Hardly any cruise port is as spectacularly located beneath a historic old town as Valletta. This long run combines the old town with a longer coastal section and can be flexibly adjusted. The route first leads through Valletta with its well-known viewpoints and then runs along the coast towards Sliema and St. Julian's. Depending on the variation, the distance ranges from about 18 to 30 km. The following options are available:
- Fort Manoel out & back: approx. 18 km - Tigné Point out & back: approx. 21 to 23 km (longer variation with run to Fort Manoel) - Spinola Bay (St. Julian's) One-Way: approx. 17 to 19 km - Spinola Bay (St. Julian's) out & back: approx. 28 to 30 km
Important note about the start: The GPX file represents the maximum variation. Shorter distances result from turning back early, for example at Fort Manoel or Tigné Point.
The route starts at the harbor, then leads along the promenade and then over a roundabout up through the city gate to the Lower Barrakka Gardens. From there, it continues towards Fort St. Elmo and along the north side of the city, which offers a view of Fort Manoel and the opposite coast.
Subsequently, the route leads through the alleys of the old town and passes central points with several changes of direction, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Grand Master's Palace. The route finally leads to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer an impressive view of the coast and the harbor.
After leaving the old town, the route first leads back towards the harbor area and then via an ascent through the King George V Park area. From there, it transitions towards Sliema. On the way there, the route follows the coastline. Optionally, a detour to Fort Manoel can be included. Further along the promenade, Tigné Point is reached. If you want to extend the distance, continue along the coast to Spinola Bay.
The return trip to Valletta follows the same route. Alternatively, you can run one-way and take a bus or taxi back to the harbor.
Valletta's old town is very worth seeing and has many highlights to offer. Since these are relatively compact, a “sightseeing” run in Valletta is practically predestined. This route allows you to combine a sightseeing experience with a training run in the form of a long run and discover a part of the beautiful Maltese coast and other towns.
If you are in Valletta for the first time, you should definitely explore the old town thoroughly. It is also worthwhile to book a guided walking tour in addition to a private run, to learn even more about the city. But this long run also has a special charm because you get a great view of the city from the side opposite Valletta.
If you have been to Valletta before, or if just looking at the buildings from the outside is enough for you, you could also take the bus in the morning for our 11 km coastal run from Marsascala to Marsaxlokk. This way, you can explore not only the capital but also the beautiful coasts of Malta. For a more active excursion, try a SUP tour around Fort Manoel. In this area, you also have a great view of Valletta.
The running route starts in the immediate vicinity of the cruise port.
You can either follow the route directly via the map on this page or import the GPX file into a navigation app like Komoot. We recommend navigation via the GPX file, as it is much more precise and you receive clear guidance via GPS while running. After saving the GPX file in your app, you can usually use the map offline. We recommend testing the navigation in airplane mode without active Wi-Fi beforehand to ensure it works even without an internet connection.
Tip: For safety, it is still useful to have internet while on the go. If your mobile provider does not offer data roaming in Malta or only at high costs, a global data plan that works in many countries is suitable for cruises – for example, from eSIM.sm (advertisement).
The route partially runs along roads, but mostly on sidewalks. Overall, it can therefore be classified as safe.
Plan enough buffer time. If necessary, the route can be shortened or the return journey can be made by bus or taxi. You should also have apps like Uber or Bolt on your phone and be familiar with their use. In Malta, Uber and Bolt work well.
There is a public restroom at the bus station. Along the route, there are occasional opportunities to buy something to drink. A water point where you can refill a bottle for a small fee is located towards Fort Manoel.
The route runs on asphalted and paved paths. Normal running shoes are sufficient. Additionally, sun protection (ad), enough water, and a navigation device are recommended. A payment option is sensible, as card payment is usually possible in Malta.