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Evening

Golden Light at the Gardens

Arrive just before the sun dips below the horizon, catch the last warm light over the Grand Harbour, then wander down to dinner and a nightcap.

Best time: sunsetAbout 150 min

Timeline

  1. 19:10

    Croce Bonaci Caterers

    Grab a sandwich or coffee at Croce Bonaci Caterers. It is a small, friendly café just a short walk from the gardens. Perfect for a quick bite before you head up to the viewing spot.

  2. 19:35

    The Upper Barrakka Gardens

    Make your way to The Upper Barrakka Gardens. This is the prime viewing spot for the sunset over the Grand Harbour. The sun sets toward the WNW, offering a clear view of the light fading over the water and the Three Cities across the harbor.

  3. 20:20

    Rubino

    Head to Rubino for dinner. This historic restaurant has served traditional Maltese cuisine since 1906. It is a short walk from the gardens. Make sure to reserve a table in advance as it is popular.

  4. 21:05

    Cafe Society

    End the evening with a drink at Cafe Society. It is the only queer bar in Malta and has a lively atmosphere, especially in the warmer months when guests spill out into the street. It stays open late, so you can enjoy the night.

Local tip

The walk from the gardens to Rubino is straightforward. If you are not familiar with the area, check the route. Rubino requires prior reservation, so book before you go. Cafe Society is open until 01:00, giving you plenty of time to stay late.

Check before you go

  • Rubino is open Mo 12:30-14:30; Tu-Fr 12:30-14:30, 19:30-22:30; Sa 19:30-22:30. Ensure your dinner plans align with these hours.
  • Croce Bonaci Caterers has no listed opening hours, so ask locally or check if it is open when you arrive.
  • Cafe Society is open Mo-Su 12:00-01:00.

Worth knowing

  • Rubino is open at 20:20 only on Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Valletta (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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