mdina tourist attractions

11 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Mdina

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Entirely surrounded by ancient ramparts, Mdina is a magical place, where the modern age seems far away. This medieval walled city has a special enchantment, found in the enclosed labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets. Wandering the atmospheric pedestrian lanes, visitors discover shaded squares, exquisite chapels, and magnificent palaces (many of which are now museums) hidden behind large wooden doorways.

Mdina (also known as Città Vecchia ) is among the top attractions on the Island of Malta, as well as one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Valletta , but by evening, the town lives up to its reputation as the "Silent City." After the crowds of tourists leave, overnight travelers experience the dreamy old-world ambience and tranquility.

Mdina overlooks a pastoral landscape of rolling hills, and borders Rabat outside its western ramparts. In contrast to the more touristy Mdina, Rabat is a real working city with several interesting historical attractions, all within walking distance from Mdina.

Learn about the best places to visit and things to do in this captivating city with our list of the top attractions in Mdina.

See also: Where to Stay in Mdina

1. Mdina Citadel: Ancient Ramparts and Bastions

2. cathedral of saint paul, 3. palazzo falson historic house museum, 4. carmelite priory, 5. mdina cathedral museum, 6. historical buildings and viewpoint on bastion square, 7. palazzo vilhena: national museum of natural history, 8. mdina dungeons, 9. palazzo de piro: tools, trades & traditions museum, 10. charming chapels, 11. the xara palace: five-star boutique hotel, where to stay in mdina for sightseeing, nearby attractions in neighboring rabat, parish church and grotto of saint paul, casa bernard: a 16th-century aristocratic mansion, domvs romana museum, saint paul's catacombs, wignacourt museum, map of attractions & things to do in mdina.

As a typical walled city, Mdina's immense ancient ramparts give the town a fairy-tale charm. Enclosing a little warren of narrow lanes and stately old buildings, the town's fortifications date back to the medieval period when the city was ruled by the Arabs and Normans.

The most obvious influence of the Arab occupation is Mdina's labyrinthine street plan. The winding streets and pedestrian alleyways are characteristic of Islamic urban design in the Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia) during the Middle Ages.

The town's Baroque Main Gate (Vilhena Gate) was built in 1724. The escutcheon bears a coat of arms, while statues of growling lions stand proudly in the front of the gate. Once visitors enter this doorway by foot, they leave the 21st century behind. Only residents' cars are allowed inside.

Within Mdina's ramparts, it feels like an escape to a bygone world. Graceful squares and quiet streets are lined with stately aristocratic palaces and ornate Baroque churches. Street signs are scripted on porcelain plaques.

The bastions of the ramparts, including the Saint John's Bastion and Saint Martin's Bastion , provide excellent viewpoints of the idyllic countryside surrounding Mdina. But the atmosphere within the ramparts is even more enchanting.

To discover the well-preserved historic city within Mdina's ramparts, it's recommended to take a guided walking tour. On the two-hour Mdina Private Walking Tour , participants stroll through Mdina's winding streets to the city's must-see landmarks, while learning the historical context. Another option is the small-group tour of Mdina and Rabat that covers the tourist highlights.

This splendid Baroque cathedral was designed by Lorenzo Gafà with a handsome facade featuring Corinthian columns. The bright and spacious interior has an inspiring dome that allows light to flood into the sanctuary. The cathedral's opulent decor features marble inlay floors, gilded detailing, pink marble columns, and breathtaking ceiling paintings.

Precious artworks are displayed throughout the cathedral's various chapels. The most prized possession is the 14th-century Byzantine icon of the Madonna in the Chapel of the Sacrament, surrounded by a bejeweled frame in front of a dazzling altarpiece.

The cathedral boasts several renowned Mattia Preti paintings including the Conversion of Saint Paul on the Way to Damascus behind the altar, a piece that depicts Saint Paul on a White Horse in a side chapel, and the dramatic Saint Paul's Shipwreck painting above the altarpiece.

Other artistic highlights are the Domenico Bruschi painting of Mary and the Angels , which illustrates a serene image of divinity, and the wooden Crucifix sculpture by Fra Innocenzo da Petralia Soprana. The pillars in the Presbytery feature impressive mosaic medallions by Luigi Moglia of Rome.

Address: 2 Triq San Pawl, Mdina

Official site: https://www.metropolitanchapter.com/mdina-metropolitan-cathedral/

The second oldest building in Mdina, this magnificent 13th-century palazzo exemplifies Sicilian-Norman style. During the Middle Ages, the palace was home to Maltese nobles. Unusual among historic palaces, the Palazzo Falson displays the original decor of Oriental rugs, antique furniture, and fine paintings.

The palace has been converted into a museum of fine arts and antiquities. Each of the rooms on display is a treasure trove of art works. The library contains more than 4,500 books, and the kitchen displays the old cooking equipment.

Highlights of the palace's art collection include 17th-century paintings by Sir Anthony Van Dyck; Nicolas Poussin; Bartolomé Esteban Murillo; and Mattia Preti , the most famous painter of Malta.

There is also an impressive assortment of jewelry, hand-painted Brisé fans, and antiquities such as ancient Roman coins. One of the most prized possessions of the Palazzo Falson is the Alof de Wignacourt Medal dating to 1607, a rare medal depicting the Grand Master.

The museum offers refreshments, savory snacks, and Maltese desserts at the Gustav Café on its sunny rooftop terrace, a hidden oasis of relaxation. One of the highest vantage points in Mdina, the terrace affords panoramic outlooks of Mdina's cathedral and cityscape, as well as the surrounding countryside all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

Address: Triq IL Villegaignon, Mdina

Official site: http://www.palazzofalson.com/

Hidden behind an elegant Baroque facade is the spiritual retreat of the Carmelite Priory, one of the most important religious buildings in Mdina. The beautifully renovated 17th-century Carmelite Priory is still a functioning monastery run by the Order of the Brothers of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel and is the only priory in Malta open to the public.

The priory features a refectory, where monks take their communal meals, and a typical monastic cloister centered around a tranquil courtyard.

A highlight of the priory, the Carmelite Church is considered one of the most important Maltese Baroque churches. Visitors can admire the church's exquisite frescoes in the dome, as well as exceptional paintings by renowned artists including Giuseppe Calì and Mattia Preti.

Visitors may participate in the priory's daily prayers, Mass, and meditation services or take a guided tour. Mass is held daily and several times on Sundays.

In the monastic tradition of hospitality, the Priory has a restaurant (Al Convento) in its parlor, a lovely space with original painted ceilings. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; the menu focuses on regional Maltese dishes and other Mediterranean cuisine.

To further share its spiritual and cultural heritage, the Carmelite Priory hosts events throughout the year, such as classical music concerts, theater performances, lectures, meditation classes, and retreats, throughout the year.

Official site: http://www.carmelitepriory.org

A ticket to the Cathedral of Saint Paul includes entrance to the neighboring Mdina Cathedral Museum, located on the same square. Housed in a beautiful Baroque building (formerly the seminary), the museum displays ecclesiastical objects of sacred art from the cathedral, as well as Roman antiquities.

The museum features many masterpieces of European painting. Also noteworthy are the engravings by Albrecht Durer.

The museum is also used as a venue for Historic Piano Concerts , a series of classical piano concerts performed on a historic piano. The concerts take place within the art galleries and are followed by festive social receptions in the museum's halls.

Address: Triq San Pawl, Mdina

Official site: https://www.metropolitanchapter.com/mdina-cathedral-museum/

This graceful Bastion Square stands at the edge of Mdina's Citadel walls with a bastion overlooking the landscape around the city. Encircling the spacious square are grandiose buildings constructed from golden sandstone, with vibrantly painted shutters and grand doors featuring bronze knockers.

At the edge of the ramparts is a wonderful viewpoint; this spot is one of the best places to visit in Mdina to admire Malta's idyllic scenery of farmlands and rolling hills. It's possible to see all the way to the Mosta Dome and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.

Near Bastion Square on Villegaignon Street is the Palazzo Santa Sofia. This is considered one of the oldest palaces in Malta and is Mdina's best preserved medieval building. The date on the plaque of this manor says the structure dates from 1233. The upper floor was added in 1938.

Mdina's National Museum of Natural History is housed within the former Magisterial Palace of Justice , an impressive 18th-century building. The palace was designed in Parisian Baroque style for the Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena.

The museum has extensive collections of geology and paleontology, as well as an interesting ornithology collection. A highlight is the Birds Display that features exhibits about the natural habitats of Maltese birds, fish, and mammals. Special sections are dedicated to Malta's national bird, the blue rock thrush (Il-Merill) and national plant (Widnet il-Bahar).

The museum is also worth visiting just to see the gorgeous interior of the Palazzo Vilhena.

Address: Saint Publius Square, Mdina

Next to Mdina's Main Gate , beneath the Vilhena Palace, this museum illustrates the history of prison life in Mdina. The attraction features underground passageways that lead to chambers and cells once occupied by prisoners.

Scenes have been recreated that show the brutality of medieval-era Maltese prisons. During the Middle Ages, instruments of torture were commonly used in prisons. This museum shows the darker side of Malta's past while explaining the historical context.

Standing beside Mdina's ancient bastion walls, the Palazzo de Piro is a 17th-century palace that has been superbly restored. The palace provides gallery space for the Museum of Tools, Trades, and Traditions , a unique collection that appeals to a niche audience.

The wide range of objects on display includes traditional lace-making tools, woodworking equipment, and even an antique waffle iron. The Palazzo de Piro also houses the Cathedral Museum Extension with a collection of liturgical clothing, tapestries, and paintings.

Visitors will enjoy taking a break at the Xpresso Café and Bistro on the ground floor and in the courtyard of the building. From the café's relaxing courtyard terrace, there are spectacular views of the bucolic Maltese landscape.

During summertime, the courtyard is used as a venue for temporary art exhibits, as well as cultural events such as classical music concerts. Attending a performance in this scenic venue is one of the most memorable things to do while visiting Mdina.

Address: 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina

Many of the quiet side streets of Mdina lead to hidden chapels with noteworthy architecture and works of art. The Chapel of Saint Nicholas (Triq Inguanez) is in one of the oldest and most tranquil quarters of Mdina, where many of the 16th- and 17th-century buildings have survived. The majestic little chapel was built in 1550 and remodeled in 1698.

Also on Triq Inguanez, just a few paces away (cross street Triq Villegaignon), the Chapel of Saint Agatha is a tiny place of worship featuring a decorative altar with a painting of Saint Agatha in a gilded frame. The Chapel of Saint Agatha was founded in 1410 and was reconstructed by Lorenzo Gafà in 1693 after an earthquake destroyed the original building. The chapel served as a shelter for refugees during the Second World War.

On a quiet square in the heart of Mdina, The Xara Palace is a luxurious five-star hotel. Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association, the hotel occupies a 17th-century palazzo (previously a local nobleman's residence), adorned with antique tapestries and period furnishings. Guest rooms feature fine bed linens and down comforters.

Xara Palace hotel has several restaurants: the Michelin-starred de Mondion Restaurant offers an indulgent fine-dining experience, while more casual options are the garden-courtyard Medina Restaurant and the Trattoria AD 1530 with shaded tables on the piazza for al fresco dining.

Address: Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina

We recommend these deluxe hotels in and near the medieval walled city of Mdina and its many historical attractions:

• The Xara Palace : 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in a 17th-century palace, guest rooms with antique furniture and sumptuous bed linens, two fine-dining restaurants plus a casual trattoria.
• Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa : upscale resort hotel in the town of San Anton (five kilometers from Mdina); quiet location near the San Anton Botanical Gardens; superb amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and spa with a Jacuzzi and sauna. The hotel has two restaurants, including a fancy establishment that serves breakfast, brunch, and afternoon tea.

The Parish Church of Rabat is dedicated to Saint Paul, the father of Christianity in Malta. The church was built next to the site of the grotto where it is believed that Saint Paul found shelter after his shipwreck on the coast of Malta in AD 60. This 17th-century Baroque church has an ornately gilded sanctuary with a monumental dome and a grand Latin-cross plan.

The church's most prized artwork is The Shipwreck of Saint Paul painting by Stefano Erardi. This famous painting depicts Saint Paul shaking off a viper in front of the barbarians and the Romans as his ship is pounded by the stormy seas.

After visiting the Parish Church, tourists may descend an adjacent flight of stairs to the Grotto of Saint Paul. In this grotto is a small underground shrine dedicated to the saint. The Statue of Saint Paul in front of the church was donated by Grand Master Pinto in 1748.

Address: Misrah il-Parrocca, Rabat

This grand 16th-century palazzo once belonged to a noble Maltese family of French origins. Behind the simple facade is a lavish aristocratic mansion, which is still a private home. The palace was the residence of Dr. Salvatore Bernard, who was the personal physician of the Grand Master of Malta. The mansion has been renovated and restored to its original splendor.

A visit to the Casa Bernard offers an insight into the life of the Maltese nobility. The Casa Bernard is open to the public for guided tours , Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm (tours are available every hour).

Visitors can admire the lovely rooms featuring antique furniture, masterpieces of paintings, and noteworthy objects of art. Highlights are the barrel-vaulted entrance hallway, the exquisitely decorated drawing rooms, and the peaceful garden courtyard.

Address: 46 Saint Paul's Street, Rabat

The Domvs Romana is a museum that stands on the site of an ancient Roman townhouse, and reveals well-preserved elements of the house within its galleries. As the house belonged to a wealthy Roman nobleman, the architectural artifacts are quite elaborate.

This important archaeological site features astounding mosaic floors (dating to the 1st-century BC) that adorned the various rooms. These mosaics are some of the oldest and finest examples in the western Mediterranean outside of Rome and reveal incredible craftsmanship by highly skilled artists.

The Domus Romana also includes a rare set of marble statues portraying the Emperor Claudius and his family, the only examples seen in a private house in the Roman Empire. Also on display are household objects that give visitors a glimpse of the everyday life of a Roman aristocrat.

Address: Museum Esplanade, Rabat

Saint Paul's Catacombs are a complex of Roman-era cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD. The catacombs are on the outskirts of the old Roman capital city of Melite (present-day Mdina). Since ancient Roman law prohibited burials within the city, Saint Paul's Catacombs became the most important early Christian burial site.

These catacombs represent the earliest and largest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta. The complex encompasses interconnected passages and tombs covering an area of more than 2,000 square meters.

This site was named after Saint Paul because it was associated with the Grotto of Saint Paul , which also once served as a Christian hypogeum (catacombs) during the Punic and Roman era.

Address: Saint Agatha Street, Rabat

The Wignacourt Museum is next to the Parish Church of Saint Paul, housed in the Baroque Collegiate Hall of the Chaplains of the Knights of Malta.

The museum's outstanding collection includes fine art, as well as ancient Roman artifacts discovered at nearby sites. The main floor displays important paintings with works by Mattia Preti and other Maltese painters, as well as European artists.

The museum also displays old relics and reliquaries, and a unique wooden altar used for the celebration of Mass by the Order of the Knights of Malta.

Among the assortment of maps, coins, prints, and rare books is the manuscript of King Henry VIII's Septem Sacraments written to counter Martin Luther's arguments.

