So, you’ve decided to say “I do” in Valletta? First of all—great choice. Second—buckle up, because this charming little city is about to sweep you off your feet.
Valletta isn’t just a capital city. It’s a 16th-century dreamscape where golden light bounces off limestone buildings, baroque balconies bloom with flowers, and the scent of espresso drifts through quiet side streets. If you’re planning a destination wedding in Malta, Valletta is where romance, history, and Mediterranean magic collide.
Why Valletta Is the One
Think of Valletta as that perfect friend who looks good in every light, tells fascinating stories, and knows all the best rooftop bars. It’s compact, walkable, and ridiculously photogenic.
You get:
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site as your wedding backdrop.
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Over 300 days of sunshine a year.
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Easy legal marriage processes for foreigners.
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Mediterranean vibes with a twist of nobility.
And honestly, who doesn’t want to get married in a city where you can have your first dance on a centuries-old bastion overlooking the sea?
Legal Requirements to Get Married in Malta
Boring but necessary—and thankfully, Malta makes it pretty easy.
Here’s what you need to know:
🗂 Documents to prepare:
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Request for Publication of Banns (Form RZ1)
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Declaration on Oath (Form RZ2)
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Birth certificates (long-form)
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Copies of passports
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Free status certificate if you’re not a Maltese citizen
✅ Timeline: Submit documents at least 6 weeks before your ceremony. You don’t need to be in Malta until 2–3 days before the wedding, which gives you time for some pre-wedding prosecco by the sea.
🔗 Need the official source? Head to Malta’s Public Registry FAQ here.
Valletta’s Dreamiest Wedding Venues
You could say “I do” just about anywhere in Valletta and it would still be magical, but these are the true showstoppers:
🏰 Fort St. Elmo
History? Check. Sea views? Check. A dramatic, cinematic vibe that makes your wedding look like a movie? Big check. 📍 Venue Info
🌿 Upper Barrakka Gardens
Picture this: you’re standing under stone arches as cannons salute the Grand Harbour below. It’s peaceful, panoramic, and pure romance.
💒 Iniala Harbour House
For couples who want to blend boutique luxury with iconic Maltese scenery, this cliffside venue delivers. 📍 Venue Info
🎻 Grand Harbour Terrace, MCC
An epic terrace within a 16th-century hospital, now a cultural centre—ideal for lovers of history and cocktail hours. 📍 Venue Info
The Most Photogenic Corners of Valletta
As a wedding photographer who’s chased golden light through every corner of this city, I can say with confidence: Valletta is a dream lens destination.
📸 Top picks:
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Victoria Gate & the Bridge Bar – rustic textures, Maltese charm, narrow alleys, and gorgeous doors.
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The Valletta Ditch – lesser-known, wonderfully dramatic, perfect for a quiet, intimate couple shoot.
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Upper Barrakka Gardens – soft morning light, panoramic views, and natural posing spots.
When to Say “I Do”
Valletta is generous with sunshine. But let’s break it down:
☀️ Spring (March–May): Balmy, breezy, ideal for alfresco receptions.
🔥 Summer (June–August): Hot and sunny. Opt for an evening ceremony to avoid melting into your suit/dress.
🍇 Autumn (September–October): Warm seas, cooler evenings—perfection.
🍷 Winter (November–February): Off-season romance. Fewer tourists, cozy vibes, and lower prices.
Local Flavor: Let Your Wedding Taste Like Malta
Feed your guests like royalty:
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Pastizzi (flaky pastry with ricotta or peas)
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Lampuki Pie (a fish pie you’ll be dreaming about)
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Kannoli (yes, Maltese have their own cannoli too!)
Pair it with local wine or a splash of Kinnie—Malta’s iconic bittersweet soda. It’s weird at first, then addictive.
Quickfire FAQs: Because You’re Already Planning Ten Other Things
Do we need a wedding planner in Malta? Not mandatory, but highly recommended for smoother coordination.
Is Valletta LGBTQ+ friendly? Absolutely. Malta consistently ranks #1 in LGBTQ+ rights in Europe.
Can we bring our own officiant? Yes—provided they’re legally recognized and registered with the Maltese authorities.
How do guests get around Valletta? On foot (the best way), by electric cab, or traditional dgħajsa boat if you’re feeling extra romantic.
Checklist: What to Do and When
✔️ 6 Months Before
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Choose a venue
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Hire a photographer 😉
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Begin legal paperwork
✔️ 3 Months Before
✔️ 1 Month Before
✔️ 1 Week Before
Capture the Magic Forever
Let me be real for a sec: Valletta is a city that glows at golden hour. As a destination wedding photographer deeply inspired by its beauty, architecture, and light, I specialize in telling wedding stories through cinematic, heartfelt imagery. If you’re looking for someone who will not only photograph your day but feel it with you, I’d love to chat.
✨ Browse recent love stories on the Your Happy Moments Blog
✨ Explore your tailored photo Packages
✨ Let’s connect and bring your dream wedding to life: Contact Serg
Because these moments are more than photos—they’re your story. And I’d be honored to tell it.
