Valletta Cruise Port

There’s a reason the waterfront of Valletta is one of Europe’s most-visited cruise ports, and travelers to this historic town on the northeast coast of Malta will immediately understand why. Ancient forts, breathtaking buildings, and winding streets dot the hillside of the city that’s served as a backdrop of movies like Troy and Gladiator. Approaching its shores is like approaching another world, where modern-day amenities seem to disappear and the influence of Greek, Roman and Arab culture can be seen at every turn.

How to Get to Valletta

Cruise ships dock in Pinto Warf, about a half mile from the main shopping district of Valletta. Visitors can explore the town on foot, in a carriage or by hiring a taxi. Buses can take travelers further into the island, while local ferries connect Malta to the nearby islands of Gozo and Comino.

One Day in Valletta

Start the day at the Merchant Street Flea Market. Open daily from 9 a.m. until noon, this lively bazaar is the perfect place to find great deals on Gozo glass, a local specialty. Then take a taxi to the village of Wied iz-Zurrieq and hop aboard a small wooden boat to spend the afternoon exploring the incredible Blue Grotto. This series of caves carved into the southwest coast of Malta is accessible only by water and is a must-see sight on this beautiful island.

Port Information

Cruise ships dock in the recently renovated Pinto Wharf in historic Valletta. English and Maltese are both widely spoken and the euro is the official currency of Malta. U.S. dollars aren’t accepted, but major credit cards can be used in some of the more touristy areas. ATMs are accessible in the cruise terminal, but can be difficult to find in the streets of Valletta.