Mdina: Day Trips and Tours from Valletta

Located on top of a hill in central Malta, Mdina is a fortified city that served as the island’s capital for many years.

Mdina day trips from Valletta prove to be exceptionally popular excursions, as the walled city is filled with many fascinating landmarks and attractions.

Mdina is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent city’ because of the peace and tranquility that it offers its visitors. In more recent years, Mdina served as the backdrop for many of the “Game of Thrones” scenes in Season 1 and beyond.

Here's all you need to know about Mdina, one of the most exciting day trips from Valletta.

How to get to Mdina from Valletta?

Mdina is located in central Malta, roughly 15 kilometers west of Valletta. This close proximity makes it very easy to travel between the two cities.

From Valletta to Mdina by car

The journey between Valletta and Mdina by car is usually less than 30 minutes, depending on traffic. All you need to do if you plan to drive to Mdina from Valletta is get onto Route 7 and head west until you reach the walled city.

Just keep in mind that it may be quite difficult to find parking when you reach Mdina, especially during busier months.

From Valletta to Mdina by bus

Taking the bus to Mdina is the most affordable way to reach the fortified city. The bus only costs €2 per person and the journey takes around 45 minutes.

Buses depart from Valleta’s terminal every half an hour, and you will get off in Rabat, which is a five-minute walk from Mdina.

Guided tour to Mdina from Valletta

Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour to Mdina from Valletta and allow a tour operator to handle your itinerary and travel details. Day trips from Valletta to Mdina usually make use of private transportation, and you can choose between half-day and full-day excursions.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most tours begin with a complimentary pickup from your hotel in Valletta. After you’ve met your guide, you’ll make your way to Mdina by bus or private shuttle. Once in Mdina, your guide will show you some of the city’s most famous landmarks.

As you explore Mdina, your guide will provide you with fascinating information about the walled city’s history and culture. Before you return back to Valletta, you may also stop at the nearby locations of Dingli Cliffs, Rabat and San Anton Gardens to gain a better idea of the region.

If you have chosen a full-day trip, you’ll definitely make a stop for lunch at some point during the day. At the end of the trip, your guide will take you back to your hotel in Valletta.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Mdina?

When choosing a Mdina day trip from Valletta, you have plenty of options to choose from, including guided tours, private tours and tours that include additional locations.

Half-day trip to Mdina plus Dingli Cliffs from Valletta

When you choose a Mdina day trip that includes a visit to Dingli Cliffs, you get to experience one of the most magnificent views that the area has to offer.

The Dingli Cliffs are just 5 kilometers away from Mdina, making them a popular additional stop.

Half-day tour to Mdina plus Rabat and San Anton Gardens from Valletta

Many tour operators include Rabat and the San Anton Gardens in their Mdina day trip itineraries as Rabat is only 1 kilometer away from Mdina, and the San Anton Gardens are one of the island’s top-rated attractions.

Full-day guided tours to Mdina from Valletta

Guided tours provide an authentic yet affordable way to experience the walled city of Mdina with a professional local guide leading the way. You’ll get the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and see all of Mdina’s highlights, including the San Anton Gardens and Dingli Cliffs.

Private tour to Mdina from Valletta

Private tours allow you to make the most of your time in Valletta as you’ll be provided with a customized experience and receive personal attention from your guide. Experience the majesty of Mdina with just your travel companions as the other tour participants.

How much does a day trip to Mdina from Valletta cost?

Basic Mdina day trips from Valletta typically cost around €30 per person for a half-day tour of about 4 to 5 hours, and will be with a small group.

More comprehensive full-day guided tours, lasting around 8 hours, usually cost closer to €60 per person.

Private tours, which offer personalized experiences, usually cost around €250 per person, although this price can fluctuate depending on the number of tour participants.

What will you see and do?

Mdina Gate

The Mdina Gate is the first attraction you’ll see as you need to pass through the gate to enter the city. The majestic Baroque-style gate instantly transports you back in time and provides the perfect place to take a few photos before you enter the fortified city inside.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Malta and was originally built between 1696 and 1705. The architecture, engravings and artworks are simply breathtaking and provide insight into Malta’s rich history.

Mdina Cathedral Museum

The Mdina Cathedral Museum can be found next to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The museum has an extensive collection of artwork, including woodcuts by Albrecht Dürer. It's also home to silverware, antique furniture and various archaeological remains.

St. Paul’s Catacombs

St. Paul’s Catacombs are said to be one of Mdina’s top attractions as they are some of the earliest archeological evidence of Christianity on the island. Walking through the structures, it is easy to imagine how spectacular they may have been many years ago.

Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs are the highest and most dramatic cliffs on the island, reaching up to 253 meters above sea level. These rugged, limestone cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Maltese countryside.

San Anton Gardens

The San Anton Gardens were originally created in the early 17th century by Antoine de Paule, a knight of the Order of St. John, and have since been expanded and developed over the centuries. Today, it's a serene oasis, featuring a diverse array of flora from around the world.

When is the best time to visit Mdina?

The best time to visit Mdina is in the summer months between May and September, when warm, dry weather is almost guaranteed.

While most day trips visit Mdina in the morning, there are also nighttime tours that explore the ancient city after dark, giving you numerous options based on your preferences and itinerary.

What other day trips can you do from Valletta?

• Gozo day tours from Valletta
• Comino and Blue Lagoon day tours from Valletta
• Ggantija Temples day tours from Valletta
• Mosta day tours from Valletta
• Marsaxlokk day tours from Valletta

Travel tips

• Book your Mdina day trip from Valletta ahead of time to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around and exploring the fortified city of Mdina.
• Pack a light bag with all the essentials, including sunscreen, a hat, a bottle of water and some extra spending money.
• Read through tour itineraries carefully before making a booking to ensure you choose a tour that aligns with your specific interests.