Address: Parish Square, College Street, Rabat

Official site: http://www.wignacourtmuseum.com/

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Other Attractions on the Island of Malta : Along with Mdina, the other must-see historic town on Malta is Valetta . This elegant capital city created by the Knights of Malta is full of stunning Baroque churches and fabulous museums. In the surroundings of Valletta are wonderful tourist attractions, such as picturesque waterfront villages and traditional country towns. The Island of Malta also has a gorgeous coastline and amazing UNESCO-listed prehistoric megalithic temples.

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The 31 Best Things to Do in Mdina

No agenda, no maps, no plans. Get lost in Mdina’s ancient bastions & narrow streets and peek through its noble past.

The Silent City stands isolated on a hill in the heart of Malta. An extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture with century-old buildings and uncountable stories to tell.

In this detailed city guide you will find 31 reasons to visit Mdina ; the best things to do, the must-see attractions and the top sights of Città Notabile.

But why Mdina is called the Silent City? After the Great Siege of Malta, Grand Master Pierre de Monte moved Malta’s capital from Mdina to Valletta. Once Mdina lost its capital status, it became a ghost town and that’s when the silent city nickname was born. Nowadays, there is an ongoing effort to maintain silence within the city.

How can I get to Mdina?

By bus : the cheapest way to reach Mdina. Buses 51, 52, or 53 to Rabat (Ir-Rabat bus stop) run every 10 minutes with the ride taking around 30 minutes, depending on the traffic. The bus ticket to Mdina costs 2.60€. As no vehicles are allowed into Mdina, you should get off at Rabat, just 500 metres away. Make sure to check Valletta to Mdina bus timetable here .

By taxi : the official taxis are white, with their number shown on the side. You can only get in a taxi in designated places e.g. taxi stands. You can also try booking a ride with a private company, such as eCabs or Bolt. The cost should be around 30€ to 40€, one way.

By car : the fastest option, as the distance from Valletta to Mdina is only 13 km. The only problem is securing parking during busier days. Here are some free spots. The first one is outside Mdina, next to a playground , the second one is next to Domus Romana and the third parking spot is 500 metres away from Mdina Gate, here .

#1 The Mdina Gate – Seen in The Game of Thrones

Mdina’s baroque-style main gate, built in 1724, during the magistracy of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, is the first attraction you’ll see.

Walk among the statues of growling lions and take a peek at the gate’s escutcheon bearing the Vilhena coat of arms. Leave the 21 st century behind and enter.

The original King’s Landing The town’s elegant gate can be seen in the first season (episode 3) of Game of Thrones.

#2 The Grand Mdina Cathedral & Museum

The majestic Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul was designed by the world-famous Maltese architect, Lorenzo Gafà.

The magnificent dome, the breathtaking paintings and the grand Corinthian columns on the façade made Saint Paul’s Cathedral a 17 th -century architectural masterpiece . And definitely one of the best things to see in Mdina.

It was here in 60 A.D. that Apostle Paul found shelter after shipwrecking on the Maltese Archipelago.

On the other side of St Paul’s Square, you can access Mdina Cathedral Museum using the same ticket. Its collections include ecclesiastical objects of sacred art , Roman antiquities and many masterpieces of European painters.

Which clock will you trust? A weird tale surrounds Mdina’s Cathedral. The clock on the left side always shows the wrong time, to confuse the devil. However, the one on the right is always correct and chimes every 15 minutes.

Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 9.30 – 16:45

Admission: 10 EUR

You may find more info and book your ticket online on the official website .

#3 Palazzo Falson Museum – Fine Art & Antiquities

This magnificent 13 th –century palazzo is the second oldest building in Mdina . An extensive restoration in 2007, turned the house into a state-of-the-art Museum.

Learn why Palazzo Falson is definitely worth a visit!

During the Middle Ages, the palace was owned by Maltese nobles with the last one being Olof Frederick Gollcher . A keen collector and a frequent traveller he restored the Palazzo and turned it into an extraordinary treasure trove.

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum exhibits his collections; oriental rugs, fine paintings, archaeological artifacts, antique furniture, jewellery, weapons and a library with more than 4,500 volumes.

The museum’s rooftop café provides stunning panoramas, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

If you are looking for an interesting cultural activity in Mdina , then a visit to Palazzo Falson is recommended.

Palace’s high guests of honour Rumour has it that the palazzo has received Philippe Villiers de L’Isle-Adam, a prominent member of the Knights Hospitaller at Rhodes and later the first Grand Master of Malta.

Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 – 17:00

#4 Mdina Ditch Gardens – a peaceful stroll

Mdina gardens, officially named Howard Gardens , form a natural border between Silent City and the neighbouring Rabat. The ditch had 273 citrus and 7 olive trees but they were all replaced by lawn and stone paving.

Today, the gardens are a popular attraction, providing a quiet spot and beautiful views over the fortified city. What is more, they are regularly being used for food fairs, concerts and festivals, so make sure to ask in the tourist office.

How to find it You may enter the ditch via stairs at the southwest corner of the fortifications. If you keep walking you will eventually get outside of Mdina and be rewarded with beautiful views.

#5 Palazzo Vilhena – the Magisterial Palace

Vilhena Palace, named after Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, is a Parisian baroque-style palazzo , restructured between 1726 and 1728.

Above its main entrance, a bronze bust of Vilhena proudly stands while the Grand Master’s coat-of-arms are sculptured both on the main door and inside the portico.

Over the palace’s side façade there’s a statue representing Justice . The fact that this one is not blindfolded signals that justice is all-seeing and all-knowing. As a former law court, the Vilhena Palace houses several cells.

A sanctuary for those in need Palazzo Vilhena served as a temporary hospital during the Maltese cholera outbreak in 1837, as a sanatorium for British troops in 1860 and also, as a hospital for patients suffering from tuberculosis in the early 20 th century.

#6 Palazzo de Piro – a centre for arts & culture

Palazzo de Piro dates back to the 16 th century, built by a famous Maltese engineer of the Order of St. John. Originally consisting of three large halls, it was turned into a cultural & exhibitions centre after extensive restoration works.

The palace houses “ The Museum of Tools, Trades & Traditions ”. A private collection of 2.000 objects and tools related to ancient trades, historical patrimonial artefacts collected by Maltese parishes, painted panels from the Spanish Romanesque period, liturgical clothing, paintings from local & foreign artists and a series of wooden contemporary sculptures.

As of 2022, the museum is temporarily closed.

#7 Mdina streets – each one has a story to tell

Narrow and winding, the cobbled streets of Mdina witnessed numerous wars and battles.

The medieval city has many tales to unfold; historical gossip, stories of sacrifice, joy, love and even some with an eerie and mysterious twist. Large squares with flowers, tall bastions, baroque buildings and impressive palaces come out surprisingly in every corner.

Roam through Mdina’s quaint streets, once trod by nobles and knights, and listen to the Silent City . Getting lost in that maze is definitely one of the best things to do in the old capital (if not the best).

Mdina’s streets are extremely narrow so they can stay in the shadow for the whole day. For a country that hot, this architectural system was much appreciated. What is more, having maze-like streets confused the enemy in case of an invasion and allowed the defenders to create ambushes at every corner. Quite resourceful, if you’d ask me!

#8 Mdina at night – enigmatic & mystifying

If you think Mdina is wonderful during daytime, then you should take a stroll after the sun sets. It is then that the Silent City fully lives up to its name.

Wandering through the lamplit desert streets of the ancient town is a great way to appreciate its eerie silence.

At night, the whole town radiates a medieval charm and you half expect a knight to show up on a dimly lit corner.

Interested in ghost stories? If you bump into a woman standing silently at the end of a dark street urging you to follow her, then I would advise against it. She will simply vanish into a wall, giving you a nice spook. Another Mdina’s popular ghost story is that of a woman killing a knight and then sentenced to death. Before being beheaded, however, they allowed her to get married. What this lady is doing as a hobby nowadays is to pop up in the background of your photos, posing as a headless bride. Well, you better check those selfies again!

#9 The Carmelite Priory – a mix of sobriety & architecture

This hidden gem is still functioning as a monastery run by the religious Order of Carmelites. You can participate in the priory’s daily prayers or meditation sessions and experience the spiritual lifestyle of Carmelite friars.

A highlight of the monastery is the Carmelite Church , one of the most important Maltese baroque churches , built between 1660 and 1675.

Visits to the church are always guided by a resident friar. It’s a great way to admire the church’s delicate frescoes and its exceptional paintings while also getting some useful information.

Mdina’s Carmelite Priory has many other rooms open to the public ; a refectory, where the monks take their communal meals, a sober oratory, an authentic kitchen and a restaurant (Al Convento) serving regional Maltese dishes.

Even though Carmelite Priory is not heavily advertised, a visit there is an interesting thing to do while in Mdina.

Did you know? A typical friar’s cell is open to the public. It includes only the necessary furniture and simple objects required by the friar to live a life of prayer & solitude. Next to the cell is a bier used for delivering the bodies of the deceased friars to the crypt for burial.

Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00 – 16:00, pre-booking is required for tours

More info: http://www.carmelitepriory.org

#10 Natural History Museum – Maltese flora & fauna

Mdina’s National Museum of Natural History is housed within the former Magisterial Palace of Justice, known as Palazzo Vilhena. It covers topics like the origins of Malta’s landscape , human evolution, exotic animals, insects and local marine species.

There is a special section dedicated to Malta’s national bird (the blue rock thrush) and a huge collection of almost 850 pieces of rocks, minerals and worked pieces of art.

A rather weird collection The Natural History Museum of Mdina exhibits some unusual geology and palaeontology displays; an 18cm tooth belonging to the ancient 25-metre Carcharodon Megalodon , a skeletal anatomy room featuring the delicate bones of a snake and the largest squid captured in the Maltese archipelago.

Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 09.00 – 16:30

Admission: 5 EUR

I would advise visiting the museum if you have some spare time. For more info, you may visit the official website .

#11 Bastion Square – the best views over Malta

There is a certain place, called Bastion Square (Pjazza Tas-Sur), offering magnificent panoramic views over the Maltese countryside . The little square with the military name has some affordable places to relax and grab something to eat while enjoying the best views over Mdina’s bastions.

A secret viewpoint There is an exposed parapet in the square which allows you to walk on a section of the bastion. From there, you can have some amazing views of the surrounding villages; the impressive Mosta Dome (Mosta Rotunda), the small town of Mtarfa and even Sliema and Valletta to the west. Get that camera of yours prepared for some amazing shots!

#12 The Greeks Gate – two architectural styles in one

The second entrance to Mdina, the Greeks Gate, is less ornate than the main gate and was built in the medieval era. However, in 1724, Charles François de Mondion, added an outer structure, in… baroque style.

So the gate consists of two vaulted gateways . The inner medieval and the outer baroque. Once you enter through the gate you will find yourself in a small square called Piazza dei Greci , which connects to a number of roads leading to different parts of Mdina.

Did you know? The gate got its name from a small community of Greeks living close to the gate. This was also the only entrance into Mdina the slaves were allowed to use.

#13 The blue door – Mdina’s most Instagrammed spot

Almost every house in Mdina has its own door design with a unique door knocker, called il-Habbata, in Maltese.

You surely have bumped upon that bright blue door surrounded by vivid purple flowers while searching photos of Mdina on Pinterest or Instagram.

Obsessed with doors? View our photo gallery with doors from all around the world !

You need to walk to the back of the city; the blue door is located on the same alleyway as Coogi’s Restaurant & Tea Garden.

#14 Palazzo Santa Sofia – the oldest building of Mdina

Next to the Bastion Square, on Triq IL Villegaignon, is Palazzo Santa Sofia.

What’s so special about it?

Well, the ground floor of this house is the oldest building in Mdina . The oldest part of the exterior contains a square-headed window surrounded by a moulding carrying the date 1233. However, it was not until 1938 that the second floor was added.

Can you visit the palazzo? Palazzo Santa Sofia is privately owned and not open to the public. However, the ground floor and the courtyard of the palace can be hired for dinner, cocktail parties or other events.

#15 The Knights of Malta Experience – see, smell & hear the past

A visit to Casa Magazzini, built by the knights to store ammunition, offers a detailed history of the Knights Hospitaller , known as Order of Saint John .

Through a combination of written information, wax figures and audio effects, you will learn about the Order’s origins, their arrival in Malta, their period of rule and their departure from the island in 1798.

Interested in joining the order? Nowadays, the order is still active, concentrating on its original mission, which is the provision of humanitarian aid. More or less, the institution counts 13.000 members, 80.000 volunteers and 25.000 paid employees, globally.

Opening times: daily, 10.00 – 17:00

Admission: 14.50 EUR, combined ticket for all 3 experiences

More info:  https://theknightsofmalta.com/

#16 Take a Karozzin ride

The karozzin is a horse-drawn carriage, a Maltese traditional mode of transport dating back to the 19 th century. It is the only «vehicle» allowed inside the Silent City so a ride with it is an excellent option to enjoy Mdina’s architecture.

Nevertheless, the best way to explore Mdina is on foot, if you have the opportunity and the time.

How much does it cost? The prices range from 20€ to 35€, however, you can get a better deal if you haggle.

#17 Mesquita Square – a picturesque GOT location

Charming and quiet, this little square is one of the best places inside the old city of Mdina to escape the crowds . It is a great place to sit back, grab something to drink and relax.

Mesquita Square is also the shooting location of Littlefinger’s brothel in King’s Landing , featured in the Game of Thrones TV series.

Interested in more movie locations?

The name of the square originates from a Portuguese knight who commanded the city during a Turkish siege.

#18 Mdina Dungeons Museum – the dark side of Maltese history

What could someone expect from a museum like this?

Underground cells once occupied by prisoners, brutal interrogation techniques, hideous instruments of torture and detailed information about the darker side of Malta’s medieval past .

Scenes recreated in great detail, creepy sounds, screams and grotesque figures recounting the stories of how everyone in power tortured those that dared oppose them.

Where are the Mdina Dungeons located? Beneath the medieval Vilhena Palace, at the first turning on the right after entering Mdina through the Main Gate.

Opening times: Monday to Friday, 10.00 – 16:00 | Saturday to Sunday, 09:30 – 16:30

#19 The Chapel of St Agatha – a tale of injustice & martyrdom

St. Agatha’s Chapel (Kappella ta’ Sant’ Agata) is a small Roman Catholic church, built in 1410. This tiny place of worship features a decorative altar with a painting of St. Agatha. It is believed that the saint prayed here.

It’s the first chapel you meet after Mdina’s main gate.

Did you know? St Agatha is one of the three patron saints of Malta, with the other ones being St. Paul and St. Publius. Her statue stands prominently at Mdina’s Main Gate.

More info about the history of St. Agatha and the Chapel can be found here .

#20 Nunnery of St Benedict – a medieval hospital for women

The Benedictine nuns arrived in Malta in the early 15 th century.

The nunnery operated as a medieval hospital for women ; nowadays, around 20 nuns live in isolation devoting their life to prayer.

A bond for eternity The nuns are not allowed to leave the building, not even after they have died. Each one is buried in the crypt and the only men allowed to enter are the decorator and the doctor.

#21 St Nicholas Chapel – a hidden gem

One of the oldest and best-hidden quarters of Mdina is the Chapel of Saint Nicholas, a Roman Catholic Church, constructed in 1434.

This small chapel, in the form of a Greek cross crowned by a central dome, is no longer used for religious purposes and sits in disrepair.

