What Are The Restaurants In Australia Worthy To Have An Experience?

BY  Sibashree Mar 26, 2024

Japan, a country steeped in tradition and culture, offers an array of sensory experiences that attract travelers from around the globe. Among these, the Japanese matsuri (festivals) stand out as a testament to the country's rich heritage, embodying the spirit of joy, community, and the spectacular interplay of light and color. For those embarking on Japan tours, the opportunity to participate in these festivals is not just a travel highlight; it's a deep dive into the heart of Japanese culture. The Essence Of Vibrant Matsuri Matsuri are integral to Japanese culture, with each festival having its unique significance, rooted in history, religion, and local lore. These events range from solemn traditional ceremonies to explosive celebrations of life, each painted with vibrant colors and illuminated by dazzling lights. The experience is a feast for the senses, offering insight into the communal spirit and the enduring traditions that define the Japanese way of life. A Kaleidoscope Of Festivals No Japan tour is complete without witnessing the spectacle of at least one matsuri. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, renowned for its grand procession of floats, is a spectacle of craftsmanship and community spirit that dates back over a thousand years. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland of intricate ice sculptures, blending artistry with the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, the Aomori Nebuta Festival captivates with its parade of enormous lantern floats, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Illuminating Experiences What sets these festivals apart is not just their visual appeal but the immersive experiences they offer. Participating in vibrant matsuri is to step into a living tapestry of history and tradition. Visitors can don traditional attire, partake in ancient rituals, and indulge in local delicacies. The warm welcome extended by the local communities adds to the charm, making every visitor feel part of the celebration. Seasonal Spectacles The beauty of Japan's festivals is their diversity throughout the year. Spring welcomes the cherry blossoms with hanami (flower viewing) parties, where the fleeting beauty of sakura serves as a backdrop for gatherings filled with food, drink, and song. Summer brings the explosive energy of fireworks and bon dances, while autumn and winter festivals, such as the Chichibu Night Festival, showcase breathtaking displays of light against the seasonal landscapes. Planning Your Japan Tour For travelers eager to immerse themselves in the magic of Japanese matsuri, planning is key. Many festivals occur on specific dates or seasons, and some of the most popular can draw large crowds. Engaging with a specialized Japan tours operator can provide invaluable insight, ensuring you not only witness these incredible events but also understand their cultural significance. Accommodations and logistics are also taken care of, allowing you to fully immerse in the experience without the hassle. A Journey Through Light and Color Japan's festivals are more than just events; they are a vibrant expression of life itself. They offer a unique window into the soul of Japan, where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture or simply looking to experience the extraordinary, the vibrant matsuri are a highlight of any Japan tour. As you navigate through the festivals of light and color, you're not just a spectator but a participant in a centuries-old tradition that continues to dazzle and inspire. How To Take Part In Matsuri  To take part in Matruri, a grand Japanese festival, you have to learn about Japanese culture. Many Matruri welcome tourists and visitors from around the world. Indeed, it's a great way to learn about Japanese festivities and share the most important inputs on the celebrations. Here, we discuss how you can take part in Matrusir and experience the festivities. It is usually opined that there are many, hundreds, and thousands of Matsur taking place in Japan. The is no requirement to wear traditional clothes. Watching the people in procession and parades in huge numbers is a great approach to feeling the festivity from within. Renting Traditional Japanese Costumes If you join the matsuri celebration in general clothes, there is no issue, but you may be detached from the crowd. Why not make the gathering special? No, you do not need to buy traditional wear. But you can rent it. It’s a simplistic wear, yet echoes the Japanese spirit…yes, we mean a Kimono called the Yukata. There are Yulta rentals. Moreover, there are some specific costumes meant for different festivals. You can try it out and have fun. Chanting Together  Another part of the festivities and soaking in the fun is chanting together. It is one of the easiest ways to be one with the people. Chants like Washoi or Oisa, or say Rassera Rassera Rassera (in the Nebuta Festival), can help you get yourself close to the Japanese culture and the sense of unity. It is indeed a great way to join the locals and be one with the Japanese culture. Dance Together  One of the great ways to express fun, merriment, and lightness of mood is by dancing together. Dance has been an integral part of the culture of various civilizations. It is a great way to participate with the people and learn about the intricacies of the culture. The same goes for Japan. It is a great way to embrace the warmth of the festivities and soak up the cultural elements. In Japan, during the vibrantMatrusi, you can take part in a traditional Japanese folk dance called Odori. Repeat the same movements with everyone, and you will be a master of it in no time. If you find it shaky initially, then you could use YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with the steps. Don’t worry, you are new, and you need some time. But there is no doubt that you will have great fun. Cherish The Gastronomic Heart Of The Matsuri: Yatai Street Food No festival experience is complete without navigating the Yatai, the vibrant rows of wooden street food stalls that provide the smoky, sweet aroma defining every matsuri.  For many travelers, the Yatai are the most accessible entry point into the celebration, offering a literal taste of Japanese tradition. As you wander through the crowds, start with the iconic Takoyaki (savory octopus balls), served piping hot and topped with dancing bonito flakes.  Follow the sizzle of the grill to find Yakisoba, where thick noodles are stir-fried with a signature tangy sauce that has been a festival staple for generations.  For those with a sweet tooth, the whimsical Choco-banana, dipped in chocolate and colorful sprinkles, is a nostalgic must-try.  Finally, don't miss Taiyaki, the famous fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or creamy custard.  Eating your way through these stalls isn't just about refueling; it’s a vital ritual of communal joy. Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Tech And Sustainability In The Best Festivals In Japan In 2026 In the travel landscape of 2026, the magic of a Japanese matsuri is no longer just about preserving the past. It’s about ensuring these traditions survive in a modern, eco-conscious world. The intersection of high-tech logistics and "Green Shinto" values has transformed how visitors experience these spectacles. Smart Crowd Management Navigating the legendary congestion of festivals like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri has been revolutionized by technology.  Major events now utilize official Crowd Management Apps, such as the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 platform, which provides real-time heat maps of street density.  By using AI-driven sensor data, these apps steer tourists away from bottlenecked alleys toward "secret" viewing spots, ensuring safety without dampening the festive spirit.  For the traveler, this means less time stuck in a standstill and more time enjoying the procession. The Rise Of The Eco-Matsuri Sustainability is the new heartbeat of the festival grounds. The "Zero-Waste" movement has moved from niche to norm. The Earth Celebration 2026 on Sado Island, for example, leads the charge by encouraging visitors to bring their own reusable cutlery (my-hashi) and offering dedicated wash stations to eliminate single-use plastics. Even the iconic nighttime illuminations have gone green. Traditional paper lanterns are increasingly powered by high-efficiency LED bulbs and solar-charged battery packs. Events like the Nabana no Sato Light Festival now run massive, multi-million LED displays entirely on solar energy.  This shift not only reduces the carbon footprint but also allows for more intricate, color-changing light shows that were impossible with traditional candles.  In 2026, you can soak in the "Light and Color," knowing that the glow is as sustainable as it is spectacular. Festivals In Japan: A Spectacle Of Light And Color Japanese tours that include the vibrant matsuri offer an unparalleled experience of the heart of Japanese culture.  Each festival, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and community, presents an unforgettable spectacle of light and color.  Whether you’re drawn by the history, the beauty, or the sheer joy of these celebrations, participating in a matsuri or the festivals in Japan is an experience that resonates long after the lights have dimmed. Read Also: What Is The Oldest Country In The World? Japanese And Other Civilizations Still Alive Today What Are The Things To Do In Japan? Know Why Gen Z Travelers Love Japan The Most What Is The Best Japanese Temple To Visit? A Temple Tour In Japan

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2026

“Mera kaat kaleja dilli Mera kaat kaleja dilli Lai gayi kaat kaleja dilli Mui dilli le gayi…” Though the context is different, for me, this No One Killed Jessica song sums up Delhi these days. Even if “Incredible India” calls Lodhi Garden “A green oasis in the heart of Delhi,” the official CPCB report marks the AQI at 283, or poor.  Furthermore, in a YouTube video published on the “Newslaundry” channel, the vlogger recorded an AQI between 336 and 340, meaning the air quality was very poor.  Amidst this, the good news is that the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has launched a waste management and cleanliness drive in Lodhi Garden. This initiative will help maintain the cleanliness of the garden without impacting its ecology.  Nevertheless, the Lodhi Garden has always been a public place in Delhi, offering respite from the noise and traffic of Delhi.  Here’s to a calm day in Delhi at the Lodhi Garden and nearby Khan Market.  Lodhi Garden: Location, Entry Fee, Timing, Official WebsiteAddressMain Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi – 110003Entry FeeNilPhotography Fee NilTimings6:00 AM – 7:30 PMOfficial WebsiteDELHI TOURISMPhotography AllowedYesNearest Metro StationJLN Metro Station What Is The Lodhi Garden? The Lodi Garden is a green escape on the Lodi Road in South Delhi. It is between Safdarjung’s Tomb and Khan Market.  Covering an area of 90 acres, this Garden is home to many tombs from the Lodi, Sayyid, and Mughal dynasties.  However, it is more than a place where history breathes through the Indo-Islamic architecture. With gardens, exercise machines, walking paths, and running tracks, it is a popular place for outdoor fitness activities.  Also, it is a paradise for art lovers, thanks to its stunning sculptures and art installations. What Is The History Of The Lodhi Garden? The history of this beautiful garden goes back to the 15th century. It was the burial ground of the Lodhi lords. The most significant tombs here are those of Sikandar Lodhi and Mohammed Shah.  The tombs and ruins were earlier scattered around the village of Khairpur till 1931. However, in 1936, the villagers were moved from the village, and this monument was created. The tombs had exotic and native trees around.  Furthermore, the garden got its name from Lady Willingdon Park after the name of the British Viceroy’s wife.  It was named the Lodhi Garden in 1947 after India’s independence, in memory of the tombs present here.  However, the current form we see today is the work of American architects Joseph Allen Stein and Garrett Eckbo in 1968. They added the rose garden, bonsai park, the lake with a fountain, and a glasshouse.  A Brief Historical Timeline Of The Lodhi Garden  1414–1451 (15th Century)• Becomes a burial site for the Sayyid Dynasty• The Tomb of Muhammad Shah was built in 1444. 1451–1517• The Lodhi Dynasty (1451–1526) used the tomb.• Included the Sheesh Gumbad and Bara Gumbad. 1517–1518• Ibrahim Lodi built the tomb of his father, Sikandar Lodi, after his death in 1517. 1936• The Khairpur Village was cleared, and a landscaped park called Lady Willingdon Park was constructed. 1947• India became independent, and Lady Willingdon Park was renamed Lodhi Garden. 1968• J.A. Stein and Garrett Eckbo enhance the Lodhi Garden as a public place with various additions. Present Day• The Archaeological Survey of India protects it for the preservation of its Sultanate-era architecture and diverse flora.  Visiting The Lodhi Garden: The Tombs And Architecture To See Whenever I am in Delhi, I make a point to visit the Lodhi Garden. I love the calming effect and the scent of history here.  I also take random walks in the park, and each time, the park surprises me with something new. Even if it is nothing else, a wildflower that I have not seen before will smile at me. Or a squirrel will greet me and then will be gone in a blink.  Also, irrespective of the direction of your entrance (East, West, North, and South), you will find ancient buildings here.  1. The Tomb of Sikandar Lodi To The North The magnificent Tomb of Sikandar Lodi is to the north. It is one of the oldest garden tombs of India.  Furthermore, it has an octagonal structure. Also, despite its Indo-Islamic architecture, it has small domed pavilions or Chattris, which were a signature of Rajput architecture.  Also, the Overhanging Eaves or Chajjas and supporting brackets seen here come from the Rajput legacy.  2. The Sheesh Gumbad In The Centre The Sheesh Gumbad stands like a witness to time amidst the greenery of the park. It is a domed building with a cube shape.  The interior of the dome ceiling is decorated. Furthermore, from the arched openings on the four sides of the tomb, you will get amazing views of the park.  The only problem I feel is the presence of selfie-obsessed visitors. They somehow ruin the mood and do not understand the somberness of the place.  I even found some pre-wedding shots going on there.  Call me old-school! But these things irritate me.  3. Bada Gumbad Or Bara Gumbad To The South Bada Gumbad has an architecture similar to the Sheesh Gumbad. However, living up to its name, this tomb is bigger than Sheesh Gumbad.  It is also one of the oldest full-domed buildings in the country, and it serves as a beautiful entrance to the adjacent Jama Masjid.  4. The Jama Masjid Or The Friday Mosque  This mosque was built in the 15th century, and it has the typical red sandstone architecture, which was a signature of the Lodhi era.  Furthermore, here you will notice amazing geometric designs and calligraphy on the arches and columns.  5. The Tomb Of Muhammed Shah On The Southern End  The Tomb of Muhammad Shah is the oldest in the garden, and it is located on the southern end of the park.  You have to walk through a covered walkway to reach this tomb in an octagonal shape.  Along with these major tombs and architecture, the park also has many old tombs, structures, and ruins.  Furthermore, with the recent expansions, there are dedicated Yoga lawns, herb gardens, rose gardens and a glasshouse. Moreover, there are exercise machines.  Also, the trees here are home to a handsome population of squirrels, chipmunks and various species of birds. You will especially notice eagles spiralling over the park.  Some Practical Tips For Visiting The Lodhi Garden The Lodhi Garden is a free public space with the richest diversity of plants, historic architecture, and ruins. So, it is a budget-friendly place to visit.  It is easily accessible by autos and metro routes. Here is more on how to reach the park, basic amenities, and nearby attractions.  How To Reach The Lodhi Garden? The Lodhi Garden is close to four metro stations.  Station NameMetro LineDistance Jor BaghYellow Line1.4 KmKhan MarketViolet Line1.6 KmJangpuraYellow Line4.2 KmJLN StadiumViolet Line2.6 Km From these metro stations, you can take autos. If you are coming from Jangpura or the JLN Stadium, you can even book an Uber to avoid negotiations with the local drivers.  How Much Time Is Required At The Lodhi Garden?  I don’t have an answer to that. From an hour to the entire day, the time you spend here will depend on your intent of visit.  It takes around 20 minutes to complete a walk around the park. However, if you want to appreciate the tombs and their architecture, it will take longer.  Also, the rich community of trees here always asks you to stay a little longer. Moreover, the Lodhi Garden is a popular picnic spot. Is There A Toilet At Lodhi Garden?  Yes, there are toilets at Lodhi Garden, and they are well-maintained.  Are Food And Drinks Available At Lodhi Garden?  There is no permanent stall of official setup for food and drinks at Lodhi Garden. However, you will find vendors selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and the famous chats of Delhi at the entrance.  Furthermore, inside the park, you will find many wandering vendors. They set up their stalls on a tripod instantly and make mouthwatering chaats and snacks for you.  You can even pack your food and have it at the Lodhi Garden for a picnic vibe. Irrespective of where you get the food from, please be careful about waste disposal.  However, if you are really hungry and want to gorge on proper Delhi food, head to the nearby Khan Market.  What Are The Places To Visit Near The Lodhi Garden? You can combine your day in the Lodhi Garden with a visit to the Safdarjung Tomb and the Khan Market. Also, you can explore the nearby Lodhi Art District.  1. The Safdarjung Tomb It is the tomb of the Mughal Empire's Vazir Safdarjung, and it shows a mix of Persian and Indian styles of architecture.  It has beautiful marble and red stone architecture. Moreover, built in 1754, it was the last monumental Mughal garden tomb in Delhi.  2. The Khan Market  You will find all the designer and branded clothes at Khan Market. It is a high-end shopping district, and it brings you back to the present after a date with history in the Lodhi Garden.  Furthermore, it is the place to have a posh coffee date, an upscale luncheon, or an artisan cake tasting. You must try the wood-fired pizzas at the restaurants here.  Moreover, if you really want to enjoy the evening in South Delhi, Khan Market is the place to be. The bars and lounges here come to life after sundown.  How To Reach Khan Market? You can walk for ten minutes from the north entrance of the Lodhi Garden, or you can take an auto from the south entrance.  Moreover, there is a metro station called Khan Market on the Violet Line.  3. The Lodhi Art District The Lodhi Art District is a few blocks south of the Lodhi Garden. It was the last housing estate the British had built in India.  However, today, it is a place that belongs to the Indian artists. You will find more than 50 street artworks and murals here.  Take an auto or walk for 15 minutes to reach the Lodhi Art District from Lodhi Garden.  Where To Stay Near Lodhi Garden? If you want a luxury experience, you can stay at The Lodhi. Furthermore, there are many budget-friendly accommodations near Lodhi Garden.  These are Hotel O Maharaja Inn and Evergreen Delhi Bed and Breakfast. Finding A Place To Relax In The Heart Of Delhi  Delhi, the capital of India, has endless attractions in the true sense. From the Jantar Mantar to Humayun’s Tomb, it is a living tapestry of history and human culture.  However, whenever you feel overwhelmed by the bustling crowd and noise of Delhi, you can visit the Lodhi Garden and catch your breath.  Read Also: Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Dark Tourism in India Exploring Shadows and Must-Visit Sites Varkala Beach: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

BY  Sibashree Dec 1, 2025

