Three Cities Malta: Explore Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua

Discover the soul of Malta through its fortified gems — the Three Cities Malta.
Nestled across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, these historic towns offer a timeless journey through culture, architecture, and local life.
Our exclusive tour takes you through Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, each with its own story, view, and character.

Vittoriosa (Birgu): The Knight’s Stronghold

Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, is the oldest of the Three Cities and rich in historical importance. Before Valletta existed, Birgu became the base of the Knights of St. John when they arrived in Malta in 1530. They chose it for its strategic position and transformed it into a powerful center of naval and religious command.
Fort St. Angelo, located at the tip of the city, played a crucial role during the Great Siege of 1565. As Ottoman forces tried to take the island, the fort held firm. Its success helped secure Malta’s future. Today, visitors can explore the restored fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.
Nearby, the Inquisitor’s Palace offers a rare glimpse into religious and civil justice from centuries past. Originally built as a courthouse for the Knights, it later housed the island’s inquisitors. Now a museum, it holds stories that span hundreds of years.

Senglea (Isla): Views That Take Your Breath Away

Senglea, or L-Isla in Maltese, extends into the Grand Harbour with elegance and strength. It is the smallest of the Three Cities, but its character runs deep. Built in the 1550s and named after Grand Master Claude de la Sengle, the city was part of Malta’s expanding defense system.
During the Great Siege of 1565, Senglea faced continuous attacks. The city never surrendered. That bravery earned it the name Città Invicta — The Unconquered City.
A walk through Senglea feels like turning the pages of history. Narrow streets lead to graceful churches and houses with traditional Maltese balconies. In addition, the harborfront path reveals stunning views of Valletta’s fortified skyline.

Cospicua (Bormla): The Hidden Gem

Cospicua, or Bormla, is the largest of the Three Cities. It has deep ties to Malta’s maritime history. For generations, it was the center of shipbuilding and dock work. Families here supported the island’s naval presence in the Mediterranean.
The city is protected by two sets of massive walls: the Santa Margherita Lines and the Cottonera Lines. The Knights of St. John built these in the 1600s. Their purpose was to guard Malta’s main harbor and its growing urban population.
Inside the fortifications, the city unfolds slowly. Narrow alleyways pass restored stone houses, small chapels, and peaceful courtyards. The atmosphere reflects the rhythm of daily life and the strong local identity that still thrives here.
Recent improvements along the harborfront have opened new spaces to walk and relax. Older buildings now stand beside calm promenades with views across the marina. Though Cospicua has evolved, it remains rooted in tradition and history.

Explore It All with Our Exclusive Excursion

Guests of Grand Hotel Excelsior can experience the Three Cities Malta firsthand with our private South Tour. This curated half-day journey includes visits to Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, along with stops at the Tarxien Temples, Ghar Dalam, Blue Grotto, and Marsaxlokk.

If you’re seeking history beyond the guidebooks, let our team show you the Three Cities Malta in a way that’s personal, memorable, and filled with insight.

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Isle of MTV Malta 2026

Katy Perry Comes to Malta for an Unforgettable Summer Experience

Every summer, Malta becomes a meeting point for music, culture, and unforgettable Mediterranean moments, and 2026 is set to be one of the biggest years yet.

International pop superstar Katy Perry will headline Isle of MTV Malta 2026 on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, bringing one of the world’s most recognised live performances to the historic Floriana Granaries.

With thousands of visitors travelling to Malta for this spectacular open-air event, Isle of MTV is more than a concert, it is a celebration of summer on the island.

A Landmark Night for Malta’s Music Scene

For years, Isle of MTV has welcomed some of the biggest names in global music, transforming Floriana into one of Europe’s most exciting festival locations.

The 2026 edition promises another unforgettable atmosphere as fans gather beneath the Maltese summer sky for an evening of live entertainment, energy, and world-class production.

Katy Perry’s arrival marks a special moment for the island, with fans expected to enjoy a show filled with iconic songs, vibrant visuals, and the creativity that has defined her international career.

Discover Malta During Isle of MTV Week

A trip to Isle of MTV is also the perfect opportunity to experience everything Malta has to offer.

Spend your days exploring Valletta’s UNESCO-listed streets, discovering historic landmarks, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying Mediterranean dining before the evening celebrations begin.

With warm summer evenings, beautiful coastal views, and a lively atmosphere across the island, July is one of the most exciting times to visit Malta.

Stay Close to the Celebration at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta

Located beside the historic walls of Valletta and overlooking the beautiful Marsamxett Harbour, Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta offers the ideal setting for your Isle of MTV getaway.

Enjoy the excitement of the festival while staying in a peaceful five-star environment just moments away.

Before the show, relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy refreshing drinks by the water, or take in panoramic harbour views. After an unforgettable night of music, return to the comfort and elegance of your room without the stress of long journeys across the island.

A Five-Star Summer Escape

Your Isle of MTV experience does not have to begin and end with the concert.

At Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta, guests can enjoy:

• A unique waterfront location near Valletta
• Outdoor swimming pool and private beach access
• Spacious rooms and suites
• Restaurants and bars with Mediterranean views
• Easy access to Malta’s cultural attractions and nightlife

Whether you are visiting Malta for the music, the sunshine, or a memorable summer escape, Grand Hotel Excelsior offers the perfect base.

Plan Your Isle of MTV Malta 2026 Stay

With one of the world’s biggest pop artists arriving in Malta, July 2026 is expected to be a popular period for visitors.

