If you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise and you stop in Malta, let me tell you something straight: you cannot skip Mdina. Seriously. I spent one day in Malta during my 10-day cruise and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the entire trip. I really liked it, it exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to go back because I still have so much to see, I spent too little time there.
Mdina is like a golden dream, literally. The whole city is wrapped in warm sepia tones, like someone added a vintage Instagram filter over the buildings. Add to that the colorful flowers hanging from balconies and climbing up the walls, and you’ve got yourself a postcard. I adored the contrast, soft stone shades against bursts of pink and red. Even the shadows here are picturesque.
I arrived using the hop-on, hop-off tourist bus, which, by the way, is an excellent idea if you’re short on time. It gives you the flexibility to explore the country at your pace, without stressing about local transport or burning calories you’d rather save for climbing church stairs.
And if you’re even slightly into Game of Thrones, Mdina is a must. This was the original King’s Landing! You’ll recognize the main gate the moment you see it. But wait, there’s more! Other famous productions like Assassin’s Creed and The Count of Monte Cristo were filmed here too. The whole place feels like a movie set, except it’s real. And peaceful. And you might have to queue for a flower pic.
Fun facts about Mdina
- Mdina is known as “The Silent City” and it lives up to the name
- It was the capital of Malta until the Knights of St. John moved everything to Valletta
- No cars are allowed inside the city walls, only a few residents’ vehicles and horse carriages
- Its history goes back more than 4000 years
- The name “Mdina” comes from the Arabic word for city, “medina”
- Mdina only has around 300 residents
- It’s built on a hill, offering panoramic views of the island
- It’s home to Malta’s oldest noble families and some still live in palaces inside the city
Where to stay when you visit Mdina
Let’s be honest: Mdina is magical, but it’s small. Very small. It’s not really a place where you’d spend the night unless you’re planning to stare at sandstone walls for hours.
So my advice? Stay in Valletta. It’s close, full of life, and gives you access to public transport or tourist buses like the one I took. Plus, you’ll find accommodation options for every budget and style.
- Low budget: Casa Lapira. – a charming guesthouse in Valletta, just 3 minutes from Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering air-conditioned rooms with kitchenettes and a nearby restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
- Mid-range: La Falconeria Hotel. – features elegant rooms, a fitness centre, a bar, and à la carte breakfast, just steps from Upper Barrakka Gardens and major attractions.
- Luxury: The Embassy Valletta Hotel– a stylish 4-star stay with a rooftop pool, modern rooms, Mediterranean dining, and a prime location near Valletta’s main attractions.
Things to do in Mdina Malta
Walk through the Mdina Gate
It’s the iconic entrance to the city and a selfie hotspot. GOT fans, this is your King’s Landing moment. You’ll probably wait in line to take the perfect shot, just as I did. Walking through the Mdina Gate feels like stepping into a movie scene. This iconic entrance, also known as the Main Gate, welcomes you into a world of narrow streets, sandstone buildings, and total medieval charm.
It’s one of those things to do in Mdina Malta that sets the tone for everything else. Built in the 18th century, the gate is both grand and photogenic, with coat of arms, carvings, and a dramatic bridge. Take your time crossing it, because once you’re inside, Mdina works its magic fast.
Explore St. Paul’s Cathedral
Right in the heart of the city, this baroque beauty is impressive both outside and inside. The marble floor, the art, the peaceful vibe, it’s worth stepping in even if you’re not usually into churches. I absolutely loved how it looks and how calm it felt inside. It stands there in the city center like the main attraction, and it really is. Totally worth a visit.
Visit the Mdina Dungeons
A bit creepy, a bit fascinating. These underground passages show you the darker side of Maltese history. Great if you like a little shiver with your sightseeing. Definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Mdina Malta. It’s a short visit, but it leaves a strong impression, especially if you go in alone.
Stop by Palazzo Falson
This historical house museum gives you a glimpse into noble life in Mdina. It’s elegant, quiet, and has a rooftop terrace with views worth pausing for. I really loved the inner courtyard and the staircase, it reminded me of Mediterranean villas. The architecture is stunning and totally worth seeing, even just for the aesthetic.
Eat cake at Fontanella Tea Garden
A classic. Everyone talks about this place and for good reason, the views are spectacular, and the cakes are the kind that make you close your eyes in joy. Get the chocolate one. Trust me. Being such a special restaurant, with amazing views and good food, you might expect the prices to be sky-high. But that’s not the case, everything is quite affordable, and it’s totally worth having lunch here.
Wander the silent streets
The best places to visit in Mdina are sometimes the random corners. The tiny alleys, the flower-filled windows, the sudden opening to a vast view. It’s the kind of place where getting lost is the plan.
Even if you don’t check off all the other things to do, just strolling through the streets is enough to soak up the magic of this city. Mdina is an open-air museum, and you’ll feel it in every building, every alley, and every Instagrammable corner.
Visit Bastion Square
If you’re wondering what to add to your list of things to do in Mdina Malta, Bastion Square is a no-brainer. It’s a quiet little square with killer views over the island, perfect for that “wow” photo moment.
You’re basically standing on history, surrounded by elegant old buildings and stone walls that have seen centuries go by. Grab a coffee, sit on a bench, and pretend you live there. Whether you catch it at golden hour or in the morning stillness, this place gives you all the romantic, medieval feels without even trying. Trust me, Bastion Square is a vibe.
Things to know before visiting Mdina
How do you get to Mdina?
You can reach Mdina easily by bus from Valletta or Sliema. Or do what I did and hop on a hop-on, hop-off tour – it’s a relaxed way to see a lot in one day.
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By bus: direct from Valletta (51, 52, 53) or Sliema (202, 203) – cheap and easy
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By car: you can drive but must park outside the city walls
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By taxi or Bolt: faster but more expensive (around €20 – 25)
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On foot: only a good idea if you’re staying in nearby Rabat
The easiest way? Book a tour on GetYourGuide and skip all the hassle.
Is Mdina worth visiting if you only have one day in Malta?
Absolutely. One day in Mdina Malta is enough to fall in love with its atmosphere, architecture, and charm. It’s the second most important site in Malta after Valletta, in my opinion.
What should you wear?
Comfortable shoes. The streets are cobbled and uneven. Also, bring a hat or scarf, the sun can be intense, and there’s not much shade.
Can you spend the night in Mdina?
Technically yes, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you love quiet evenings and want to be alone with the ghosts of noblemen. Better to stay in Valletta and visit Mdina during the day.
Is it touristy?
Yes, but not in a bad way. It’s popular, but not chaotic. If you go early in the morning or late afternoon, it’s calmer and even more magical.
What makes Mdina special?
It’s the atmosphere. The silence. The golden light. And the feeling that you’re in a different century. One day in Mdina Malta is truly enough to make you want to come back.
