Valletta, Malta

• Valletta is Malta's capital, built on a peninsula between two harbors. The entire city is a UNESCO site with baroque architecture and limestone buildings. It's small - you can walk across it in 15 minutes - so you won't get lost. The streets are steep and most end with harbor views.
• English is widely spoken here since Malta was British until 1964. Nearly everyone in restaurants, shops, and tourist services speaks it. You'll see people eating alone in cafes, which is normal - it's not unusual to spot locals reading over coffee for hours.
• The city feels safe during the day and evening, with visible police and well-lit main streets. After 10pm the side streets empty out significantly, so stick to Republic Street and the Strait Street area if you're out late. Malta has a Catholic conservative culture - churches require covered shoulders and knees or they won't let you in.
• Buses connect Valletta to the rest of the island for €1.50-€2.00 per trip. The ferry to Sliema runs often and costs a few euros. Walking works best for exploring Valletta itself, though the hills get tiring when it's hot in summer.

English is an official language in Malta and nearly everyone speaks it. You won't have language problems in restaurants, shops, tourist sites, or with police and emergency services. Maltese is also official. The 112 emergency service has English operators.

• Malta is Catholic and conservative. Churches require covered shoulders and knees - St. John's Co-Cathedral and others will refuse entry if you're not dressed appropriately. This applies to both men and women.
• English is an official language with Maltese, and nearly everyone speaks it. You won't have language problems in restaurants, shops, or with police. Locals like it if you use basic Maltese greetings like 'Bongu' (good morning).
• Most Maltese are friendly and helpful with tourists, and people chat easily. Cat-calling and street harassment do happen though, particularly in busy tourist spots like St. Julian's and Paceville.
• Take off hats in churches and homes. People run on relaxed time here. Tipping 10% is nice but not required. Eating alone in restaurants is common - you'll see people reading or working over meals.

• Malta has over 100 bus routes, most going through Valletta's main terminus outside City Gate. Buses run 5:30am-11pm daily, with night services Friday-Saturday. Single trips cost €1.50 in winter, €2.00 in summer, €3.00 at night. A 7-day pass costs €21.
• The tallinja app tracks buses in real-time and plans routes. Buses have AC and WiFi, but they get crowded at peak times and often run late. The X4 express goes from the airport to Valletta in 25-30 minutes.
• The Valletta-Sliema ferry runs frequently and costs a few euros. Traditional dgħajsa boats cross to the Three Cities from Lascaris Wharf. Airport taxis cost around €17-€20 to Valletta.
• Walking works best in Valletta since it's small and has many pedestrian streets. Just be ready for steep hills and stairs. Malta drives on the left.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Valletta with local guides and curated experiences.