A Tale of Two Cities
Duration: 4 hours
Tour Code: vlt-009
Experience the highlights of both Valletta and Mdina on this mostly walking tour.
Your tour begins with a short drive around the impressive bastions of Valletta and past Fort St. Elmo, making a brief stop for photos to admire Fort Manoel and Marsamxett Harbor. Next, you will drive into the heart of Valletta, Malta's Capital City.
Leaving your coach behind, you will commence a guided walking tour to the Upper Barracca Gardens which dates back to the 18th century and was originally the private garden of the Italian Knights that resided nearby. From this location you will be treated to a panoramic view of Malta's natural harbors and the historic cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa. From there, you will continue on with a walk past Auberge de Castille, St. John's Co-Cathedral, Auberge de Provence in Republic Street and the Magisterial Palace.
Rejoining your coach, you'll make the 30-minute drive to Mdina, a medieval walled town that was once the capital of Malta. Inhabited by the Phoenicians around 700 BC, this historical village is also rumored to have been where the Apostle St. Paul lived after his famous shipwreck on the island. A guided walking tour through Mdina's narrow streets showcases its most historical landmarks, including St. Paul's Cathedral. From the town's Bastions, you will be treated to a wonderful panoramic view of the Island.
Following your time in Mdina, you will transfer back to the pier.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of easy to moderate walking and standing. There will be some steps and slight inclines to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Weather appropriate clothing; sun caps; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Guests may wish to bring a bottle of water from the ship.