Malta’s Three Cities Guided Tour offers travelers a captivating journey through the country’s rich maritime heritage. This comprehensive experience combines a guided walking tour of historic Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea with a picturesque boat ride through the local harbor, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the charming coastal communities and admire the iconic fortifications that have shaped Malta’s history. From panoramic views at the Gardjola Gardens to the traditional Dghajsa boats, this tour promises to unveil the essence of Malta’s coastal culture, leaving you eager to further explore the intriguing stories that lie behind these historic cities.

This experience made our list of the 19 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Valletta.

Key Points

  • This guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of three historic fortified cities in Malta – Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea.
  • The tour includes a scenic boat tour of the local harbor, providing a unique perspective of the Three Cities’ maritime heritage.
  • Visitors can expect a 4-hour duration, with air-conditioned transportation and pickup from select hotels and ports.
  • The tour highlights the charming Vittoriosa waterfront, the panoramic views from the Gardjola Gardens, and the rich history and architecture of these ancient settlements.
  • The tour operator, V. Tabone Travel, has a strong customer satisfaction record, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

Three Cities Guided Tour Including Harbour Boat Tour - Tour Overview

The tour offers a guided exploration of three historic fortified cities in Malta, complemented by a picturesque boat tour of the local harbor.

Over the course of approximately 4 hours, guests will explore the rich history and scenic landscapes of Valletta, the island’s capital.

The tour includes visits to the neighboring towns of Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea, known collectively as the Three Cities.

Highlights include strolling along the charming Vittoriosa waterfront, admiring the Gardjola Gardens, and taking in panoramic views from various scenic vantage points.

An air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transportation, with pickup available from select hotels and ports.

Destination Highlights

Three Cities Guided Tour Including Harbour Boat Tour - Destination Highlights

Spanning the western side of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities – Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea – offer a captivating glimpse into Malta’s rich maritime heritage.

Visitors can explore the charming Vittoriosa waterfront, where historic buildings and narrow streets evoke the area’s seafaring past.

The Gardjola Gardens in Senglea provide a scenic vantage point, allowing guests to take in panoramic views of the harbor.

Whether strolling through the old fortified cities or enjoying a leisurely boat tour along the harbor creeks, travelers are sure to be enchanted by the timeless allure of these historic destinations.

Walking Tour Experience

Three Cities Guided Tour Including Harbour Boat Tour - Walking Tour Experience

Guests embark on a captivating walking tour through the old fortified cities, seeing the rich maritime heritage of the Three Cities.

The guided tour takes them through the charming streets of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Cospicua, and Senglea, allowing them to discover the unique architecture, historical sites, and local culture.

As they stroll along the Vittoriosa waterfront, they’ll admire the Gardjola Gardens, a picturesque lookout point that offers stunning views of the harbor. Throughout the tour, travelers have ample opportunities to capture memorable photographs at the scenic viewpoints.

The walking experience provides an in-depth exploration of the Three Cities, giving guests a deeper appreciation for Malta’s remarkable history and vibrant coastal communities.

Dghajsa Boat Tour

After exploring the old fortified cities on foot, guests can embark on a delightful dghajsa boat tour to further enjoy the harbor’s maritime heritage. The traditional wooden boats, known as dghajsa, gently ferry passengers through the picturesque creeks and inlets surrounding the Three Cities, providing a unique perspective of the historic waterfront and its landmarks.

Dghajsa Boat Tour Highlights
Vittoriosa Waterfront Gardjola Gardens Sweeping Harbor Views Intimate Creekside Experience Glimpse of Traditional Boatbuilding
Passengers can marvel at the impressive fortifications and grand architecture from the comfort of the dghajsa, while also catching a glimpse of the traditional boatbuilding practices that have sustained the local maritime culture for generations.

Photo Opportunities

The guided tour offers ample opportunities for visitors to capture stunning photos at several scenic viewpoints showcasing the historic cities and picturesque harbor.

As the tour progresses through Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea, travelers will be treated to a visual feast of stunning architecture, fortified walls, and serene waterways.

The highlights for photographers include:

  1. The Vittoriosa waterfront, where the traditional Dghajsa boats provide a charming contrast to the grand harbor backdrop.

  2. The Gardjola Gardens, situated atop the historic Gardjola Sea Watch Tower, offering panoramic views of the Three Cities and the Grand Harbour.

  3. The scenic vantage points along the walking tour, allowing visitors to frame the iconic fortifications and skylines of these ancient settlements.

Inclusions and Logistics

This guided tour conveniently includes pickup from select hotels and ports, providing hassle-free transportation for participants. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey throughout the tour.

Plus, the operator, V. Tabone Travel, offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers greater flexibility and peace of mind.

With a maximum group size of 50, the tour allows for a more personalized experience as travelers explore the historic fortified cities of Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic waterfront stroll or a chance to capture breathtaking views, this tour has you covered with its diverse inclusions and flexible logistics.

Operator and Reviews

V. Tabone Travel, the operator of this guided tour, has earned positive reviews from past participants. With 62 reviews, the tour boasts a strong customer satisfaction record, further bolstering confidence in the quality of the experience.

Customers consistently praise the tour for:

  1. Its well-organized itinerary that allows them to efficiently explore the three historic cities and harbor.
  2. The knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who provide insightful commentary about the destinations.
  3. The seamless logistical arrangements, including reliable hotel pick-ups and the comfortable air-conditioned transportation.

Booking and Cancellation

Three Cities Guided Tour Including Harbour Boat Tour - Booking and Cancellation

Conveniently, this guided tour offers a flexible booking process with a lowest price guarantee, allowing travelers to easily secure their spot. On top of that, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing customers with a hassle-free experience.

Booking Options Cost Cancellation Policy
Online $$$ Free up to 24 hours
Phone $$ Free up to 24 hours
In-Person $ Free up to 24 hours

Regardless of the booking method, customers can rest assured that they’ll receive the best possible price for this exceptional tour. With the ability to cancel up to a day in advance, travelers can plan their itinerary with confidence, knowing they have the flexibility to adjust as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Boat Is Used for the Harbor Tour?

The harbor tour utilizes a traditional Maltese boat called a dghajsa. These small, wooden boats are commonly used for passenger transport along the harbor creeks and waterways of the Three Cities region.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a scheduled stop for lunch. However, guests may have the option to purchase food and drinks during the tour or extend their visit afterward to explore local dining options near the destinations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour operator offers an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request an extended tour to explore additional sights or spend more time at the destinations, subject to availability and additional charges.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the guided tour and harbor boat tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, making it an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Do We Get to Interact With Local Residents?

The tour generally does not provide opportunities for direct interaction with local residents. However, the walking tour through the historic cities allows participants to observe and experience the local culture and architecture firsthand.

Recap

The Three Cities Guided Tour in Malta offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich maritime heritage. Combining a guided walking experience and a picturesque boat tour, the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the charming streets, historic sites, and iconic fortifications of Birgu, Cospicua, and Senglea.

Visitors can enjoy the local culture, capture breathtaking views, and create lasting memories of this captivating coastal experience.