An abandoned treasury The building is used as a storeroom for numerous artifacts and furnishings from the Grand Mdina Cathedral, with the most notable one being the Cappella Ardente, a wooden gothic structure that was put up when a notable person died.

#22 The Mdina Experience – a glimpse of Mdina’s history

Another top tourist attraction in the Silent City, the Mdina Experience, is a 25-minute movie revealing the several mysteries that surround Mdina .

It is a great opportunity to get more information about the city’s history from the comfort of your seat; St Paul, the earthquake, the Knights of Malta and the battles that took place on the island.

You can also grab a bite at the Medieval Tavern built in Gothic style dating back to the 14th century.

From the prehistoric Bronze Age… The city was founded in the 8 th century BC by the Phoenicians and was called Maleth . With the Roman Republic taking over the city in 218 BC, the city was renamed Melite . Around a millennia after, in 1048, Malta was resettled by a Muslim community who built a settlement called Medina , on the same site as Melite.

Opening times: Monday to Sunday, 10.00 – 17:00

Admission: 6 EUR

Visit the official website for tickets and more info.

#23 Mdina Glass – the ancient art of glassblowing

The furnaces of Mdina Glass were first fired up back in 1968. Skilled glassmakers turned raw materials into molten glass using traditional glassblowing techniques .

Don’t lose the opportunity to visit Mdina Glass and discover a great variety of colourful glassware – small vases, bowls, perfume bottles, candleholders, figurines and lamps. Those traditional handicrafts are the perfect Mdina souvenir to get back home.

You also need to visit… It’s worth watching the craftspeople work as they craft various objects from molten glass. For this experience, you need to visit Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, just 2 km away.

Visit the official eshop for more info.

#24 Torre dello Standardo – a medieval communication «device»

The Tower of the Standard was built by the Order of St. John in 1726 with the sole purpose of relaying signals from the Silent City to the rest of the island.

A fire would be ignited to warn the Maltese in case of an invasion and cannon shots were fired every evening before Mdina closed its gates. Well, that would be an interesting act to see!

Did you know? In the early 19 th century the Tower of the Standard housed the porter and servants of the nearby sanatorium. In 1888 it was turned into a telegraph office and later on, it became a police station until 2002. Torre dello Standardo is now used as a tourist information centre.

#25 Banca Giuratale – the majestic baroque palace

Built in baroque style, with imposing limestone walls and heavily decorated façade, the Banca Giuratale was erected between 1726 and 1728 to house the city’s administrative council and courts, the Università .

A glorious monument Banca Giuratale was the meeting place of the National Assembly during the Maltese uprising against the two-year French occupation of Malta after the Order of Saint John surrendered to Napoleon Bonaparte.

#26 Palazzo Costanzo – a residence of the noble Sicilians

The palace on Villegaignon Street, with its symmetrical façade and rectangular doorway, was built in 1666 by the Costanzo family.

The two-storey building with the underground cellars was formerly a residence but today it serves as a restaurant, café and gift shop .

Grapevine-covered walls, multi-coloured lights, the sound of running water – is there a better place to enjoy a pizza?

Bookings and menu are available here .

Full of secrets … As time went by, Palazzo Costanzo was fortified and has been the refuge of many distinguished figures. Rumour has it, that the secret revolutionary society of Carbonari remained hidden in the secret vaulted chambers below the palace.

#27 Corte Capitanale – Mdina’s old Court of Justice

The Corte Capitanale was built along with the rest of Vilhena Palace, between 1726 and 1728. Like most of the buildings of that period, it was designed in baroque style by a French architect and a member of the Order of Saint John.

Corte Capitanale served mainly as a courthouse until 1813. The prominent statues of Justice and Mercy can be still seen standing proudly on the balcony.

Today Corte Capitanale is Mdina’s City Hall and the seat of the local council .

Justice will (not) be served During the French occupation, the Maltese insurgents accused a local doctor of treason, spying for the French. Even if he was not found guilty by the court, the Maltese still asked the judge to sentence him to death. After the judge turned their new demand down the doctor was (mysteriously) assassinated as soon as he exited the building.

#28 Fontanella Tea Garden – delicious cakes & magical view

Fontanella, one of the most popular cafés in Mdina, is known for its generous slices of homemade cakes (including but not limited to walnut, apricot, chocolate, apple & carrot) and its sweeping views over Malta , stretching all the way to the sea.

After a full day of exploring the old city, grab a table on the bastion walls and relax. Fontanella Tea Garden also serves light meals such as sandwiches, pastizzi, pizzas, baguettes and has an intimate wine bar decorated with fairy lights to illuminate the garden and the tables at night.

Ever tried Maltese ftira? Fontanella Tea Garden is the best place to taste the traditional Maltese ftira, a ring-shaped bread with loaf usually filled with capers, sardines, olives, tuna, onion, potato, or fresh tomato. Maltese state that the making of ftira dates back to the 16 th century.

#29 St. Roque’s Chapel – Our Lady of Light

The quaint little Chapel of St. Roque (Kappella ta’ San Rokku) is always shadowed by the other churches in Mdina. However, what St. Roch’s Church lacks in its exterior it makes up with a beautifully decorated interior .

The baroque temple with the oval dome and the Ionian pilasters was built in 1732 as part of Mdina’s urban re-planning.

The name “ Our Lady of Light ” comes from a painting located in the church, depicting the Virgin of Light. It is located on Triq il-Villegaignon, just past St Paul’s Cathedral. It no longer performs liturgical services but is open to the public during daytime.

Did you know? The locals still call the chapel by its original name, Santa Maria della Porta, since it was rebuilt on a site of an older church, under the dedication of the Holy Cross, existing since 1393.

#30 Mdina’s Neo-Gothic House is an architectural oddity

As you probably understood by now, Mdina’s buildings are a fine example of baroque architecture.

However, a residential house, designed by Andrea Vassallo, stands out among the rest, representing a rare example of neo-Gothic architecture in the Silent City. The house can be found in Mdina’s main square showcasing its distinct Gothic Revival architectural roots.

Can you spot it?

#31 Things to do around Mdina and Rabat

Rabat, less known than its famous neighbour, adjoins the ancient capital of Mdina.

A famous movie location Parts of the movies Black Eagle and Munich were filmed in Rabat.

Nevertheless, there are numerous things to do in Rabat; the Catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha where Romans used to bury their dead, Domus Romana (an ancient Roman Empire Villa) and Wignacourt Museum are some of them.

Further Reading : More things to do in Mdina!

Is Mdina worth visiting?

Mdina, surrounded by its glorious walls, is the pivot of Malta’s 7.000 years old history and a highlight of any visit to the island .

The soft colour of the sandstone walls, the tiny hidden restaurants and the cobbled streets lined with well-preserved noble houses, baroque palazzi & cathedrals give the city a timeless atmosphere.

The fortified city of Mdina invites you to step inside its sandstone maze and discover all its century-old secrets.

Discover more things to do in Malta!

Frequently asked questions about Mdina

There are several transport options to get to Mdina – public transport, taxi or self-drive. Find more information here .

Grab the bus line 202, it takes 45 to 60 minutes to reach Mdina. Find other transport options from Valletta to Mdina here .

There aren’t many options when it comes to hotels in Mdina, but there are a few good ones if you manage to secure a room. How does it feel like to be in Mdina by night?

If you use your transport to get to Mdina be aware that parking is limited especially during weekends. However, there are some free places to try your luck. Find them here .

Mdina has a population of 243 people who live inside the city walls.

Rabat’s city centre is just a step away from Mdina, only a five-minute walk from the main gate. There are plenty of things to do in both cities!

Mdina is open every day, including weekends, free of admission. However, some of the attractions are closed for the weekend. Here are the best things you can do in Mdina!

Mesquita Square: Season 1, Episode 5 “The Wolf and the Lion”. It’s where Jamie Lannister and his spearmen attack Ned and his guards. The square also housed the entrances to the Little Finger’s brothel and the Street of Steel. The Gate of the Mdina: In Season 1, Episode 3 “Lord Snow”. Catelyn and Ser Rodrik Cassel rode into King’s Landing through the main gate.

Mdina at a glance

All images are licensed under the Creative Commons  Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International  license.

What’s the best thing you did in Mdina? Leave a comment and let us know!

• Palazzo Falson – Discovering Mdina’s Noble Past

Nikos Taskos

Combine travelling, food and SEO and you'll have Nikos. A Greek with a passion for exploring, he is always game for a bit of adventure and will never pass on an opportunity to discover something new – local bites and weird drinks, unique experiences, a dark cave or that mysterious footpath down the corner.

We were in Malta in Sept. 2021 and rented a car to see the island. We tried to visit Mdina twice on a week day. Parking was impossible to find, even after driving around for over an hour each time. We tried the parking lots you suggested. We gave up and were disappointed to miss seeing Mdina. We stayed in St. Julian. I wished we had known about the 202 bus line that you mentioned.

I can also remember the parking lots being full, but cars just kept coming all the time. The bus took ages to arrive but hopefully, it showed up after 45 mins of waiting! Next time, you will defo see Mdina, Steve!

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Mdina, Malta

Mdina, also known as Malta’s ‘Silent City’, sits atop a hill overseeing many of the neighbouring towns. This small city is fortified and boasts an eclectic mix of medieval and Baroque architecture lining the quaint narrow streets. Here’s our pick of the best things to do when in town.

Admire the architecture.

Inhabited in the past by noble families, many of the residences have been passed down through the generations and are still associated with the more wealthy. Tiny, deceiving doorways embedded in tall walls lead to properties with vast interiors. Dubbed the ‘Silent City’ due to its quiet streets and strict vehicle restrictions, entering Mdina is like stepping back in time. The main entrance to Mdina, known as Mdina Gate or Vilhena Gate, is a fine example of what to find beyond it. Designed by Charles Francois de Mondion, the Baroque style gate was built in 1724 and named after Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena .

Check out St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral, Archbishop Square, Mdina Malta , +356 21454697

Take in the Cathedral Museum

In the same square as the cathedral sits a Baroque building dating back to the 18th century,with its first stone laid in 1733. Built by Bishop Alpheran de Bussan , this building today is the home of the Cathedral Museum . The museum houses a number of collections such as the Silver Collection dedicated to objects owned by the Brotherhood of the Souls in Purgatory and the Numismatic Collection, and a collection of coins discovered in Malta. Along with a wax collection, silver statues, a bell room chapels and halls, this magnificent building has a lot to offer its visitors.

The Cathedral Museum, Triq San Pawl, Mdina, Malta +356 2145 4697

Stop off at Fontanella Tea Garden

Renowned across the whole of Malta and a must-visit in Mdina, are the Fontanella Tearooms. This is an extremely popular place and depending on the time of day (and year) you may have to wait a little to find a seat. With seating both downstairs and upstairs, it is upstairs that offers the most spectacular views (particularly if you manage to grab a table by the surrounding wall). Views across agricultural land and neighbouring towns go on for miles, and make the perfect accompaniment to a drink and bite to eat. Fontanella is, however, most popular for its homemade cakes , of which the menu appears neverending, and the portion sizes are pretty generous too!

Fontanella Tea Garden, 1, Bastion Street, Mdina, Malta , +356 2145 4264

Visit the Knights of Malta Experience

Gaining both a Quality Assured award from Malta Tourism Authority and an Award for Excellence from Thompson holidays, the Knights of Malta takes you way back to the 16th century to the time of Grand Master L’Isle Adam and his arrival in Mdina. Emerge yourself in the special sound effects and lighting surrounding the life-like figures in an experience for young and old bringing to life both the terrors and the celebrations of what was an epic period of Malta’s history.

The Knights Of Malta, 14/19 Casa Magazzini, Magazine Street, Mdina, Malta , +356 2145 1342

See the National Museum of Natural History

Situated in a breathtaking 18th century palace, that was also once a hospital for cholera sufferers and British troops during the 19th century and tuberculosis patients in the early 20th century, Vilhena Palace became the home to the National Museum of Natural History in 1973. Display areas within the palace cover natural topics ranging from Maltese geology to exotic animals and habitats. A whole hall is dedicated to the skeletons of vertebrates. Discover the importance of Malta’s animals of the past alongside the small uninhabited Maltese islands of Fifla , Fungus Rock and St Paul’s.

National Museum of Natural History, Vilhena Palace, St Publius Square, Mdina Malta , +356 2145 5951

Be enthralled by St Paul’s Catacombs

Adjacant to Mdina, in the neighbouring village of Rabat, are St Paul’s Catacombs. Albeit not actually in Mdina,they are within very short walking distance and play a part in Mdina’s history. In the region of Ħal Bajjada in Rabat, lie a series of catacombs , of which the main, St Paul’s Catacombs can be visited by the general public. The underground chambers were used as a resting place and are said to have still been in use up until circa the 8th century. The burial chambers are firm evidence of the earliest Christianity on the island to date, as Roman law forbid burials in the city. A series of corridors, cavities and small and large rooms still bear the original work carved into the stone and this is the largest Roman underground cemetery on the island.

St Paul’s Catacombs, St Agatha Street, Rabat, Malta , +356 2145 4562

Wander in Buskett Gardens

Again, in neighbouring Rabat, Buskett Gardens is a lush, green, woodland area which is very rare for Malta. Originally planted as a hunting ground by the Knights of Malta, today pathways throughout the gardens lead to ideal spots for picnics, which from autumn to spring are abundant with natural springs and a spectrum of colour in the form of wild flowers. Enjoy orange trees, cacti, and Mediterranean pines as you stroll through the gardens and admire the vineyards, olive groves and lemon groves all within its walls. If visiting the gardens in June, you can take up the opportunity to enjoy the feast of St Peter and Paul too.

Rabat, Malta

Marvel at the Mdina Dungeons

Located a stone’s throw from Mdina’s main gate are the dungeons, a tourist attraction that is one of a kind on the island. Wander the dimly lit, authentic entwining passageways and chambers of the dungeons which run under the Vilhena Palace and experience recreated scenes, with sound effects of a dark and often forgotten side to medieval Malta.

Mdina Dungeons, St. Publius Square, Mdina, Malta , +356 2145 0267

Stroll Mdina by night

Although the majority of visitor attractions and quaint shops are closed, a trip to Mdina after dark is a wonderful experience. Some restaurants and bistros lie tucked away in the narrow streets, and the quietness of the ‘Silent City’ makes it hard to believe you are surrounded by private residences full of families. Besides grabbing a meal, a walk around the dimly lit streets is a wonderful experience in itself, beautifully eerie and with the echoing sound of the cathedral bells, under a pitch black Maltese sky and with hardly a soul in sight makes for an unforgettable experience.

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11 Top Things to do in Mdina, Malta: One Day Guide

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Not gonna lie, the main reason I wanted to visit Mdina in Malta was for the Game of Thrones filming locations . I’m often guilty of only wanting to visit places for their notoriety on screen, even when they’re an epic place in their own right. And as it turns out, there are plenty of things to do in Mdina beyond filming locations!

Mdina is seen as Malta’s second city after it’s capital, Valletta, which is everything Mdina isn’t. While Valletta is filled with cool bars, modern architecture and has a more ‘lively’ atmosphere (ie. a fair few more people), fortified Mdina isn’t called ‘the silent city’ for nothing. The high city walls that surround the medieval-esque city of Mdina literally drown out the outside noise. And while a few people still live in Mdina , most only visit via the city gate for Sunday mass at St Paul’s Co-Cathedral.

