Things to do in

Senglea

Enjoy a half-day tour of Malta’s 3 Cities, a collective term for the 3 fortified cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea. You will learn about the history and rich culture of the Mediterranean island, and sample some of Malta’s full-bodied wines at the Marsovin Cellars. With pick-ups from any hotel in Malta, the tour you will take you through Cospicua, a double-fortified harbor city, and the largest of the 3 cities you will visit. Cospicua was given the title “Citta' Cottonera,” but erroneously this is now used to define the whole region. Continue to Vittoriosa, ideally situated for safe anchorage. Over time it has developed a long history of maritime, mercantile, and military activities. Prior to the establishment of Valletta as capital and main city of Malta, military powers that wanted to rule the Maltese islands would need to obtain control of Vittoriosa, due to its significant position in the Grand Harbour. The 3rd city, Senglea, is also called “Civitas Invicta,” because it managed to resist the Ottoman invasion at the Great Siege of 1565. The name Senglea was given by the grandmaster Claude De La Sengle, and the island on which it lies was joined by a land bridge to Cospicua during the time of the Knights of St. John. You will walk through the charming narrow streets of the town, shaded by dozens of historic churches and buildings. You will then drive to Marsovin Cellars in Marsa. Your tour will commence with a historical introduction, followed by an explanation about the process of how locally grown grapes are pressed, fermented, and eventually transformed into wine. A walk through the 400-year-old Ageing Cellars provides an authentic piece of Maltese heritage. To end your excursion, head to the Marsovin wine bar, where trained staff guide guests through a wine-tasting session. Raise a glass and sample different Marsovin wines, accompanied by a selection of local savories, such as Maltese bread and cheese.

Enjoy an interesting and relaxing cruise through two natural harbors, the Marsamxett Harbour, and the famous Grand Harbour. Delight in the beauty of these harbors rich in history and traditional Maltese culture. On this tour, you will also visit ten of Malta's creeks. As you depart the Strand Sliema, you will cruise inside Sliema Creek, around Manoel Island to Lazzaretto Creek, better known as the Yacht Marina, round Ta'Xbiex to Msida & Pieta Creeks, cruising by the battlements and fortifications surrounding Valletta and Floriana to the Grand Harbour. Then, you will proceed to Menqa Creek, Marsa Creek, and the inner basin to see the Malta Ship Building Yard. You will continue on to the French Creek and the Dockyard Area, round the Three Cities Senglea, Cospicua, and Vittoriosa, and back to Sliema, cruising right inside 10 creeks.

Travel long Malta's Harbours in a traditional Maltese boat. See historical forts, battlements and creeks. Experience Malta's living past at busy dockyards and marinas. This cruise leaves from Sliema Ferries. You will go around the two natural harbours and their ten creeks. A detailed, live commentary will provide you with information about the history of Valletta and the Three Cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa which date back to 1565. Learn about the role the three cities played in the seige of Malta during World War II. While onboard, you have access to a fully stocked bar to help you relax.

Benefit from pick-up outside the cruise terminal at Valletta and see the city's UNESCO World Heritage monuments. Visit Barracca Gardens to get panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Admire the colored balconies of Merchant Street and look inside St. John's Co-Cathedral. Walk down to the waterfront to take a private water taxi to Vittoriosa on the opposite side of the harbor. Explore the historical "3 Cities" of the Cottonera area to get a feel for the spirit of Malta and its culture. Go to the Gardjola Gardens to get a magnificent view from the old watch tower. Walk along the imposing city walls and venture down tiny streets to explore the old city and the Inquisitor's Palace. Cruise around the Grand Harbour by traditional dghajsa boat and get stunning views of the ancient fortifications. Return to the waterfront in Valletta, where a guide will accompany you back to the cruise terminal.