About Mdina

The former capital of Malta, Mdina is a fascinating fortified city in the northern part of the island. First founded in the 8th century BC by Phoenician settlers, the city has a long history. Full of elegant architecture and beautiful churches, Mdina has come to be known as the 'Silent City' by locals because of its sleepy, tranquil atmosphere. The best places to stay in Mdina tend to be found in the historic old town.

What not to miss:

  • The city is home to a number of lovely churches, the most significant being St. Paul's Cathedral. Other notable ones worth visiting include St. Nicholas' Chapel and St. Agatha's Chapel.
  • Underneath the Cathedral, the fascinating Catacombs of St. Paul's are well worth exploring, provided you don't suffer from claustrophobia!
  • Walk along the city's wonderful medieval walls with sights along the way such as Mdina Gate and Greeks Gate.
  • Palaces are scattered across the city due to its rich history of Maltese nobility settling there. Some of them have now been turned into museums such as Palazzo Vilhena and Palazzo Falson.

Mdina is best explored on foot and every turn offers a new point of interest or port hole into a bygone era. Our selection of the best places to stay in Mdina reflect the city's rich culture and charm.

The best places to stay in Mdina

For Luxury

  • Tucked away in the fortified old town, The Xara Palace is a sublime hotel. Awash with luxury and grandeur, some of its highlights include an award-winning restaurant, a lovely pool and plush rooms. Perfect for a romantic break.

For a private apartment or villa

  • Explore the options at our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The nearest airport to Mdina is Malta International (7 miles).
  • For car hire, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Malta has an all round temperate climate but our favourite time to visit is either from April to June or September to October.

Still not sure?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Mdina

Palazzo Bifora

Mdina

A charming hotel in the centre of town. The romantic rooms are pretty as a picture with statement headboards, plush soft furnishings, and opulent bathrooms. There's a rooftop restaurant and pool, plus a cocktail bar and glassed-in courtyard for all-day treats. A little slice of heaven.

  • Local exploring - Malta is so small that you can day trip everywhere with ease. It's a short drive to the Dingli cliffs and the Blue Grotto caves
  • Romantic Break - The Aragana Suite is on two levels with an enormous bath and Nuxe products and toiletries
  • Sights nearby - Visit the imposing Baroque Cathedral of St. Paul, topped by an elegant dome
  • Restaurant - Dine on the rooftop of Palazzo Bifora at Lumière Restaurant
from CA$296 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Xara Palace

Mdina

Uncompromising luxury with all the individuality and sophistication of a Relais Chateaux property. Interiors with splendour - high ceilings, antiques, rugs, lots of natural light. Gorgeous rooms and award-winning rooftop restaurant. A palace of romance, surrounded by stunning baroque architecture.

  • Sights nearby - Mdina's monuments, museums and Roman villas are just a few steps away
  • Private Hot Tub - Some dulpex suites come with their own private terraces and hot tubs
  • Traditional - Antique furniture and original paintings
  • Restaurant - With panoramic views of the city
from CA$457 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia