St Paul's Catacombs Rabat
Explore ancient Roman underground burial chambers, a cool and historical adventure offering a unique glimpse into Malta's past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat underground
St Paul's Catacombs Rabat
Best Time
Escape the heat underground

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Roman underground burial chambers, a cool and historical adventure offering a unique glimpse into Malta's past.
"A fascinating glimpse into early Christian history, walking through underground passages feels like stepping back in time."
🎯 Explore Both Sides!
Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both!
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Underground Labyrinth
Main Catacombs
Wander through extensive underground passages and burial chambers, a fascinating glimpse into early Christian history.

Across the Street Discovery
Opposite side of the street
Don't forget to explore the equally impressive catacombs on the other side of the road – your ticket includes access to both!

Historical Information Displays
Throughout the site
Informative signs detail the history and significance of each section, bringing Malta's ancient heritage to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Other Side!
Beat the Heat Underground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Malta tour advice
🎯 Explore Both Sides!
Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both!
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat.
Spent the day visiting the heritage sites in Rabat yesterday. St Pauls catacombs and the Roman villa. Great initiative by Heritage Malta and one that I recommend to others.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing, so wear comfy footwear.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
Plenty of time to explore both sections and the museum without rushing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Both Sides!
Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both!
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing, so wear comfy footwear.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
Plenty of time to explore both sections and the museum without rushing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find St. Paul's Catacombs a fascinating and well-preserved glimpse into Malta's ancient history, with many praising the scale and fair ticket price. The underground coolness is a welcome escape from the heat, though some advise bringing a jacket. A common tip is to ensure you explore both sides of the catacombs, as they are divided by a street.
"The place is divided into two areas by the street, so be careful not to skip one side by mistake. It is a nice activity that feels like a small adventure. If you manage to visit all the chambers, it is a good small workout too (you will have to go up and down quite a few stairs). Random fact: There was a chicken outside of the gift shop. :D"
VALERIA PESSAGNO
"St. Paul’s Catacombs are a fascinating glimpse into early Christian history. Walking through the underground passages, you can almost feel the past come alive. The site is well-preserved, with clear information displays. It’s a unique experience that combines history, culture, and mystery definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in Malta’s rich and ancient heritage."
Adam Ice
"I'd highly recommend a visit here! Even as a local showing my visiting friends around, I really enjoyed exploring the catacombs. I was surprised by the scale of the underground burial grounds - it's more extensive than I expected. The ticket price is very fair considering the experience and the effort that's gone into maintaining the place. Don't forget to see the rest of the catacombs located across the street, with the same ticket. We spent two hours exploring the place, which was ideal to escape the summer heat!"
Nicholas Said
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Paul's Catacombs are located in Rabat, Malta. You can reach them by public bus from various points on the island; routes 201 and 202 are common options. Driving is also possible, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby Mdina, as they are close to each other.
Yes, public transport is a convenient way to reach the catacombs. Buses frequently stop near the site, making it accessible for those without a car. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! Mdina and St. Paul's Catacombs are within walking distance of each other. It's a pleasant stroll, allowing you to see more of the surrounding area.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but they are generally open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's always best to check the official Heritage Malta website for the most current hours before your visit.
Yes, there is parking available near the catacombs, which is convenient if you are traveling by car. This makes it an easy stop on a day exploring the Rabat and Mdina area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price is considered very fair for the experience offered. It typically includes access to both sections of the catacombs and any associated museum exhibits. Booking in advance is usually not necessary, but checking the official website is recommended.
You generally don't need to buy tickets in advance, as walk-in entry is usually fine. However, for peak season or to guarantee entry, checking the Heritage Malta website for online booking options is a good idea.
Yes, your ticket is valid for both the main catacombs and the equally extensive section located across the street. Make sure not to miss either part!
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's advisable to check the official Heritage Malta website or inquire at the ticket office for any applicable concession rates.
Some tourist passes may include entry to St. Paul's Catacombs. It's worth checking the specific inclusions of any Malta Pass you plan to purchase to see if it covers this attraction.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The experience is like a small adventure, walking through ancient underground passages and chambers. It's a well-preserved site that offers a unique glimpse into early Christian history and burial practices.
Due to the underground nature, stairs, and uneven surfaces, it may not be fully accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues. It involves a lot of walking and going up and down stairs.
Most visitors spend around two hours exploring both sections of the catacombs and any accompanying museum displays. This allows for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.
While the catacombs are underground and have a historical atmosphere, they are generally well-lit for visitor safety and exploration. Some find the experience awe-inspiring rather than spooky.
While there are information displays throughout the site, official guided tours may not always be available. However, the signage provides ample historical context for self-guided exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the catacombs, but it's always good to check for any specific signage regarding restrictions. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the atmosphere or preservation.
The winding archways, ancient tombs, and the sheer scale of the underground chambers offer great photographic potential. Capturing the play of light and shadow can create dramatic shots.
The lighting can be atmospheric, with some areas being darker than others. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a night mode can help capture better images.
Drone photography is almost certainly prohibited within historical sites like the catacombs and surrounding areas due to safety and preservation concerns. Always adhere to local regulations.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive underground spaces. A camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a capable camera will serve you well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Early Christian Malta
The site is divided into two main sections by a modern street, a detail that many visitors overlook. It's crucial to ensure you visit both sides to fully grasp the scale and historical importance of the catacombs. The ticket price is remarkably affordable, especially considering the historical significance and the effort involved in maintaining such a unique site. The underground environment provides a natural respite from the Maltese heat, making it an ideal activity during warmer months.
Beyond the physical exploration, the catacombs offer a metaphysical journey through Malta's past. The quiet, cool chambers evoke a sense of history and reverence. Informative displays throughout the site provide context about the burial customs, the lives of the people interred here, and the evolution of early Christian practices on the island. It's a place that sparks curiosity and offers a tangible connection to the island's ancient heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Practicalities for Your Underground Adventure
It's also important to be aware that the catacombs are divided into two distinct areas separated by a road. Ensure your ticket covers both sections and make a conscious effort to explore both sides to get the full picture. Many visitors have noted that it's easy to miss one side if you're not careful. Allow at least two hours for your visit to comfortably explore both parts and any accompanying museum exhibits without feeling rushed.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's wise to check for any specific signage. The atmospheric lighting can create dramatic shots, so a camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a night mode will be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of the historical site and other visitors while capturing your memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit