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Three Cities Walking Tour

€25 per person

Duration:

2.5 Hours

Schedule:

Check calendar

Language:

English

Colour my Travel licensed guide leading the Birgu walking tour.
Birgu waterfront.
Streets of Birgu or also known as Vittoriosa.
Streets of Birgu.
Church of Birgu.
Inside the Inquisitor's palace.
Inside the Inquisitor's palace.
Inside the Inquisitor's palace.
Inside the Inquisitor's palace.
Walking tour in the streets of Birgu.
Streets of Birgu.
Birgu Waterfront.

Overview

Step into the heart of Malta's rich maritime history on our Birgu (Vittoriosa) Walking Tour, an immersive 2.5-hour guided experience through one of the island's oldest and most captivating cities. While Birgu forms part of the historic Three Cities, this tour focuses exclusively on Birgu (Vittoriosa), allowing you to explore its remarkable landmarks, hidden streets and fascinating past in greater depth.

Led by a professional licensed local guide, you will discover why Birgu became the home of the Knights of St. John before Valletta was built and how it played a crucial role during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. As you wander through its atmospheric alleyways, elegant squares and impressive fortifications, your guide will bring centuries of history to life through engaging stories of knights, merchants, sailors and the people who shaped this extraordinary city.

Throughout the tour, you will admire Birgu's beautiful architecture, picturesque marina and spectacular views across the Grand Harbour towards Valletta. Along the way, you will uncover hidden corners that many visitors miss while learning about the city's transformation from a medieval settlement into one of Malta's most important historical centres.

A highlight of the experience is a visit to the remarkable Inquisitor's Palace, one of the best-preserved buildings of its kind in Europe. With your entrance ticket included, you will explore its fascinating rooms and exhibitions while discovering the role of the Inquisition in Malta and gaining a deeper understanding of the island's religious, political and social history.

Although the tour focuses on Birgu (Vittoriosa), your guide will also introduce you to the wider story of Malta's Three Cities—Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua—explaining how these historic communities developed together around the Grand Harbour and why they remain one of Malta's most important cultural and historical areas.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover or first-time visitor to Malta, this Birgu Walking Tour offers the perfect opportunity to experience one of the island's most authentic destinations. Rich in history, character and local charm, Birgu is a place where every street tells a story and every corner reveals another chapter of Malta's remarkable past.

Where We'll Go

  • Birgu Main Gate (near Cafe Riche)
  • Entrance of Vittoriosa (Couvre Port area)
  • Cavaliers / French curtain
  • Bishop’s Palace
  • Universita’
  • Inquisitor’s Palace
  • Executioner’s House
  • Medieval House
  • Old Hospital
  • Vittoriosa Main Square
  • Church of Saint Lawrence
  • Freedom Monument and Maritime Museum (outside)

Look out for the yellow umbrella and the guide in the yellow shirt. Itinerary is subject to change due to events or activities taking place beyond our control.

Start & End points

Meeting Point:

Birgu Main Gate, opposite Cafe Riche, Vittoriosa, Malta

Get directions

End Point:

Freedom Monument, Vittoriosa, Malta

Get directions

Other details

  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour takes place on historic streets and uneven surfaces.

  • During cooler months, we recommend bringing a warm jacket. An umbrella or raincoat is also advisable if rain is forecast.

  • The tour is generally accessible; however, some sections include stairs where an alternative step-free route may not be available.

Cancellation Policy

Free Cancellation: Full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).

Frequently asked questions

  • What will we see during the Three Cities Walking Tour?

    Our tour focuses on Birgu (Vittoriosa), the most historic of the Three Cities. You'll explore its charming streets, impressive fortifications, picturesque marina, and many of the landmarks that played a key role during the Great Siege of 1565 and the Knights of St. John.

    Along the way, you'll also enjoy views of Senglea (Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla) while learning about their fascinating history.

  • Why does the tour focus on Birgu?

    Birgu is considered the historic heart of the Three Cities and offers the richest concentration of medieval streets, Knights' buildings and important historical sites.

    Rather than rushing through all three cities, we believe spending more time exploring Birgu provides a much more rewarding and immersive experience.

  • Will we visit all three cities?

    The walking route is centred on Birgu.

    From Birgu, you'll enjoy excellent views of Senglea and Cospicua while your guide explains their history and importance.

  • Is the Inquisitor's Palace included?

    Yes.

    Admission to the Inquisitor's Palace is included, allowing you to explore one of Malta's most fascinating historic buildings.

  • Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?

    Absolutely.

    Birgu is easily reached from Valletta by ferry, traditional harbour boat or taxi, making this an excellent excursion for cruise visitors looking to explore beyond Valletta.

  • What makes Birgu so special?

    Birgu was the first home of the Knights of St. John when they arrived in Malta in 1530 and played a crucial role during the Great Siege of 1565. Today, it remains one of Malta's most authentic and beautifully preserved historic towns.

  • Why choose a guided tour instead of exploring Birgu on my own?

    Our licensed guides bring Birgu's rich history to life through fascinating stories, local knowledge and hidden details that are easy to miss when exploring independently.

  • What happens if I arrive late?

    Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

    If you're running late, contact us as soon as possible. While we'll do our best to assist, we cannot guarantee that you'll be able to join the group once the tour has started. Refunds cannot be offered for late arrivals.

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Our Guests sharing their amazing experience