Mdina Tours
100 reviews
The former capital of Malta, this historic hilltop settlement—known as the Silent City—features honey-hued palazzos and centuries-old buildings. The town center, a knot of shady and quiet streets, is shielded from the hubbub and traffic of the outside world by thick walls that date back to between the 16th and 18th centuries.
The Basics
One of Malta’s most atmospheric destinations, Mdina is a common stop on many hop-on hop-off tour bus routes. Sightseeing tours departing from Valletta often include a guided visit of Mdina, as well as making stops at Rabat, the Blue Grotto cave network, the Hagar Qim temple complex, and Golden Bay. To see Mdina at its most tranquil, opt for a night tour and explore the city’s peaceful streets after the day-tripping crowds have departed.
Things to Know Before You Go
Mdina is a must for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Mdina’s streets feature cobbles and flagstones, so wear appropriate walking shoes.
The walled town is wheelchair accessible, with level access available. St. Paul’s Cathedral is also wheelchair accessible, though many other attractions are not.
Mdina’s streets feature cobbles and flagstones, so wear appropriate walking shoes.
The walled town is wheelchair accessible, with level access available. St. Paul’s Cathedral is also wheelchair accessible, though many other attractions are not.
How to Get There
Mdina is situated about 8 miles (13 kilometers) east of Valletta. Driving between the two cities takes about 20 minutes. Public bus routes 51, 52, and 53 connect Valletta to Mdina.
When to Get There
Mdina is magical year-round, though the main drag can become crowded during the peak summer months of June, July, and August. Come in early evening after the day-trippers have left to see the fortified city at its silent best. After dark, it’s bathed in an attractive golden light.
Highlights of Mdina
Mdina’s biggest attraction is St. Paul’s Cathedral. The baroque-style cathedral is dedicated to Malta’s patron saint, who supposedly came to the island in AD 60. While the exterior is restrained, the interior boasts an array of gilding, stonework, marble, frescoes, and elaborately decorated chapels. For more information about the history of Mdina, visit the Mdina Experience, where informational films recount key episodes from Malta’s history.
Address: Malta
3 Tours & Activities to Experience
Sort by:Default
From
US$520.60
Private Highlights of Malta Full-Day Tour from Valletta
- With just one day to take in the highlights of Malta, a private island tour means you can maximize your time. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Valletta, cruise around the Blue Grotto, admire views of the Golden Bay and Dingli Cliffs, and stop in the towns of Rabat and Mdina.
- Learn More
From
US$23.14
City Sightseeing Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
- Get acquainted with Malta and its sights on a City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour. With your ticket, you can sit back and relax as you’re whisked around north and south Malta by open-top, double-decker bus. See attractions such as the Blue Grotto and Three Cities using the south route, and take in Rabat, Mosta, and Castille on the north route. Plus, listen to the onboard audio commentary to learn more about Malta and its history. Entrance fees not included. Choose between a 1- or 2-day pass.
- Learn More
From
US$23.14
Malta's Panoramic North Hop On Hop Off Tour
- Explore the lovely island of Malta and its northern landmarks on a hop-on hop-off tour aboard a double-decker open-top bus. Stay on the panoramic bus for the entire 3-hour route or hop off at points of interest such as San Anton Garden, Bugibba Square and Marine Park to explore at your own pace. Buses depart every 30 minutes throughout the day.
- Learn More
From
US$433.84
Private Tour: Malta's Best Attractions in a Tour
- Cover the highlights of Malta in a single outing with this multistop island-wide tour. Traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan, begin in Valletta, before moving onto Mdina, Dingli Cliffs, Hagar Qim temple, the Blue Grotto, and more. While entrance fees and additional extras such as boat trips, are not included, private ground transport and a licensed guide are, meaning you can expect convenient transfers and informative commentary.
- Learn More
From
US$23.14
Malta by Night Open Top Bus Tour
- See Malta’s historic streets and landmarks light up after dark, on a four-hour evening tour of the island in an open-top bus. Hear stories about island history and culture throughout the tour, and enjoy an hour of free time to explore the city of Mdina, the former capital of Malta. This four-hour bus tour includes pickup and drop-off at hotels in select towns.
- Learn More
More Things to Do in Valletta
Cruises, Sailing & Water ToursCultural & Theme ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsFood, Wine & NightlifeHoliday & Seasonal ToursKid FriendlyOutdoor ActivitiesPrivate & Custom ToursShore ExcursionsShows, Concerts & SportsSightseeing Tickets & PassesTours & SightseeingTransfers & Ground TransportWalking & Biking ToursWater Sports