Three Cities Tour (Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua) + Boat tour
What your day looks like
The Three Cities collectively refer to the fortified cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea. The oldest of these is Vittoriosa, dating back to the Middle Ages. Senglea and Cospicua were both founded by the Order of the Knights of Saint John in the 16th and 17th centuries, respectively. During this half-day tour, you will explore these unique historical cities, admiring magnificent churches, traditional piazzas, incredible fortifications, and architectural treasures—living history preserved through centuries. Our tour begins with a panoramic drive past Cospicua, a double-fortified harbor city and the largest of the Three Cities. Cospicua is flanked by Senglea to the west and Vittoriosa to the east and is known for its large dockyard and impressive fortifications, the Santa Margherita Lines and the Cottonera Lines. A short distance from Cospicua lies Vittoriosa, a city occupying a promontory with the impressive Fort Saint Angelo at its head and Cospicua at its base. We will enjoy a fascinating walking tour through Vittoriosa’s distinctively narrow, winding streets, admiring the historical buildings and captivating treasures at every turn. Upon reaching the stunning Vittoriosa Waterfront, we will board a traditional Maltese Frejgatina (a small, carvel-built fishing boat) for a delightful tour of the colorful harbor creeks. Our tour concludes at Senglea, named after Claude De La Sengle, the Grand Master who founded the city. Senglea, also known as “Civitas Invicta,” earned its name for resisting the Ottoman invasion during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The island on which Senglea lies was connected to Cospicua by a land bridge during the Knights of St. John’s time, giving it a peninsular shape. From the Gardjola Gardens at the tip of the peninsula, we will enjoy a stunning 360° view of the Grand Harbor, including the impressive Fort Saint Angelo, from where Grand Master Jean de la Valette led the island’s defense during the Great Siege. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable and experienced guides will provide you with captivating information, enhancing your experience with engaging storytelling.
The experience, in brief
- Discover the renowned three fortified cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua
- Admire traditional piazzas, incredible fortifications, and architectural treasures
- Enjoy a boat trip on a traditional Maltese "frejgatina"
Your day, step by step
Valletta
Sightseeing at Cospicua.
Valletta
Local Flavor at Santa Margherita Lines.
Valletta
Local Flavor at Cottonera Lines.
Birgu
City/Town Tour.
Birgu
Boating.
Valletta
Local Flavor at Senglea (City).
What to know before booking
Included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (from your Hotel or a close meeting point) A licensed tour guide All transportation in air-conditioned vehicles Boat tour of the harbor creeks on a traditional Maltese "frejgatina" (carvel-built fishing boat)
Not Included
Food and drinks Tips and gratuity
What to Bring
Camera Sunglasses Sunscreen & Hat Bag for Essentials Comfortable clothing and footwear Umbrella Cash
Restrictions
Not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments
Meeting & Pickup
Hotel pick-up services are available.
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic
What travelers are saying
Great!!