The Three Cities (Cottonera) Guide

Why the Three Cities is the best easy detour

Across the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities give you a different Malta mood with almost no logistics. The real value is perspective: you see Valletta’s walls from the outside and understand the harbour’s strategic scale.

It’s also a good ‘legs break’ because ferry time replaces walking time.

How to get there from Valletta

Ferries make this detour simple. Transport Malta publishes seasonal operating windows for the Three Cities ↔ Valletta route, but exact departures vary—check the operator timetable before you go. For a classic harbour moment, consider a dgħajsa crossing instead (or one way each).

• Winter (1 Nov–31 May): Mon–Sat 06:30–19:15; Sundays/PH 09:00–18:15 (night service from 19:45)
• Summer (1 Jun–31 Oct): Mon–Sat 06:30–00:00; Sundays/PH 09:00–00:00
• Authorised fares baseline: €1.50 one-way / €2.80 return (night service slightly higher)
• Option: dgħajsa for a traditional crossing

A half-day plan that feels effortless

Keep the plan walkable: a promenade, one ‘anchor’ stop, and time for a slow café. The Three Cities are best when you’re not racing.

• Arrive: waterfront promenade walk
• Pause: a café slow hour with a harbour view
• Explore: one historic lane cluster (choose what draws you)
• Return: to Valletta for golden hour and dinner

How to pair it with a Valletta sunset

You can do the harbour story both ways: see Valletta from inside in the morning, then cross the harbour and see the walls from outside in late afternoon.

• Morning: Valletta streets and museums
• Afternoon: ferry to the Three Cities
• Sunset: skyline back toward Valletta
• Evening: return to Valletta nightlife or a calm dinner