Guided Tour- Valletta Monastery and Secret Garden

Exploring Valletta’s Hidden Monastery and Secret Garden: A Unique Journey into Cloistered Life

When it comes to Malta, most visitors focus on its stunning forts, historic streets, and beautiful coastlines. But for those with an eye for the lesser-known, a guided tour of Valletta’s Monastery and Secret Garden offers an intimate glimpse into a world that’s been hidden for over 450 years. This experience is more than just sightseeing; it’s a rare peek into the secluded lives of cloistered nuns and the tranquil spaces they’ve called home for centuries.

What we particularly like about this tour is its exclusive access — you get to step behind barriers that usually keep visitors out, including the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine. Combined with the peaceful cloisters, secret garden, and crypt, it’s a quiet, reflective experience. Another plus is the knowledgeable licensed Malta guide, who helps turn this quiet place into a storybook of resilience and devotion.

A possible drawback? The tour is relatively short, at just about 1 hour 30 minutes, so if you’re after a broad overview of Malta’s history, this might feel like a tiny slice. However, for those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, it’s a chance to slow down and savor a very special corner of Valletta. This tour is ideal for travelers interested in religious life, history, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the more crowded attractions.

This experience suits those who enjoy meaningful, intimate visits and are comfortable with limited group sizes. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate stories of resilience and seclusion, or anyone wanting to add a layer of quiet spirituality to their Maltese itinerary.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to spaces not open to the general public
• Insightful guide explaining the history and daily life of cloistered nuns
• Authentic experience in a quiet, meditative setting
• Limited group size for a personalized experience
• Short but meaningful at around 1.5 hours
• Affordable price of just over $24 per person for a rare glimpse into a hidden world

A Closer Look at the Valletta Monastery and Secret Garden Tour

If you’re planning your trip to Malta, this tour offers a distinctive way to explore Valletta’s less touristy side. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to step inside a monastery that’s been closed to visitors for over four centuries. The tour begins at the Mysterium Fidei Museum on St. Catherine’s Street, where you’ll meet your guide and start at 2:00 pm. The meeting point is convenient, near public transportation, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.

Once you enter the fragile world of this cloistered community, the first highlight is the cloisters — peaceful, covered walkways that have seen generations of nuns walk in silence. The crypt is another striking feature; it’s the final resting place of the nuns and adds a poignant touch to the visit. The quietness here is palpable, offering a stark contrast to the busy streets of Valletta. The guide’s storytelling helps you understand how these women lived in seclusion for over 400 years, choosing a humble, contemplative existence.

The secret garden is a true highlight — a lush, hidden oasis that has remained private for centuries. The garden’s tranquility and carefully tended plants provide a rare window into the daily life and spiritual practices of the nuns, who found solace and purpose in this green escape. Visitors have spoken warmly about the peaceful atmosphere, with Simone_V describing it as a “calm way to spend part of a hot summer afternoon.”

The tour also includes exclusive access to spaces that most visitors never see, such as the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine. These private spaces reveal how the nuns interact with the outside world, maintaining a delicate boundary of privacy and devotion. Such access elevates this tour from a typical sightseeing experience to a meaningful encounter with a secluded way of life.

Throughout the visit, the guide’s explanations help contextualize what you’re seeing — emphasizing the humble yet resilient lifestyle of the nuns, who have maintained their traditions despite centuries of change in Malta and the wider world. The experience is designed to be reflective rather than touristic, making it ideal for travelers who prefer depth over breadth.

In terms of value, at just over $24, the tour offers a rare, intimate glimpse into a part of Valletta history that’s usually hidden away. The small group size enhances the feeling of privacy and allows for questions and personal interaction, which many travelers find enriching.

Practical Details and Considerations

This is a private tour with only your group participating, which adds to the personalized feel. The duration of 1 hour 30 minutes makes it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed or overly demanding. Since it’s a mobile ticket**, you can easily keep your plans flexible.

The tour’s cancellation policy is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, perfect for travelers who might need to adjust their plans. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and it’s accessible via public transportation.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Our insights are reinforced by the sole review, which gave a perfect 5-star rating and called it “a very interesting glimpse into the lives of cloistered nuns” and appreciated the peaceful atmosphere. Those seeking authenticity and tranquility will find this tour delivers both in spades.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers interested in religion, history, or secluded lifestyles. It’s a meaningful stop for those who enjoy exploring hidden corners and learning about lives lived apart from the modern world. The quiet nature of the visit makes it ideal for reflective travelers or those wanting a peaceful, contemplative afternoon.

It’s less suitable if you’re after fast-paced sightseeing or want a rundown of Malta’s history in one go. However, if you’re seeking a thoughtful, intimate experience that offers a sense of discovery, this tour fits beautifully into a well-rounded trip.

FAQs About Valletta’s Monastery and Secret Garden Tour

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, offering a manageable visit that won’t take up your whole afternoon.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personal and flexible experience.

What spaces do I get to see that aren’t usually open?
You will gain exclusive access to the nuns’ visitor room and the Chapel of St Catherine, spaces typically closed to the public.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket price of around $24 covers the guided experience, access to cloisters, the secret garden, crypt, and other private spaces.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 10 days in advance to secure their spot, given the limited group size and exclusive access.

Is the tour accessible?
The tour is accessible via public transportation and is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and respectful attire for a religious site are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Valletta Monastery and Secret Garden tour is a standout experience for those interested in hidden history, religious life, and tranquility. It’s a rare opportunity to step into a world that’s been carefully preserved and hidden away for centuries, offering a genuine connection to the lives of the cloistered nuns and their spiritual sanctuary.

For travelers craving an authentic, meaningful, and quiet encounter, this tour provides a perfect balance of history, spirituality, and personal discovery. Its reasonable price and limited group size make it a worthwhile addition to any Malta itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the more popular sights, this experience is bound to enrich your understanding of Valletta’s lesser-known stories.

In summary, if you value private access, quiet reflection, and authentic stories of seclusion, this guided tour of Valletta’s monastery and secret garden is a highly recommended choice. It’s a rare chance to see Malta from a different perspective — one of devotion, resilience, and serenity — that stays with you long after you’ve left its peaceful cloisters behind.