Mdina, and by extension Rabat which is just outside the city walls, are usually the second place in Malta that visitors, erm, visit after Valletta. Definitely plan one day in Valletta but Mdina and Rabat deserve one whole day of your trip, too. Here are all the top things to do in Mdina (including what to eat and how to get to Mdina) if you only have one day!

Things to do in Mdina, Malta

Public Transport: Travelling by Bus from Valletta to Mdina

I’m a  huge  fan of Malta’s amazing public transport system. Because it’s such a small country, the bus services are run by one company so you don’t have the disconnect between cities and towns like in the UK. And I just love it when all single journeys cost the exact same no matter where you’re going, it makes travelling abroad so much easier! All single bus journeys in Malta cost €2 paid to the driver during the day (at time of writing).

If you’re travelling from Valletta, Mdina is very easy to reach. Head to the Valletta/Blata L-Bajda bus interchange where there are several bus stops in one location. Find the stop for bus numbers 51, 52 and 53 as these all travel to Mdina. Buses depart every 10 minutes so you don’t need to plan too far in advance. And even better, unlike UK buses, the buses in Malta have screens that announce every stop so you know when to alight! The journey should take around 30-minutes and you should alight at Telgha. 

Accommodation in Mdina and Rabat

Though you’re probably staying in one of the neighbourhoods outside Valletta and are making a day trip to Mdina, there are some fantastic options for accommodation in Mdina or Rabat if you want to stay nearby.

There are plenty of fantastic Airbnbs in Mdina or just outside in Rabat for under £50 per night for the whole apartment. Though you might be stuck for supermarkets in Mdina (the city is super, super, super small if I haven’t made that clear), at least you’ll get a cracking view of all the limestone streets with rainbow-coloured doors when you wake up in the morning. And first dibs of the instagrammable photo ops!

Booking.com has some fantastic hotels in Rabat  and check out the hostels in Malta if you’re a budget traveller. I always book my hostels through Hostelworld , which is usually my prefered type of accommodation when I’m travelling solo. They don’t have any hostels near Mdina but loads near Valletta in Sliema and St Julians.

6 Things to see and do in Mdina and Rabat

1. mdina city gate.

One of the first things to do in Mdina is before you even enter the city! It’s no exaggeration that Mdina looks like some kind of fairytale/old-timey walled village with an actual bridge over a moat (a dry one, though). Mdina’s city gate is beautiful and I’m sure you’ll want to take some photographs outside before you head in. Mdina is on the tentative list to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that doesn’t surprise me at all. I am  surprised it’s not one already!

2. St Paul’s Co-Cathedral

The main reason why Mdina is so popular with visitors isn’t just that it’s a beautiful place to spend one day in Malta, but because it used to be Malta’s capital city until 1530. The main cathedral at that time would have been St Paul’s Cathedral built in the 12th century. The grand church has had a few mishaps in its time and was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the late 17th century, which is how we see it today. St Paul’s Cathedral currently shares Catholic church responsibilities with St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta .

I visited Mdina on a Sunday when it is closed all day for mass, but definitely try to go inside the church for a nosey if you can. Opening hours are 9:30-16:15 Monday to Saturday. It’s fascinating how religious the Maltese seem to be and when they go to mass they really  dress up. You think the Spanish and Italians are devout Catholics but they ain’t got nothin’ on the Maltese.

If you particularly love visiting churches in European countries, you might also want to also visit St Agatha’s Chapel. For such a small city, there are a fair few churches! I counted at least six but I don’t know how many are still active.

Things to do in Valletta, Malta if you only have One Day

3. The Elusive Blue Door

Once upon a time, you couldn’t search #bluedoor on Instagram without being bombarded with snaps of this exact  blue door over and over again. Literally, just google ‘Mdina blue door’ and you’ll see what I mean. It’s a huge and heavy, rustic-style front door painted a cool blue adorned with a thriving vine of purple flowers. Instafodder if I ever saw it.

If you too want to get dem likes on Instagram, I’m not judging! It’s now even been listed on Google Maps under ‘Blue Mdina Door’ so you’ll easily be able to find it. It’s right in the west, top corner of Mdina near Fior di Latte .

  View this post on Instagram   This is the famous blue door in Mdina which we walked half an hour to find. It’s down a small alleyway, a short walk away from the towns best gelato shop. It’s got the biggest flower arch I’ve seen in ages which was beautiful and covered in bright pink flowers. I couldn’t walk past without grabbing a photo 🎥 – – – #mdina #mdinamalta #mdinaglass #mdinathesilentcity #jet2holidays #jet2malta #malta #maltaphotography #visitmalta #visitgozo #valletta #vallettamalta #asseenonme #reallifeandstyle #happyselves #shinyhappybloggers #theuncoolclub #thegirlganguk #lbloggersuk #thecaptionclub #chattycaptioncommunity #curateyourownfeed #tarastraveltribe #averagesizegirl #averagegirlsize #midsizestyle #slowsundayclub #mdinabluedoor #maltaphotographer A post shared by SOPHIE’S SUITCASE ↠ (@sophiessuitcasetravel) on Aug 4, 2018 at 11:55pm PDT

4. Mdina City Walls Viewpoint

While you’re over at the Blue Door (and probably queueing for the privilege), check out the utterly phenomenal panoramic viewpoint from the top of Mdina city walls over the rest of the whole damn country. That’s what is so amazing about visiting tiny countries like Malta, you can see from one coastline to the next. Definitely one of the best things to do in Mdina.

5. Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Mdina and Rabat

Okay, I’d be remiss if I didn’t properly acknowledge that quite a few tourists visit Mdina nowadays for the  Game of Thrones  filming locations. The film crew shot King’s Landing and Dothraki scenes from season one in Malta before production moved to Dubrovnik, Croatia for the rest of the show’s run. Rumour has it that the crew weren’t very respectful to the Maltese landscapes and if that the case, I don’t blame them for telling  Game of Thrones  where to go.

Naturally, I have a whole other blog post on the  Game of Thrones  filming locations in Malta so if you want to know which scenes were shot in Mdina, check it out!

Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Malta

6. Walk around Mdina’s city streets

One of the best things to do in Mdina is to put your phone/Google Maps away and just walk around. Like the rest of the country, Mdina was built purely with limestone which gives the whole city a gorgeous sandy tone and along with the brightly coloured doors and religious shrines that are often found outside Maltese homes. And it’s a teeny, tiny city surrounded by huge walls! You’re not exactly going to get lost.

If you have children, you might also like to visit The Mdina Experience exhibition. But I wouldn’t bother if you’re travelling solo or as a couple, it’s literally just a one-hour movie about Mdina’s history.

5 Places to eat & drink in Mdina and Rabat

1. fontanella tea garden in mdina.

There aren’t many restaurants in Mdina and personally, I would take the short walk to Rabat for lunch for better, cheaper options. But if you want to eat in Mdina then try the Fontanella Tea Garden . The restaurant is situated next to the city’s viewpoint do you have a cracking view over the rest of the country. Their menu includes homemade cakes, mezze platters and simple toasted sandwiches.

2. Fior di Latte in Mdina

I never say no to good ice cream. Yes, I even visited Malta in January and I  still  fancied a couple of scoops. All in the name of research, right? If you too are a sucker for good ice cream then Fior di Latte (also next to the city viewpoint) is ideal to sample a cheap sweet treat and check out the sweet view at the same time.

3. Ta’ Doni in Rabat

I initially went to Ta’ Doni in Rabat for lunch before I noticed all the tables were full. It’s quite a small artisanal café/restaurant so you may have the same problem as me. Ta’ Doni is the perfect place to eat lunch in Rabat if you love fresh bread and quality, deli-style ingredients.

4. Toffee & Co. in Rabat

Where I  did  end up heading for lunch in Rabat is Toffee & Co. and I’m so pleased I did! They served these delicious traditional Maltese flatbreads with different toppings and sauces and it was bloody beautiful. Like a cross between a pizza and a sandwich. It’s a family-friendly restaurant and they also serve great coffee and homemade desserts.

5. Crystal Palace in Rabat

Finally, Crystal Palace is widely known as the best place in Malta to taste a traditional Maltese flaky pastry called Pastizzi. They’re usually filled with either pea paste or ricotta cheese and probably the closest thing Malta has to street food. And since the Crystal Palace bakery is so  close to Mdina city gate you can pop by to grab some pastries to start your one day in Mdina the right way!

And those are all the things to do in Mdina and Rabat in Malta if you only have one day! Are you planning a trip to Malta? Let me know in the comments below!

Hey! I wrote this. And I'm the human (and hair) behind Almost Ginger. I live for visiting filming locations, attending top film festivals and binge-watching travel inspiring films. I'm here to inspire you to do the same! Get in touch by leaving a comment or contacting me directly: [email protected] .

2 thoughts on “ 11 Top Things to do in Mdina, Malta: One Day Guide ”

Will be in Malta for 2 days. Love to read your comments.

Thanks so much for your comment, Maria! Have a great time! 😀

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What To Do in Mdina, Malta’s Gorgeous Silent City

Lost-in-time Mdina is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Malta and this thorough guide on what to do in Mdina is sure to make you want to spend more than just a couple of hours in Malta’s Silent City, as most travellers – mistakenly – do.

This article was written by Billy Read, a deaf travel blogger from Birmingham, UK. Through his blog BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, Billy dismantles the myth that travel is too expensive and explains how you can still enjoy hidden gems even in the most popular tourist destinations.

Nestled in the northwest corner of the island nation of Malta lies the fortified city of Mdina. This ancient walled city oozes history, culture and charm in every cobblestoned street. Therefore, it’s no surprise that there are so many amazing things to do in Mdina. In this guide, you’ll find out what to do in Mdina for a trip to remember.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

Why Visit Mdina Malta

Mdina has been inhabited since prehistoric times due to its strategic location and natural defences. By the 11th century, it was already a thriving Muslim town. It served as the former capital of Malta for centuries and remains one of the most fascinating places to visit in Malta.

Despite its compact size, Mdina packs a serious sightseeing punch. A stroll through this quaint town is like stepping back in time to Malta’s medieval times.

The Silent City, as it is also known ever since Malta’s capital was transferred to the town of Vittoriosa (Birgu), Mdina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive architecture, majestic palaces, magnificent Cathedrals and fascinating museums just waiting to be discovered. 

Beyond its impressive sights, Mdina exudes an intangible magical ambience. Its shady winding streets, peaceful squares and golden stone buildings evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment.

Yet Mdina is more than just a pretty backdrop. Local bars, shops and restaurants infuse modern vibrancy into ancient alleyways. During the day, tourists roam freely while, at nightfall, the picturesque town reverts to a quiet local neighbourhood. 

Visiting the medieval Mdina citadel is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Malta. But, with just one day here, how do you make the most of your time? Use this complete guide to uncover the very best things to see, do, eat and experience in marvellous Mdina.

How To Get To Mdina

After arriving at Malta International Airport, reaching Mdina is remarkably easy using Malta’s efficient public transportation. Mdina sits between 15 and 30 minutes west of the capital Valletta by bus or taxi. However, if you’re short on time, for a more hassle-free experience, check out this day trip from Valletta with a guided tour of Mdina and Rabat.

Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes daily from the Valletta bus terminus directly to Mdina Gate. Simply take buses 51, 52 or 53 and alight at the Mdina bus stop to reach the city’s main entrance. Roundtrip bus tickets cost just €2 to €4 (2023 prices).

If you’re planning to spend more time in Valletta, read our guide to the best things to do in Valletta.

Taxis offer more convenience and can be booked on the Malta Public Transport smartphone app. The set rate is €20 from Valletta to Mdina. Some key tips:

• Mdina is pedestrianised so all transport drops off just outside the city walls.
• The Mdina entrance has a tourist information point to grab maps.
• Wear comfy walking shoes as you’ll be on foot the entire time.
• Bring water, sunscreen and a hat as there is minimal shade inside the walls.

What To Do in Mdina – Walking Tour of Mdina’s Top Sights

Start your visit at the impressive Mdina Gate. Also known as Vilhena Gate, this is the Main Gate entrance of Mdina. The fortified gate dates back to the Roman period and the marble inscription above was added in the 18th century. Passing under the gatehouse tunnel is like stepping back in time as you enter the medieval city.

Being the perfect starting point for any walking tour, Mdina Gate is also a Game of Thrones filming location that was used as King’s Landing Gate.

Vilhena Palace

Built in Baroque style, the grand 18th-century Palazzo Vilhena was once the residence of the Order of St John’s Grand Master Antonio Manoel. It now houses Malta’s National Museum of Natural History, perfect for families to see dinosaur exhibits. Even if you skip visiting the interior of the Natural History Museum, the palace’s exterior is impressive with its dual stone staircases and statue-lined courtyard.

St. Peter’s Church & Monastery

Before arriving at Mdina Cathedral, step into the oldest female monastery in Malta. Dating back to the 15th century, St. Peter’s Monastery displays artefacts and tools that nuns used to comfort their lives. What’s more, the cloistered nuns are selling delicious baked goods. You can also visit the rooms of Blessed Maria Adeodata Pisani, a cloistered nun who lived in the monastery in the 19th century.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

The imposing Baroque St. Paul’s Cathedral dominates the Mdina skyline, making it the city’s most recognisable landmark. Although tradition says that the Cathedral is in the place of the palace of Roman Governor Publius, history buffs will appreciate that it stands on the site of an ancient Roman temple and subsequent Norman Cathedral before being rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake. 

Buy your combo ticket from the adjacent Cathedral Museum that includes the entrance fee to the Museum and the Cathedral.

Palazzo Santa Sofia

After visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral, on your way to the Carmelite Priory, make a stop outside Palazzo Santa Sofia, the oldest surviving medieval building in Mdina. Its ground floor dates back to the 13th century while the upper floor was constructed less than a century ago. The palace is not open to the public.

Carmelite Church & Convent

A short walk from the striking St. Paul’s Cathedral is the Carmelite Church and Convent , worth visiting for its peacefulness and unique pieces of art. 

The Baroque church contains lavish gold carvings along with remarkable paintings by memorable artists, such as Mattia Preti. Adjoined to the Carmelite Church, the small convent features an outstanding cloister that will take you back to the 17th century. The room for the communal meals is one of the convent’s original spaces that showcases the friars’ routine of that time.

Palazzo Falson

Just past the Cathedral, Palazzo Falson , the second oldest building in Mdina, allows visitors to glimpse at what life was like for Mdina’s nobility during the Middle Ages. 

This meticulously restored aristocratic townhouse museum showcases period furnishings, art and costumes. History lovers and interior design fans will especially appreciate this window into Malta’s past. Palazzo Falson is also home to famous paintings by noteworthy artists, such as Nicolas Poussin and Sir Anthony Van Dyck.

Bastion Square

Head to the gorgeous Bastion Square at the edge of the walled city of Mdina for outstanding panoramic views of Mdina’s surroundings.

Main Gate Ramparts

Don’t exit Mdina without the breathtaking views from the Main Gate ramparts overlooking the deep moat. Photographers will love capturing shots of little-changed medieval Mdina on one side and modern Rabat on the other. Look for other remaining original gateways like the Greeks Gate for more panoramas.

Roman Villa

As you’re crossing the Howard Gardens outside the city walls, stop by Domus Romana. Dating back to the 1st century BC, the Villa’s remains became later ground for a Muslim cemetery. If you have spare time, visit the Roman Villa’s small museum to see the Roman antiquities displayed there. From there, stroll along Rabat’s narrow alleys towards St. Paul’s Catacombs, a massive underground cemetery.

St Paul’s Catacombs

Just at the outskirts of Mdina lie Malta’s largest Roman-era catacombs of St Paul, not to be missed. The underground tombs date back to the 3rd century BC. Descending into the eerie tunnels offers an immersive experience and a unique perspective to understand the multi-layered history of Mdina.

Other Amazing Things To Do in Mdina

Beyond its fantastic sightseeing, there are lots of other things to do in Mdina to appreciate this magical city from different perspectives:

• Embark on an open-air land train tour of Mdina for a fun overview of the key sights and history.
• Visit the Knights of Malta Museum for a history journey through the centuries and an insight into the lives of the Knights of St. John.
• Join the Mdina Experience show to enjoy the city’s beauty and history under atmospheric nighttime lighting and accompanying audio.
• If you are a Game of Thrones fan, tour Mdina’s filming locations, such as Mesquita Square, from the hit HBO show. The entire city stood in for King’s Landing, along with other Malta spots like the Blue Lagoon.
• Have a long lazy Maltese lunch at one of Mdina’s restaurants and cafés overlooking the island scenery under the city walls.
• Browse the unique souvenir shops in Mdina that line charming narrow streets to hunt for locally made crafts and gifts.
• At night, after the day-trippers have left, stroll the lantern-lit medieval streets soaking in the magical atmosphere.
• If you’re into dark tourism, step inside the Mdina Dungeons Museum.
• Stroll past lesser-known architectural gems, such as the 16th century Palazzo de Piro and the Torre dello Standardo.

Best Places To Eat & Drink in Mdina

Mdina offers inviting bars and restaurants to refuel between sightseeing. Dining inside the mighty medieval walls is an atmospheric experience but comes at slightly inflated prices. Inside Mdina’s walls, top dining recommendations include:

• Bacchus  – For fine dining in an elegant setting, Bacchus offers creative Mediterranean-French fusion cuisine and unmatched Mdina views.
• Trattoria AD 1530  – For authentic pizza baked in a wood-fired oven, homemade pasta and other classic Italian dishes in a romantic setting.
• Fontanella Tea Garden  – People watch from this café’s prime spot on the Main Gate ramparts while enjoying light bites, tea and decadent cakes.
• The Medina Restaurant  – Savor a la carte fine dining highlighting quality Maltese cuisine inside this 400-year-old converted townhouse.

Outside Mdina, you can try some of the best pastizzi in Malta at Crystal Palace Bar in the town of Rabat.

Don’t leave Mdina without trying Malta’s niche wine. Gellewza is a fruity red or floral white from local grapes. And be sure to sample the traditional date-filled shortbread called maqrut.

Where To Stay in Mdina

Wake up right inside the medieval city walls with an overnight stay in Mdina. Boutique hotels in converted mansions or townhouses offer a magical experience and great convenience. Recommended options include:

• The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux  – Live like royalty in this 17th-century palace, featuring lavish rooms, blooming courtyards, fine dining and a pool.
•   Palazzo Bifora – Pamper yourself in this 5-star hotel that offers luxurious suites, an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace with spectacular views.

Nearby Rabat also makes a great base with more affordable hotels just outside Mdina’s walls like Villa Vittoria or Point de Vue Guest House , one of Mdina’s best budget picks with friendly service, amazing views and nicely decorated rooms. Staying in Valletta, Sliema or St. Julian’s is very feasible too if you don’t mind the short commute.

How To Make The Most of Your Day in Mdina

Mdina deserves a full day to uncover all of its medieval magic. Here is an ideal one-day itinerary:

Morning: Arrive early around 9-10 am to beat both the heat and crowds. Start with the Mdina walking tour, ticking off top sights like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Vilhena Palace, Palazzo Falson, city walls, Carmelite Church, etc. Break for a light lunch at one of Mdina’s atmospheric spots.

Early Afternoon: After lunch, see other major landmarks like Palazzo Santa Sofia and St. Paul’s Catacombs. Then join an open-air land train tour or night show for an overview.

Late Afternoon: Wander off the main streets down charming alleyways. Browse souvenir shops and relax over coffee or drinks as the crowds dissipate.

Evening: Stay for sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace before dinner at one of Rabat’s excellent eateries. Stroll Mdina’s nighttime streets for a magical end to your day.

One day allows you to see Mdina’s top attractions, but two to three days lets you dive deeper into museums and day trips to nearby towns like Mosta, Mgarr and Dingli. 

For an extended Malta itinerary, use Mdina as your base to explore the entire island on a road trip , including top attractions like the Blue Lagoon in Comino , the capital Valletta, and one of Malta’s most popular attractions, the Popeye Village . Have more time? Don’t miss an opportunity to go scuba diving in Malta , home to some of the world’s best scuba diving spots. 

Discover The Magic of Malta’s Medieval Gem

Mdina encapsulates over 4000 years of enthralling history within its golden medieval walls. This comprehensive travel guide on what to do in Mdina outlined the very best ways to experience captivating Mdina to make the most of your limited time in this medieval masterpiece. 

Get lost wandering the peaceful cobblestone streets, soak up the magical atmosphere, admire breathtaking architecture and indulge in delicious local fare. From wandering ancient alleyways to admiring panoramic views atop the city walls, Mdina offers an unforgettable window into Malta’s past. Its unique ambience and wealth of historic sights cement it as a great place to visit in Malta.

Mdina FAQs:

What are the top attractions in mdina.

The medieval city’s top attractions are St Paul’s Cathedral, Palazzo Falson, Vilhena Palace, the city walls, St. Peter’s Church, Palazzo Santa Sofia and the Roman Catacombs.

How much time do you need in Mdina?

One full day is ideal for the main sights or two to three days to see museums and take day trips. Stay overnight to experience the atmospheric medieval streets of Mdina without the day-trippers. That’s probably the best time to fully grasp Mdina’s allure.

How do you get to Mdina from Valletta?

Mdina is between 15 and 30 minutes from Valletta by bus or taxi. Take bus 51, 52 or 53 directly from the Valletta bus terminal to the Mdina bus stop by the city gate.

Where should you stay in Mdina?

Staying in one of Mdina’s converted boutique mansions or townhouses allows you to wake up within the city walls. Good options include The Xara Palace and Palazzo Bifora .

What to do in Mdina at night?

If you’re wondering what to do in Mdina after dark, Mdina reverts to a peaceful local neighbourhood perfect for admiring the historic buildings illuminated at night on an evening walking tour.

Are there restaurants and bars inside Mdina?

Yes, Mdina has inviting bars and restaurants to refuel between sightseeing like Fontanella Tea Garden, The Medina Restaurant and Bacchus for fine dining.

What is the best way to see Mdina’s sights?

This comprehensive walking tour is a great way to see all the top sights and learn about Mdina’s rich history and architecture as you explore its cobblestone streets.

Mdina is one of our favourite places to visit in Malta. Billy did a great job illustrating the magic of this silent yet charming city in this guide on what to do in Mdina. Contrary to what most visitors do, we’re sure you’re now inspired to spend at least one full day in Malta’s old capital.

WORDS: Guest author IMAGES: Katerina EDITING: Maria

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The mysterious golden-stone Arabic walled city of Mdina crowns a hilltop, and is a world apart from modern Malta. Its hidden lanes offer exquisite architectural detail and respite from the day-tripping crowds, who largely stick to the main street. Today, with its massive walls and peaceful, shady streets, it is often referred to as the Silent City, a nickname that becomes appropriate after dark.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

St Paul's Cathedral

The cathedral is said to be built on the site of the villa belonging to Publius, the Roman governor of Malta who welcomed St Paul in AD 60.

Mdina Ditch Garden

Mdina's ditch was an important element of its fortifications. It was first created in the 15th century, but was rebuilt by the Knights of St John's…

Palazzo Falson

The magnificent Palazzo Falson is a beautifully preserved medieval mansion. Formerly the home of artist and philanthropist Olof Gollcher (1889–1962), the…

Cathedral Museum

The Cathedral Museum's outstanding highlight is a series of woodcut and copperplate prints and lithographs by the German Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer…

National Museum of Natural History

Housed in the elegant Palazzo de Vilhena is an interesting – if old-school fusty – array of displays. Of particular note is the geology section, which…

Mdina Experience

These three presentations about Mdina's history of siege and embattlement come with an attendant waxwork display of knights to really bring the town's…

Casa Testaferrata

The residence of the Marquis of San Vincenzo Ferreri, a member of the Maltese nobility. The title was created by King Philip V of Spain and donated to the…

Knights of Malta

Audiovisual displays, ghoulish and gruesome mannequins and big screens bring alive the story of the Knights of Malta and the Great Siege of 1565.

Latest stories from Mdina

Mar 24, 2014 • 5 min read

Malta’s reputation as a package-holiday beach destination tells only a fraction of the story. While the warm climate and endless seas surrounding this…

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Mdina is very special and magical! If you visit Mdina, don't forget to walk to the end and see the lovely view.

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what to do in mdina

Our suggestions of places to visit at the silent city.

What to do in Mdina offers a splendid itinerary that might fill up all your visiting time.

Mdina is a magical place where the modern age seems far away. It is very popular with tourists for day-trip tours apart from the many that visit it everyday. In the evening it is still and quiet apart from the visitors that still visit. With limited vehicles entering the old capital, with dim lit lanterns enchants the visitor every time he goes.

The city lies on a hill overlooking other towns and villages. Mdina is a fortified city with a wide-range of Baroque and medieval architecture along all narrow quiet streets.

We have listed the most popular things we suggest you must to while here.

Disclaimer: On our website, you will find affiliate links from which we receive a small commission.

1. The Main Gate

What to do in mdina.

The present main entrance gate leading to Mdina, which we find today, is not the original one. The architect Charles Francois de Mondion designed the new gate in 1724 for the Grand Master of the Order of St. John, Manoel de Vilhena. On entering the gate one can see the coat of arms of this Grand Master showing his outstanding successes during his war.

This entrance gate was used for the filming of the Game of Thrones Season 1 Episode 3 during the summer of 2010.

2. Palazzo Vilhena: The Residence Of The Grand Master

The Grand Master had enlarged the Vilhena palace, and for this purpose he had to shift the position of the gate sideways. It is still visible today from the outside of the fortifications.

It was originally the former Magisterial Palace of Justice but during the tenure of Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena (1722-1736) he built the existing palace. It was part of his plan to rebuild Mdina after the great earthquake of 1693 which devastated the old medieval capital in the image of the architectural style of the Knight of St. John's.

It is an impressive building that immediately attracts the eyes of all visitors. It is well worth visiting not only the exhibits inside but also the gorgeous building interior. The Magisterial Palace on the side which was incorporated within this enlargement is used by the Mdina Local Council.

Details About Vilhena Palace

• Address: Saint Publius Square, Mdina

3. Palazzo Vilhena: The National History Museum

The National History Museum is this same palace, It is located on the right side, just as you enter the main gate of Mdina.

The Vilhena palace as it is well known, is today the Natural Museum of Natural History opened to the public in 1973 with many Geology and Paleontology collections with Maltese birds, fish, mammals, 10,000 rock and mineral samples. Thousands of exotic shells and insects and a splendid fossil collection. The museum also includes details about Maltese insects, birds, exotic animals and marine fauna.

It was built in the French Baroque style, a beautiful palace designed by Charles François de Mondion. It was the redesigning of the original medieval Universita 'building.

Details About National History Museum

4. the mdina dungeons museum.

The Mdina Dungeons shows the history of prison life in Mdina. Beneath the Vilhena Palace in the underground passageways that lead to chambers and cells once where prisoners used to be imprisoned.

Entrance is just next to the inner side of the main Mdina Gate. Here you will view the methods and instruments that were used for torture in Malta until the year 1813. Scenes were recreated, showing the brutality of the Maltese prisons during the medieval era. It is a journey that takes you back when justice was very different than today, with a flavor of horror mixed with historical facts.

It takes you back to the darker side of life on these islands, including historical context that helps you become part of its past.

Details About Mdina Dungeons

• Click here for more information

5. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Things to do in mdina.

St. Paul's Cathedral, also recognised as Mdina Cathedral is located at the main central square noticeable from many areas of Malta and a clear landmark over the fortification walls.

This elegant baroque cathedral was rebuilt in 1693 after suffering damages by an earthquake. It has wonderful treasures of art across the cathedral. Several famous paintings by Mattia Preti who was a famous Italian Baroque artist who worked in Italy and Malta.

The great artistic decorations within the cathedral attract many tourists to visit this throughout the year. The entrance ticket to the cathedral is valid for the museum.

Details About St. Paul's Cathedral

• Address: 2 Triq San Pawl, Mdina

Opening hours

• Monday to Saturday from 09:30 - 16:30
• Sunday from 15:00 - 17:00

6. Cathedral Museum

The Cathedral Museum is located on the side of St. Paul's Cathedral. Built in the baroque style between 1733 and 1742 by architect Andrea Belli displaying ecclesiastical objects and Roman antiquities.

It was previously used as a seminary, but today it is open to the public with various collections that are worth visiting apart from the beauty of the building architecture. The collection contains vestments, coins, silverware, religious ornaments, several masterpieces of European paintings. It is notable to mention the engravings by Albrecht Durer.

Many treasures were saved after the heavy earthquake during 1693 in Sicily that had partly destroyed the cathedral. This material is partly displayed at the museum.

The entrance ticket is valid for the museum and cathedral.

Details About Cathedral Museum

• Address: Triq San Pawl, Mdina

7. Carmelite Priory Museum

The Carmelite Priory Museum is the first one that has opened its doors on these islands. The Carmelites have restored this 17th century building including the exhibited artefacts to give the visitor an experience of daily priory life and the spiritual side where the tours are conducted by one of the friars.

These convents have incredible beautiful architectural features that we rarely find today. 

Here at the priory there is a restaurant open to the public named Al Convento located within the refectory. For many years, friars shared their daily meals apart from their daily community life. This way, the priory keeps itself financially healthy to keep up with their daily life and community commitments.

Details About Carmelite Priory Museum

8. palazzo de piro: tools, trades & traditions museum and café bistro, a unique combination on the island within mdina.

Nestled beside St. Paul’s Cathedral a 16th century palazzo originally three houses no in one has been gracefully renovated as a museum and café bistro. A success combination that attracts people for breakfast, lunch, dinner, private functions including weddings. With great views over the fortification walls sitting at a table relaxed in this magical place with the perfect setting.

You can visit for a café with a delicious sweet or for a relaxed lunch with the family and pets or for the evening with an enchanting and romantic venue.

An engaging and excite place like Palazzo de Piro is also a museum. A visit to these three large halls where the Mdina Cathedral museum was extended. Collections ranging from 17th to 20th century paintings by local and foreign artists and wooden sculptures. Within this large palazzo there is also a there is also a unique museum of tools, trades and traditions being a private collection of the previous owners who wished that they remain and exhibited within the premises.

Details About Palazzo De Piro

• Address: 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina

9. Palazzo Falson – The Norman House

Palazzo Falson is the second oldest building in Mdina. It is also called Norman house due to its characteristic exterior. It is a typical two-storey magnificent medieval palace built in 1495. Various owners built and decorated the building in the Sicilian, Spanish style. The palace contains unique features that were incorporated over time since the 13th century.

It is an unusual among historic palaces, today it is a museum where it is worth visiting. It contains exterior features including splendid collections by Captain Olof Frederick Gollcher that spread over various periods and it gives you an insight about our ancestors' way of life.

Each of the rooms on display is a treasure trove of works of art by Sir Anthony Van Dyck, Nicolas Poussin, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and Mattia Preti. A café at the premises offers you a pleasant outdoor terrace with stunning views of Malta.

Details About Palazzo Falson

• Address:  Villegaignon Street, Mdina
• Opening hours:  Temporarily closed and will open on 3rd March 2021

10. The Fortification Walls Of Mdina

The Fortifications of Mdina are defensive walls surrounding the natural plateau on high ground in the center of the island. From here there is a formidable view of the island's principal ports, which was the most ideal location for a fortified capital at the same time overlooking the open Mediterranean Sea for any invaders.

11. The Mdina Experience - Audio-Visual Show

The Mdina Experience is an audio-visual show which enraptures 3000 years of developing a history of a national that saw many conquerors and eventually becoming a Republic led by the Maltese themselves in a 30 minute spectacle.

It is in one of the old buildings at Mesquita Square. A journey back in time which helps you visualize how life was when Mdina was still the capital city of Malta but also along in recent years.

12. Mdina Narrow Streets

Immerse yourself in a world that has gone by. Roam the narrow and winding streets of the old capital, which are still the lining houses and palaces of the Maltese.

Observe the untouched architecture spreading several eras of conquerors. With only 300 residents, the streets are frequently empty. Only the main central roads are very active with visitors.

13. Mdina Ditch Garden

The Mdina Ditch is another area which should be explored. It is a walk outside the fortifications within the wide ditch. It starts from the Ghareqqija gate to the other side beside the Veduta restaurant where you will find a purposely built lift to bring you down and up to the main road from the ditch.

The fortification walls have been restored and the ditch floor has been paved with a mix of green lawn, paving and trees. You have various location where you can sit down and admire the tranquility and setting around you.

14. The Knights of Malta

Within the Mdina battlements along the bastion walls of the old capital, a display with 34 tableaux and a 3D audio-visual show gives you a good narration of the 268 years of the Knight of St. John history through full-size figures of knights and grand masters.

Get to know their origins, how they transformed the island into a prosperous island, their great victory over the Turkish army on Maltese soil, and how they were expelled form Malta in 1798. You can follow the audio guide commentaries available in 13 languages.

Details About Knights Of Malta

• Address: Magazine Street, Mdina
• Opening Hours: 10:00 - 17:00

15. Karozzin Rises -Horse Drawn Cab

It is very common that tourists are attracted to rent a short tour around the old city with a horse drawn cab and its driver who is usually the owner. In Maltese it is called Il-karozzin, which was the Maltese traditional mode of transport since antiquity until cars were introduced.

The sound of the wheels on the paved roads reminds you of the past. It is an everyday scene which also attracts many visitors to take photos.

Where You Can Go After Visiting Mdina

The town of Rabat is the second half of Mdina when once during… .. was just one locality. It is a beautiful town with a variety of things you can visit and walk around observing the lifestyle and architecture.

Usually apart from passing cars around it is very quie. It is all surrounded with greenery and various locations can be visited on the outskirst. Various ideas are suggested in our page things to do at Rabat. Have a look and see if you can fit a few during your holiday.

Hop on hop off north tour

Malta sightseeing hop on hop off north tour passes from outside Mdina where there is a stop on the outside of the fortifications with just a one minute walk inside. Then it proceeds to Rabat and to a few of the surrounding areas mentioned in our Rabat page. It is ideal for those who wish to stay in Mdina for a short time. 

We invite you to flavor this beautiful silent city of Mdina .

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Home » Malta island » Mdina and Rabat

Mdina and Rabat travel guide and insider tips

Mdina and Rabat are two popular towns in Malta (in the southwest of the main island), and each is admired for very different reasons.

Mdina is one of Malta’s most popular tourist destinations because there’s no place like it anywhere. Sitting on top of a hill overlooking large parts of Malta, it’s a fortified medieval town enclosed in bastions, small but rich in history. It’s filled with centuries-old buildings that have been well-maintained throughout the ages.

Wandering through its narrow streets and alleys, Mdina genuinely feels like history coming to life. The only real giveaway is the local residents’ cars parked within.

Rabat, the village that’s located on Mdina’s doorstep (and once considered to be its suburb), on the other hand, is known for its quiet, more rural character and natural beauty. Apart from offering a few key museums and points of interest, Rabat is also known for one of the few forested areas the country knows, Buskett Gardens , the entrance to which can be found on the outskirts of the village.

A typical Maltese town that still hosts traditional village festas , there’s a lot of character to discover on a leisure walk through its streets.

In terms of accommodation, neither of the villages is a popular place to actually stay, although a few boutique hotels can be found. If exploring the country is your priority and you’re looking for a quieter place to stay, it’s definitely a lovely location to consider. Mdina, even though a popular tourist destination, rarely really feels busy.

If you decide to stay elsewhere, it’s an area to visit multiple times, for sightseeing but also to enjoy a beautiful part of Malta in the evening.

Quick facts

• Mdina is (tentatively) listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Mdina was Malta’s capital city until the Knights of Malta arrived in 1530
• The Silent City is an often-used name for Mdina , and you’ll understand once you walk around inside the city walls. It’s also known as Città Vecchia (“Old City”) and Città Notabile (“Notable City”)
• The name Mdina comes from the Arabic word medina , which means ‘city’.
• The region was first inhabited in 700 BCE
• Built at a strategic defensive location with a clear sight of surrounding areas
• Rabat is known for its quiet character, the forested area of Buskett and attractions such as the Roman Domus and St Paul’s Catacombs
• Its main entrance features in the popular TV series Game of Thrones , scenes of which were filmed in different parts of Malta and Gozo.

The beauty of the “silent city” of Mdina

Mdina, also called the Silent City, is surrounded by fortified bastion walls and sits on top of one of the highest hills of Malta. The town, as it exists today, was built in medieval times on the footprint of a city called Maleth, which was founded in the 8th century BC by Phoenician Settlers. With its tall outer walls having been erected in the 11th century, many buildings built several centuries ago have been preserved, and its narrow alleys tell tales of centuries of history and the various rulers that governed Malta.

Mdina is visible from large parts of Malta, and the view of the skyline as you drive up to Rabat from the centre of the island is iconic.  There’s a mythical sense to the city when you enter it, and you can almost taste the history as you walk its streets. There’s no mistaking that this city was built with pride for important people who wanted to build a small fortress that would be easy to defend from enemy attacks.

Surrounded by a ditch that has been turned into a public garden, you can wander around freely and enjoy the view of the age-old bastions from underneath. The inner streets are all paved with large stones and cobbles, and you’ll often hear the sound of horse-drawn carriages taking tourists on a tour of the city.

All around you are stately buildings, built at various points in the history of the town and featuring distinct architectural designs from different periods. At its heart, you’ll find the imposing St. Paul’s Cathedral and its small square in front, while a few chapels are open to admire to the public in a few of the smaller streets.

The streets are narrow and winding, and walking along them feels like you’re trying to find your way out of a maze, although really and truly, the place is so small it’s hard to get lost. With all the noise of everyday life in the busier parts of Malta, the silence inside the city’s walls is very noticeable and really adds to the magic of the city itself, as well as its panoramic views out over the island.

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Things to do and see in Mdina

Featuring a mix of medieval and baroque architecture, Mdina has many gems to be discovered.

12 places to see in Mdina

1. the silent city itself.

It’s not just a good location to visit individual museums or points of interest, the city itself is something to behold and experience. A myriad of streets and alleys paved with stone slabs, surrounded by a blend of architectural styles introduced over the centuries, all together make for an impressive place to admire.

2. The National Museum of Natural History

The Natural History Museum is located to your right as you enter the Main Gate and is popularly visited. To be fair, the museum could do with a little work and part of the interest is in the building itself: Vilhena Palace. It’s a commanding building, with its beautiful baroque facade and impressive entrance courtyard.

3. Torre dello Standardo

Right opposite the museum, the Torre dello Standardo formed part of the system of watchtowers around the Maltese islands, which together functioned as a communication system. To raise the alarm in case of attack or to pass on the message, a fire was lit and visible to at least two other towers in the line of sight. This tower nowadays houses a small tourist information office, but it’s worth having a quick peek inside.

4. St Paul’s Cathedral

Easily recognisable in the skyline of Mdina, St Paul’s Cathedral (Pjazza San Pawl, in the centre), with its baroque cathedral, bastions, and palaces, is an imposing landmark visible throughout central Malta, The Cathedral is the architectural heart of this elegant, ancient walled city, and ties on the site of a much earlier Norman church destroyed by a violent earthquake in 1693.

The rebuilt cathedral was decorated with various artefacts that survived the earthquake and can still be admired by visitors today. The floor is covered by large marble gravestones commemorating the several bishops and canons, as well as laymen from noble families who were buried in the cathedral.

5. Cathedral Museum

Originally a seminary, the museum (located across the street on the side of the cathedral to the South) today is one of the most outstanding religious museums in Europe. A small chapel is found on the second floor exhibiting church vestments. It also exhibits an impressive cross-section of sacred art, famous paintings, a coin collection, Roman antiquities, and original documents from the time of the Inquisition.

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6. Archbishop’s Palace

The silent city has always been the seat of the Bishop of Malta. The Archbishop’s Palace (next to the cathedral), which was built in 1722, serves as the residence of the Archbishop of Malta.

7. Palazzo Falson (The Norman House)

Palazzo Falson (towards the end of Triq Villegaignon), generally known as the Norman House, is the best-preserved medieval building in Mdina. Built in 1495, it was occupied by the first Grand Master in Malta, Philippe Villiers de L’Isle-Adam, when the Knights of Malta arrived here in 1530.

8. Mdina Ditch Garden

The ditch around the town was landscaped and upgraded in recent years, which makes it a great place for a little stroll. You can enter the ditch from the small parking area at one of the side gates (Greeks Gate) or from a staircase to the side of the il-Veduta restaurant.

9. Banca Giuratale

After Grand Master Vilhena confiscated the original Ministerial Palace for his private use, the Universita (local government) found its new seat in this building. It sits at the square’s edge in front of St Paul’s Cathedral. During the revolt against the French, a national assembly came together here.

10. Bastion views

You can get an excellent view towards the East of Malta from the bastion at Triq is-Sur, at the back of Mdina. Good for a quick peek or for a quiet spot to enjoy the silence and view on a summer’s night.

11. Palazzo Gatto Murina

Palazzo Gatto Murina, one of the earliest ‘Siculo-Norman’ structures (i.e. built between 1100 and 1530), was erected during the latter part of the 14th century. An audiovisual show, “Tales of the Silent City”, is housed inside the Palazzo.

12. St. Roque’s Chapel

Tucked away in Triq il-Villegaignon, this is a beautiful chapel that looks very unassuming from the outside. It’s open to the public on most days and worth taking a peek inside.

Things to do in Mdina

• Take home a couple of traditional souvenirs in the form of Maltese lace and decorative items from Mdina Glass on the long central road Triq il-Villegaignon .
• Take a karozzin ride within the narrow streets and alleys of the silent city itself to admire the serenity and beautiful architecture. (Note that however traditional they may be, they are controversial in terms of animal welfare.)
• Around in April? Attend the Medieval Mdina event and see the fortified medieval town come to life with re-enactment and other activities in one of the most popular annual events in Malta .
• Be sure to visit the Chapel of St Roque , located on Triq il-Villegaignon, the longest street in the centre of Mdina, just past St Paul’s Cathedral, coming from the Main Gate. What looks like a quaint little church from the outside hides a beautiful interior that is worth admiring. No longer used for liturgical services but opened to the public during the day, the church of St Roque is definitely worth a quick visit, whether you’re religious or not.
• The Mdina Experience (Pjazza Mesquita) and Mdina Dungeons (right behind the Main Gate) are heavily advertised tourist attractions. The first is a short historical movie, which is pretty static but informative for those who have a keen interest in Mdina’s history. The second is generally found not to be worth the €5 entrance fee, however.
• If you think Mdina’s a nice place to visit during the day, it’s even nicer in the evening after the sun sets . It’s a lot quieter, and the dimly lit streets create even more of an atmosphere. It’s also a great excuse to try out a few of the nice restaurants inside Mdina and at Saqqajja Hill, just outside the Main Gate.

Recommended tours

Mdina and rabat walking tour, mdina & malta highlights, mdina & rabat ghost tour, hotels in mdina.

The Xara Palace is probably the most well-known boutique hotel in the area, situated in the heart of Mdina. It’s housed in a 17th-century palace and offers luxurious accommodation (with a price tag to match) with different levels of rooms (most with a great view, as you can imagine).

Another elegant boutique hotel in Mdina is Palazzo Bifora , showcasing 12th-century architectural features and a rooftop swimming pool.

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Things to do and see in Rabat

Rabat also has its share of historical sites.

5 places of interest in Rabat

1. howard gardens.

Howard Gardens is one of the biggest public gardens in Malta and can be found right outside Mdina. These gardens form a natural border between Rabat and neighbouring Mdina. There are a few kiosks around with tables and chairs, and it’s pretty peaceful and quiet there. Great for a lazy Sunday morning coffee and snack.

2. St Paul’s and St Agatha’s Catacombs

The Maltese islands are rich in late Roman and Byzantine burial sites. Both sites contain a typical complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD. St Paul’s Catacombs represent the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta.

Both sites are accessible from the middle of Bajjada Triq Sant Agata, in the village core of Rabat.

3. Domus Romana (Roman Villa)

The mosaic pavements in the ‘ Roman villa ’ at Rabat rank among the finest and oldest mosaic compositions from the western Mediterranean, alongside those of Pompeii and Sicily. They were discovered in 1881 just outside Mdina in the remains of a rich and sumptuously decorated townhouse of the Roman period.

4. Wignacourt Museum

Once home to one of the Chaplains of the Order of St John, the Wignacourt Museum (Triq il-Kullegg, around the corner from the Paris Church of St Paul) is a well-preserved representation of what life was like for the Chaplains of the day. Named after Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, the museum is well worth a visit for its magnificent setting and beautiful baroque architecture alone.

5. Casa Bernard

At the museum of Casa Bernard (46 Triq San Pawl, you can catch a glimpse of how Maltese nobility lived in this well-kept and beautifully restored 16th Century Palazzo . Passed on through generations, descendants from its original owners actually still live there. Guided tours are offered, and it makes for a very unique place to visit.

Things to do in Rabat

• Take a quick tour of the area with a small train that drives around, starting from in front of the Roman Domus or explore the area around Mdina (the moat) and il-Buskett (forest area) on foot.
• Grab a newspaper, buy a few pastizzi (Maltese pastry snacks) from Crystal Palace and sit on a bench to enjoy the peace and quiet at Howard Gardens, overlooking the bastion walls.
• Rabat is one of the few villages in Malta where multiple village feasts (or festa ) are celebrated, honouring different saints. Attend one of these festi in March, early June and early July to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the fireworks displays and music.
• Love wine? Try one of the wine bars/restaurants on the hill approaching Mdina and Rabat ( Telgħa Tas-Saqqajja ), like Root 81 and The Fork and Cork. Both have tables and chairs set outside with a nice view. Great place for wine lovers to share a bottle and food together with good company.

