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Three Cities Ferry Service
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The Three Cities Ferry Service provides a vital maritime link between the capital city of Valletta and the historical fortified cities across the Grand Harbour. Departing from the Lascaris Wharf below the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the ferry crosses to Cospicua and Vittoriosa in approximately ten minutes. This service revitalized the ancient tradition of harbor commuting, which was historically dominated by traditional wooden boats known as dghajjes. Today, modern catamaran vessels operate alongside these heritage boats, offering commuters and tourists an efficient alternative to road transport. The route gives unobstructed views of the massive 16th-century limestone fortifications, including Fort St. Angelo and the Senglea bastions. It plays a significant role in reducing traffic congestion within the Three Cities area while preserving the maritime identity of the Grand Harbour region.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Fort Saint Angelo · The Gardjola · Art by the Seaside Art Gallery
- Nearby: St. Julian's (4 km)
- Population: ~2.489 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 65 | 51 | 33 | 17 | 11 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 82 | 95 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Three Cities Ferry Service connects Valletta with the historic towns of Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua (the Three Cities) on the other side of the Grand Harbour. It serves as a vital local transport link for commuters and tourists, offering a unique view of Valletta's fortifications.
Visiting
The ferry service is accessible to all passengers; tickets can be purchased at the piers or online. The ferries operate regularly during the day, and waiting areas are publicly accessible.
Where to view it
The best view of the Three Cities and the harbour is from the ferry itself during the crossing. From the Valletta piers (Lascaris Wharf), one also has a good view of the opposite shore.
Local products
In the Three Cities, local craft workshops offer traditional Maltese lace-making and glass-blowing. Local bakeries also sell ftira (Maltese flatbread) and pastizzi (flaky pastry with pea filling).
Active season
The ferry service operates year-round, with more frequent sailings during the peak season from May to October. Morning and evening hours are busiest for commuters.
Nearby
A trip on the Three Cities Ferry can be combined with a visit to the fortified cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), featuring the Inquisitor's Palace and the Malta Maritime Museum. Nearby are also the Senglea bastions and the historic gardens of Cospicua.
Geography
Facts
- The crossing time ranges between 7 and 10 minutes.
- The service is operated by Valletta Ferry Services.
- Departures occur every 30 minutes during daylight hours.
- Terminals are located at Valletta (Lascaris) and Cospicua.
- Night services are available until midnight during summer months.
- The route provides direct views of the 16th-century Fort St. Angelo.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Three Cities Ferry Service (10)
Wreck of SS Margit
Shipwreck in Malta.
Malta Maritime Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Birgu, Malta.
Il-Port il-Kbir
Natural harbour in Valetta, Malta.
Auberge d'Auvergne et de Provence
Auberge in Birgu.
Saint Joseph Oratory🏛 museum
Museum in Birgu, Malta.
31st March 1979 - Freedom Day
Monument to Freedom Day in Malta.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does the ferry to the Three Cities start from?
The ferry departs from the Grand Harbour in Valletta, below the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Which of the Three Cities does it go to?
The ferry usually takes you to Cospicua (Bormla), which is within walking distance of Birgu.
Is the trip worth it at night?
Yes, the view of the illuminated fortifications of Valletta and Birgu is magical at night.
Can you take bicycles on the ferry?
Yes, bicycles can usually be taken on board for a small additional fee.
How often does the ferry run?
It runs about every 30 minutes during the day, with schedules varying by season.
Three Cities Ferry Service: where is it located?
Three Cities Ferry Service is located in Malta.
Three Cities Ferry Service: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fort Saint Angelo, The Gardjola, Art by the Seaside Art Gallery.
Three Cities Ferry Service: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Three Cities Ferry Service: why is it worth visiting?
The Three Cities Ferry Service provides a vital maritime link between the capital city of Valletta and the historical fortified cities across the Grand Harbour.
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