Most people come to Malta for a summer holiday on the beach or all-night parties. This Mediterranean country is definitely not known for its parks with trees, flowers, or lush green valleys, especially during warmer months. But if you are a real explorer interested in culture and day-to-day life, you can find some real gems on the island. The Three Villages (Attard, Balzan, and Lija) are located in the center of Malta and are a perfect place to start your day. Here is one of my favorite places where I love spending a relaxing afternoon and which I will show you below. The San Anton Gardens in the village of Attard is a lovely botanical garden that you have to visit in Malta. It is beyond any doubt one of the most beautiful gardens in Malta with a large variety of flowers and plants. So, let’s see if you will agree with my opinion.

How to get to San Anton Gardens in Attard

It depends on where you stay in Malta (on foot, by car, public transport, etc.)

If you are searching for more information on how to get around Malta, read our detailed article.  

By bus 

The best way to get to San Anton Gardens from Valletta is to take a bus in the direction of Dingli and get off at the Anton stop. The gardens are a 4-5 minute walk from the bus stop – numbers 50, 51, 52, 53, 56. On foot or public transport, the other option within central Attard is bus 54 or 106 that stop outside at Palazz bus stop.

By car 

It is easy to reach the San Anton Gardens by car if you are good at driving on the left and it won’t be so difficult to find a parking place here. Several minutes walk away, and there is parking at Wesgha Profs Guze Aquilina.

Of, course you always can use Bolt, Cool, or eCabs as well.

Opening hours of the Gardens

Timings of the passageway to San Anton Gardens:

1st April – 30th June – 8.00 am – 6.30 pm

1st July – 31st August – 8.00 am – 7.30 pm 

1st September – 30th September – 8.00 am – 6.30 pm 

1st October – 31st March – 8.00 am – 4.30 pm

Price – there is no entrance fee. 

Why should you visit San Anton Gardens in Attard?

Most gardens in Malta are historic gardens that date back to the period of the Knights of Malta. On the island, you will find some beautiful gems hidden in private palaces or popular public spaces full of centuries-old trees and impressive baroque architecture.

San Anton Palace – the royal part of the area

Historic gardens were usually created as an additional part of palaces and homes of the rulers. Likewise, San Anton Palace is a palace in Attard, built in the early 17th century when the Knight of the Order of St John Antoine de Paule acquired land in Attard. He built a country villa, which he expanded into a palace after his election as Grand Master in 1623. It was named San Anton after the Grand Master’s patron saint, Anthony of Padua.

The palace was a residence of the Grand Masters and enlarged during the years. It was the headquarters of the rebel National Assembly (1798–1800) and a residence for the Civil Commissioners, Governors, and Governors-General of Malta. Since 1974 it has been the official residence of the President of Malta.

San Anton Palace has two storeys and a high square tower with a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area. In addition, it contains two chapels dedicated to Our Lady of Pilar and St. Anthony. 

The palace and the gardens were included on the Antiquities List of 1925 and are national monuments.  

Note: Do you know that Malta is a famous filming location? Recently, scenes from the popular Game of Thrones have been filmed here. Do you recognize San Anton Palace as the exterior of the Red Keep in King’s Landing? No?! Oh, then we should watch the series again (without the last season 🙂 )

San Anton Gardens – the best botanical garden in Malta

The palace is surrounded by the beautiful San Anton Gardens which high walls provide a private, peaceful atmosphere. Some parts have been open to the public since 1882 by Governor Borton for picnics and strolls. 

Enter the gate of San Anton Gardens, and you will immediately find yourself in a beautiful world. Only a few steps inside the main gate will see the Eagle Fountain dates from the 1620s. Here you will find elegant walkways, sculptures, ornamental ponds, families of ducks and swans, and a small aviary. Wander around its many walkways to explore the wide variety of flowers and mature trees from around the world. You can admire a wide variety of Maltese and exotic trees – species of palm trees, cypresses, jacarandas, Norfolk Pines, citrus, avocado trees, and a beautiful array of flowers (Bougainvillea and roses). 

For many years it has been a tradition for Heads of State to plant a tree in memory of their stay in Malta, so some plants are over 300 years old. The gardens also have an orangery, and an annual Citrus Festival is usually held on the palace grounds. (now – depending on the COVID-19 situation and restrictions.)

I love to sit on a bench for a while and enjoy the peaceful area around me. My favorite place is near the lovely ponds of the garden, where I can observe the cute duck families and swans or their goldfish and turtle buddies. Here you can also find a small aviary in the inner section of the garden, and for children, there is a small maze where they can play and lose themselves.

In summer, the vast central courtyard becomes an open-air theatre for drama and musical performances and also the Annual Horticultural Show’s location. It’s a perfect place to chill and enjoy nature.

Note: Just outside the gardens, a few steps through an arched walkway, you will get into the President’s Kitchen Garden. Over the years, it has provided the guests of the palace with fresh and culinary delights. Now, it is also open to the public where you can find a cafe and attractions for the children.

Where to stay close to San Anton Gardens in Attard

Suppose you want to stay in the heart of Malta and close to San Anton Gardens. In that case, you will definitely like the luxury Corinthia Hotel and Spa San Anton. Just opposite the gardens, it will offer you a memorable holiday in Malta.

Tours around Malta and the beautiful San Anton Gardens

If you don’t like exploring new places by yourself and would like to combine the visit to San Anton Gardens with other sightseeing points, check some of the organized tours below:

1. A half-day guided tour to Mdina, Dingli cliffs, and San Anton Gardens – check here

2. A half-day afternoon tour to San Anton Gardens, Mdina & Rabat Tour – view the tour 

3. Or maybe a new experience for your soul.

When we visited the San Anton Gardens for the first time, we were pleasantly surprised. We didn’t expect to find such a lovely green spot in the heart of Malta, but the walk here on this hot summer day was worth it.

Do you like botanical gardens, and would you like to visit San Anton Gardens? Share your thoughts below 🙂 

Inspired? Pin it for later!