If you’re interested in the fascinating and long history of Malta, this is the perfect shore excursion while you’re in port. On this private tour from Valletta, you’ll learn about the Knights of Malta, visit places they built and explore the prehistoric Hagar Qim temple. Malta is an exceptional and historical island with UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital and intriguing sites. If you are a history buff, this is the shore excursion for you!
Highlights

• Comprehensive tour of the city
• Private guide for a more personalized experience
• Free port pickup and drop-off included

This private shore excursion into Malta’s history will take you from the cruise port in Valletta to Vittoriosa and the Hagar Qim temple.  You’ll start with a boat ride across the beautiful harbor aboard a traditional Maltese boat called a dghajsa, cruising to the town of Vittoriosa, one of Malta’s ‘Three Cities’ and the location where the Knights of Malta first landed back in 1530.

You will stroll through Vittoriosa’s quaint narrow streets with your guide, passing by the Church of St Lawrence, the Inquisitor’s Palace, and several auberges and beautiful palaces built during the time of the Knights.

From Vittoriosa, you will venture to the southern side of the island, where you’ll visit Hagar Qim, an imposing prehistoric temple dating back to approximately 3600 BC. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Filfla. Many artifacts of interest have been unearthed at Hagar Qim, notably a decorated pillar altar, two table-altars and the ‘fat lady' statues, now on display in the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.

You'll then head back to Valletta, Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have free time for lunch, and then you’ll continue the tour with a visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, boasting beautiful views of the harbor. Next, walk past various historical buildings such as Auberge de Castille, which houses the office of the Prime Minister, on your way to St John's Co-Cathedral, the 16th-century church built by the Knights of Malta.

Boasting a sumptuous Baroque interior, colored marble tombstones, frescoes and numerous other treasures, the Co-Cathedral also houses Malta’s finest piece of art, The Beheading of St John by Caravaggio. Leaving St John’s Co-Cathedral, you’ll pass through Valletta’s main thoroughfare, which will bring you to the Grandmaster’s Palace State rooms.

Schedule details
Departure Point:
Next to your ship at the port in Valleta, MaltaDeparture Time:

9:00am

Return Details:
Concludes outside the port terminal building, where you will need to make your own way back to your ship