelers. Priced at just over $80 per person, it’s a cost-effective way to get a broad overview of Malta’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive introduction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a guided, all-in-one overview of Malta’s key sites without the hassle of planning.
4. Shore Excursion Tour – Half Day
For the traveler who prefers flexibility, the Half Day Shore Excursion Tour offers a personalized 4-hour experience with a dedicated driver. You can customize your itinerary to visit Mdina, Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, the Malta National Aquarium, Popeye Village, or Valletta—whichever appeals most.
This private tour is all about creating your own Malta experience. Your driver will help plan the best route based on your interests, and you’re free to spend as much time as you like at each stop. It’s ideal for travelers who want a flexible schedule but with the convenience of private transportation.
The price is $250 for up to three people, making it a good option for small groups or couples. The highlights include visits to craft villages, aquariums, and famous film sites like Popeye Village.
Guests value the freedom to choose their stops and the dedicated driver who acts as a guide. The main downside is that, without a dedicated guide, some interpretive depth may be missing if you’re hoping for detailed historical narration.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to tailor their day and skip the fixed itineraries, with the comfort of private transport.
5. Malta Shore Excursion: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers unlimited travel on a double-decker bus for about 3.5 hours. For just $29, you get access to two routes covering key sights like the Blue Grotto, Mosta Church, and Valletta.
The main advantage here is flexibility. You can hop off at top attractions, take your time exploring, then hop back on. Commentary onboard helps you understand each site, making it easy to plan your visit on the fly. The buses run every 60 minutes, giving you control over your schedule.
This tour is less about guided storytelling and more about leisurely sightseeing at your own pace. It’s ideal for budget-minded travelers or those who prefer to design their itinerary spontaneously.
While some reviews mention occasional delays, most find it a convenient way to see Malta without stress. Keep in mind that entrance fees to attractions are not included, so budget accordingly.
Bottom Line: Great for independent explorers who want to see Malta’s highlights without committing to a guided tour.
$29
How to Choose Your Malta Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you love history and want a personalized, in-depth experience, the private Valletta and 3 Cities tour or the Best of Valletta insider walk are excellent. For more comprehensive island coverage, the Mdina and Valletta highlights offers a great overview.
If you prefer flexibility, the Half Day private allows custom stops and is perfect for small groups. Budget travelers or those who want to explore independently can opt for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, which offers freedom to choose your sights.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, and always confirm your tour aligns with your ship’s schedule. Think about what kind of experience you want: guided and in-depth, or flexible and independent.
Malta offers a variety of options, from private tailored tours to self-guided bus rides. For a rich, immersive experience, the private Valletta and 3 Cities tour is hard to beat. For those who want to explore at their own pace, the hop-on hop-off bus provides a flexible, budget-friendly way to see Malta’s highlights, including sights like the Blue Grotto and Most Churches.
No matter your preference, planning ahead and choosing an experience that matches your interests will ensure you make the most of your Malta port visit. Book early, and enjoy your time exploring this small but fascinating island.