Castles & palaces
Grandmaster's Palace
Overview
The Grandmaster's Palace is a historic complex in Valletta, Malta. It served as the official residence of the Grand Master of the Order of St John and later as a seat of government. Travellers visit to tour the state rooms and the armoury collection, which document the history and administration of the Order.
Getting There
The palace is located on St. George's Square in central Valletta. From the City Gate and main bus terminus, walk straight down Republic Street for roughly five to seven minutes.
Time to Allow
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the state rooms, courtyards, and armoury exhibits.
When to Go
Morning or late afternoon visits are best for avoiding crowds. The site gets crowded around midday, particularly when cruise ship excursions arrive. Summer brings high heat and larger crowds, whereas spring and autumn offer cooler walking conditions.
What to Combine It With
Due to its central position, several key sites are located within a short walk:
- St. John's Co-Cathedral (0.2km)
- Manoel Theatre (0.2km)
- Collegiate Parish Church of St Paul's Shipwreck (0.2km)
- Basilica of St Dominic (0.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors