City Gate travel guide

City Gate, also known as Porta Reale, serves as the main entrance to the capital city of Malta, Valletta. Its history dates back to the 16th century when the Knights of St. John constructed the first gate.

Over the centuries, the gate underwent several reconstructions. The most significant one came in 2014, designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, which is the fifth gate to stand on the site.

The earlier gates bore witness to pivotal events in Maltese history. The fourth gate, built in 1964, witnessed the independence of Malta from British rule. The current gate, with its minimalist design, is a stark departure from its predecessors, reflecting Valletta's evolution while keeping its historical roots.

City Gate stands today as a symbol of Malta's rich past and progressive future, creating a seamless blend of history and modernity. It is a must-visit spot for any traveler to understand the essence of Valletta.

City Gate, also known as 'Putirjal' by locals, is a true architectural marvel and a symbol of Valletta's rich history. One of its most distinctive features is the juxtaposition of old and new styles. The current, fifth iteration of the gate, was designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano and contrasts sharply with the traditional Maltese architecture. The gate's geometric simplicity, with its two large limestone blocks, challenges the conventional gate structure and is a testament to Piano's minimalist approach.

Another unique feature is its design to incorporate the ruins of the Royal Opera House, destroyed in World War II, into an open-air theatre. This seamless blending of history and modernity is truly captivating. Lastly, the 'gate' is not a gate in the traditional sense, but a breech; a walk-through passage that symbolises the open and welcoming nature of Malta. This innovative and symbolic design approach truly sets City Gate apart.

Valletta is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Valletta offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Valletta and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Upper Barrakka, Triton Fountain, St. John's Co-Cathedral, Lower Barrakka, and National War Museum - Fort St Elmo.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Valletta has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Valletta, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Malta!

City Gate is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Valletta, Malta. If you're flying in, Malta International Airport is approximately 3.2 miles (5.2 km) away from Valletta. From there, you can easily reach City Gate by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Valletta, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach City Gate, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to City Gate, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Republic St, Valletta, Malta.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at City Gate!

The best time to explore City Gate in Valletta, Malta, is during the spring and autumn seasons, primarily from April to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm with less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. These seasons also coincide with the off-peak tourist period, meaning fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. The summer, while vibrant with the Malta Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival, can get very crowded and hot. On the other hand, winter is mild and can offer a different experience, with the unique opportunity to witness the Valletta International Baroque Festival in January. However, for the optimal mix of favorable weather, manageable crowd levels, and a rich array of activities, spring and autumn are the best seasons. Whenever you choose to visit, remember that the City Gate is most atmospheric in the early morning or late afternoon, when the soft sunlight enhances the grandeur of this historic entrance to Malta's capital.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of City Gate and other top attractions in Valletta than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Valletta include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in City Gate's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into City Gate and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

With a rental car, discovering the popular City Gate and Malta's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Malta International Airport and the street of Valletta, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Malta cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Valletta and beyond.

Conveniently explore City Gate and plenty more captivating attractions in Valletta by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to City Gate and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Valletta has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting City Gate below.

Aside from City Gate, Valletta is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Valletta, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Upper Barrakka, Triton Fountain, and St. John's Co-Cathedral.

Upper Barrakka is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Valletta, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Upper Barrakka is 292 Triq Sant' Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta.

Another appreciated attraction in Valletta is Triton Fountain. Like Upper Barrakka, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 19,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is VGW5+783, Vjal Nelson, Il-Furjana, Malta.

St. John's Co-Cathedral is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Valletta. This church and top attraction in Valletta has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Valletta below.