
Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 313 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta worth booking?
Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta is a 0.5-hour experience in Valletta, Malta, from $11 per person. It scores 87 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 313 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 87 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (313)
- Duration
- 0.5 hours
- From
- $11 per person
Only recently opened to the public, Mysterium Fidei is ‘hidden’ away on a quiet corner on St Christopher Street and Strait Street. Visitors often stumble upon our door whilst exploring Valletta. Often, simply curious to see what lies behind the walls, visitors are then immersed into the fascinating history of the cloistered nuns who still live here today. Whilst appreciating the architecture and experiencing the quiet serenity of the cloisters, visitors can get a glimpse into the life within the Monastery, in its totally authentic setting. Cloistered nuns lived a life closed off from the outside world so they had to be self sufficient. Even until today the chickens lay eggs and fruit and vegetables are grown in the garden. Our resident monastery cats, often welcome visitors personally and happily walk around listening to the audio tour before finding a sunny spot in the garden providing a popular photo opportunity.
What you get
About this experience
Only recently opened to the public, Mysterium Fidei is ‘hidden’ away on a quiet corner on St Christopher Street and Strait Street. Visitors often stumble upon our door whilst exploring Valletta. Often, simply curious to see what lies behind the walls, visitors are then immersed into the fascinating history of the cloistered nuns who still live here today. Whilst appreciating the architecture and experiencing the quiet serenity of the cloisters, visitors can get a glimpse into the life within the Monastery, in its totally authentic setting. Cloistered nuns lived a life closed off from the outside world so they had to be self sufficient. Even until today the chickens lay eggs and fruit and vegetables are grown in the garden. Our resident monastery cats, often welcome visitors personally and happily walk around listening to the audio tour before finding a sunny spot in the garden providing a popular photo opportunity.
What's included
Included
- Free audio tour
What you'll see and do
Mysterium Fidei
Mysterium Fidei is a multi sensory experience located within St Catherine’s Monastery, in the heart of Valletta. The door to the Secret Garden has been closed to the public for over 400 years, it is now open for you to enter this tranquil space and take a glimpse into the lives of the cloistered nuns. When joining the monastery, the nuns took vows never to leave. They lived a self-sustainable life closed away from the outside world. You can see the original, authentic kitchens, bedrooms, washrooms and even visit the crypt, their final resting place. The enclosed garden is a rarity in Valletta, here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the busy Valletta streets and experience the peace and serenity of this hidden oasis. Mysterium Fidei is a unique, must see, experience. It gives visitors the opportunity to learn the history, appreciate the architecture, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and contemplate the lives of the women who chose the life of the cloistered nun.
Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Mysterium Fidei
140, St. Christopher Street, Valletta, VLT1853, Malta
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Mysterium Fidei · 140, St. Christopher Street, Valletta, VLT1853, Malta
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, ru, en, it, pl, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Mysterium Fidei By Hidden Valletta
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 313 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
313 verified traveler reviews for Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An oasis of peace
A spiritual experience providing insight into a hidden world of piety and devotion beautifully presented
Response from the operator: Thank you for your visit and kind review!
via Tripadvisor
Must-go
I would definitely recommend this tour! It was a lovely and impressive experience, with plenty of original tools and objects used by the nuns. Also the lady at the reception was very kind.
Response from the operator: Thank your for your kind review. We are glad you enjoyed your visit.
via Tripadvisor
Rabbit stew!
Very interesting - an oasis of coolness and calm. Look out for the rabbits by the kitchen in cages..
Response from the operator: Thank you for your review!
via Tripadvisor
Great little gem
We had a wonderful time visiting the black friars basilica of Saint Dominic. It was absolutely beautiful, and we would like to give a very special thank you to Vincent, who kindly gave us a personal tour. As it was quiet around the church, Vincent was able to spend time with us explaining so much of its history, which was absolutely fascinating. Vincent is a first-year student, and I’m sure he will do remarkably well. He was first class — knowledgeable, friendly and clearly passionate about sharing the history of this wonderful place. Earlier in the day, we had visited St John’s Cathedral, and to be quite honest, we enjoyed this tour far more. It felt much more personal and relaxed, and having Vincent explain the history really brought the experience to life. Included in the entrance fee, we also had the opportunity to visit this monastery, where the nuns used to live. There are now only three nuns remaining, and it was fascinating to see the rooms and learn more about their way of life. It was used as an orphanage where the nuns looked after the children. We also met a lovely lady called Anastasia, who was absolutely delightful to speak to. The gardens were gorgeous and added to the peaceful atmosphere of the whole experience. And don’t forget to look out for the turtle in the fountain! Anastasia told us that he is more than 70 years old — what a wonderful little character! A truly fascinating visit, made even more special by the people we met along the way. Highly recommended.
Response from the operator: Thank you for visiting and for your kind and heart-warming review!
via Tripadvisor
Enlightening visit
It’s easy to imagine the austere life the Nuns experienced from visiting the monastery and grounds. Its original purpose was to home orphans which later progressed to families with daughters who were deemed wayward and sent there for redemption. There are only 3 Nuns remaining in 2026 who reside on the upper floor. The eldest is now 95, bed bound and suffering from dementia. The last admittance to the monastery was 60 years ago. The onsite guide advised the future is unknown for the site when the Nuns finally pass away. It may become a museum in entirety, Nuns may be imported from Italy /Spain etc or a totally different purpose. There’s a sense of peace throughout the areas you can enter and the garden although small grew plants & vegetables to sustain the Nuns. They voluntarily isolated themselves from Maltese society in their devotion to God. From several photos of the Nuns, they all seemed content and the majority lived to be in their 80’s and 90’s so maybe it’s evidence that leading a humble lifestyle is beneficial for both physical and spiritual wellbeing. We also visited the Black Friar’s Experience a few minutes week away. The opulence and grandeur of this Dominican Priory with its beautiful frescoes in the dome, statues, chandeliers and suchlike is such a contrast. I highly recommend visiting St Catherine’s Monastery if you’re in Valetta especially as its future is unknown. It’s definitely a hidden gem.
Response from the operator: Thank your for your kind review. We are glad you enjoyed your visit.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 0.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 110
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Mysterium Fidei By Hidden Valletta, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 75.1.
See everything Mysterium Fidei By Hidden Valletta runsWhy this scores 87
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Valletta.
How much does Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta cost?
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Prices start at $11 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Valletta usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta take?
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Plan for about 0.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Valletta is not rushed.
Is Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 87 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 313 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Valletta, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 0.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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Around 110 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Valletta can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Valletta and add a light layer if any part of the 0.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Valletta within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Valletta?
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On Outty we rank every Valletta experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Valletta Food Tour, The Original Valletta Walking Tour, Valletta Walking Tour, In a Small Group. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Valletta?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Valletta?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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Included: Free audio tour. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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The experience starts at Mysterium Fidei, 140, St. Christopher Street, Valletta, VLT1853, Malta. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta offered in?
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It is offered in German, Russian, English, Italian, Polish, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Valletta. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Mysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta?
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Across 313 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, good for families, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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