Make the most of Isle of MTV Malta 2026 by combining an unforgettable festival experience with a relaxing five-star stay overlooking the Mediterranean.

Reserve your summer escape at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta and experience the best of the island.

Malta Is Now Closer Than Ever: Direct Flights from the USA to Malta

Malta Is Now Closer Than Ever: Direct Flights from the USA to Malta

The Mediterranean has long been a dream destination for American travelers. Sun-drenched coastlines, centuries of history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable cuisine continue to attract millions of visitors each year.

Now, Malta is easier to reach than ever before.

With direct flights connecting the United States and Malta, travelers can enjoy a more convenient journey to one of Europe’s most captivating island destinations.

A New Direct Connection to the Mediterranean

Traveling to Malta has traditionally required one or more connecting flights through major European hubs.

The introduction of direct flights from the United States creates a simpler and more comfortable travel experience, allowing visitors to spend less time in airports and more time enjoying their destination.

For the latest schedules and flight availability, travelers can visit Delta Air Lines.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a Mediterranean adventure, reaching Malta has never been more convenient.

Discover Valletta and Beyond

A visit to Malta offers far more than beautiful weather.

Explore the historic streets of Valletta, visit the ancient city of Mdina, enjoy a boat trip around the islands, or experience the vibrant waterfront atmosphere that has made Malta one of Europe’s most exciting destinations.

Food lovers can enjoy a rich blend of Mediterranean flavours, while history enthusiasts can discover thousands of years of heritage shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Knights, and empires from across the world.

Stay at Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta

Situated on the waterfront at the entrance to Valletta, Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta offers guests a prime location from which to experience everything the island has to offer.

Wake up to spectacular harbour views, relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy exceptional dining experiences, and explore Malta’s capital city just moments from your room.

Whether you’re visiting for leisure, celebration, or exploration, Grand Hotel Excelsior combines luxury, comfort, and authentic Maltese hospitality.

Explore Our Accommodation

Pink October at the Grand Hotel Excelsior

Standing Together for Awareness and Hope

Every October, the world unites in shades of pink, a symbol of compassion, hope, and strength.
At the Grand Hotel Excelsior, our team proudly joined the global movement in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month through our Pink October initiative.

This heartfelt event brought together colleagues from all departments.



They showed their solidarity by wearing pink and joining a friendly gathering held in front of the staff canteen.
Team members enjoyed delicious homemade muffins, shared smiles, and contributed donations to support breast cancer awareness efforts.

As Tamara Ilić, Assistant HR Manager, shared:

“Pink October is more than just a day of wearing pink, it’s a reminder of compassion, unity, and the importance of awareness. At the Grand Hotel Excelsior, we stand together to support those affected and to spread hope within our community.”

A Culture of Care at Grand Hotel Excelsior

Moments like these remind us how even small actions can make a big difference.
A shared muffin, a kind word, or a symbolic color, each gesture matters.
At the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta, we believe in fostering a culture of care, empathy, and unity.
This spirit extends beyond our workplace and into the wider community.

Together, We Make a Difference

We sincerely thank every team member who took part in this year’s Pink October at Grand Hotel Excelsior.
Your kindness, generosity, and enthusiasm reflect the true spirit of this initiative.
Together, we continue to build a workplace that values compassion and celebrates the strength found in unity.

Where Champions Dock: Rolex Middle Sea Race

Setting Sail from the Grand Hotel Excelsior Marina

Every October, Malta’s Grand Harbour transforms into a stage for one of the world’s most spectacular sailing events, the Rolex Middle Sea Race.
Crews from around the world gather to test endurance, teamwork, and determination over 606 nautical miles of Mediterranean challenge.

This year, once again, the Grand Hotel Excelsior Marina proudly welcomes several participating teams.
The marina offers them a home base only steps away from Valletta’s historic walls and the excitement of the race.

A Marina with a View of History

Tucked beneath the UNESCO-listed city of Valletta, the Excelsior Marina offers more than berthing space, it’s where modern sailing meets centuries of maritime tradition.
From early-morning rigging to evening reflections on deck, the marina’s atmosphere perfectly balances competition and calm.

In addition, its close proximity to the Grand Harbour starting line makes it an ideal location for race preparations.
Teams like Red Bandit, last year’s champions, are among those training here again, enjoying the convenience of full hotel facilities before the race begins.

Welcoming the World’s Sailors

Among this year’s crews is Bouwe Van Der Weiden and his Red Bandit team, the defending champions returning after a challenging season.
When their previous rig broke, the team quickly secured a new boat and returned to Malta, determined to compete once more.

“Thanks a lot to the Excelsior Hotel because we use their facilities, and they’re taking great care of us,” said Bouwe during a short interview filmed at our marina.

These moments capture the shared passion that makes the Rolex Middle Sea Race Malta so unique, a mix of perseverance, teamwork, and respect for the sea.

The Spirit of the Sea

As the starting cannon fires from Valletta’s bastions, we take pride in seeing the yachts depart from our docks, their sails catching the same Maltese breeze that has guided sailors for centuries.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race Malta is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of endurance, tradition, and the island’s deep connection to the sea.
For us, it is an honour to be part of that story.

We wish all participants fair winds and a safe return.
We look forward to welcoming them back to the Grand Hotel Excelsior Marina, where every journey begins and ends in harbour elegance.