Mdina Grand Prix (Malta Classic)
Annual classic car racing event in October featuring vintage vehicles outside the fortified ancient capital of Mdina.
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Mdina (The Silent City)
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Mdina (The Silent City)
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Visit late afternoon or early evening when the day-trippers leave and the lantern-lit streets feel magical.
- Only residents can drive inside; park your car in the large lot outside the main gate.
- Don't just stick to the main street; wander into the narrowest, quietest side alleys to see the real Silent City.
- Head to Bastion Square at the far end of the city for a panoramic view of the entire island.
- Remember that people still live here; keep your voice down when exploring the residential areas.
🍽 Food
🍽
Chocolate Cake
Indulge in a slice of famous chocolate cake at the teahouse located right on the bastions.
🍽
Maltese Nougat
Buy some traditional nougat (qubbajt) from the small artisanal stalls near the entrance.
🍽
Traditional Ftira
Stop at a cozy local cafe hidden in the alleys to try this crusty bread filled with tuna, capers, and olives.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Mdina Glass
Browse the colorful, locally hand-blown glassware in the specialized boutiques within the city walls.
🛍
Handmade Lace
Look out for authentic Maltese bizzilla (lace) being sold in small local craft shops.
🧘
Mdina Ditch Gardens
Walk down into the beautifully restored dry moat beneath the main bridge for a peaceful perspective of the towering walls.
🧘
Carmelite Priory
Step into this quiet, serene priory church just off the main paths to escape the hustle.
Water temperature…
Mdina, often referred to as 'The Silent City', is the ancient capital of Malta and one of Europe's finest examples of a medieval walled city. Its history spans over 4,000 years, with Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs each leaving a distinct mark on its urban layout and architectural heritage. Behind its formidable defensive walls lies a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with noble palaces and grand Baroque churches. The influence of the Order of St. John was particularly significant, especially during the reconstruction efforts following the catastrophic earthquake of 1693. Today, Mdina remains home to only about 250 residents, which maintains the serene and tranquil atmosphere that gives the city its nickname. Motor vehicle access is restricted to residents and service vehicles, allowing visitors to experience the city as a living museum of the past. The bastions provide dramatic panoramic views across the Maltese landscape towards the coast.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: National Museum of Natural History · Annunciation Church · Domus Romana
- Nearby: Lija (5 km)
- Population: ~193
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 65 | 51 | 33 | 17 | 11 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 82 | 95 | 82 |
Geography
Facts
- Ancient capital city of Malta
- Current population: approx. 250
- Founded: c. 700 BC by Phoenicians
- Nickname: 'The Silent City'
- Unique feature: Mostly car-free historic zone
- Architecture: Mix of Norman and Baroque styles
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→14:490.6 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 17–23 €Entries 20€ · Transport 0€
Start your day at the Mdina Gate and immerse yourself in the 'Silent City'. The morning is for exploring palaces and the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral. After lunch in the heart of the city, enjoy the tranquility of the smaller churches. The afternoon concludes at Bastion Square, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over Malta. Dinner in one of the vaulted restaurants provides a perfect end to the day.
← swipe for more places →
🚶 4'0.04 km
🚶 6'0.14 km
📍
10:54 · 47'
St. Paul's Cathedral
Pay attention to the magnificent marble tombstones on the floor.
🚶 4'0.05 km
📍
11:45 · 47'
Metropolitan Cathedral Museum
The ticket for the cathedral is also valid here. Save it!
🚶 8'0.23 km
🚶 5'0.09 km
09:00→14:400.6 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 20€ · Transport 12€
Cycle to Mdina and leave your bike at the gate. You'll explore the city itself on foot. Your day starts with a walk through the old alleys to Vilhena Palace and the impressive cathedral. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming restaurants. The afternoon allows for the Cathedral Museum and a quiet moment at the Carmelite Church before ending the day with the famous view from Bastion Square.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 47'
Arrival & Bike Parking
Lock your bike near the main gate as cycling is not allowed inside.
🚲 3'0.06 km
🚲 4'0.14 km
📍
10:51 · 47'
St. Paul's Cathedral
Pay attention to the magnificent marble tombstones on the floor.
🚲 3'0.05 km
📍
11:41 · 47'
Metropolitan Cathedral Museum
The ticket for the cathedral is also valid here. Save it!
🚲 4'0.23 km
🚲 4'0.09 km
📍
13:23 · 47'
Bastion Square
Reward yourself with a slice of cake at Fontanella Tea Garden after your bike ride.
09:00→14:390.7 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 17–23 €Entries 20€ · Transport 0€
Drive to Mdina and park your car outside. The rest of the day is a walking exploration of the 'Silent City'. The morning takes you to historic palaces and the main cathedral. After a relaxing lunch, explore the quieter corners of the city. The afternoon's highlight is the spectacular view from Bastion Square, a perfect conclusion before returning to your car.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 47'
Arrival & Parking
Park in the large car park outside the main gate. Cars are not allowed inside.
🚗 4'0.19 km
📍
10:01 · 47'
Vilhena Palace
Walk from the car park to the gate and then straight to the palace.
🚗 3'0.14 km
📍
10:51 · 47'
St. Paul's Cathedral
The cathedral is the heart of the city, just a few minutes' walk away.
🚗 3'0.05 km
📍
11:41 · 47'
Metropolitan Cathedral Museum
Located right next to the cathedral, very convenient.
🚗 4'0.23 km
🚗 3'0.09 km
Sights in the town Mdina (The Silent City) (9)
Frequently asked questions
Why is Mdina called the 'Silent City'?
Because of the extreme quiet in the streets and because cars are banned for non-residents.
Is there an entry fee for Mdina?
No, entry to the fortified city is free. Only museums require an entry fee.
Where is the best place to park?
There is a large parking area located right outside the main gate in Rabat.
Was Game of Thrones filmed here?
Yes, Mdina's main gate served as the entrance to King's Landing in the first season.
Can I visit Mdina at night?
Yes, Mdina is beautifully lit at night, and the atmosphere is particularly magical then.
Mdina (The Silent City): where is it located?
Mdina (The Silent City) is located in Malta.
Mdina (The Silent City): what is there to see?
Highlights include National Museum of Natural History, Annunciation Church, Domus Romana.
Mdina (The Silent City): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Mdina (The Silent City): why is it worth visiting?
Mdina, often referred to as 'The Silent City', is the ancient capital of Malta and one of Europe's finest examples of a medieval walled city.
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History & landmarks
Nature
🗺️
Mtaħleb Valley
A fertile valley that slopes down to the sea, home to one of Malta's few streams.
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
Bahrija Plateau
A rural plateau with beautiful views and walking trails.
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A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by clay slopes and cliffs.
Għar Lapsi Cove
A small rocky inlet popular with divers and snorkelers.
More places
St. Paul's Cathedral
The cathedral of the Archdiocese of Malta, located in Mdina.
Vilhena Palace
A grand French Baroque palace located just inside the main gate of Mdina.
Buskett Gardens
One of Malta's few woodland areas, home to many bird species and insects.
Meridiana Wine Estate
A modern winery in Ta' Qali known for its quality wines made from international grape varieties.
Olive Oil Tasting Malta
Several farms offer tasting sessions of their locally produced olive oil.
Lija Parish Church
A baroque church famous for its spectacular fireworks displays.
Vincent's Eco Farm
One of the largest organic farms in Malta, growing a variety of vegetables and fruits.
Sammy's Strawberry Farm
A well-known farm in Mgarr where visitors can pick their own strawberries.