Mdina Malta is often called the Silent City, and the name fits. Inside its golden stone walls, narrow lanes twist between palaces, churches and quiet courtyards. Meanwhile, only residents’ cars are allowed inside, so the loudest sound is often your own footsteps. In fact, the city has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years. Also, its bastions offer some of the best views on the island. So, here is how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Mdina Malta
| Country | Malta |
| Region | Northern Region, central Malta |
| Known For | A walled medieval and baroque city, quiet streets, bastion views and nearby catacombs |
| UNESCO Status | On UNESCO’s tentative list |
| History | Inhabited for over 4,000 years and Malta’s capital until 1530 |
| Best Time to Visit | April to June and September to October |
| Getting There | About 30 minutes by bus from Valletta |
Where Is Mdina Malta?
Mdina sits on a hilltop in the center of Malta. Specifically, it is about 11 kilometers west of Valletta, the capital. In addition, the larger town of Rabat surrounds it on three sides. As a result, it is easy to combine both in a single day trip.
Why Visit Mdina Malta?
First, the history here is extraordinary. Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans and the Knights of St. John all left their mark. Consequently, the city is a beautiful mix of medieval and baroque architecture.
Second, Mdina Malta is wonderfully peaceful. For example, there are no crowds of cars, few modern shops and only a few hundred residents. Finally, it is especially magical in the evening, when the lamps light up the empty streets. If you loved our guide to Kotor in Montenegro, you will enjoy this other walled city.
Things to Do in Mdina Malta
Enter Through the Main Gate
The Main Gate is the grand entrance to the city. Grand Master Vilhena commissioned it in 1724 in an elegant baroque style. Moreover, coats of arms and carved figures adorn it. Interestingly, fans of television may recognize it, since it appeared as a filming location in the first season of Game of Thrones.
Wander the Alleys
Next, simply get lost. Builders deliberately made the streets narrow and winding, which once made the city easier to defend. Along the way, look for heavy wooden doors, brass knockers and lanterns. Above all, visit early in the morning or after sunset, when the tour groups have gone.
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral stands on the main square. In fact, an earthquake destroyed the original church in 1693. Afterwards, the architect Lorenzo Gafà rebuilt it in baroque style. Inside, you will find marble tombstones, painted ceilings and a rich museum next door.
Enjoy the View From Bastion Square
Bastion Square sits on the northern walls. From there, you can see much of Malta, from fields and villages to the coast. Then, head to a nearby café for cake and coffee with a view.
Explore Palazzo Falson
Palazzo Falson is one of the oldest houses in the city. Today, it is a museum filled with art, furniture, silver and old weapons. Similarly, Vilhena Palace near the gate houses the Natural History Museum.
Day Trips From Mdina Malta
Rabat and Its Catacombs
Just outside the walls, Rabat has fascinating underground sites. For example, St. Paul’s Catacombs are a network of early Christian burial chambers. In addition, St. Paul’s Grotto is where, according to tradition, the apostle lived after his shipwreck on Malta.
Dingli Cliffs and Mdina Glass
Dingli Cliffs, about 15 minutes away, rise high above the sea and are great for sunset walks. Meanwhile, at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, you can watch glassblowers making colorful Mdina glass.
One Historical Fact About Mdina Malta
Mdina was the capital of Malta until 1530. That year, the Knights of St. John arrived and chose to base themselves by the harbor instead. As a result, the old capital slowly became a quiet home for noble families.
How to Get to Mdina Malta
First, fly into Malta International Airport. From there, Mdina is about 20 minutes away by taxi. Alternatively, frequent buses run from Valletta and take around 30 minutes. Once you arrive, explore on foot, since cars are restricted inside the walls.
Best Time to Visit Mdina Malta
The best time to visit is in spring, from April to June, or in autumn, from September to October. During these months, the weather is warm but not too hot. On the other hand, July and August are hot and busy. Also, Mdina hosts a medieval festival in spring, with costumes, music and crafts.
Is Mdina Malta Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Mdina Malta offers history, atmosphere and views in one small, walkable city. Ideally, visit twice, once by day and once in the evening. For another historic hilltop town, read our guide to Civita di Bagnoregio in Italy.
Final Thoughts on Mdina Malta
In short, Mdina is a place to slow down and listen to the silence. Walk through the baroque gate, wander the alleys and watch the sunset from the bastions. By the end of your visit, you will understand why Malta’s old capital is so beloved.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Bellina 09: Mdina, The Silent City of Malta, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Diego Delso: Puerta principal, Mdina, isla de Malta, Malta, 2021-08-25, DD 131-134 PAN, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Christian Zammit: Mdina Alley, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Diego Delso: Catedral de San Pablo, Mdina, isla de Malta, Malta, 2021-08-25, DD 136, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Karelj: St. Paul’s catacombs Rabat Malta 2014 1, CC BY 3.0
