Birgu & the Three Cities
The three fortified towns on the opposite side of the harbour from Valletta — Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla).
What the Three Cities are
Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua are three older harbour towns that together sit across the water from Valletta. They pre-date the capital and were the base of the Order of St John before Valletta was built. Today they are quieter than Valletta — a mix of residential streets, waterfront walks, and centuries of naval history.
Walking Birgu
Birgu's old core is a maze of narrow limestone streets that lead down to the waterfront. The Vittoriosa Waterfront, along the marina, is a common evening destination — a stretch of restored 18th-century warehouses now hosting restaurants and cafés. Fort St Angelo sits at the tip of the peninsula.
Getting to Valletta
The Three Cities are minutes from Valletta by traditional dgħajsa boats across the Grand Harbour, by the Cospicua–Valletta ferry, or by bus. Parking on the Three Cities side is easier than in Valletta itself for guests arriving by car.
Stay with Aureum in Birgu
Cardinal Rooftop Townhouse is our townhouse in Birgu — a two-bedroom stay with a private rooftop above the old streets.