Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

Gardens in Valletta

Malta Upper Barrakka Garden

Perched high above the Grand Harbour, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Malta. Created in the 17th century as a private retreat for the Italian Knights of the Order of St. John, the gardens blend serenity and grandeur in perfect harmony. Beneath their graceful baroque arches, the air hums with the sound of fountains and birds, while ships glide below across the blue water. Today, this is one of the top attractions in Valletta—a place to rest, reflect, and soak in centuries of Maltese history.

Locals and travelers alike gather here to enjoy the views, sip coffee beneath the palms, or capture photographs of the city glowing at sunset. The sound of the daily cannon fire from the Saluting Battery below gives a sense of continuity, connecting modern visitors to Malta's storied past. This spot is one of the best places to see in Valletta, and it's also a highlight of any walking tour of Valletta, offering a moment of calm and beauty above the city's lively streets.

History and Significance

The Upper Barrakka Gardens were laid out in 1661 by the Italian Knights of the Order of St. John as a private sanctuary—a place to meditate, meet, and admire the Grand Harbour. The site's arcades were later added to enhance the view, giving the gardens their signature look. After the British period in Malta, they were opened to the public in the 19th century, quickly becoming Valletta's most beloved open-air refuge. The gardens have since stood as a symbol of peace and elegance, a counterpoint to the military might once displayed in the bastions below.

Things to See and Do

The panoramic terrace is the star attraction, offering views over the Grand Harbour and the historic Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Beneath the gardens lies the Saluting Battery, where cannons are ceremonially fired daily at noon and 4 pm—a tradition that thrills visitors young and old. Stroll through shaded walkways lined with statues of notable Maltese figures, enjoy a refreshment at the small café, or simply sit on a bench and let the city's rhythm slow around you.

Practical Tips

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for the most dramatic light and fewer crowds
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free
  • Opening hours: Daily 7 am–10 pm
  • How long to spend: 30–60 minutes
  • Accessibility: Step-free access available via the Barrakka Lift from Valletta Waterfront
  • Facilities: Café, benches, rest areas
  • Photography tip: Frame the Grand Harbour through the stone arches for a classic Valletta shot
  • Nearby food options: Café inside the gardens and restaurants around Castille Square

How to Get There

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are located near Castille Square, in the upper part of Valletta. If you're arriving from the ferry that connects the Three Cities to Valletta Waterfront, the Barrakka Lift provides a quick and scenic 25-second ride up to the gardens. From the City Gate or the main bus terminal, it's just a short walk through Valletta's main streets.

Is Upper Barrakka Gardens Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt. The Upper Barrakka Gardens are one of the Must-see places in Valletta, offering a peaceful retreat with unmatched views and a palpable sense of history. Whether you come for a quick photo stop or a quiet hour under the arches, it's a place that captures the essence of Malta's capital—where beauty, culture, and the sea meet effortlessly.

Nearby Attractions

The Upper Barrakka Gardens appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Upper Barrakka Gardens

Hours:

Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00. Closed on: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Santa Marija (15 August), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Address: Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triq Sant' Orsla, Valletta, Malta
Valletta: 1 km

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs