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Birgu (Vittoriosa)

Malta · Coast · EUR · 35.888060, 14.522500
Family friendly 4.9/10 · Rank 2211 of 2 709
Best season: May-September

Best for

Birgu is an ideal place for history, architecture and quiet holidays away from tourist crowds lovers. It is recommended for couples, cultural travellers and those who want to see the real Malta. Least suitable for beach lovers.

Best season

May-September

Daily budget
$130.00 (≈ 11 700 ₽ · ≈ 120 EUR)
For 7 days
$910.00 (≈ 81 900 ₽ · ≈ 837 EUR)
Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, is one of the Three Cities located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta. This fortified city was the first residence of the Knights Hospitaller and has preserved numerous historical buildings, including Fort St. Angelo. Birgu is the perfect place to immerse yourself in authentic Maltese history.
Summer
31.0°C
Winter
10.0°C
Sea
27.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Birgu residents are friendly and hospitable people, proud of their historical heritage. The atmosphere in the city is calm and authentic.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich history and architecture
  • Fort St. Angelo
  • Inquisitor's Palace
  • Scenic waterfront
  • Authentic atmosphere
  • Fewer tourists than in Valletta

Cons

  • No beach
  • Limited nightlife
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
  • Many tourists during the day
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
26.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
31.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
14.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
16.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
10.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
25.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
27.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-March
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
rocks
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
gray
Water Entry
Type of water entry
steep
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Hidden beach near Fort St. Angelo
Beach
Availability of a beach
No
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
No
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Rocky platforms and coves, swimming is safe in calm weather. Jellyfish possible during warm season, follow lifeguard instructions

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in Birgu waters are not a significant hazard — isolated specimens found on rocky seabed, special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent in the Grand Harbour of Malta — the seabed is predominantly limestone and silt
  • Fire corals (Millepora) — not found off the coast of Birgu

Jellyfish — details

  • Box jellyfish (Carybdea marsupialis) — sightings recorded in Birgu marina, stings are moderate but can cause allergic reaction
  • Mauve stinger (Pelagia noctiluca) — the most common species in Maltese waters, appears during warm season, stings are painful but not fatal

Sharks — details

  • Sharks have not been recorded in the Grand Harbour of Malta — waters are too shallow and busy for large predators
Attractions

Fort St. Angelo

A majestic fortress that played a key role in Malta's history. It offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.

Inquisitor's Palace

One of the few surviving Inquisition palaces in the world. A museum telling the religious and social history of Malta.

Malta at War Museum

A museum housed in historic barracks above a huge WWII air-raid shelter.

St. Lawrence Church

A magnificent Baroque church built by the Knights of the Order of St. John.

Birgu Waterfront

A scenic waterfront with views of yachts and traditional Maltese luzzu boats. Many restaurants and cafes.

Streets and alleys of Birgu

A labyrinth of medieval streets with historic buildings, balconies and an atmosphere of antiquity.

Best areas

Waterfront

Coastal area with restaurants and harbour views.

Historic Centre

Medieval streets with museums and churches.

Must-try food

Pastizzi

Traditional Maltese pastries filled with ricotta or peas.

Lampuki

Fried fish, popular in Malta.

Kusksu

Stewed vegetables with meat.

Ħobża

Maltese bread.

Where to go next

Valletta

The capital of Malta with St. John's Co-Cathedral and palaces. 10 minutes by ferry.

Senglea

Neighbouring city with fortress walls and views. 5 minutes away.

Cospicua

The third city with a waterfront and docks. 5 minutes away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Malta International Airport (MLA).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 800 ₽ · ≈ 18 EUR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 7 200 ₽ · ≈ 74 EUR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 800 ₽ · ≈ 110 EUR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 18 000 ₽ · ≈ 184 EUR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$180.00
≈ 16 200 ₽ · ≈ 166 EUR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 8 100 ₽ · ≈ 83 EUR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 14 EUR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$30.00
≈ 2 700 ₽ · ≈ 28 EUR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 270 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.50
≈ 315 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 90 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 5 EUR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 2 EUR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 46 EUR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 41 EUR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 7 200 ₽ · ≈ 74 EUR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 400 ₽ · ≈ 55 EUR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 14 EUR
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Frequently asked questions
Birgu (Vittoriosa): when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +10.0°C, during the day — up to +16.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +27.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "rocks" surface, gray sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Hidden beach near Fort St. Angelo.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Rocky platforms and coves, swimming is safe in calm weather. Jellyfish possible during warm season, follow lifeguard instructions. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $130.00 (≈ 11 700 ₽ · ≈ 120 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $80.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $180.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $3.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Fort St. Angelo — A majestic fortress that played a key role in Malta's history. It offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.; Inquisitor's Palace — One of the few surviving Inquisition palaces in the world. A museum telling the religious and social history of Malta.; Malta at War Museum — A museum housed in historic barracks above a huge WWII air-raid shelter.; St. Lawrence Church — A magnificent Baroque church built by the Knights of the Order of St. John.; Birgu Waterfront — A scenic waterfront with views of yachts and traditional Maltese luzzu boats. Many restaurants and cafes.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Pastizzi — Traditional Maltese pastries filled with ricotta or peas.; Lampuki — Fried fish, popular in Malta.; Kusksu — Stewed vegetables with meat.; Ħobża — Maltese bread.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Waterfront — Coastal area with restaurants and harbour views.; Historic Centre — Medieval streets with museums and churches.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Malta International Airport (code MLA). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $130.00 (≈ 11 700 ₽ · ≈ 120 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Valletta — The capital of Malta with St. John's Co-Cathedral and palaces. 10 minutes by ferry.; Senglea — Neighbouring city with fortress walls and views. 5 minutes away.; Cospicua — The third city with a waterfront and docks. 5 minutes away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

4.9/10
Overall rank: 2211 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1304

Best season

May-September

Useful information

Currency: EUR
Coordinates: 35.888060, 14.522500