Vittoriosa Shore Excursion
When the knights of the Order of St. John came to Malta in 1530, they settled down in the harbor hamlet called Il- Birgu. Here they built their first hospital, Auberges and also fortifications as they expected the Ottomans to attack. The Ottomans attacked in 1565, the knights won the siege which remained known in history as The Great Siege of 1565. After the victory, the town was renamed Vittoriosa, the victorious city. In 1571 the Knights moved to Valletta, the new city which they themselves had built. Vittoriosa did not lose its importance as the Order’s fleet was stationed here. When Malta became a British Crown Colony in 1814, many of the buildings built by the knights now served the Royal Navy. Vittoriosa is a small town with a rich history.
The ferry crossing from Valletta takes about 5 minutes. The guide will give an introduction to the city’s history and proceed on foot towards the city’s three gates. On the way you will enjoy lovely views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour. The guide will lead the group towards the historic center known as the ‘Collachio’, an area which was reserved for the knights, most of which is only accessible on foot. Here you will wind your way through pretty alleys and learn about its history whilst enjoying the town’s beauty. This walk tour of Vittoriosa lasts approximately 3 hours in total, during which time you will learn much about Vittoriosa, the Knights and the story of Malta.
Price
1 – 10 persons €160
11 – 20 persons €220
Upgrade this walking tour with a tasting and boat trip for €30 per person!
At the end of the above walk you will savor a Maltese platter with specialties like Goat’s cheese, broad bean pate, olives, with a glass of wine {all included}. The tour ends with a half hour boat trip of the Grand Harbour in a typical boat. These boats, which are reminiscent of the gondolas in Venice were and are still used as water taxis. This walking tour of Vittoriosa with tasting and boat trip lasts approximately 4 hours in total.
Both walks will end at the starting point, next to the Upper Barrakka Gardens lift to Valletta city center. You will have the option to either return to the ship or to visit Valletta at your own leisure.
Vittoriosa walk:
3 hour tour with a licensed guide
Walks starts and ends close to the Cruise Liner Terminal
Come with comfortable walking shoes
Return ferry tickets included Ferry ticket
Vittoriosa walk with boat trip and tasting:
4 hour tour with a licensed guide
Walks starts and ends close to the Cruise Liner Terminal
Come with comfortable walking shoes
30 minute boat trip in a typical Maltese boat
Local food tasting including a glass of wine
Soft drink/juice instead of wine if preferred
Send your request per e-mail on:
[email protected]
Or call on:
00356 9931 8802
