What are the best museums in Valletta?

The best museums in Valletta include St John's Co-Cathedral (Caravaggio), the Grand Master's Palace (Armoury), the National Museum of Archaeology, Fort St Elmo (War Museum), and the Lascaris War Rooms. Our guide covers all 8 with prices and hours.

How much do museums cost in Valletta?

Museum entry in Valletta ranges from €5 (National Museum of Archaeology, Malta Postal Museum) to €15 (St John's Co-Cathedral, Lascaris War Rooms). A Heritage Malta multi-site pass offers savings if you're visiting 3+ sites.

What is the most important museum in Malta?

St John's Co-Cathedral is Malta's most important museum attraction. It houses Caravaggio's Beheading of St John, the only painting the artist signed, along with spectacular Baroque interiors. Entry is €15.

Are Valletta museums open on Sundays?

Most Valletta museums are open on Sundays, including the Grand Master's Palace, National Museum of Archaeology and Fort St Elmo. St John's Co-Cathedral is open Sunday mornings only (9:30-12:30). Casa Rocca Piccola is closed Sundays.

Best Museums in Valletta: 8 Must-See Museums in Malta's Capital (2026)

Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage city packed with museums — from the Caravaggio-filled St John's Co-Cathedral to the War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Here are the 8 best museums in Valletta, with opening times, prices and tips.

1. St John's Co-Cathedral

St John's Co-Cathedral is Valletta's must-see attraction — a Baroque masterpiece with every inch covered in gold, marble and paintings, including Caravaggio's Beheading of St John.

Entry: €15 | Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-16:30, Sat 9:30-12:30 | Tip: Book ahead in peak season

2. Grand Master's Palace

The Grand Master's Palace was the seat of the Knights of St John and now houses the Palace State Rooms and the Armoury, one of the world's finest collections of arms and armour.

Entry: €12 | Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00-17:00

3. National Museum of Archaeology

The National Museum of Archaeology in the Auberge de Provence covers Malta's prehistory, including the famous "Sleeping Lady" from the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and tools from the Megalithic Temples.

Entry: €5 | Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00-18:00

4. MUŶA — National Community Art Museum

MUŶA is Malta's newest museum, housed in the former Naval Hospital at Birgu. Contemporary art and community exhibitions in a spectacular restored building.

Entry: €5 | Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00

5. Fort St Elmo — National War Museum

Fort St Elmo is a star-shaped fort at the tip of Valletta, home to the National War Museum. Covers Malta's military history from the Knights to WWII.

Entry: €10 | Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00-17:00

6. Casa Rocca Piccola

Casa Rocca Piccola is a 16th-century palazzo still lived in by a Maltese noble family. Tours give a fascinating glimpse into Valletta's aristocratic past.

Entry: €9 | Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00

7. Lascaris War Rooms

The Lascaris War Rooms are the underground tunnels from which Eisenhower planned the invasion of Sicily in WWII. A must for military history buffs.

Entry: €15 | Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-16:30

8. Malta Postal Museum

A small but well-curated museum covering Malta's postal history, from the Knights to modern times. Good for a quick visit.

Entry: €5 | Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-17:00

Tips for Visiting Valletta Museums

Buy a Heritage Malta pass — if you're visiting 3+ Heritage Malta sites, a multi-site pass saves money
Visit early — museums are quieter in the morning
Combine with the Three Cities — take the ferry to Birgu for the Maritime Museum and MUŶA
Check cruise days — museums are busier when cruise ships are in port (see cruise schedule)