Mdina, Malta’s silent city, offers an ideal setting for walking tours. Its narrow medieval streets, baroque architecture, and panoramic views from bastion walls make it a walker’s paradise. What makes Mdina truly special is its compact size and the wealth of sights that can be comfortably explored on foot. Whether you’re interested in uncovering the secrets of its ancient catacombs, marveling at its palaces, or hearing stories of pirates and noble families, there’s a tour that fits your interests. We particularly like tours that combine history with local stories, like the Malta: Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour with Catacombs, which offers a 2.5-hour deep dive into the city’s secrets with entrance to the catacombs and WW2 shelters included. It’s a great way to get a meaningful introduction to Mdina’s layered past.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of Mdina’s best walking tours. Each offers a different approach—some private, some group, some focused on history and others on local flavors—so read on to find your perfect fit.
1. Malta: Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour with Catacombs
At number 1, we have the Malta: Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour with Catacombs. This 2.5-hour tour is a well-rounded introduction to both Mdina and the neighboring Rabat, with entrance to key sites such as St. Paul’s Grotto and WW2 shelters included. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to walk along the fortress walls for stunning views and learn about Mdina’s medieval and baroque architecture directly from your guide.
Guests consistently praise the guide, Matthew, for his engaging explanations and ability to highlight details that might be missed if wandering solo. The tour covers all the major sites like Palazzo Falzon and Greeks Gate, but it’s the visits to the catacombs and WW2 shelters that make it memorable. The price, at $28, offers excellent value given the duration and inclusions. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances history with stories of Malta’s turbulent past.
Bottom line: If you want an engaging, well-organized tour with entrance to some of Mdina’s most intriguing underground sites, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto
Number 2 is the Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto. This small-group tour, limited to 25 participants, ensures a personalized experience with a focus on key historical sites and underground attractions. It’s a slightly longer 2.5-hour tour that emphasizes the architecture of palaces like Vilhena Palace and the historic streets of Mdina while also exploring Rabat.
What sets this tour apart is the all-included visit to the Wignacourt Museum, which features the catacombs, WW2 shelters, and St. Paul’s Grotto. The guide, Carmel, is known for her detailed storytelling, making the history come alive. Guests love how well-paced and informative the tour is, with reviews highlighting the fascinating underground visits and the engaging guide. At $29.54, it’s a bit more expensive but offers a very intimate, less rushed experience for history lovers.
Bottom line: For travelers who want an intimate, inclusive tour with a focus on underground sites and architecture, this is an excellent choice.
3. Mdina and Rabat: Guided City Walking Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Mdina and Rabat: Guided City Walking Tour. For just $23, this 2-hour walk offers a relaxed paced exploration of Mdina’s main highlights, including its ancient walls, palaces, and the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral. The guide, Andrere, is praised for her knowledge of architecture and Malta’s historical occupations, making this tour a practical and affordable choice for those with limited time.
Guests appreciate the friendly, informative approach, with many mentioning how much they learned about Mdina’s strategic importance and architecture. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a quick, focused overview without the underground visits or longer commitments. If you prefer a condensed but comprehensive experience, this tour delivers.
Bottom line: An affordable, efficient introduction perfect for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.
4. Mdina and Rabat Private Walking Tour
Number 4 features a Private Walking Tour of Mdina and Rabat. This personalized experience, for up to 4 people at $332.03, offers flexibility and tailored sightseeing. The tour covers main sites like Mdina’s Main Gate, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, and the bastions, with a private guide who can adapt the pace and focus to your interests.
Guests love the extra depth, as the guide can share detailed stories about Mdina’s pirate raids, noble families, and the city’s multicultural roots. The private format is ideal for those seeking a more exclusive experience or traveling with family or friends. The itinerary includes visits to less crowded spots and allows a relaxed pace, making it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate exploration.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth visit with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
5. Mdina: Private Historical City Walking Tour with Rabat Town
Number 5’s Private Tour of Mdina and Rabat emphasizes a private, relaxed exploration of these two historic towns for about 2 hours at $170. The guide, Mariella, is praised for her storytelling and ability to fulfill individual wishes. You’ll visit sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Vilfena Gate, learning about Mdina’s role in Malta’s history.
Guests report excellent communication and personalized service, with one saying, “She even made sure we got the right bus.” This tour offers a good balance of sightseeing and storytelling, suitable for travelers who want a private, flexible experience without the full underground exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a tailored experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
6. Mdina and Rabat Private Walking Tour with local pastizzi
Number 6 highlights a Private Tour with local pastizzi, combining sightseeing with tasting Malta’s favorite snack. At $312 for up to 4 people, this 2.5-hour experience offers a leisurely walk through Mdina’s charming streets with stories behind the buildings, topped with a tasting of pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas.
Guests love the mix of history and local flavor, describing the guide as extremely knowledgeable and the experience as very enjoyable. This tour is particularly suited for food lovers or travelers who want a more relaxed, cultural experience.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local cuisine.
7. Mdina: Medieval Mayhem 15th-Century Malta Walking Tour
Number 7’s Medieval Mayhem Tour is a lively and theatrical walk through Mdina’s 15th-century past. With a cost around 2 hours of fun and engaging storytelling, this tour features costume reenactments and visits to the Mdina Dungeons Museum and Palazzo Vilhena.
What makes this tour distinctive is its humorous, interactive approach, ideal for travelers who enjoy stories with a theatrical twist. It’s perfect for families or history enthusiasts who like a bit of fun with their facts. Reviews praise the guide’s engaging style and the lively storytelling.
Bottom line: If you’re after an entertaining, interactive history lesson, this tour hits the mark.
8. Mdina: Guided Walking Tour
Number 8 offers a straightforward Guided Walking Tour, ideal for those who want a flexible, one-day experience. For $24, you explore Mdina’s main highlights, including the cathedral, palaces, and city walls. It’s perfect for travelers with a single day to enjoy Mdina at their own pace.
The guide’s insights into Mdina’s strategic importance give context to its architecture and layout. While it doesn’t include underground visits, the tour’s simplicity makes it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting a quick overview.
Bottom line: Best for travelers on a budget or with limited time who want a solid introduction.
$24 per person
9. Mdina Private Walking Tour
Number 9 features an Exclusive Private Tour, lasting 1.5 hours for $284 per group. It’s a shorter, intimate experience focusing on the city’s noble homes, churches, and Game of Thrones filming sites. The guide emphasizes storytelling, sharing legends about Mdina’s past aristocratic families and legends.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see less crowded spots. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a quick, focused private tour with a touch of entertainment and history.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a quick, private snapshot of Mdina with engaging stories.
$284 per group up to 15
10. Mysteries and Histories of Mdina – Walking Tour
Finally, the Mysteries and Histories Tour explores Mdina’s dark side, uncovering ghost stories, miracles, and buried treasures. Lasting 2 hours for a reasonable price, it’s perfect for those intrigued by legends and the paranormal.
The guide shares stories about ghosts wandering the streets and hidden treasures, offering a different perspective on Mdina’s history. It’s ideal for travelers interested in a spooky, atmospheric experience.
Bottom line: For those who want a spooky twist on Malta’s history, this tour delivers with flair.
How to Choose Your Mdina Walking Tour
When selecting a walking tour in Mdina, consider your interests and travel style. Want underground secrets? The Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs is perfect. Looking for privacy? The Private Guided Tour or Private Tour with Pastizzi match your needs. Budget travelers may prefer the Guided Walking Tour, while history buffs might opt for the Medieval Mayhem.
Booking early is wise during peak season, as tours fill quickly. Also, check whether underground sites or tastings are included—this can make a big difference in your experience.
Final Thoughts
Mdina offers a wonderful range of walking tours, from detailed private experiences to lively, theatrical walks. For a balanced introduction, the Malta: Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour with Catacombs provides excellent value and memorable underground visits. If you prefer a private, tailored trip, the Private Walking Tours are hard to beat, especially if you want to explore at a relaxed pace.
For those interested in stories of medieval mayhem or ghostly legends, Mdina’s range of themed tours makes for a fascinating experience. Regardless of your choice, Mdina’s charm is undeniable, and a good walking tour is the best way to unlock its secrets. Book early, especially in high season, and enjoy your journey through Malta’s silent, stone city.