Mdina in Malta is an ancient, unique, fortified city of incredible historical value. Built on a hill overlooking the rest of the island from the north and east to west.
So beautiful and historic, the city filled with Medieval, Norman and baroque architecture. Several palaces, churches, cathedral, monasteries and high fortification walls that stretch all round visible from many parts of the island.
Throughout the ages it has been maintained. It was shaken by Sicily’s earthquake of 1693 which left many buildings damaged.
It is an enchanting old capital that has kept its character with a tiny population of around 240 people.
During the day it is a major tourist attraction. There is no other place like it on the island. At night it is quiet with a unique character also pleasant to visit lit by lanterns, quiet alleys, people walking the main road to the rear fortifications for the incredible view.
Just next there is the village of Rabat, which once formed part of it. But during the Normans the defensive walls were narrowed to the present size for better defence.
What can I do in Mdina? There are some great things to do. Visit historical museums, old palaces, cathedral, not least Mdina has become popular as it served as the backdrop for King’s Landing, part of the first season of the HBO’s series Game of Thrones.
Many restaurants are busy for lunch and dinner in old amazing buildings nicely restored great both Maltese and tourist for quiet quality time at the silent city.
Mdina is on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Site. so beautiful and historic that will tempt you to revisit. See all the features you can find here, we summarize all that you can see and do within this page.
Mdina is a city that takes you back hundred's of years. See our list of what to do in Mdina and other places of interest you might want to visit when coming to Mdina. With limited vehicle access, Mdina remains a jewel of the Maltese islands as the city still has that medieval vibe.
There are plenty of restaurants to eat at in such as small city. Dine or have lunch at beautiful renovated palaces. There is also a One Michelin star restaurant in the heart of the city. Find out the best Mdina restaurants to have a meal.
The Fortifications of Mdina are defensive walls surrounding the natural plateau on high ground in the centre of the island. From here there is a formidable view of the island’s principal ports, which was the most ideal location for a fortified capital at the same time overlooking the open Mediterranean Sea for any invaders.
The Mdina Ditch is another area which should be explored. It is a walk outside the fortifications within the wide ditch. It starts from the Ghareqqija gate to the other side beside the Veduta restaurant where you find a purposely built lift to bring you down and up to the main road from the ditch.
The fortification walls have been restored and the ditch floor has been paved with a mix of green lawn, paving and trees. You have various location where you can sit down and admire the tranquility and setting around you.
Mdina is beautiful both during the day and during the night. Make sure you have your camera or mobile phone ready to snap multiple shots of the city. There is a house in Mdina that is a famous Instagram hot spot that tourists love to pose in front of.
Mdina is located on the west side of Malta, a calmer part of the island. Getting here is rather easy. Villages located close to Mdina are Zebbug, Mosta, Attard and Dingli.
You can get to Mdina by car, bus, sightseeing tour or taxi and this how.
If you are coming from the central part of Malta, it is mostly a main road leading to Mdina. You will find lots of signage to get here. It is basically the main road from the villages mentioned above. See the map below for more details.
Parking outside the Fortifications of Mdina is both easy and difficult. It all depends when and what time you go.
In the car parks mentioned above there will be a parking attendant. Payment is under your own free will.
You cannot park inside the city of Mdina as it is prohibited. Only Mdina residents are allowed inside with their vehicle as they have a special permit. So you will need to park outside the bastions.
There is a bus stop just outside the Mdina Gate called 'Mdina'. It is a very popular bus stop so you can expect lots of people.
Just 5 minutes away from Mdina Gate there is the Rabat bus terminus.
All taxi companies in Malta take passengers to Mdina. The taxi will stop you just outside the gate and not inside the city. The fare of the taxi depends from where you take it from.
Mdina and Malta highlights is a full-day tour that visits a combination of villages around Mdina. One stop is Mdina the Silent city.
If you booked to accommodate in Mdina, then you can opt for an airport transfer for around €22 (one-way) or a shared mini-bus for two adults is €14 (one-way).
There aren't many hotels in Mdina. You will only find one hotel.
Unique Mdina hotel located within the silent city
of Mdina with luxurious interiors, imposing building and excellent service. The
hotel is a beautiful 17th century palazzo built as a residence for the noble
family Moscati Parisio. It has beautifully decorated baroque architecture built
on the edge of the bastion with a stunning view of Malta.
This guesthouse is located around 100 meters from the fortifications of Mdina. Since it is situated up on a hill, there are breath-taking views of the island. The guesthouse is equipped with 12 pleasant rooms.
Situated some 100m outside Mdina, with breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside, this charming guesthouse offers value for money, with 12 comfortable rooms equipped with ensuite facilities an excellent in house restaurant. Half board options are also available.
Beside the city of Mdina, lies the village of Rabat. You can combine Mdina and Rabat together as they are just a couple of minutes on foot away from each other.
While in Rabat you can visit the following places of interest:
For the Maltese population, it is a favourite. Apart from its attracting character, the Maltese like to come here for serenity, fantastic views and for a quiet walk both during the day or at night. in summer, it is pleasant to come here for the fresh breeze over the bastion walls.
Magnificent view from the rear of the fortifications showing Valletta the capital city and all the surrounding areas. They built Mdina on a high promontory having a strategic location enabling the defenders to protect the island from invaders.
Not least to the restaurants that have made a name for themselves. There is a very popular cafeteria called ‘Fontanella’ which offers delicious food and sweets. It is on the edge of the bastions overlooking the vast landscapes of Malta. Do not miss this opportunity. Vey often full and have to wait to be seated.
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