Sliema, Valletta, Paradise Bay

We started our day with a steaming cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast, excited for the adventures ahead: destination Valletta, Malta’s magical capital!
Since reaching Valletta by car can be not only challenging but sometimes chaotic, we decided on a more convenient approach. Navigating the steep and narrow, mostly one-way streets within the city walls, many of which end in staircases, is simply not worth the hassle.

Sliema – The Perfect Starting Point

Sliema turned out to be an ideal choice thanks to its excellent public transport connections and proximity. After a short 30-minute drive from our accommodation, we arrived at the port, where we easily parked our car in the spacious lot near the ferry terminal. From here, Valletta’s historic old town is just a 10-minute ferry ride away. The regular ferry service is a quick and convenient way to reach the capital.

Sliema is a special spot in its own right. The seafront promenade, Triq Ix, offers some of the most stunning views of Valletta’s skyline. This iconic perspective is where the classic Valletta photos are taken—the ones you see on almost every Maltese postcard. Naturally, we couldn’t resist capturing this breathtaking scene ourselves.

Valletta – History and Magic

The ferry ride from Sliema to Valletta flew by, yet the views were already mesmerizing: the fortresses, towers, and domes of Valletta came into view from the sea. Traveling with a young child, the ferry was a quick and hassle-free solution. Our daughter loved the sea breeze and the gentle motion of the boat.

Valletta, the smallest capital city in the European Union, holds an astonishing amount of historical treasures. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the entire city is a baroque masterpiece filled with hidden gems. The massive walls surrounding Valletta add to its charm. We spent 2–3 hours here, exploring at our own pace and adapting to our little one’s rhythm, following this itinerary:

From Valletta’s port, we dove straight into the enchanting streets of the old town. Wandering through cobblestone alleys, we headed toward the Lower Barrakka Gardens, encountering countless hidden gems along the way: tucked-away squares, churches, and fountains, all set against the backdrop of beautiful baroque houses. The iconic Maltese wooden balconies and intricately carved door knockers added unique charm. We often paused to admire their vibrant colors and unique designs.

Soon, we arrived at Republic Square, where Valletta’s vibrant energy pulled us in. This bustling square, lined with cafes and shops, is one of the city’s main hubs. From here, Republic Street—Valletta’s main thoroughfare—beckoned, full of intriguing stores, street performers, and cozy cafes.

Following Republic Street, we reached Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century palace still home to the De Piro family. While we didn’t go inside this time, we didn’t want to miss the 12 PM cannon fire at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, but first, we took some time to relax at the Lower Barrakka Gardens.

The Lower Barrakka Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Shaded trees, fountains, and arched terraces offer spectacular views of the Grand Harbour and the fortifications of the Three Cities. It was a perfect spot for a short break, especially with a young child in tow. The park even has free restrooms—a real treasure for family travelers!

On our way to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta revealed even more of its charm. Perched 60 meters above sea level, this park offers one of the best panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. We arrived just in time for the 12 PM cannon firing ceremony. Performed by soldiers in full regalia, this historical reenactment felt like stepping back in time and was an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Under the shade of the garden’s trees, we enjoyed a much-needed coffee. The fountain and statues at the park’s center added a serene touch to the vibrant atmosphere.

A Leisurely Stroll Back to the Ferry

Our walk back to the ferry terminal was just as eventful. We stopped briefly at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of Valletta’s most famous landmarks. This iconic baroque structure, consecrated in 1577, dominates the cityscape. Although we would have loved to visit, the long queues made us postpone it for another time. With Liny starting to get restless, we chose to move on.

If you plan to visit, it’s worth preparing in advance to ensure this gem isn’t missed. The cathedral’s interior is stunning, richly adorned in baroque style, and home to Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, as well as numerous tombs of the Knights of Malta. Note: photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited, and bags must be stored in the cloakroom. A modest dress code is also required to enter.

We took a short detour along Merchant Street, a popular pedestrian street running parallel to Republic Street. It’s easy to find and is packed with quality restaurants, bars, cafes, and pubs. Feeling hungry and in need of a quick bite, we stumbled upon Valletta Moo’s Kebab, a delightful little spot that exceeded our expectations. The friendly service, ample portions, and affordable prices made it a great choice.

Unwinding in Sliema

Back in Sliema, we had time to enjoy a coffee by the port while waiting for our ferry. Liny fell asleep in her carrier during the walk—a moment of respite for all of us. This was our first trip without a stroller, and the carrier proved to be a fantastic alternative, allowing her to rest whenever she needed.

We ended our visit with a brief stroll along Sliema’s Triq Ix promenade, once again soaking in the breathtaking views of Valletta.

Paradise Bay – The Perfect End to the Day

Our day concluded at Paradise Bay, one of Malta’s most beautiful beaches. Nestled below steep cliffs, this hidden gem was the perfect place to relax after an active day of sightseeing. The crystal-clear water was ideal for playing and splashing, while Liny loved the sandy shore. It was a peaceful and rejuvenating way to wrap up the day.

This day struck the perfect balance between culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty—all while traveling with a small child.

A Closing Tip

If you plan a similar day, start early to comfortably explore every destination. For Valletta, wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water. With a young child, a carrier is more practical than a stroller due to the steep streets. At Paradise Bay, bring a beach umbrella or a lightweight tent for maximum comfort.

This day seamlessly combined culture, nature, and family fun—a true Maltese delight!