Mdina, Malta: Things to Do in the Silent City and Rabat

Mdina is Malta’s old walled capital, a hilltop city of narrow lanes, palaces and churches in the centre of the island. Known as the Silent City because so few cars are allowed inside, it is one of the most atmospheric places in Malta, especially in the evening. Here are the best things to do in Mdina and in Rabat, the town just outside its walls.

Best Things to Do in Mdina and Rabat

1. Walk Through the Mdina Gate

The Baroque main gate was built in 1724 under Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena. Crossing the bridge into the city is the classic Mdina photo.

2. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral

Mdina’s cathedral was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1693 to a design by the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà. The Cathedral Museum nearby holds art, silver and manuscripts.

3. Take In the View from Bastion Square

From the walls at Bastion Square you can see across much of Malta to the coast. It is one of the best free viewpoints on the island.

4. Tour Palazzo Falson

A medieval house turned museum, filled with the collections of its last owner, from paintings to silver and old maps.

5. See the Natural History Museum in Vilhena Palace

The grand Vilhena Palace, just inside the gate, houses Malta’s National Museum of Natural History.

6. Wander Mdina After Dark

When the tour groups leave, Mdina’s lit lanes are quiet and beautiful. Come for an evening stroll and dinner inside the walls.

7. Explore St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat

A short walk from Mdina, this large network of Roman-era underground burial sites is run by Heritage Malta.

8. Visit St Paul’s Grotto

Under the parish church of St Paul in Rabat, this grotto is where tradition says the apostle Paul stayed after his shipwreck on Malta.

9. See the Mosaics at the Domvs Romana

The remains of a Roman townhouse just outside Mdina’s walls, with some of the finest mosaics found in Malta.

10. Try Pastizzi in Rabat

Rabat is a good place to try pastizzi, Malta’s flaky ricotta or pea pastries, fresh from a local bakery or bar.

11. Watch Glassblowing at Ta’ Qali

Mdina Glass and other craft workshops are at the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, a short drive away, where you can watch glassblowers at work.

12. Watch the Sunset at Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs, the highest on Malta, are about 15 minutes’ drive from Mdina. Combine them with Mdina for a perfect half day.

Mdina Game of Thrones Locations

Mdina appeared in the first season of Game of Thrones. The Mdina Gate stood in for one of the gates of King’s Landing in the episode “Lord Snow”. Fans can still walk the same route through the gate today.

How to Get to Mdina

• By bus: several routes run from the Valletta terminus to Rabat and Mdina.
• By car or taxi: park outside the walls, as only residents’ cars may enter the city.
• On a tour: many half-day tours combine Mdina, Rabat and the Dingli Cliffs.

Mdina Tours

Mdina FAQ

Why is Mdina called the Silent City?

Only residents and a few permitted vehicles can drive inside the walls, so the lanes are quiet, especially in the evening.

Is Mdina free to visit?

Yes, you can walk into Mdina for free. Museums, the cathedral and attractions in Rabat such as the catacombs charge entry.

How long do you need in Mdina?

Two to three hours is enough for Mdina itself. Allow half a day to add Rabat, and a little more for the Dingli Cliffs.

What is the difference between Mdina and Rabat?

Mdina is the small walled city on the hill. Rabat is the larger town around it, home to the catacombs, St Paul’s Grotto and more places to eat.

Keep Planning

Sources: Mdina Gate (Wikipedia), Heritage Malta, Visit Malta.