Upper Barrakka Gardens
Iconic public gardens in Valletta offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and historic fortifications.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic public gardens in Valletta offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and historic fortifications.
"Absolutely breathtaking! The panoramic views over the Grand Harbour are simply unforgettable."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views at sunset are magical, but it gets crowded. Arrive early for a good spot!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in Valletta, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Harbour Panorama
Main viewing terrace
Unforgettable panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the historic Three Cities.
Saluting Battery Ceremony
Below the gardens
Witness a historic cannon firing ceremony daily at noon and 4 PM (except Sundays).
Peaceful Garden Stroll
Throughout the gardens
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens with lush greenery and shady spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Can somebody please help me find this location
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views at sunset are magical, but it gets crowded. Arrive early for a good spot!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in Valletta, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Firing of the cannons in Valetta
In Valletta today and tomorrow. Anything I need to see? Its hard to find the good spots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Malta gets hot, especially in summer. Bring water or grab a drink at the cafe.
📅 Check Cannon Schedule
The noon cannon firing doesn't happen on Sundays. Plan accordingly!
Short visit alone (f4m)
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views at sunset are magical, but it gets crowded. Arrive early for a good spot!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in Valletta, so comfortable footwear is a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Malta gets hot, especially in summer. Bring water or grab a drink at the cafe.
📅 Check Cannon Schedule
The noon cannon firing doesn't happen on Sundays. Plan accordingly!
➡️ Explore Lower Gardens
For a quieter experience with similar views, check out the Lower Barrakka Gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Upper Barrakka Gardens for their absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The well-maintained gardens offer a peaceful escape, and the Saluting Battery ceremony is a highlight. While it can get crowded, especially during peak times, the free entry and stunning scenery make it a must-visit in Valletta.
"This is definitely our highlight of the holiday! Especially if you're staying in Valletta this is simply a must see as it is a free attraction and absolutely breathtaking, it is so pretty and well kept however does get busy at Saluting Battery. There is a cafe at the top which is good for snacks and drinks and there are a lot of seats available. We visited end of May and it was getting quite busy and the weather was very hot in the day time so maybe give it a visit early to avoid crowds but it is stunning!"
Maya
"Upper Barrakka Gardens is absolutely breathtaking! The panoramic views over the Grand Harbour are simply unforgettable, especially during sunset. The gardens are beautifully maintained, peaceful, and full of history. Watching the Saluting Battery was a highlight of the visit. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Malta. Highly recommended!"
Wimarshana Buddika
"Nestled next to the Valletta waterfront, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a stunning vantage point with expansive views of the harbor and surrounding towns. This charming and peaceful spot provides a lovely escape, whether you want to enjoy a refreshing drink, take a leisurely stroll, or simply relax and admire the scenery. A popular destination, it is easily accessible by a lift from the harbor, making it the perfect starting point for a walk into the heart of Valletta. The beautiful views and serene atmosphere are so captivating that many visitors, like us, find themselves returning for a second visit."
Marek B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the lift from the Valletta waterfront directly up to the gardens. It's a quick and scenic ride, offering a great introduction to the area.
Parking in Valletta is very limited and can be expensive. It's best to use public transport or the lift from the waterfront. If you do drive, look for public car parks within Valletta.
Yes, Valletta is a compact city and the gardens are centrally located. It's a pleasant walk through the historic streets, but be prepared for some inclines.
You can take a ferry from Sliema to Valletta, which offers lovely sea views. Alternatively, buses are frequent and connect Sliema to Valletta.
The gardens are generally accessible, with paved paths. The lift from the waterfront is also accessible. However, some older parts of Valletta can have uneven surfaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are a free public attraction. You can enjoy the views and gardens without any cost.
The gardens are typically open from early morning until late evening, providing ample time to visit. Specific hours can vary slightly, so it's good to check locally if you have a very late or early visit planned.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for the Saluting Battery ceremony. It's a public viewing, though arriving a bit early is recommended for a good spot.
While there aren't official guided tours of the gardens themselves, many walking tours of Valletta include a stop here. You can also find audio guides for Valletta.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the gardens, though it's always polite to clean up after yourself. There's also a cafe on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers the best light for photography. The midday sun can be harsh.
The main viewing terrace overlooking the Grand Harbour is iconic. Also, look for the statues, arches, and the lush greenery within the gardens for varied shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites in Malta. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
No, general photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, avoid intrusive photography of other visitors and be mindful of any temporary event setups.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbor views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for garden details and people. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots, but be mindful of crowds.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the gardens offering snacks, drinks, and light meals with a view.
Valletta has numerous restaurants and cafes just a short walk away, offering a range of Maltese and international cuisine. Explore the streets around the gardens.
Absolutely! Many restaurants in Valletta specialize in traditional Maltese dishes like pastizzi, rabbit stew (fenkata), and lampuki pie.
Yes, look for pastizzerias selling affordable pastizzi (savory pastries) or small cafes offering daily specials.
The cafe can get busy, especially during peak tourist hours. For a more relaxed experience, try visiting mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat. The lift access from the waterfront is convenient for strollers. While the gardens themselves are manageable, exploring the wider city of Valletta might require more planning for very young children due to the hilly terrain and steps.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own water and snacks, or grab affordable pastizzi from a local bakery in Valletta. While there's a cafe in the gardens, it's typically priced for tourists. Walking is the best way to explore Valletta, so comfortable shoes are your most important accessory.
couples
The atmosphere is generally peaceful, allowing for intimate conversations. The nearby cafes offer opportunities for a coffee or a glass of wine with a view. For a truly special experience, time your visit to coincide with the golden hour before sunset to capture some memorable photos together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Harbour Views
To truly appreciate the scale and history of the harbor, consider taking a boat tour that departs from the Valletta waterfront. These tours often provide commentary on the historical significance of the fortifications and the naval battles that took place here. The perspective from the water offers a different, yet equally impressive, appreciation of the Grand Harbour's grandeur.
Pro Tip: For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. The soft light enhances the colors of the water and the stone architecture, creating truly memorable images.
The Saluting Battery Experience
Visitors can watch the ceremony from the gardens above, or for a closer experience, they can purchase tickets to be at the battery level. The latter offers a more immersive perspective, allowing you to see the gunners in action and learn more about the history of the battery. It’s a popular event, so arriving a little early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot, especially for the noon firing.
Important Note: The cannon firing ceremony does not take place on Sundays. If this is a key part of your visit, plan your itinerary accordingly.
Exploring Valletta's Historic Heart
From the gardens, you can descend via the lift to the Valletta waterfront, which is also a hub for cruise ships and offers a pleasant promenade. Alternatively, you can explore Valletta's main streets, such as Republic Street and Merchants Street, which are lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings like St. John's Co-Cathedral. The city itself is a living museum, and the gardens provide a beautiful, elevated perspective of its strategic location and surrounding fortifications.
Insider Tip: Don't forget to explore the Lower Barrakka Gardens as well. They are less crowded than their upper counterparts and offer equally stunning views, along with a memorial to Sir Alexander Ball. It's a great spot for a more tranquil experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit