Explore on your own rating
The lift puts you in the city in minutes; very walkable.
Where ships dock
- Valletta Cruise Port at the Valletta Waterfront (Grand Harbour)
Getting to town
Walk about 500 m to the Upper Barrakka Lift, which lifts you up to the city (€1 return, per Transport Malta).
The Valletta Ferry crosses to the Three Cities (Birgu) and Sliema. Mdina is about 30–40 minutes by taxi.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Money & entry
Currency: Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small purchases.
Entry: U.S. passport required. ETIAS (the EU travel authorization) is NOT yet in operation: the official EU site says no applications are being collected and a start date will be announced several months ahead (checked Oct 2026). Don't pay any site claiming to sell ETIAS now. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) does register non-EU travelers' passports and biometrics at Schengen external borders.
Top sights nearby
- St. John's Co-Cathedral
- Upper Barrakka Gardens
- Three Cities (ferry)
- Mdina (taxi or tour)
Beaches
- Few near Valletta; St. Peter's Pool and Golden Bay are farther
Safety & tips
- Malta drives on the left.
- English is an official language.
- Streets are steep.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Allow 15 minutes from the lift to the ship plus any lift line.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.