Malta in the War
You'll feel like you have stepped back in history with this day-long tour of Malta's air raid shelters and the Malta War Museum. See the conditions the British troops had to endure during the Second Great Siege of Malta.
Start this full-day history lesson learning what life was like for the British military as you visit Vittoriosa and view the fortifications first used by the Knights Hospitaller and later the British defenses. Make your way through the maze link and survey the underground air raid shelters, a series of subterranean bomb shelters excavated out of the rock. While here you will get a feel for the conditions the troops had to endure during the siege as you learn why the British came, what happened, and why they ultimately left Malta. From there you will take a bus for a comfortable, scenic ride to Valletta and walk to the upper Barrakka Garden where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Grand Harbor. This natural harbor was the military base for the British and a major reason why Malta came under fire following Mussolini's declaration of war on the Allied Forces. Stroll through the city streets and pass by the Palace used by Napoleon Bonaparte and see the WWII Victory (soup) Kitchen. Pause for a photo with Queen Victoria's statue and survey the ruins of the Royal Opera House, a sober remnant of the height of the bombings. Continue to a well-deserved lunch break and some free time to explore on your own, then make your way to Lower Valletta and the Malta War Museum with its extensive collection of wartime and even prehistoric artifacts. The museum was constructed Fort St. Elmo, a Knights-constructed defense system that was retrofitted for British use. This 8-hour tour is a must-do for history buffs and those who have an interest in war-related historical sites. Reserve your spot and be sure to bring your camera.
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Operated by
- Shore Excursions Group
- An approximate 2 to 3-minute walk from the cruise ship pier is required to reach your departure location. Full details will be provided in your electronic ticket upon confirmation.
- We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sensible, closed-toe walking shoes. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat are also suggested.
- Guests must be able to get in and out of transportation. This tour can accommodate a collapsible wheelchair, provided that the guest is accompanied by a person who can provide assistance. Walkers can also be accommodated.
Excursion purchases are fully refundable outside of 14 days prior to the tour date. Beginning on the 14th day prior to the tour date, excursion purchases are non-refundable.