Hotels in Rabat

There isn’t an awful lot of choice when it comes to hotels in Rabat, although there are a few very good options to consider if you’re looking to stay in a part of Malta that is less touristy and busy.

Point de Vue is Rabat’s oldest hotel and a budget-friendly option, ideally located at the top of the hill leading up to the area. Choose a room at the rear opening onto the countryside for extra comfort.

There are more high-end options, such as Casa Azzopardi Guesthouse , a beautiful Maltese house with all the amenities, and 100 Boutique Living .

On the outskirts of Rabat, Maple Farm Bed and Breakfast offers high-quality lodging in a very quiet area that’s within walking distance of Rabat and Mdina. It’s a family-run business that gets great reviews and loyal guests.

Restaurant and food recommendations

Snacks and street food.

• Fontanella Tea Garden is a cafe located inside Mdina that is known for its delicious selection of cakes. Offering a beautiful view from atop the edge of the bastions, it’s a nice stop for a coffee and snack and is a popular establishment locally.
• Serkin Crystal Palace Bar is a small everyday bar across the street from the Roman Villa, known for selling some of the best pastizzi (a staple of Maltese food ) on the island. If you really want the local experience, ask for a glass (yes, glass) of tea (called te fit-tazza locally) to enjoy your pastizzi
• Will you be in Rabat (or nearby) in March? In the run-up to and around the local festa (village feast in celebration of a Saint) of San Guzepp, you can find traditional sweets called zeppoli in local pastry shops. Zeppoli are pastries with a fluffy texture filled with either sweet ricotta cheese, custard or cream.
• In the mood for Italian ice cream? Try Fior di Latte .

Restaurants in Mdina and Rabat

• The Medina is one of the few restaurants in the area to serve fine dining within an old building inside the town’s bastion walls. Food and service of a high standard with a lovely setting to boot.
• Trattoria AD 1530 at the Xara Palace is a restaurant that’s open for both lunch and dinner and serves high-quality food. It offers tables outside under a canopy (which is heated in winter), right around the corner from the main gate. One of my personal favourites in the area.
• Looking for Michelin Star-level dining? De Mondion is one of the highest-rated fine dining destinations in Malta, serving Mediterranean cuisine.
• The Fork and Cork is a highly-rated (Michelin-recommended) restaurant in the area which you can find on the outskirts of Rabat along the road leading south down Saqajja Hill. It offers outdoor seating with a great view, serves excellent food and offers a good choice of local and foreign wines.
• Palazzo Castelletti Restaurant is another great option for dining out in Rabat. Set inside a 400-year-old palazzo, you can enjoy a variety of Mediterranean dishes there.

Map of Mdina and Rabat

How to get there

Mdina and Rabat are located in a quieter part of the island, and once you leave the busier parts like Valletta , Sliema , and St Julian’s , it’s fairly easy to get there . The closest central localities to these villages are Attard, Zebbug, and Mosta, although major road signs in the central part of Malta will include Mdina.

Where to park around Mdina and Rabat

Parking spaces are limited in the area, although on weekdays, it’s not too bad. These are a few options to try (which are all within walking distance the city):

• Right outside the entrance to Mdina , next to a playground, public parking is available, although it’s rare to find a spot here on busier days. A parking attendant is usually present, and their income is based on gratuities (although paying them for parking there is not required as such).
• There’s a large paid parking area near the Roman Villa (museum in Rabat – more on that below) for starters.
• You can also drive through a narrow tunnel into the moat of Mdina from that location, with more public parking spots. You’ll often find a parking attendant here as well. You can enter the moat from just outside the Roman Villa museum at the edge of Rabat
• Finally, there’s a road in the same place that leads down to what used to be one of the few train stations around Malta (and is currently in use as a restaurant). On busy days, that road is my best bet to find a public parking space.

By public transport

The following direct bus routes stop at Mdina and Rabat:

• From Valletta: Route 53 (destination Rabat – 30 mins). Also, but less efficiently: Routes 50 (destination Rabat – 45 mins), 51 (destination Mtarfa – 45 mins), 52 and 56 (destination Dingli – 45-60 mins)
• From Bugibba/Qawra (Bus Terminus): Routes X3 (30 mins) and 186 (45 mins), the latest also departing from St Paul’s Bay (the main road – Triq il-Mosta)
• From Sliema and St Julian’s: Route 202 (45-60 mins)

If you’re staying elsewhere, the journey planner from Public Transport Malta will be of help to plan the best route for you.

Hop-on-hop-off

You can also take the North Route of the Hop-on-hop-off bus routes. Get your tickets in advance here!

Airport transfers

If you opt for a private taxi airport transfer from Malta International Airport , that will cost you around €22, while a shared shuttle bus will cost around €14 for 2 adults (both one-way fares).

History of Mdina and Rabat

Punic remains have been found in the area around Mdina and suggest that Phoenician settlers inhabited the region around 700 BCE. Historians believe that even they fortified the city they then called Maleth. The location was of strategic importance, situated on one of the island’s highest points and relatively far away from the sea.

The Romans also recognized Mdina’s strategic importance and developed the city further, building the Roman Governor’s palace there. It was during the Norman conquest of Malta in 1091 AD that the city’s outline was shaped as we know it today. Its thick surrounding fortifications and wide moat were constructed by the Normans, and much of the architecture dates from the medieval period.

Mdina is one of the few great architectural treats in Malta that did not result from the activities of the Knights of Malta. The oldest city on the island, going back to prehistoric times, the word Mdina derives from the Arabic word ‘medina’, which means ‘city’. The Arab legacy continued even though the Arabs were officially expelled from Malta in 1250 when the Islands were under Christian rule. Thus, the name survived even though the city was referred to as ‘Civitas’ (which means ‘city’ in Latin) or ‘Citta Notabile’.

The city was fortified in medieval times, but its protection in early times must have been its high location on a rocky crag. It is certain that either during the Byzantine or during the Arab occupation of Malta, the fortifications were retracted to the present proportions, perhaps for better defensibility.

A strong earthquake destroyed parts of Mdina in 1693, after which the Knights of Malta rebuilt the cathedral and erected buildings such as Palazzo Falzon and the Magisterial Palace in Baroque style.

The fortress city once extended to the adjoining town of Rabat. Yet the fortified city was subsequently downsized in order to defend it more effectively. Mdina was Malta’s capital city until the Knights of Malta arrived in 1530 and built their headquarters in Birgu (Vittoriosa) , which subsequently became their Administrative hub.

Do you have any tips/reviews to share about Mdina? Leave a comment and let me know!

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Avoid the horror museum in Mdina – not worth 5€

Thanks for chipping in that tip Patrick. I haven’t listed in the article for that very reason.

Hi Edward, I plan to go Blue Grotto in a Saturday morning followed by Rabat and Mdina. Is that too rush? Please advise the best route if possible.

Hi Joe, I wouldn’t say so, no. I’d go to the Blue Grotto earlier in the morning, say at around 9am as that’s when most boat tours start their day, it’ll be quieter and the early sunlight is beautiful inside the cave. I’d head to Rabat first for a stroll around town and maybe visiting a few museums if you’re in the mood for it, then a late lunch in Mdina at Xara Palace and an afternoon coffee or tea at Fontanella, after wandering around and exploring the Silent City. I wouldn’t want to recommend a specific route simply because both towns are pretty small and part of the fun there is finding your own way around in my opinion. I hope you enjoy your day!

Hello, I was thinking about spending our last day/night in Mdina-Rabat in order to enjoy the evening there. It seems though that there is going to be little accomodation and resturants, is that so? Will it be better to just enjoy Mdina during the day? Thank you for your advice.

Hi Beatrice, there are only a few options for accommodation in the area (best bet is Airbnb probably), although you can find a good choice of nice restaurants around and dining in the evening is still pleasant.

Just got back from a lovely week in Malta! Stayed at Maple Farm B&B, complete with swimming pool, though we were not brave enough to use it in March, on the edge of Rabat. The owners even hired a wheelchair for me and took us on a tour of their olive grove and vineyard. The restaurant Fork and Cork in Rabat was brilliant: Masterchef meets Maltese cookery without the fancy prices. Generally Maltese portions elsewhere were huge. Bacchus in Mdina was another good restaurant and we enjoyed listening to the locals practising their band music at the David Adams d’Isla (not sure about that name) in Rabat, just across the road from the Castelleti which we didn’t have time to try out. We could have spend a fortnight just exploring Rabat & Mdina, Don’t go to Valletta on Sunday. All the tourist traps are open but many of the attractions are closed, also no smart cars which I was hoping to use as I have limited mobility, which meant I could only explore the pedestrianised flat ares near the entrance. Keep on with the good work!

Happy to hear you enjoyed your stay Catherine, it is a lovely area. I like recommending Maple Farm B&B – you’re not the first to tell me they’ve gone out of their way to make their guests’ stay a comfortable one.

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Mdina History, Attractions and Tour

Further reading:.

• ~ Mdina’s Military Role
• St. Agatha’s Chapel
• ~ Mdina Cathedral
• Palazzo Vilhena
• Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum – A Jewel Reborn
• Medieval Architecture

As a walled city, Mdina’s immense ancient ramparts rising up from the surrounding countryside, give the town a fairy-tale charm. The old city dates back to the Bronze Age, its fortifications were built in the Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spaniards and Knights, and through St Paul’s shipwreck, Mdina, known as Melite, was mentioned in the Bible! The most obvious influence of the Arab occupation is Mdina’s labyrinthine street plan and by following our tour below, you will be transported into the past.

The old capital was occupied by the Phoenicians/”>Phoenicians until the Romans conquered Malta in 218 BC. Back then Mdina was much larger, its walls enclosing a large part of Rabat but it was reduced in size to make it more defensible by the Byzantines who were overthrown by Arab forces who changed the name of the city to Mdina.

After the Normans took over, bringing the Maltese Islands back into the Christian fold in 1090 AD, many noble families settled in Mdina; however, the Maltese Islands passed to the German Hohenstaufen dynasty followed by the Angevins from France. The Maltese noble families gained importance after a Royal Charter dated 20th June 1482 from King Alfonso V confirmed the right of the Maltese to enjoy a degree of independence, setting up a local government, the Universita, in Mdina.

When the Knights of St John arrived, this self-governing power was lost, which caused much resentment among the the nobles. Since Mdina’s fortifications were weak and the Knights needed to be close to their galleys in harbour, they defused the situation by making Birgu their base, leaving the nobles to their splendid isolation in Mdina. It was only after the highly destructive earthquake of 1693 that the Knights of St John moved in and left their imprint through the remodelling of Mdina.

As you approach Mdina gate which was seen in ‘Game of Thrones’, you’ll see sculptured weapons, lions guarding the gate, and Grandmaster de Vilhena’s crest, all intended to show who was boss in Mdina in the age of autocracy . Mdina and its nobles had been been ignored for a long time but after the great 1693 earthquake, Manoel de Vilhena took the opportunity to imprint the Order’s image on Mdina, commissioning French Engineer Charles Francois de Mondion to remodel the old city and its defenses in the Order’s image.

Look to the right of Mdina’s gate where the remains of the old Arab drawbridge gate can be seen. This gate led to a labyrinthine entrance to the old city: all those who entered had to zig-zag through a narrow passage before entering the citadel, which would allow the defenders to ambush invaders if they got through the gate.

De Redin Bastion rises out of the deep moat beneath the bridge, forming part of Malta’s fortifications which were among the most advanced of their day. Cross at Mdina Gate which used to be a wooden drawbridge, and on the inside, you’ll see a lunette sculpted in high relief showing the three patron saints of the city: Saint Publius, Saint Paul and Saint Agatha. On the left, the Torre dello Standardo watchtower was an important link in the chain of towers that protected Malta. By lighting a fire on the roof of this tower a warning would be passed to surrounding villages that enemy corsairs were approaching Malta.

Palazzo Vilhena was constructed by Grandmaster de Vilhena on the site of the medieval Arab entrance into Mdina. Built in 1726, Vilhena Palace is one of the best works by the Order’s French resident engineer, François de Mondion in the Parisian Baroque style; look up at the arches around the courtyard set like theatre boxes to watch the ceremonies that were so loved in Baroque times. Vilhena Palace which served as a hospital during the 1847 cholera outbreak and continued to serve as a tuberculosis hospital until the early 20th century. The Palazzo now serves as the National Museum of Natural History, displaying insects, birds, habitats and marine ecosystems.

Turning down to the right, the Xara Palace , currently a hotel, dates from the 15th century; the Town Herald used to read proclamations issued by the Universita’ from the long stone balcony or Herald’s Loggia there. Opposite the Xara Palace, the Corte Capitanale , (part of Palazzo Vilhena) was the Courts of Justice, its statues of Mars, the God of war, and Justice, reminding the population that the Order would not hesitate to impose order through justice or the sword. Today the Corte Capitanale houses the Mdina Local Council.

The Chapel of St Agatha dates back to 1410 but after being damaged in the 1693 earthquake it was rebuilt on the design of Lorenzo Gafa and during WWII was sheltered refugee families. After peeping into this tiny gem with its painting of Saint Agatha, walk on to the Convent of St Benedict , set up in 1418 and its adjoining Chapel of St Peter with its elaborate altar and altarpiece by Mattia Preti dating from 1682, depicting the Madonna and child with Saint Peter, St Benedict and St Scholastica. The chapel also includes the remains of Blessed Maria Adeodata Pisani, a cloistered nun who lived in the monastery in the 19th century, beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2001.

The house opposite with an imposing portal in Triq Villegaignon is Casa Inguanez , home to Malta’s oldest aristocratic family. Parts of the Palazzo date back to the 14th century and if you walk round the house-corner into Triq Iguanez, you will see the house’s beautiful old door with its famous knockers, and its beautiful tiny ‘secret’ walled garden across the lane. Walk down to Pjazza Mesquita , a serene, uniquely medieval square for Malta with its village well and very rare muxrabija viewing boxes or windows.

Continue down Triq Mesquita to see Greek’s Gate , with its pointed Norman arch, the only surviving medieval entrance in Malta, also set within the original medieval rampart – most of the stones in this inner wall were re-utilised from earlier Punic and Roman buildings as can be seen from their large size. The outer gate consists of a Baroque portal, decorated with coats of arms and a Latin inscription. A guardhouse was located inside the passageway between the gates. Greek’s Gate was the only gate slaves were allowed to enter and got its name from the small Greek community who were mostly occupied in humble occupations like garbage collection which was strictly regulated in order to avoid disease in the citadel.

Walk back up Triq Mesquita to the 14th century Gatto-Murina Palace in Triq Gatto Murina and look up to the right to admire the Norman Gothic Chiaramonte double windows together with the wall sculplture. Other pointed arches converted to square doors can be made out in Mdina’s streets.

Turn up right and the narrow street opens onto Mdina’s glorious main square dominated by St. Paul’s Cathedral . It had already been decided to demolish the old 13th Century Romanesque Cathedral on that site when nature intervened, in the form of the violent 1693 earthquake that demolished much of the Cathedral. The Baroque twin-belfried cathedral was rebuilt in 1702, and is decorated by fine clocks. Accroding to legend, the clock on the left was purposely placed there to confuse the devil since it does not appear to tell the correct time. In reality it shows the date and month of the year. The Cathedral is regarded as the renowned Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà’s masterpiece and boasts a very fine dome fresco, works by Mattia Preti, and inlaid tombstones. Many streets and houses were destroyed to create an open square in front of the cathedral befitting the size and splendour of the church.

A ticket to the Cathedral of Saint Paul includes the Cathedral Museum . Housed in the cathedral’s grand Baroque seminary, the museum’s collection includes Roman antiquities, engravings by Rembrandt, woodcuts and copperplates by Albrecht Durer, archived documents from the Inquisition, a rare coin collection spanning 2000 years, many masterpieces of European painting, especially works from Spain as well as the Cathedral’s fine medieval Polyptych of Saint Paul.

Walking back up the square, take a look at the Banca Giuratale on Villegianon Street, built in 1730 as the new ‘Universita’. The stunning portal is richly decorated with armour, arms and flags while roof sculptures symbolising the Knights’ military power look down on the nobles from the roof of the building, reminding them that it is the Knights who now rule over Mdina. With the Cathedral on your right, walk past Palazzo Santa Sofia , built in 1233 and thought to be the oldest surviving building in the citadel, though the upper floor was built in the 20th century.

The Carmelite Church , designed by the French military engineer Mederico Blondel (1628-1698), is remembered for the riot that led to the Maltese revolt against the French in 1798, triggered when the French were about to steal the church’s precious damask hangings. Maltese rebels immediately locked the doors of the church as the French approached and, it is said, a young boy climbed up to the belfry to sound the alarm. The Carmelite Priory is still a functioning monastery and is the only priory in Malta open to the public. Guided tours take visitors to the Refectory the Carmelite Church, the kitchen, and a typical friar’s cell. In the chapels of the exquisite oval domed church are masterpieces of art from the 17th to 19th centuries and the Carmelite Church is considered one of the most important Maltese Baroque churches.

Palazzo Falson generally known as the Norman House, is the best-preserved and second-oldest building in Mdina dating to the early 14th century – its beautiful double windows, divided by slender calonettes date from the 15th century. The house has a colourful past, from the notorious Matteo Falsone who in 1574 was tried by the Inquisition, to Captain Olof Gollcher who bought it in 1927 and proceeded to amass an eclectic and eccentric horde of antiques. Recently restored, these now form a fascinating collection including silver, furniture, oriental carpets, a rare collection of books and manuscripts, jewellery, armour and much more.

From the belvedere of Bastion Square one can view most of Malta, from Paola to Valletta, Sliema and Mosta with its very visible Rotunda church dome. Mtarfa is the nearest hill to the left, a hospital town built to accommodate the wounded of WWI when Malta was the ‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’.

No visit to Malta is complete without a visit to Fontanella , the tea-rooms on the bastions, renowned for their delicious Maltese pastizzi and cakes. After all this walking, you’ve earned them!

We suggest you visit Mdina in the afternoon, when the crowds have thinned, that way you’ll end your tour in the evening, when Mdina is at its most romantic and photogenic. Cars are not allowed to enter Mdina so park in one of the two car parks outside Mdina gates or take a bus following the Moovit link below.

REFERENCES: https://web.archive.org/web/20110317065729/http://www.militaryarchitecture.com/index.php/Building-Methods/porta-grecorum.html http://www.kappellimaltin.com/Il-Kappelli/Sett11/MDN_S_Pietru_S_Benedettu/mdn_s_pietru_s_benedettu.html http://www.kappellimaltin.com/Il-Kappelli/Sett13/MDN_Sant_Agata/mdn_sant_agata.html

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Mdina & Rabat

The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. According to tradition it was here that in 60 A.D. that the Apostle St. Paul is said to have lived after being shipwrecked on the Islands. Furthermore it is said that St. Paul resided inside the grotto know as Fuori le Mura (outside the city walls) now known as St. Paul’s Grotto in Rabat. Lamp lit by night and referred to as “the silent city”, Mdina is fascinating to visit for its timeless atmosphere as well as its cultural and religious treasures.

It was home then, as now, to Malta’s noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century onwards. Impressive palaces line its narrow, shady streets.

Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture.

Like nearby Mdina, Rabat played a major role in Malta’s past and is a prime source of its cultural heritage.

This large provincial township was part of the Roman city of Melita , with the sites and archaeological relics found testifying to the town’s importance during the Roman period.

The town is a commercial centre and acts as a market to its large agricultural hinterland. It is also well established on the tourist map due to its archaeological and historical sites: The Roman Villa (Domus Romana), catacombs, St. Paul’s Grotto and the fine churches and monasteries.

Top Things to Do in Medina, Saudi Arabia

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• Al Masjid an Nabawi
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Places to Visit in Medina

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Tourist Places to Visit in Medina

Here is the list of best places to visit in medina:.

Al-Baqi'

Opened to the public in 2008, Al Baqi is a 9-square-kilometer park located on the outskirts of Riyadh. The land belonged to the ancestors, but it was stolen from them by force 700 years ago by one of Muhammad's caliphs. The enormous çamyab trees, which are over two centuries old, are one of the most popular attractions. Al Baqi also has numerous retail malls, lush parks, and leisure places.

Dar Al Madinah Museum

Delve deeper into the strong and unparalleled Islamic beliefs of Medinah and learn about its extravagant past and observe the finest and rarest collection of artifacts at ‘The Madinah Museum’. Studded with fourteen immune galleries highlighting different sections like science, art, history, religion and culture, this museum is the perfect escapade for the history buff within you. Enjoy the vibe of royal antiquity and serenity that surrounds this archaic attraction.

Wadi E Jinn

Discover the magic behind the serene climes of Wadi e Jin, which is a mountainous rocky road located at a distance of about 30 kilometers from Medina. Wadi E Jin is a long stretch of rocky road where the cars run without drivers or accelerators. Many locals and history buffs believe it to be the effect of jin and have also claimed of hearing mystical and eerie voices asking people to leave the location.

Cave of Bani Haram

Discover this archaic ruin or moreover the enthralling mountainous location where the Prophet was found doing his Sajdah before the massive battle of Uhud in the Islamic culture. The cave of Bani Haram is an archaic heritage tourist attraction which is in ruins today post its destruction in the later years of the war. The entire cave is encapsulated with serene and panoramic mountains and valleys and deep trenches which will definitely teleport

Best of Dubai

Standing at a colossal height of 106 ftJabal Ayr is the second largest mountain peak in Arabian land. Jabal Ayr features the splendid Hijaz mountain which renders unbelievable views from the top. According to the locals and historians, Jabal Ayr was commonly known as the ‘mountain of hell’ in the past. Learn about the intriguing history of this popular tourist attraction and take home a myriad of memories.

Best of Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Salama Rashdan Museum

If you fancy knowing about the enticing history of Saudi Arabia and the humongous history of Islamic culture, then there is no better location to explore than Sheikh Salama Museum. This beautiful and exquisite Museum has massive art galleries, enticing exhibitions with displays of antiques and souvenirs, Prophet’s mosque, pleasing and intricately designed interiors and an enthusiastic ambiance.

Best of Riyadh

Anbariya Mosque

Amidst a myriad of enticing mosques encapsulating baffling history, Anbairya mosque is one such magical site of religious significance. Built by the Turkish people under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, this massive gate was earlier a humongous gate welcoming Jeddah people from the seaport. Indulge into a soul-rejuvenating and calming evening prayer at this mosque and explore the historic details and intricate architecture adorning the walls of this massive mosque.

Best of Jeddah

Masjid Al Ghamamah

With a baffling history and colossal and intricate architecture, the mosque of Al-Ghamama is a very significant religious attraction in Medina and one of the largest mosques in Saudi Arabia as well. This beautiful mosque is the site where the Prophet offered his evening prayer in the year 631 and followed by which Saudi Arabia received a heavy rainfall post a drought.

Best of Dammam

Masjed Quba

An evening prayer to Allah at this massive religious site which is also the oldest and one of the largest mosques in the world is all one needs for a serene and rejuvenating escapade in their vacation. Masjid Quba had its first stones installed by Muhammad Prophet himself which makes this attraction stands out the most. Quba mosque is studded with humongous courtyards made up of white, red and black marbles, around 56 exemplary designed entrances.

Best of Taif

Hejaz Railway Museum

Hejaz Railway Museum is an excellent tourist attraction which is the restoration of the old Ottoman railway station. Opened in 2006, this museum has a grandiose platform that will teleport you to the Ottoman empire times. Admire the intricate Hejaz railways line and learn how the massive transportation system was administered from the office which ran at the platform. Tourists can find age-old train engines and other abandoned railways lines.

Best of Al Jubail

Masjid al qiblatayn.

This beautiful mosque is a splendid tourist attraction and holds a significant place in Islamic culture because it was the last site where Prophet Muhammad commanded to change the prayer direction from Jerusalem to Mecca. With many other such startling facts, visiting this mosque and indulging in a relaxing and rejuvenating evening prayer is believed to render a time in bliss and utter sanctity.

Best of Al Kharj

Marking its way as the most significant religious site in Uhud, these humongous and colossal valleys and peaks were the sites of the Battle of Uhud. This unique mountain system attracts a large number of devotees from around the world to offer their prayers and learn about the startling historic details. This mountain is also a popular hiking and rock climbing expedition and promises a thrilling experience till the top.

Best of Mecca

Al Noor Mall

Fancy a fun and entertaining shopping experience at the best marketing hubs of Saudi Arabia? Al-Noor mall is one of the largest and most vibrant locations featuring a myriad of high-end boutiques, splendid game sections, food courts, and a very relaxing ambiance with immense hospitality. Al-Noor Mall houses top-notch international brands like Zara, Armani, Gucci, Prada, and more, rendering a plethora of choices for the shopaholic within you.

Best of Abha

The Holy Quran Exhibition

Amidst a plethora of museums, the Holy Quran museum stands out as an immense attraction truly highlighting the heritage and power of Islamic culture. The Holy Quran museum houses 9 Qurans with rare and extrinsic content belonging to archaic centuries as old as 1536. The Holy Quran exhibition has over 2000 rare relics and artifacts on display which makes this museum one of its kind. The museum consists of an extravagant and intricately designed lobby.

Al Masjid an Nabawi

This was the second mosque built by Muhammad and is also the second most holy place in Islam with a rich political and religious history. Originally designed as an open space for the community with school for children, the modern mosque is a two story building with an ottoman prayer hall. It is a resting place for Muhammad and the first two Rashidin Caliphs Abu Bakr and Umar and is generally open to visitors regardless of the day or time.

The Green Dome

The green dome is a fascinating location which is an amusing religious and pilgrimage attraction of Medina, also commonly known as the resting place of the Prophet. This ethereal mosque is the largest mosque of Medina and attracts a humongous crowd during the Ramadan months. Tourists can admire the 623 AD detailing of the intricate architecture and learn about the intriguing Islamic culture and customs in depth.

People Also Ask About Medina

Which are the best places to visit in medina.

• Old Market Medina: On your religious visit to Medina, you can always come to the Old Market Madinah to take back souvenirs for friends and family who could not accompany you. In the Old Bazaar, do not forget to fill your bags with unique Arabian items, and merchandise here.
• Yanbu: Just like the port city of Yanbu – Al- Bahr, its Yanbu Beach is equally mesmerizing. You must come here for an ideal beach escape to enjoy the pretty beaches; water sports like jet skiing, sailing, scuba diving, and the aquatic landscape.
• Madina Media Museum: If you have always wanted to delve deeper into Islamic history then you must definitely pay a visit to the Madina Media Museum, which is a specialized museum storing a huge collection of artifacts and rare paintings.
• Masjid-e- Nabawi: The first and foremost place in Medina that most people visit on their Medina trip has to be the Masjid-e-Nabawi. It is considered the second most sacred place for the Islamic people right after Masjid-ul-Haram. In fact, The Prophet is also buried at this spot beneath the green dome.
• Quba Mosque: Founded by the Prophet after his migration from Makkah, the Quba Mosque is one of the oldest and most prestigious mosques of Medina. This mosque is a great ziyarat place, hence do visit this place.

Which are the historical places in Medina?

• Ethq Well: Ethq Well is one of the prime Medina tourist attractions as it is the same place where Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and Prophet Mohammad rested for a while and drank water when they visited Madinah after Hijrah, for the first time. You must visit this place during the day to explore the Shade Garden where the two rested.
• Masjid Musabah: One of the remarkable places to visit in Medina has to be the Masjid Musabbih as it is at this site where Prophet Muhammad offered his Fajr prayers when he visited Medina after Hijrah for the first time. It lies close to the Ethq well, so you will not have to travel any further to reach the spot.
• Uhud Mountain: One of the popular Medina tourist attractions has to be the Uhud Mountain where the Uhud Battle was fought in 625 CE. Right beside this crucial Islamic Landmark, there is a cemetery where the battle’s 70 Sahaba (martyrs) are buried.
• Masjid Ghamama: One of the most pivotal places to visit in Medina has to be Masjid Ghamama because at this place the Prophet offered a prayer for rain (Salatul Istisqa), after which the cloud immediately appeared and it started pouring down. The Masjid is erected at the same place where it rained and this is a crucial ziyarat place to visit in Medina.
• Hejaz Railway Museum: Built at the Madina Railway station, the Hejaz Railway Museum is home to many historical artifacts extending from Prophet Mohammad’s time to that of the Ottoman Empire.

Which are the places to stay in Medina?

• Madinah Hilton: Madinah Hilton makes for a fantastic luxury hotel. It lies close to the Abu Bakr Masjid hence you can easily visit this popular landmark. The hotel offers guests an array of amenities in the form of baggage storage, breakfast buffet, doorperson, concierge, and conference facilities.
• Intercontinental Madinah-Dar Al Iman: Located within an easy reach of most historic sites of medina like Quba Masjid, and Masjid Al Qiblatain, the Intercontinental Madinah-Dar Al-Iman is one of the choices hotels that offer you a comfortable stay in allergy rooms with blackout curtains and treats you to facilities like a kid-friendly buffet, snack bar, happy hour, and banquet room.
• Madina Oberoi: The Madina Oberoi provides an ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and value. It offers you a luxurious ambiance with a wide selection of amenities like a hammam, special diet menus, currency exchange, and a shoeshine.
• Crowne Plaza Madinah: If you are looking for traditional hospitality coupled with modern comfort in the Prophet’s city, you will get it all in the gleaming lobby of Crowne Plaza Madinah. You enjoy a restful base for visiting here besides a warm Arab welcome. You get to stay in Haram-view and landmark-view allergy-free rooms that overlook the Prophet’s tomb’s stunning courtyard. The hotel offers walking tours, arranges for children’s activities, and also allows your furry friends.
• Pullman Zamzam Madina: With 4 unique restaurant venues, and 835 suites and rooms, the 5-star upscale Pullman Zamzam Madina Hotel lies at the grandiose Prophet Mohammad Mosque’s threshold. You get to stay in Landmark and city view rooms besides there is also a bridal suite for newly married couples. The rooms are well-appointed with amenities like a sofa bed, wardrobe, and microwave while some property amenities include kids’ meals, in-room breakfast, conference facilities, and breakfast buffet.

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