Everything great is happening in Valletta's tourism industry these days. 2025 has been a year of growth and recognition for Valletta, the small capital city of Malta, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  In the forest quarter of 2025 itself, Malta received more than 693,000 visitors according to the Tour and Travel World. It was an 18.9% rise from the same period in 2024. Furthermore, in the same period, the tourist spending reached €508.5 million.  This means tourism continues to offer opportunities for local and foreign entrepreneurs who come to set up companies in Malta, with the help of local specialists from BridgWest.  In addition, the World Travel $ Tourism Council has chosen Malta as the venue for the WTTC Global Summit, 2026. The 26th edition of the summit will take place in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs & Tourism and the Government of Malta.  The prominent landmarks of Valletta, such as the Grand Harbour and St. John's Co-Cathedral, and activities such as exploring Victoria's Gate and trying some brilliant craft beer, and cultural richness, have helped Valletta enjoy such growth in numbers and global recognition.  I have been to Malta, and starting from exploring the fortified walls of Valletta to enjoying the serene charm of Valletta Grand Harbour Waterfront, the free things to do in Valletta were the highlights for me. On such a shoestring budget, I was able to enjoy the essence of a city, which even enjoyed the status of the European Capital of Culture 2018.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will, of course, talk about the free activities and other fun and interesting things to do in Valletta.  What Are The Things To Do In Valletta? As I started exploring the city of Valletta, I noticed the signature "Pointed Cross" of the Knights protecting this ancient city from everything evil.  If this is something really spiritual, on the other hand, you will see history becoming alive with the post boxes, telephone booths, and British colonial architecture.  Nevertheless, these are the things to do in Valletta. 1. Visiting The St. John's Co-Cathedral Address: Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:15 PM (Monday to Saturday) Entry Fee: Adults: €15, Seniors: €12, Students: €12, Children (Under 12): Free when accompanied by an adult, €5 Extra for a Belfray Tour, Audio Tour Included View this post on Instagram A post shared by St John's Co-Cathedral (@stjohnscocathedral) The St. John's Co-Cathedral is the most prominent example of the Baroque-style architecture of Valletta. The Knights of the St. John built this conventional church for the order in the late 16th century.  You will know about the life of St. John the Baptist from the paintings by Mattia Preti on the ceiling of this cathedral.  Furthermore, there are eight chapels, dedicated to various languages, tapestries, marble floors, and gilded carvings. However, the main focus for me was the painting called "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." This dramatic work, one of the few artworks signed by Caravaggio, is in the Oratory. 2. Exploring Fort St. Elmo And The National War Museum Address: Mediterranean Street, Valletta, Malta Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: Adults - €10.00, Senior Citizens (60+) and Youths (12-17 Years) - €7.50, Students - €7.50, Children (5-11 Years) - €5.00, Below 5 Years - Free Fort St. Elmo stands as a witness to the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. It has military paraphernalia and many artefacts.  However, the major appeal of the fort is intangible, and it lies in the fact of how it became a refuge for the people of Malta during the attack of the Ottoman Empire under the leadership of Suleiman the Magnificent.  The Knights, only around 500 in numbers, defeated the 6000 strong army of the Ottoman Emperor. Furthermore, the National War Museum inside the fort, spanning over seven sections, celebrates the 7000-year-old history of Malta. Some of the exhibits here date back to the Bronze Age (2,500 BC).  You can even request a guided tour of the museum.  Insider Tip: 2025 marked the 900th year of the Great Siege of Malta. A docu-drama called The Great Siege of Malta 1565 was released in 2025. This 45-minute docu-drama celebrates the bravery of the "Hospitalier Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem."  3. Visiting The Grand Master's Palace Address: St George's Square, Valletta Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: €12 for Adults, €10 for Children Aged 12 to 17 Years and Seniors, Children (6-11): €8, Infants (1-5): Free The Grand Master of the Order of St. John used to rule Valletta from the Grand Master's Palace. The armory here is the main attraction, and it has the accessories and outfits of the Knights.  Furthermore, the symbol of power, with its history of 450 years, is once again in the news with its recent renovation work.  It was also the "seat of the first constitutional parliament of Malta in 1921," and now it is the "Seat of the Office of the President of Malta." 4. A Guided Tour Of Casa Rocca Piccola Address: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM Audio Tours: From 10 AM Guided Tours: From 10 AM to 4 PM (On An Hourly Basis) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Casa Rocca Piccola (@casaroccapiccola) Do you know that the 9th Marquis de Piro still lives in this 16th-century palace? Join the audio tours or the guided tours to see the swanky furniture and unique staircases.  