How To Get To Mdina: Malta’s Silent City
Perched on a hilltop in the centre of Malta, Mdina is one of the island's most enchanting sights.
Known as the "Silent City" due to its peaceful, medieval atmosphere, Mdina offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore winding alleys, grand palaces, and majestic churches.
Having spent a few days exploring Mdina, we are excited to share tips on making the most of your visit to this magical walled city.
From getting to Mdina to finding the best places to stay and top things to do, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Malta's ancient capital.
So, let’s dive into: How to Visit Mdina: Malta’s Silent City
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Where is Mdina?
Mdina is located in the northern region of Malta, about 8 kilometres southwest of Mellieħa and 15 kilometres northwest of Valletta. It sits on a hilltop plateau, providing spectacular 360-degree views over the island.
The city is encircled by imposing fortified walls, built by the Phoenicians and later strengthened by the Romans, Arabs, and Knights of Malta. Mdina served as Malta’s capital until the late 16th century when the Knights relocated to Valletta.
Today, Mdina is one of the best cities to visit in Malta because it retains its medieval layout and architecture, giving visitors a tangible sense of Malta’s rich history.
Mdina - Malta’s Silent City
How to Get to Mdina
Mdina is easy to reach by bus, taxi, or rental car from anywhere on the island. Here are the best options for getting to Mdina:
By Bus - Frequent buses run from Valletta Bus Terminal to Mdina, with a travel time of around 45 minutes. The buses stop just outside Mdina's city gates.
By Taxi - A taxi from Valletta to Mdina takes about 30 minutes and costs around €25-30 each way. Taxis can drop you off right inside the city walls.
By Rental Car - Driving to Mdina from Valletta takes 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. There's a large parking lot just outside the city walls, costing €2 for 2 hours. Driving gives the flexibility to explore the area.
We recommend taking the bus or a taxi if you want to avoid driving yourself. The buses are comfortable, affordable, and run frequently.
How to Get to Mdina from Valletta
Valletta is the closest major city to Mdina, so many visitors base themselves here. Luckily, it's easy to get between the two either for a day trip or as part of a longer itinerary.
Here are your options for getting from Valletta to Mdina:
Bus - There are direct 30-45 minute buses every 30-60 minutes daily from Valletta Bus Terminal to Mdina Bus Station right by the city gates. Tickets cost €1.50 one-way. This is the cheapest and easiest option.
Taxi - Taxis from Valletta to Mdina take around 30 minutes and cost €25-30 each way. Taxis can drop you inside the city walls for the most convenient access. Arrange a return taxi ahead of time.
Rental Car - Driving takes 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. There’s parking just outside the walls. Consider keeping the rental car for exploring Malta's coastlines and rural inland areas.
Guided Tour - Various small group and private day tours of Mdina are available from Valletta by luxury coach. These mix sightseeing with expert commentary from a local guide. We recommend the Highlights of Malta and Mdina Full Day Tour with Lunch as you visit other highlights in Malta, like the picturesque Dingli Cliffs. Plus, the tour comes with a complimentary glass of wine - what’s not to love?
Sightseeing Bus (Recommended) - you can explore the island of Malta via an open-top sightseeing bus tour. The sightseeing bus has a stop directly outside Mdina’s city gates, making it a convenient way to visit the Silent City and the other highlights of Malta.
Whichever option you choose, purchase bus tickets or arrange taxis/tours in advance since services are more limited on Sundays and holidays. Enjoy the scenic route from Valletta to Mdina through Malta's lush countryside!
Horse-drawn carriage through the streets of Mdina
Best Things to Do in Mdina
As a perfectly preserved medieval city, simply meandering through Mdina's shaded alleys and soaking up the timeless atmosphere is a highlight in itself. But between explorations, be sure to stop at these unmissable sights and activities:
Stroll Through the Alleys
Mdina's winding pedestrian streets are a joy to get lost in. Seek out peaceful corners like Villegaignon Street with its camera-ready wooden balconies.
Gaze up at the ancient palaces and churches in shades of honey and ochre. Let your map guide you to St Publius Square's cafes when you need a break.
The alleys are open all day - arrive early to beat the crowds! Sunset is a magical time as the limestone glows golden.
Insider Tip: Look for the "Mdina Experience" audio tour guiding you through the city's 1,000 years of history.
Tour Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum
For an intimate glimpse into noble life in the 1700s, Palazzo Falson is unmissable. This exquisitely restored 12th-century townhouse displays everything from kitchen copper pots to an 18th-century clavichord. Costumed guides bring tales of knights and Mdina's secret gate to life.
The museum is open Tues-Sun, 10 am until 5 pm (4 pm in winter). Tickets cost €10, but children get in free.
St Paul’s Cathedral - Mdina
Marvel at St Paul's Cathedral
With its monumental facade dominating one end of the city, St Paul’s Cathedral is Mdina’s architectural showstopper. The present 17th-century cathedral stands on the site of a Roman temple.
Don't miss the explosion of colours, gilt, and marble inside and the scandalous frescoes by Mattia Preti depicting the life of St Paul.
Outside of ceremonies, you can visit daily 8:30 am-5 pm (until 4 pm in winter). Modest dress is required, and photography is strictly forbidden.
Insider Tip: Ask the staff about the Byzantine hypogeum with its striking red and blue 14th-century fresco fragments.
Experience History in the Malta 5D Show
This 25-minute cinematic experience is second to the Popeye Village attraction for the best family-friendly activities in Malta. Using 360-degree screens, moving seats, smells and wind effects to fully immerse you in Malta's turbulent history, from prehistoric temples to World War 2 air raids. It's silly fun for kids and adults alike.
Malta 5D shows run on the hour 10 am-5 pm daily. Tickets cost €13 per adult and €9 per child. Book ahead online to secure seats.
Beautiful Mdina
Walk along the City Walls
A stroll along the ramparts encircling Mdina rewards you with sweeping views across Malta's patchwork fields to the sea. Duck into stone turrets and search for Medieval graffiti etched by the Knights of Malta.
Don't miss the main gate illuminated at night when Mdina takes on a truly magical atmosphere.
The walls are freely accessible daily 8am-9:30pm in summer or 7:30pm in winter. Go early to beat the heat and crowds.
Insider Tip: For panoramas without the steps, take the road linking Mdina to Rabat until you reach the Ditch Garden public garden’s viewing platform.
Find Peace in Palazzo Falson's Cloister Garden
Attached to the Historic House Museum lies the restored 17th-century Carmelite Priory, complete with stone arches, a monks' refectory, and a serene cloister garden filled with fruit trees and flowers. It's an oasis of calm, perfect for contemplation. Guided tours provided.
The garden is open 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday. Entrance is included in Palazzo Falson tickets. Step back in time as you listen to birdsong and flowing fountains.
Fascinating architecture of Mdina
Tuck into Traditional Maltese Cuisine
After exploring Mdina's medieval lanes, stop to refuel at one of the charming restaurants tucked away on picture-perfect squares. Local speciality Ftira bread makes the perfect canvas for local olive oil, roasted veggies, goat cheese, or tuna. Be daring with specialties like stewed rabbit or bragoli beef olives.
Establishments like The Mdina Experience or Trattoria AD 1530 serve updated versions of traditional recipes. They're open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.
Insider Tip: For cheap eats, grab a traditional pastizzi pastry from one of the hole-in-the-wall bakeries right outside the city walls.
Admire the Grand Façades
As you traverse the narrow streets, remember to gaze upwards. Mdina's golden stone palazzos feature majestic doors, carved stone crests, and decorative wrought iron balconies, hearkening back to the nobility and knights that once occupied them.
Palazzo Vilhena now houses the Museum of Natural History. Other mansions like Palazzo Gatto Murina and Corte Capitanale remain private residences still owned by noble families.
You will find Mdina is the most photogenic city in Malta, which is why in our packing list for Malta, we always recommend bringing a foldable tripod to get those amazing Insta-worthy shots!
Insider Tip: Look for plaques embedded in walls giving a glimpse into Mdina's rich history - you might find cannonballs lodged from the Great Siege of 1565!
Best Places to Stay in Mdina
Staying overnight in Mdina is magical. You can experience the peaceful atmosphere once daytrippers depart in the evenings. Here are some of my top lodging recommendations inside the city walls:
The Xara Palace Hotel - For sheer opulence and character, this 17th-century palace transformed into a 5-star hotel is one of the best places to stay in Malta. Expect marble bathrooms, plush beds, and amazing views from the outdoor pool.
Point de Vue Guest House - This charming family-run guesthouse occupies a 16th-century townhouse full of period features. Book Room 8 for a private rooftop jacuzzi!
Maleth Inn - One of the more budget-friendly choices, this cosy B&B has just three rooms, allowing you to get to know the kind owners. Ask for the Blue Room’s balcony.
Can't find availability inside Mdina? Rabat and Mosta offer easy access and more affordable options for an extended stay.
Wherever you lay your head at night, you'll be perfectly positioned to enjoy those magical early mornings and late evenings in Malta's Silent City before and after the day trip crowds arrive and depart.
Xara Palace Executive Room with Jacuzzi and Champagne
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Mdina
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about experiencing Malta's silent city of Mdina:
Is Mdina worth visiting?
Absolutely! As Malta's medieval fortified former capital, Mdina gives an enchanting glimpse into the island's past. Walking its narrow alleys transports you back in time. The majestic architecture provides a unique backdrop you won't find anywhere else on the island.
Why is Mdina called the silent city?
Originally named Città Notabile, Mdina earned its nickname the "Silent City" because of its peaceful, abandoned atmosphere. Strict building restrictions mean no overhead wires, antennas, or traffic noise. The city gates close at night, adding to the sense of tranquil isolation.
How much time do you need to spend in Mdina?
To fully explore Mdina's sights, hidden corners, and photo opportunities, I'd recommend spending 2-4 hours. If you simply want to wander and admire, a couple of hours will suffice. Spending the night allows you to experience its magic at dusk and early mornings too.
Is it free to enter Mdina?
Yes, you can freely enter Mdina through the city gates without any admission fee - one of its major draws! However, there are small fees to access some attractions like St Paul's Cathedral and the museums. I'd budget €20-30 per person to cover sightseeing.
Mdina truly is Malta's crown jewel, offering an unforgettable trip back in time. Follow this travel guide to make the most of its peaceful magic and medieval charms. Let us know if you have any other questions - we’re happy to offer insider tips to help plan your perfect Mdina getaway!
