Royal Opera House, Valletta

Explore the elegant capital of Malta with a licensed guide and discover masterpieces of Baroque architecture and some of the finest palaces in Europe.  Wander the narrow streets of Valletta and experience its rich history at notable sites from the days of the Knights of St. John and the Grand Master, Jean de Valette. Get a feel for the development of Malta over the centuries and discover an impressive array of buildings, designed by some of the best European architects of the era. Admire the façade of St John's Co-Cathedral, visit Piazza Regina, see the magnificent Bibliotheca Nazionale, and much more.

The Grand Tour of Valletta offers a unique gaze into the fortified city of Valletta. Learn about the 'Bloodiest Battle of the 16th Century', the life of a knight, their lavish lifestyle, and intriguing vow of chastity! In addition to all the famous attractions, such as St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you will also discover little known stories, hear loads of anecdotes and gossip! Be bowled over by the history of the Knights of Malta from the times of the crusades right up to the present day.

Explore the capital of Malta at your own pace with the help of a handy audio guide, sent directly to you so that you can download it onto your MP3 player or mobile device and listen anytime. You are now free to see the attractions you want to see, change your tour at any time, and learn about the places that most interest you. The guides come with printable maps and directions to make them as user friendly as possible. Listen to 29 professionally produced audio-tracks developed by experienced narrators, writers, and historians. Step into the magnificent fortified city and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Knights of St. John. Visit the Grand Master's Palace, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and many more sites. Track List: • Valletta Introduction • City Gate • Freedom Square • Republic Street • Royal Opera House • Saint Francis Church • Museum of Archaeology • St. John’s Co-Cathedral • Great Siege Square • National Library • Saint George’s Square • Grand Master’s Palace • Main Guard • National War Museum • Fort Saint Elmo • Sacra Infermeria • Siege Bell Monument • Lower Barracca Gardens • Saint Barbara Bastions • Victoria Gate • Merchants Street • Castellania • Palazzo Parisio • Auberge de Castille • Upper Barracca Gardens • Our Lady of Victories • Saint James’ Cavalier • Museum of Fine Arts • Hastings Garden

Welcome to Malta's stunning capital city, Valletta! With nearly five centuries of history, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety and is widely considered an open-air museum. With its imposing fortifications and bastions, amazing baroque palaces, marvellous churches, gorgeous gardens, and beautiful architecture ranging from mid-16th-century baroque to modernism, it is without doubt one of the most breathtaking cities you will ever visit! During this walking tour, you will learn how it all began, how it evolved over the centuries, and about the events that shaped Valletta into the city that it is today. This walk will take you past the city’s main highlights and off the beaten track. In approximately 3–3.5 hours, you will see and learn about Valletta’s most notorious landmarks and discover its many hidden charms. You will walk through its bustling streets, admiring the stunning buildings and its distinctive architecture. A visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens is a must; here you can also enjoy breath-taking views of the imposing Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Some of the main highlights you will be able to admire and appreciate during this tour include the Triton Fountain, the newly rebuilt City Gate and Parliament of Malta (designed by the world-renowned architect Renzo Piano), the Royal Theatre, Castille Square, the Auberge de Castille, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, Merchants Street, the Palace Square (also known as St. George's Square), Republic Square, Valletta’s unique and charming side streets, and other historical buildings, landmarks, and attractions. During the entire tour, our knowledgeable and experienced guide will provide you with riveting information and enhance your experience through narration and engaging storytelling. You will also have the opportunity to visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral (entrance ticket is not included), where our guide will give you a guided tour of the cathedral. This marvellous 16th-century cathedral was originally the conventual church of the Order of the Knights of St. John. Built in just five years and embellished over the span of more than two hundred years, it was gradually transformed into a spectacular work of art. St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a church like no other—a church of awesome beauty coupled with an interesting and unique history. With its many treasures and adorned interiors, it is unquestionably one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world.