However, for me, the Bomb Shelters were the main attraction. These are not dark tourism spots. These are the living history of World War II.  When 15 air raids took place in 1942, the people of Valletta saved their lives by hiding in these chambers. These shelters were part of the quarry of the 400-year-old house, and they were made from a solid rock foundation.  5. Know The WWII Stories Of Malta At Lascaris War Rooms Address: Lascaris Ditch, Valletta VLT 2000, Malta Hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee - Adults: €20, Seniors: €19, 5-15 Years Old: €7, Family: €35, Children below 5 Years: Free I love history, and even if you don't, you cannot avoid knowing about WW1 and WW2. These two wars changed the course of human civilization.  At Lascaris War Rooms, you don't just see the exhibits. You live through the moments of war as you explore the tunnels and labyrinths used as protection from the Italian and German attacks during World War 2.  It's like getting transported to the 1940s within a minute.  Insider Tip: I found the War Rooms more fascinating than the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Did you know that these War Rooms were used as the headquarters for the Invasion of Sicily or Operation Husky? 6. Visiting The National Museum Of Archaeology Address: Auberge de Provençe, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta Hours: 8 AM to 7 PM (Admission Closes at 6:30 PM) Entry Fee: €5 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heritage Malta (@heritagemalta) I was at a loss for words at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. It has everything you need to know about the prehistoric days of Malta.  Once I entered, the first room had exhibits showing how the earliest people settled here, even before the temple establishment period. It had "Red Skorba ornaments" and some "tools" they used in their everyday lives.  I also got to see exhibits from the Ghar Dalam phase (5200 BC), Tarxien phase (2500 BC), and Bronze Age.  Then, I reached the main hall of the museum. It had the Sleeping Lady and other astonishing sculptures and temple carvings.  Among the collectibles from the Temple Period, the Obsidian Core was the most impressive. It was a headless sculpture, in a seated posture.  Housed inside a Baroque building, this museum is now the main attraction of Auberge de Provençe, which was earlier the home of the Knights of the St. John. Insider Tip: If you are traveling from any other town in Malta, take a bus to the Valetta Bus Terminal. From there, it is a short distance on foot.  7. Visiting The Upper Barrakka Gardens Address: 292 Triq Sant'Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM Entry Fee: Free Home to the Siege Bell War Memorial, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer amazing views of the harbor and the three neighboring cities.  This 16th-century garden was built in the 16th century, and the Knights of the Saint John once used it as a private garden.  Once you are done strolling the Castille Square, you will find the Upper Barrakka Gardens nearby.  Insider Tip: It's great to relax at the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and have a sip of your favorite drink. However, at 12 PM and 4 PM, the officials of the Malta Heritage Society get dressed in military uniforms and fire the cannons at the Upper Barakka Gardens.  Now, I had a cup of hot coffee in my hand, and I was not ready for it. So, it fell out of my hand, and it was a mess.  Nevertheless, this tradition has been continued for more than 100 years, and once you attend it, you will know why it is worth it.  Also, you must use the Barakka Lift to travel between the upper and lower Barakka Gardens quickly.  8. Plan A Visit To The Lower Barrakka Gardens Address: Lvant, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM Entry Fee: Free I know people do not talk much about the Lower Barrakka Gardens. However, that's a blessing in disguise. It is way less crowded than the Upper Barrakka Garden.  Now, despite having the name as "Gardens," it is actually a small-scale garden with a few minutes taken to complete the stroll.  However, there is a fort and a waterfront with Greek-style arches overlooking them. You can relax here, have your moments, and make the most of the photo ops. 9. Enjoying The Waterfront The Baroque houses, surrounding the waterfront of Valletta, were earlier used for storing the essentials of the Grand Master. Now, they are bars and restaurants.  I found the promenade the perfect place to relax and cherish a drink with my eyes set on the ships cruising. The place is more magical after sundown, but there is a trick! You have to find a cafe or restaurant that is not crowded by tourists. Find yourself a quiet corner. 10. Watching A Performance At The Manoel Theatre Address: Old Theatre Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Capacity: 623 Opened In: 1732 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Teatru Manoel (@teatru.manoel) At Manoel Theatre, as a performer of elocution and audio theater for the longest time, I had goosebumps. I was standing at the oldest working theater in Europe.  