Shore Excursions Group
Malta In The War
Malta in the War
Start this full-day history lesson learning what life was like for the British military as you visit Vittoriosa and view the fortifications first used by the Knights Hospitaller and later the British defenses.
Make your way through the maze link and survey the underground air raid shelters, a series of subterranean bomb shelters excavated out of the rock. While here you will get a feel for the conditions the troops had to endure during the siege as you learn why the British came, what happened, and why they ultimately left Malta.
From there you will take a bus for a comfortable, scenic ride to Valletta and walk to the upper Barrakka Garden where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Grand Harbor. This natural harbor was the military base for the British and a major reason why Malta came under fire following Mussolini’s declaration of war on the Allied Forces. Stroll through the city streets and pass by the Palace used by Napoleon Bonaparte and see the WWII Victory (soup) Kitchen. Pause for a photo with Queen Victoria’s statue and survey the ruins of the Royal Opera House, a sober remnant of the height of the bombings.
Continue to a well-deserved lunch break and some free time to explore on your own, then make your way to Lower Valletta and the Malta War Museum with its extensive collection of wartime and even prehistoric artifacts. The museum was constructed Fort St. Elmo, a Knights-constructed defense system that was retrofitted for British use.
This 8-hour tour is a must-do for history buffs and those who have an interest in war-related historical sites. Reserve your spot and be sure to bring your camera.
| Day 1 |
Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history. Unique remnants of Valletta’s military past include the Saluting Battery, which continues to fires cannon salutes from the harbor for tourists, and the wreckage of WWII ship HMS Maori, accessible on scuba diving excursions in St. Elmo Bay. Gilded St. John’s Co-Cathedral, laden with exquisite gold and grand frescoes, is a must-see attraction in Valletta, while opulent Teatru Manoel offers stunning opera performances in a setting decorated with rich reds, golds, and teals. Stroll the Baroque-style Valletta Waterfront to find the city’s best culinary delights or hop aboard a boat from the Laguna Marina. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $83 |
Get A Quote |
Guests must be able to get in and out of transportation. This tour can accommodate a collapsible wheelchair, provided that the guest is accompanied by a person who can provide assistance. Walkers can also be accommodated.
