According to forum posts, Valletta offers a variety of dining options. Restaurants like 59 Republic and Noni provide fine dining experiences, while places like Cafe Jubilee offer a more casual atmosphere with late-night dining options available until 1 AM on weekends.

Travelers have called out specific spots for their specialty cuisines and unique dining experiences. Guze Bistro and Trattoria Romana Zero Sei are noted for their local and Roman cuisines, respectively. For those interested in a view, the Harbour Club and restaurants near the Grand Harbour offer scenic dining.

For late-night eats, some users mentioned that Cheeky Monkey and The Thirsty Lawyer might offer food up till midnight, but booking might be necessary as kitchen operations usually wind down by 10 PM.

Some travelers recommended starting with a visit to St. John's Co-Cathedral early in the morning, as it's a must-see historical site in Valletta. Exploring the narrow streets and enjoying the architecture of the city were also suggested activities.

According to forum posts, having a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants is a popular activity. Valletta offers a variety of dining spots that serve traditional Maltese cuisine, which can be a delightful experience during a short stay.

Travelers have called out the opportunity to catch the latest films at the Embassy Cinema or enjoy a performance at one of the local theaters. These cultural activities provide a relaxing way to spend the afternoon or evening.

For those interested in outdoor experiences, taking a ferry to the nearby Three Cities was mentioned as a pleasant way to see more of the area and enjoy stunning views of Valletta from the water.

According to forum posts, during short cruise stops in Valletta, travelers can explore Valletta itself, taking advantage of attractions such as cathedrals, museums, and historical sites directly accessible by a short walk and a lift from the cruise terminal. Some travelers suggested spending the limited time onboard exploring Valletta in depth rather than venturing further due to the travel time involved in visiting other locations like Mdina.

For those considering venturing beyond Valletta, users have recommended bus routes such as the 51, 52, and 53 for a trip to Mdina, which takes about half an hour. Alternatively, taxis or services like Bolt/Uber are available, costing approximately 15 Euros from Mdina to the cruise terminal.

Several travelers highlighted the option of a harbor cruise, which offers a unique view of Valletta and the surrounding areas from the water. This activity is particularly recommended on clear days and provides perspectives of the Three Cities and Sliema/Gzira.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend staying in Valletta over Sliema due to the higher quality of accommodation and the convenience of being close to major attractions. Some travelers mentioned that while Sliema is cheaper, the accommodation quality can be inconsistent.

Travelers have called out that Valletta offers a superior dining experience with a higher quality of restaurants compared to Sliema. Additionally, Valletta is described as lovely to be in amongst everything, especially if staying only a few days.

For those exploring Valletta, staying there makes sense due to the limited amount of time, as mentioned by some users. Valletta's central location also offers better access to public transportation, which is beneficial for traveling around the island.

Overall, the consensus among forum users leans towards choosing Valletta for both short and slightly longer stays, particularly for those interested in museums, historical sites, and a vibrant evening atmosphere without the rowdiness found in some other areas.