The wrap-around gallery was the highlight of the building, and I attended an opera performance by none other than Joseph Calleja.  Also, if you want to explore the grand architecture of Manoel Theatre, you can do so every Tuesday. During the summer months, the tours are conducted between 10:30 AM and 12 PM, and during the winter months, these tours continue from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets are available at 20.00 €.  11. Trying Local Food  Many people call Maltese ftira a "type of pizza." However, very few people know that it is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, with a history dating back to the 16th century, when it was first prepared in the ovens of the Knights of St. John.  Furthermore, it is a chosen food because of its versatile fillings and its role as an identity of Valletta and, by extension, of Malta. I also loved the coffee here. It was my best companion while taking a stroll across the roads. Furthermore, if you are in Valletta, don't miss the Lampuki Pie or the signature fish pie.  How To Reach And Move Around Valletta? Valletta is well-connected to the world through the Malta International Airport. It is around 9 km away from Valletta, and the short drive took me close to 20 minutes. I took the bus to the City Centre.  You can also book a shuttle in advance or take a taxi.  The city has a well-connected bus route, and it is a small city that you can cover on foot. However, the transport options are island-specific. You can take a Talinja Card or Flex Card for exploring Valletta and Malta.  Also, you can take a ferry service to the Grand Harbour of Valletta to and from Gozo and the Three Cities. You will even get a ferry service from Sliema to St. Paul's in Valletta. Insider Tip:  I picked the "Gozo Standard Add-On" card for my day trip. I didn't have the time for so many trips. But you can use this add-on to enjoy unlimited tours to Gozo Island.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Valletta? March to May and September to early November are the best seasons to visit Valletta. Valletta has so many historic landmarks and outdoor spaces. The temperature in the early 20s in these months offers you the ideal chance to explore Valletta.  Also, the crowd is quite manageable in these months.  Valletta, At A Glance: Why Does Valletta Offer Such A Rich Experience? The best thing about Valletta is how compact it is! By compact, I mean it has a big heart, accommodating the best museums, well-preserved Baroque architecture, the Grand Harbour, stone walls, and stories.  From the stories of a 16th-century ghost to being the backdrop of many spy thrillers, such as "The Secrets of Malta" by Cecily Blench, and historical novels such as "The Hidden Palace" by Dinah Jefferies, have added stories to each key attraction of the city.  Also, the stories of the city's sustenance during World War II and the Great Siege by the Ottoman Turks in 1565 tell us about human resilience.  Location-wise, this Fortress City, with a soft honey hue, stands on the ocean. It is also the dream of a photographer with the Baroque architecture reaching the sky.  Despite being only 1 kilometer long and 600 meters wide, the city of Valletta is very compact, housing many museums, cobblestones, and architecture, and it became the "European Cultural Capital in 2018.  Valletta is very close to the famous Three Cities. These cities are Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa. The Grand Harbour separates these cities from Valletta.  Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John in 1565 after the Great Siege of Malta. It was one of the best fortified cities in Europe and was built in a very short span. The city got its name from Jean Parisot de La Valette, who was the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. Where To Stay In Valletta? When in Valletta, you must choose a hotel with an amazing rooftop view. The Embassy Valletta Hotel and Palazzo Ignazio are some of the best options to stay in.  The best areas for finding a hotel are the Valletta City Centre, Floriana, The Three Cities, etc.  The hotel charges will be around 300-500 Euros.  Is Valletta Really Worth It? An Honest Confession About The City  Yes, Valletta is a European Capital City with so many historic, religious, and cultural elements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has many stories, like the Great Siege of Malta or the attacks of World WW2.  However, the remnants of the British Colonial Rule, like the telephone booths and post boxes, were sore to my eyes and they are a mismatch with the beautiful Baroque architecture and century-old buildings.  Also, it is hard to find a quiet place in Valletta. So, that can be a problem for a solo traveler. Still, the great food and historic thrill of the city make it really worth it! Even if you are in the city for one day, you can enjoy a stroll around the City Square and at least explore the St. John's Co-Cathedral to enjoy a slice of Maltese life. Read Also: A Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: How To Travel Kotor Montenegro On A Budget? “Winter Is Coming!” Where Is Hot In October? Explore Places To Visit In Europe Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready!