Experiencing the Three Cities Like a Local
While many travellers visit the Three Cities to admire the historic bastions of the Grand Harbour, those fortunate enough to stay within the walls—particularly in Vittoriosa (Birgu), the oldest and most regal of the trio—gain access to a layered, authentic experience few tourists ever see.
As we look forward to welcoming you to Cugó Gran Vittoriosa in 2026, we encourage you to look beyond the major landmarks and discover the true pulse of Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua. This is the art of slow travel, where the richest treasures are found in the daily rhythm of life.
Vittoriosa (Birgu): The Grand Promenade
Forget the rush to Fort St. Angelo (though it’s a must-see). The true charm of the Victorious City lies in its Collacchio, the quiet, walled-off quarter once reserved exclusively for the Knights of St. John.
Morning Rituals: Start your day not on the busy waterfront, but deep within the stone streets. Observe the local elderly residents meticulously sweeping the ancient alleyways (il-karrieri). Seek out the small, historic Auberges—the former residences of the Knights’ different ‘Langues’ (nationalities)—which stand as quiet, architectural relics.
The Authentic Market: Visit the central square, Misraħ ir-Rebħa (Victory Square). This is where you’ll find the local lifeblood: a small, authentic market selling seasonal produce, local honey, and Maltese pastries. Grab a pastizz from a corner bakery and experience a true taste of local life.
The Inquisitor’s Tale: While the Inquisitor’s Palace is grand, the quieter streets leading up to it tell a story of humble history, featuring houses adorned with tiny, beautiful religious niches and vibrant, closed Maltese balconies (gallariji).
Senglea (L-Isla): The Local Connect
Connected to Birgu by a land bridge, Senglea (Città Invicta) is the smallest city but offers the most intimate local connection, especially along the water.
The Ferryman’s View: Instead of a tourist cruise, take a ride on a Dghajsa—the traditional, brightly painted Maltese water taxi. Crossing the creek offers a unique, sea-level perspective on the fortifications of both Birgu and Senglea, making you feel like a part of the maritime history rather than just an observer.
Seaside Strolls: Walk the Senglea waterfront. This path, less commercialised than some other harbour areas, gives you a view of the modern life of the fisherman and boat owners, providing a glimpse into the enduring seafaring culture that has defined the Three Cities for millennia.
Hidden Art: Seek out the various WWII memorials and restored churches. These often feature simple, poignant art dedicated to the resilience of the Città Invicta, offering a sober and profound cultural experience.
Cospicua (Bormla): The Maritime Heart
Cospicua (Città Cospicua) is the largest of the Three Cities and its history is deeply intertwined with its role as a dockyard and naval support centre. Its massive Cottonera Lines fortifications are an architectural marvel often overlooked by those rushing between Birgu and Valletta.
Walking the Lines: Take a walk along a section of the Cottonera Lines. These fortifications are an overwhelming testament to the scale of 17th-century military engineering. Standing atop them gives you a unique, elevated view of the entire harbour area, showing exactly why Cospicua was named the Conspicuous City.
Dockyard Creek: Explore the area around the redeveloped Dockyard Creek. While its history is industrial, the waterfront is now a beautiful mix of old stone warehouses and modern marinas, capturing the city’s continuous evolution.
The Bormla Dialect: Listen closely. The residents of Cospicua, along with their neighbours, speak the unique Cottonera dialect of Maltese, reflecting their long-standing community identity—a subtle yet beautiful part of the local experience.
By staying at Cugó Gran Vittoriosa in 2026, you gain the luxury of time and proximity to immerse yourself in these authentic moments. The true Three Cities experience isn’t about checking off monuments; it’s about collecting genuine, unhurried moments of Maltese life.
