Malta: The Three Fortified Cities Tour including Boat Trip

This half-day tour explores the fortified Three Cities of Malta—Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea—ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Highlights

• See the fortified cities of Cospicua, Birgu (Vittoriosa), and Senglea
• Enjoy a boat trip through colourful harbour creeks
• Experience panoramic views of the Grand Harbour
• Learn about the history of the Knights of Malta and the Three Cities

Description

The Three Cities consist of Cospicua, Birgu (Vittoriosa), and Senglea. Vittoriosa is the oldest, dating back before the Middle Ages, while Senglea and Cospicua were founded by the Knights of Saint John in the 16th and 17th centuries.

This tour begins with a panoramic drive past Cospicua, the largest and double-fortified harbour city. The group then reaches Vittoriosa, inhabited since Phoenician times and chosen as Malta’s capital by the Knights in 1530.

In Vittoriosa, enjoy a guided walking tour through narrow streets to explore historic buildings, churches, piazzas, and fortifications. At the Vittoriosa waterfront, board a traditional Maltese “Frejgatina” boat for a cruise along the harbour creeks.

The tour concludes in Senglea, known as “Civitas Invicta” for resisting the Ottoman siege of 1565. The city lies on a peninsula connected to Cospicua by a land bridge. From Gardjola Gardens, take in 360° views of the Grand Harbour and Fort Sant Angelo, key sites in Malta’s defence history.

Throughout the tour, licensed guides provide detailed narration and engaging storytelling to enhance the experience.

Includes

• Pickup and drop-off transfers
• Transportation by air-conditioned bus or coach
• Licensed guide
• Walking tours of Vittoriosa and Senglea
• Boat tour on a traditional Maltese Frejgatina

Excludes

• Food and drinks
• Tips (optional)

Important Information

• The listed start time is approximate; confirm your exact pickup time and location with the tour operator a few days before your activity. Pickup occurs between 8:15 AM and 9:15 AM depending on your accommodation.
• The tour is conducted in the language booked, although a multilingual guide may occasionally provide commentary in up to two languages.
• The boat trip depends on weather; if cancelled due to poor conditions, additional time will be spent visiting the Three Cities.
• The visit to Cospicua is a panoramic drive-by without stops.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and check the weather forecast before your tour. Early morning tours avoid afternoon heat and crowds.