Upper Barrakka — Attraction in Valletta

Created in 1661, the Upper Barrakka Gardens is must see stop as you explore Valletta. The gardens themselves are picturesque and a great place to sit and people watch. Originally they were used as the private gardens and training grounds for the Knights. There are numerous bronze statues, gardens and a fountain within the grand arched viewing points. From a practical standpoint there are toilets and a cafe. The gardens are open from 7am - 10pm year round and access is free. You can either walk to the gardens via the main gate or, if you're on the waterfront, there's a lift that will take there for 1 Euro (return ticket). The gardens also offer panoramic views across the Grand Harbour - the only natural harbor in the Mediterranean. You can see the 3 cities, Fort St. Angelo, Fort St. Elmo (for Game of Thrones fans) and the abandoned Fort Riascoli. Directly beneath the top tier of the gardens you can see the saluting battery where every day the guns were fired to mark the passing of mid day. You can take a tour of the area for 3 Euros or snag a viewing spot from the Upper Gardens for free. The guns are fired every day at 12pm and 4pm. One word of caution: The gardens are located quite close to where the cruise ships dock and this is usually one of the spots they visit in the few hours they...

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a truly beautiful and peaceful place to visit while in Valletta. With stunning views over the Grand Harbour and across to the Three Cities, it’s an ideal spot for photos, relaxing, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. The architecture and layout of the gardens are impressive, and there’s a certain charm in the combination of nature and history that makes this place special. However, it’s important to keep in mind that during the high season, the gardens can get quite crowded, especially around midday when most tourists arrive. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.

One detail worth noting is that the traditional cannon firing ceremony, which normally happens daily at noon, does not take place on Sundays. So if that’s something you were looking forward to, plan accordingly.

Also, while the Upper Barrakka Gardens are beautiful, don’t forget to check out the Lower Barrakka Gardens as well. They are just as lovely, offer equally impressive views, and tend to be less crowded. It’s a great alternative if you’re hoping to avoid the tourist rush and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere in the heart...

A beautiful, very attractive garden at the top of Valletta, with incredible views. I think the best views of Valletta as well as across to the Three Cities. There are plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs, particularly around the two rows of stone archways at the back. There are public loos and a kiosk for refreshments and food. I found the Lower Barrack Gardens to be more beautiful and peaceful, and certainly less people, but the Upper Gardens have a ‘Saluting Battery’ which features a gun that is fired at midday and at 4pm everyday except Sundays which is certainly a spectacle to be seen.

To view the gun being fired in the Saluting Battery, tickets are 3 euros per adult, otherwise you can stand on the balcony above it (through the archways) and have a good view - though worth getting there early as people line up quickly along the balcony, and so you might not have a clear view if you...