Mdina Itinerary 10 Days: A Journey Through Malta's Silent City (2026)

Arrive in Malta and transfer to your accommodation in or near Mdina. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting streets of the Silent City. As you wander through the narrow, car-free alleyways, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. Admire the beautiful mix of medieval and baroque architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this ancient walled city. For dinner, head to a traditional Maltese restaurant and savor the local cuisine. Try some pastizzi, a savory pastry filled with ricotta or peas, and a glass of local wine. End your evening with a walk along the city walls, enjoying the panoramic views of the island under the starry sky. This is the perfect introduction to the magic of Mdina.

Today, delve deeper into the history of Mdina and its neighboring town, Rabat. Start your day with a visit to St. Paul's Cathedral, a magnificent baroque masterpiece. Then, explore the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum, a beautifully preserved medieval townhouse that offers a glimpse into the life of a noble Maltese family. In the afternoon, cross the bridge to Rabat and visit St. Paul's Catacombs, an extensive complex of underground Roman cemeteries. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Rabat, with its traditional Maltese houses and local shops. For dinner, you can choose from one of the many excellent restaurants in Rabat, offering a more local and less touristy experience.

Take a day trip to Valletta, Malta's capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your day at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour. Then, visit St. John's Co-Cathedral, a stunning example of baroque art and architecture, home to Caravaggio's masterpiece, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist'. In the afternoon, explore the Grand Master's Palace, the former residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John. Wander through the city's charming streets, lined with colorful balconies and traditional Maltese houses. For a unique experience, take a traditional 'dghajsa' boat tour of the Grand Harbour. Enjoy dinner at one of Valletta's many waterfront restaurants.

Discover the historic Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. These fortified cities, located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, played a crucial role in Malta's history. Start your day in Vittoriosa, the oldest of the three, and explore its narrow streets and historic buildings, including the Inquisitor's Palace and Fort St. Angelo. In the afternoon, take a water taxi to Senglea and walk along the Gardjola Gardens, with its iconic watchtower offering panoramic views of the harbor. Then, explore Cospicua, the largest of the three cities, with its impressive fortifications and historic dockyards. This is a great way to experience a more authentic side of Malta, away from the main tourist crowds.

Take a ferry to Gozo, Malta's sister island, known for its rural landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Visit the Citadel in Victoria, the island's capital, and enjoy the stunning views from its fortified walls. Then, explore the Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. In the afternoon, head to Dwejra Bay and see the Fungus Rock and the Inland Sea. You can also take a boat trip to see the stunning coastal cliffs and caves. End your day with a swim at Ramla Bay, with its unique red sand. Gozo offers a more relaxed and peaceful experience compared to the main island of Malta.

Today, explore the southern coast of Malta. Start your day with a boat trip to the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves known for their crystal-clear blue waters. The best time to visit is in the morning when the sunlight illuminates the caves, creating a magical effect. In the afternoon, head to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. On Sundays, the village hosts a large fish market, where you can see the local fishermen selling their catch of the day. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many waterfront restaurants and admire the colorful traditional fishing boats, known as 'luzzu'.

Have some fun today with a visit to Popeye Village, the original film set of the 1980 musical production 'Popeye'. This colorful village is now a popular tourist attraction, with boat rides, water trampolines, and shows. It's a great place for families and anyone looking for a bit of nostalgia. In the afternoon, relax and unwind at Golden Bay, one of Malta's most beautiful sandy beaches. Go for a swim, sunbathe, or try some water sports. You can also take a walk to the nearby Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, another stunning beach with a more natural and unspoiled feel. Enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

Take a boat trip to the small island of Comino and swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. This stunning lagoon is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Spend the day relaxing on the rocks, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. You can also take a walk around the island and explore its rugged coastline and hidden coves. Be sure to bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited facilities on the island. A trip to the Blue Lagoon is a must-do when visiting Malta, but be prepared for large crowds, especially during the summer months.

Explore the natural beauty of Malta today with a visit to the Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta. Enjoy a walk along the cliffs and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The cliffs are especially beautiful at sunset, so consider visiting in the late afternoon. Afterward, head to the nearby Buskett Gardens, one of the few woodland areas in Malta. These gardens were originally planted by the Knights of St. John as a hunting reserve. Today, they are a peaceful and shady retreat, perfect for a relaxing walk. You can also visit the Verdala Palace, the official summer residence of the President of Malta, which is located at the edge of the gardens.

Enjoy a final Maltese breakfast and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for one last walk through the silent streets of Mdina, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this ancient city. Then, transfer to the airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of your 10-day adventure in Malta.