Mdina
About Mdina
Mdina, known as the "Silent City," is Malta's ancient capital and one of the finest examples of a medieval walled city in Europe. Perched on a hilltop in the centre of the island, it has been inhabited for over 4,000 years — from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Knights of Malta. Today, fewer than 300 people live within its honey-coloured walls.
Walking through Mdina's narrow, car-free streets feels like stepping back in time. The city's mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, quiet courtyards, and panoramic views of the island make it one of Malta's most magical destinations. Game of Thrones fans will recognise it as the original King's Landing.
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Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Some cafés and shops inside the walls are cash-only, so bring some euros.
- Transport: Buses from Valletta reach Mdina in about 25 minutes (routes 51, 52, 53). The bus stop is at Rabat, just outside the walls.
- Tipping: Not expected but rounding up at cafés is appreciated. 5–10% at sit-down restaurants.
- Visit at dusk: Mdina is beautiful during the day but truly magical at sunset and after dark when the streets are lit by lanterns and almost empty.
- Combine with Rabat: The adjoining town of Rabat has Roman catacombs, churches, and excellent local restaurants. Plan to visit both in a half-day trip.
Interesting Places to Visit
Mdina Gate (Main Gate)
The dramatic Baroque entrance to the city, built in 1724. Cross the stone bridge over the dry moat and pass through the ornate gateway adorned with coats of arms. Sets the tone for the entire visit.
St. Paul's Cathedral
A magnificent Baroque cathedral designed by Lorenzo Gafà, built on the site where St. Paul is said to have converted the Roman governor. Beautiful marble floors with tombstones of Maltese nobles and bishops. The adjacent museum has Dürer woodcuts.
Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum
A beautifully preserved medieval palazzo and one of Mdina's oldest buildings. Houses an impressive private collection of art, silver, antique furniture, and oriental rugs. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views.
Bastion Square & Ramparts
The best viewpoint in Mdina, offering 360-degree views across Malta to the sea. On clear days you can see Mosta Dome, Valletta, and even Etna in Sicily. Spectacular at sunset.
St. Paul's Catacombs (Rabat)
Just outside Mdina's walls in Rabat, these 4th-century Roman catacombs are among the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta. An underground labyrinth of burial chambers and agape tables.
Palazzo Vilhena (Natural History Museum)
An elegant 18th-century palace just inside Mdina Gate, now housing Malta's Natural History Museum. Impressive geological and paleontological collections. The building's courtyard and architecture are worth seeing alone.
Villegaignon Street
The main street of Mdina, lined with noble palaces and medieval buildings. Window-shop at artisan glass and silverwork studios. The street runs from Mdina Gate to Bastion Square — a lovely 10-minute stroll.
When to Visit
Mdina's elevated position gives it slightly cooler temperatures and more breeze than coastal towns:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Best season for visiting. Pleasant temperatures (14–23°C), the surrounding countryside is green, and the city is uncrowded. Perfect for photography.
- Medieval Mdina Festival (late April)
- Wildflowers in the surrounding valleys
- Comfortable walking weather
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot (28–35°C) but the narrow streets provide shade. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Summer evenings are magical — the city is quieter and cooler.
- Mdina Grand Prix classic car show
- Long golden evenings on the bastions
- Best combined with a beach day
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Warm and pleasant (19–27°C). Crowds thin out from October. Still excellent weather for sightseeing with occasional light rain from November.
- Fewer tourists than summer
- Beautiful autumn light for photography
- Festa season winding down
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Mild (9–15°C) with some rainy days. The quietest time — you may have the streets almost entirely to yourself. Atmospheric with moody skies and lantern-lit alleys.
- Practically empty streets
- Christmas Nativity displays
- Excellent for atmospheric photography
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Dining options within Mdina's walls are limited but quality is high. For more variety, head to neighbouring Rabat:
Fontanella Tea Garden$ – $$
Famous terrace café on the bastion walls with spectacular views. Known for enormous slices of cake and afternoon tea. Also serves light lunches and Maltese platters. The chocolate cake is legendary.
Medina Restaurant$$
Charming restaurant in a medieval building with exposed stone walls and candlelit tables. Mediterranean and Maltese cuisine with fresh seafood and local wines. Book ahead for dinner.
Coogi's Restaurant (Rabat)$ – $$
Just outside the walls in Rabat, a beloved family-run restaurant serving generous portions of traditional Maltese dishes. Excellent rabbit stew and fresh pasta at very fair prices.
Crystal Palace (Rabat)$
A no-frills Rabat institution famous for the best pastizzi in Malta — flaky pastry parcels filled with ricotta or mushy peas. Just a few cents each. A must-try snack.
Il-Veduta Restaurant (Rabat)$ – $$
Traditional Maltese restaurant in Rabat with a terrace overlooking the valley. Home-cooked dishes including bragioli (beef olives), kapunata, and fresh lampuki when in season.
Palazzo de Piro Café$ – $$
Elegant café in a restored noble palazzo on the bastions. Great coffee, light lunches, and pastries with a view. More affordable than you'd expect from the setting.