National Museum of Natural History Mdina
Discover Malta's natural heritage in a stunning 18th-century palace, featuring a remarkable bird collection and historical displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
National Museum of Natural History Mdina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Malta's natural heritage in a stunning 18th-century palace, featuring a remarkable bird collection and historical displays.
"A charming, low-cost museum with a vintage feel, perfect for appreciating Malta's natural history and historic architecture."
⏳ Allow an Hour
Most visitors find an hour is sufficient to explore the exhibits and appreciate the building. :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Not Wheelchair Friendly
Lots of stairs! Not ideal for prams or wheelchair users. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Malta's Avian Wonders
Bird Exhibits
An impressive collection of bird specimens, rivaling larger museums. See local and migratory species in detailed displays.
Geological Treasures
Geology Section
Explore the fascinating geology of the Maltese islands, from ancient rocks to mineral formations.
Historic Palace Architecture
Exterior and Courtyard
Admire the beautiful 18th-century palace architecture, a highlight in itself, especially the charming courtyard.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old-World Charm
Accessibility & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Spotted at the natural history museum in Mdina
⏳ Allow an Hour
Most visitors find an hour is sufficient to explore the exhibits and appreciate the building. :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Not Wheelchair Friendly
Lots of stairs! Not ideal for prams or wheelchair users. :noentrysign:
Going to Mdina to feel like a tourist in my own country. Does anyone else do this?
I’m here! We want to see Mdina, catacombs and mosta church...should we get a taxi to each and do on our own or do a 7 hour day tour? It looks like Mdina and catacombs are close to each other?
💰 Budget-Friendly Entry
Affordable entry fees make it a great value for money. Adult tickets are around €5. :moneybag:
🏛️ Appreciate the Building
The historic palace itself is a major draw, especially the exterior and courtyard. :building_construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow an Hour
Most visitors find an hour is sufficient to explore the exhibits and appreciate the building. :stopwatch:
🚶♀️ Not Wheelchair Friendly
Lots of stairs! Not ideal for prams or wheelchair users. :noentrysign:
💰 Budget-Friendly Entry
Affordable entry fees make it a great value for money. Adult tickets are around €5. :moneybag:
🏛️ Appreciate the Building
The historic palace itself is a major draw, especially the exterior and courtyard. :building_construction:
🐦 Bird Collection is Stellar
Don't miss the extensive and well-preserved bird collection – a real standout! :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the National Museum of Natural History in Mdina to be a charming, low-cost attraction with a notable bird collection and beautiful historic architecture. However, its traditional, non-interactive displays and significant accessibility issues due to stairs mean it's not for everyone. It's best suited for those who appreciate vintage museum styles and local natural history.
"Nice little museum, but probably not to everyone's taste. There is history on the flora and wildlife of Malta and the geology of the islands. More of a old style museum feel as no interactive displays. Worth a visit if it's your thing. Adult ticket €5, senior ticket €3.50, sorry don't know the child prices."
Paul Billings
"A decent little museum spent just over an hour in here.
Low cost - Low budget museum.
Nice friendly staff.
Not suitable for prams or wheelchair users as far as could tell (lots of stairs).
Worth the money and time"
David Garth
"If you enjoy Victorian out dated style museums then this is for you, it's Display cases are from the 1800's I would, the poor animals on display are in terrible state and out dated in been on display.
The 3 best things
1) The building from the outside
2) Using the bathroom
3) Leaving
DON'T WASTE YOUR ENERGY OR TIME"
Jeff and Jamie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within the historic walled city of Mdina. You can reach Mdina by public bus from various points on the island, or by taxi. Once inside Mdina, it's a short walk to the museum. :bus: :taxi:
There is limited parking available outside the Mdina city walls. It's often easier to use public transport or walk into the city. :car:
Yes, Mdina is a compact city, and the museum is easily accessible on foot from other points of interest within the walls. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, but typically the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours generally from 9 AM to 5 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most current information. :clock:
Entry is very affordable. Adult tickets are around €5, with concessions for seniors. Child prices are also available. :euro:
Advance booking is generally not required for this museum, especially during off-peak times. You can usually purchase tickets at the entrance. :ticket:
Yes, the Malta Pass is recommended for convenience and can be used for entry to the National Museum of Natural History. :passport_control:
Yes, discounted ticket prices are available for seniors. Student discounts may also be offered, so it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on the flora, fauna, and geology of Malta. You'll find taxidermy specimens, rock collections, and displays detailing the local ecosystem. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
No, this museum is more traditional with classic display cases and static exhibits. It's not an interactive experience. :old_key:
While children might enjoy seeing the animals, the lack of interactive elements might make it less engaging for very young ones. The historical presentation is more suited to those who appreciate natural history displays. :child:
Most visitors spend around one hour exploring the museum. It's a relatively small collection housed within a historic building. :hourglass:
Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the palace, the museum has many stairs and is not easily accessible for wheelchair users or those with prams. :stair:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. Always check for signage. :camera:
The bird exhibits offer great detail, and the historic display cases themselves have a unique aesthetic. The palace courtyard is also a picturesque spot. :frame_photo:
While personal photos are usually permitted, commercial photography or tripods might require special permission. Avoid flash photography in dimly lit areas. :no_flash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Malta's Natural Heritage
One of the most praised aspects of the museum is its extensive bird collection, which some reviewers have noted rivals that of much larger institutions. The detailed displays of local and migratory birds are a significant draw for ornithology enthusiasts. Beyond the avian life, the museum also showcases the geology of the Maltese islands, offering insights into their formation and mineral composition. While the quality of taxidermy varies, with some specimens appearing dated, it adds to the museum's vintage character. The building itself, with its beautiful architecture and courtyard, is often highlighted as a significant attraction.
Despite its historical appeal, the museum's accessibility is a notable concern. The old palace structure means numerous stairs, making it difficult for visitors with mobility issues, including those with prams or wheelchairs. This limitation means the experience is best suited for those who can navigate stairs comfortably. For its low entry fee, the museum provides a worthwhile experience for those interested in a quiet, educational visit focused on Malta's natural history and the charm of a bygone museum era.
Navigating the Museum: Tips from Visitors
However, it's crucial to be aware of the accessibility challenges. The museum is situated in a historic building with many stairs, which can be a significant barrier for those with mobility impairments, including families with strollers or wheelchair users.
For those looking to maximize their visit, consider purchasing the Malta Pass, which offers convenient entry to various attractions, including this museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit