
Mdina
Step back in time in Mdina, Malta's ancient 'Silent City.' Explore medieval streets, baroque palaces, and enjoy breathtaking island views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Magical light, stunning views

Mdina
Best Time
Magical light, stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Mdina, Malta's ancient 'Silent City.' Explore medieval streets, baroque palaces, and enjoy breathtaking island views.
"Mdina is not a city — it’s a vintage bottle of history, uncorked under the Mediterranean sun."

🚶♀️ Wander & Get Lost
Embrace the maze! The best way to explore Mdina is to let yourself get lost in its charming alleys.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound. Pack comfy shoes for exploring the ancient city's uneven paths.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mdina's Ancient Gates
Step through history. These imposing gates are your portal to a timeless medieval city.

St. Paul's Cathedral
Central Mdina
A baroque masterpiece. Its grandeur and opulent interior will leave you in awe.

Panoramic Island Views
City Walls
Gaze across Malta. The sweeping vistas from the ramparts are simply unforgettable.

Charming Narrow Streets
Wander through history. Every winding alleyway tells a story of centuries past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quiet: Mdina's Car-Free Charm
Timing is Key for Timeless Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander & Get Lost
Embrace the maze! The best way to explore Mdina is to let yourself get lost in its charming alleys.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound. Pack comfy shoes for exploring the ancient city's uneven paths.
📸 Capture the History
Every corner is a photo op. Don't forget your camera for the stunning architecture.
☕️ Relax in a Tea Garden
Take a break. Enjoy a refreshing drink amidst the historic beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander & Get Lost
Embrace the maze! The best way to explore Mdina is to let yourself get lost in its charming alleys.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound. Pack comfy shoes for exploring the ancient city's uneven paths.
📸 Capture the History
Every corner is a photo op. Don't forget your camera for the stunning architecture.
☕️ Relax in a Tea Garden
Take a break. Enjoy a refreshing drink amidst the historic beauty.
🚗 Limited Car Access
Enjoy the peace. Only a few cars are permitted, enhancing the 'Silent City' feel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mdina for its stunning medieval architecture, peaceful 'Silent City' atmosphere, and breathtaking panoramic views. The well-preserved streets and historical ambiance transport you to another era, making it a highlight of any Malta trip. Some note that while generally car-free, a few resident vehicles are present, and certain attractions have separate entry fees.
"Beautiful fortified city , every small side street was more beautiful than the other. Game of thrones scene was shot in front of the gift shop and a fight scene was shot in the open market. This city is well worth the visit"
H&B Rothmanns
"Beautiful hilltop castle. A huge area to roam. The traditional Maltesian architecture is in full display (the coloured hanging balconies). Definitely worth a stroll for an hour or two. You can take a refreshing break in one of the tea gardens. The bougainvilleas in the summer are a sight to behold. The lovely deep pink colour just shines in the yellow sun. You can see faraway into Malta from atop. A must see/do on your Malta tour."
amit gaharwar
"The atmosphere of the city is amazing. Silence, a minimum of people, horse-drawn carriages, almost no cars.
The architecture and grandeur of the mansions are impressive. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to visit the museums because we came to see the city at night. Traveling to Malta, this is a must-see!"
Mariana Konizhai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Mdina from Valletta is by bus. Several bus routes, including the popular X3, connect Valletta to Mdina. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, offering a more direct but pricier option.
There is a large car park just outside the Mdina city walls, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Parking is usually available, especially outside peak hours.
Yes, Mdina is adjacent to Rabat. You can easily walk between the two towns. In fact, many visitors park in Rabat and walk into Mdina.
Absolutely! Many tour operators offer day trips to Mdina, often combined with other attractions in Malta. These tours can be a convenient way to see the highlights without worrying about transportation.
Mdina is a pedestrian-only city within its walls, so the best way to get around is on foot. Horse-drawn carriages (karozzini) are also available for a scenic tour, adding to the historic charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to walk into the historic city of Mdina. You can freely explore its streets and admire the architecture.
Yes, while the city itself is free to enter, specific attractions within Mdina, such as St. Paul's Cathedral and its museum, or the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum, do require separate admission tickets.
Mdina is accessible at all hours as it's a living city. However, the shops, museums, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late afternoon or early evening.
Yes, visiting Mdina at night is a magical experience. The city is beautifully illuminated, and it becomes even more peaceful. Some restaurants and cafes remain open.
While not always advertised, it's worth inquiring at the ticket offices for potential discounts or combined tickets for multiple attractions within Mdina, especially if you plan to visit several museums.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mdina earned its nickname 'Silent City' because it was historically the island's capital and a fortified noble city. Today, it has a very small population, and car access is highly restricted, contributing to its peaceful and quiet atmosphere.
The best way to explore Mdina is on foot. Allow yourself to wander through the narrow, winding alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and soak in the medieval ambiance.
Yes, Mdina was a filming location for Game of Thrones. The main gate and surrounding areas were used for scenes in the first season, particularly for King's Landing.
Mdina showcases a unique blend of medieval and baroque architecture. You'll see Norman fortifications, narrow winding streets, and grand palaces with traditional Maltese balconies.
Absolutely! The city walls offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the rest of Malta. The bastions provide excellent vantage points, especially at sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Mdina has several charming restaurants and cafes, ranging from casual tea rooms to more upscale dining experiences. Many offer traditional Maltese cuisine.
Don't miss trying a 'pastizz' (flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) from a local bakery. You can also find traditional dishes like rabbit stew (fenkata) or fresh seafood.
Many restaurants and cafes in Mdina offer seating with lovely views, either overlooking the city walls or within picturesque courtyards. It's worth asking for a table with a view.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like pastizzi from bakeries or casual cafes for a quick bite. Packing some snacks can also help manage costs.
For dinner, especially during peak season or on weekends, it's highly recommended to book a table in advance to secure your spot, particularly at popular restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The city walls offer stunning panoramic shots. Also, focus on the narrow, winding streets, ornate doorways, traditional Maltese balconies, and the grand cathedral.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the honey-colored stone. Midday can be harsh.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be respectful when photographing private residences or inside churches and museums, where specific rules may apply.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both street scenes and wider vistas. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the narrow streets. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots, especially at sunset.
Focus on empty streets, soft light, and architectural details. Try to minimize people in your shots by visiting early or late, or by using longer exposures to blur movement.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options inside can be limited or pricier. Look for kid-friendly cafes that offer simple treats like pastizzi. The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum can also be engaging for older children interested in history, offering a glimpse into a medieval noble's life.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take advantage of the numerous cafes and tea gardens to relax and people-watch. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or other travelers if you wish. The panoramic views from the city walls are particularly rewarding when enjoyed in solitude, offering a moment of reflection.
couples
Enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of Mdina's atmospheric restaurants, many of which offer intimate settings and delicious Maltese cuisine. Consider a scenic karozzin ride through the ancient city for a touch of old-world romance. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Mdina: Malta's Ancient Capital
The 'Silent City' moniker became more pronounced after the capital shifted. Today, Mdina is a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site, meticulously preserved to offer a glimpse into Malta's rich past. Walking through its ancient gates feels like stepping back in time, with every stone whispering tales of knights, nobles, and everyday life from bygone eras.
Key historical periods to note include its Phoenician origins, Roman administration, Arab rule which influenced its street layout, and Norman fortifications. The Baroque period also left a significant mark, particularly with the reconstruction of St. Paul's Cathedral after an earthquake.
Experiencing Mdina's Atmosphere: Beyond the 'Silent City'
Many visitors describe Mdina as feeling like stepping into a different era. The narrow, winding streets, the honey-colored stone buildings, and the ornate balconies all contribute to a sense of enchantment. Even with other visitors present, the city's layout and the sheer weight of history tend to foster a contemplative mood.
The contrast between Mdina and the bustling modern world is striking. This makes it a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and a break from the usual tourist hustle. The city's charm is amplified during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light bathes the ancient walls in a warm, ethereal glow, further enhancing its magical ambiance.
Photography Tips for Mdina
The city walls provide breathtaking panoramic views, particularly at sunset. This is an ideal time to capture the vastness of Malta bathed in golden light. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive landscapes. For street photography, aim for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the serene atmosphere.
When photographing inside St. Paul's Cathedral or other historical buildings, be mindful of any photography restrictions. Often, flash photography is prohibited. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the unique charm of Mdina, from grand vistas to intimate architectural details.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit