Named after the influential figure who founded the city in the 16th century, Valletta is the smallest capital city in Europe. However, despite its size, this Maltese destination is brimming with history, from its fortifications to its Royal Opera House, and makes for a remarkable place to explore.

Free walking tours in Valletta are a must for anyone who wants to gain a deep insight into the capital. Best of all, you’ll be paired with a passionate local who will help you to discover the city’s most spectacular sights, both on and off the tourist trail.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the best value-for-money sightseeing activities in Valletta.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Valletta have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall. Most tour participants tend to tip between €10 and €15 per person, but some people tip as much as €50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Valletta?

Free walking tour in Valletta

This discovery tour of Valletta leads you through the city, helping you to learn the fascinating past of the UNESCO-listed destination. You’ll begin by meeting your guide and heading to Parliament House, where some of the most important decisions regarding the nation have been made since 2011.

You’ll then journey to the Royal Opera House, which first opened in 1866. Less than 10 years after its construction, the venue was damaged extensively by a fire. It was lovingly restored, however, suffered more destruction during WWII after being targeted by a bomb. While the site lay in ruins for several decades, it reopened as a performing arts venue in 2013.

Make your way to Jean De Vallette, named after the founder of the city, who led the resistance against Ottoman forces in the 16th-century Great Siege of Malta.

Admire the Baroque design of the Auberge de Castille — the highest point on the island — as well as the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which have been offering visitors panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea since 1800.

Smell the mouthwatering aromas wafting from Is-Suq Tal-Belt — the city’s food market — before visiting Republic Square, once home to the treasury of the Order of Saint John.

End your tour by exploring Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, which was designed by Girolamo Cassar and constructed over a 5-year period toward the end of the 16th century.

Original free walking tour in Valletta

If you’re seeking the most experienced guides in the city, look no further than this free walking tour in Valletta, which was the first of its kind. You’ll be in good hands with guides who have been leading tourists around the city for almost 10 years and know a thing or two about the sights travelers most wish to see.

You’ll explore Valletta through the eyes of a local for the most authentic experience possible and pass by a plethora of its most remarkable landmarks, learning about their history, and significance in the forming of the modern-day city.

Once you’ve participated in this engaging walk, your guide will provide you with a wealth of recommendations for activities and restaurants to ensure you get the most out of your stay on the European island. You’ll also discover which tourist favorites are worth a visit and which you should swap out for hidden gems.

Maltese art, history and gastronomy free walking tour

This free walking tour in Valletta will answer all your burning questions regarding the city, from its vast history to its cuisine and everything in between. Alongside famed attractions, you’ll also explore areas known only by the locals.

You will wander around many back streets that were significant in the life of the Italian painter Caravaggio who is best known for his biblical masterpieces, including that which features David with the head of Goliath, honoring the tale from the book of Samuel.

See spots you may recognize from your favorite TV series and Hollywood movies, including “Jurassic World Dominion” as you wander around Valletta’s center.

You’ll also delve into Valletta's culinary scene and your guide will lead you to try one of Malta’s most beloved dishes, pastizzi — a savory flaky pastry filled with ricotta. As a foodie themselves, your guide will also be able to recommend restaurants around the city, which you can try out during your stay.

The last attraction you’ll visit is Saint John’s Cathedral where you can discover a number of artworks by Caravaggio, depicting various religious scenes including that of Saint Jerome writing and the gory scene of Saint John’s beheading.

In which languages is it operated?

Free walking tours in Valletta typically operate in either English or Spanish, making them accessible to a variety of national and international tourists. However, in some cases, you may come across tours that take place in additional languages, such as Italian.

Excursions that take place in multiple languages tend to operate in different slots throughout the day, meaning that in most cases, you won’t have to listen to commentary in several languages as you move through the city. You’ll simply select the time slot that is available in your preferred language and enjoy interacting with your multi-lingual guide.

As the popularity of these free city tours increases, the range of languages on offer may also expand, making them available to a broader spectrum of international visitors.

Where does it start?

Free walking tours in Valletta begin at a number of well-known monuments across the city, including Parliament House and Triton Fountain. Malta is home to a network of reliable, and inexpensive public buses, which will help you to navigate its streets and reach your meeting point with ease.

Once you arrive at this pre-determined spot, you’ll usually find your guide holding or wearing an item to make themselves distinguishable to you. You can find out the exact starting location of each tour before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long does it last?

Free tours in Valletta usually last between 1 and 2 hours. The city is smaller than most, making it an easily walkable destination. Despite its small size, you shouldn’t expect to be able to explore every corner of Valletta in this short stretch of time. However, you will be able to gain a feel for its history and discover a range of attractions.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Some free walking tours in Valletta are accessible for wheelchair users while others are not. The destinations visited during the excursion typically determine the suitability of these walks for those with limited mobility, which is why you should consult the booking page of your chosen one to see whether it can cater to all members of your party.

If not, persons with disabilities and reduced mobility can choose from a wide range of tours and outdoor activities in Valletta instead.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Valletta?

The best time to participate in a free walking tour in Valletta is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide the best conditions for walking tours — the most comfortable weather and least amount of tourists.

Should you book tickets online?

You can find a free tour in Valletta upon arrival to the city. However, it is advisable to pre-book your slot on one of these excursions for the most seamless experience. This will save you from spending your precious vacation time roaming the streets looking for a guide. It will also guarantee you a spot on your selected tour at a time and date that best suits your itinerary.

You’ll be able to see an overview of each excursion before booking alongside reviews from other travelers to ensure you choose one that suits your own interests. Lastly, it’s free to reserve your slot on one of these Valletta city tours and takes just a couple of minutes to do so.

Free Walking Tours in Valletta