Museums & galleries
Malta Maritime Museum
Malta Maritime Museum
Located in Birgu, this museum is housed in a former 19th-century British Royal Navy bakery. It documents the maritime history of Malta from prehistoric times to the modern era, displaying a collection of over 20,000 artifacts that illustrate the island's relationship with the sea.
Getting There
The museum is situated in the Three Cities area, separate from the main hub of Valletta. Visitors typically travel from the city centre take a ferry from Valletta to Birgu. The boat trip is short, and the walk from the ferry landing to the museum takes only a few minutes.
Visit Duration
Depending on the level of interest in naval history and the size of the artifact collection, allow approximately two to three hours to walk through the galleries.
When to Visit
Visiting during the morning hours allows for a quieter experience before larger tour groups arrive. Like many indoor attractions in Malta, it provides a climate-controlled environment, making it a practical stop during the peak heat of the summer months.
Nearby Attractions
The museum is positioned within a walkable distance of several historical sites in and around Birgu and the Cottonera area:
- Our Lady of Victories Parish Church: 0.3km
- Lower Barrakka Gardens: 1.1km
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: 1.1km
- Cottonera Lines: 1.2km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors