Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto

Exploring Malta’s ancient heart becomes a more personal experience with the Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto. Priced at $29.54 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, this guided journey is limited to just 25 participants, ensuring a relaxed pace and plenty of attention from the knowledgeable guides. Starting from Mdina Gate, the tour takes you through the hilltop city’s narrow streets, impressive palaces, and ancient walls, with stops at notable sites like Vilhena Palace, Palazzo Santa Sofia, and the Catacombs of Rabat.

What makes this tour stand out is its inclusion of underground visits to St. Paul’s Grotto, WW2 shelters, and the catacombs, all of which add depth to the history of Malta’s oldest settlements. It’s an engaging option for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture—but be prepared for some stairs at the underground sites. The tour’s timing in the afternoon offers a chance to experience Mdina’s quiet, post-sunset ambiance, making it especially appealing for those who want a relaxed, less crowded visit.

Key Points

• Small-group tour limited to 25 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Includes entrance to underground sites like catacombs, WWII shelters, and St. Paul’s Grotto
• Duration of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, starting at Mdina Gate and ending at Greek’s Gate
• Priced at $29.54 per person, offering good value for the comprehensive experience
• Highlights include Palazzo Falzon, Vilhena Palace, and Mdina’s medieval walls
• Most suitable for history enthusiasts and those seeking an intimate exploration of Mdina and Rabat

Starting Point at Mdina Gate and the First Impressions

The tour begins at Mdina Gate, a striking Baroque gateway that marks the entrance to this medieval city. Meeting here, visitors are immediately immersed in the quiet charm of Mdina’s narrow streets and ancient architecture. This initial moment sets the tone for a relaxed stroll through Malta’s former capital, inhabited since the Bronze Age and serving as the island’s administrative center until the 16th century.

The professional guide introduces the history of Mdina, emphasizing its restoration after earthquake damage, which gives the city its “frozen in time” feel. The small group size makes it easy to ask questions and soak in the stories behind each site. The gentle pace with plenty of stops ensures everyone can appreciate the architectural masterpieces and city walls.

Exploring Rabat’s Historic Streets and Religious Sites

A key part of the tour is a walk through Rabat, directly adjacent to Mdina. The guide leads the group through beautiful streets lined with churches, convents, and historic buildings. This part of the tour lasts about 25 minutes, but it’s packed with sights like notable churches, convents, and local streets full of character.

Visitors pass landmarks such as the Chapel of Saint Agatha and the Vigilant Convent. The walk offers insight into Rabat’s significance as a hub that has historically linked to Mdina, with plenty of opportunity for photos. While some may feel this section is brisk, it provides essential context for understanding Malta’s religious and urban history.

Visiting the Wignacourt Museum and Underground Sites

One of the most captivating moments of the tour is a 30-minute visit to the Wignacourt Museum, which grants access to the catacombs and WWII shelters. These underground sites are a highlight, offering a tangible connection to Malta’s early Christian burial practices, military history, and St. Paul’s connection.

Expect stairs as you descend into the catacombs and shelters, which are part of the underground experience. The entrance fee is included in the tour, making it seamless to explore without extra costs. The catacombs are particularly praised for their fascinating and well-preserved architecture, providing a contrast to the above-ground medieval city.

Discovering Mdina’s Palaces and Religious Buildings

Back on the surface, the tour continues with visits to several of Mdina’s most beautiful palaces and religious sites. The Palazzo Falzon, dating from the 13th century, impresses with its grand façade. The Palazzo Santa Sofia is noted as one of the oldest buildings, showcasing Baroque architecture.

Participants also see the Cathedral of Saint Paul, an elegant Baroque church that dominates Mdina’s main square. The Carmelite Priory adds to the sense of medieval elegance, while the façade of Palazzo Santa Sofia highlights Mdina’s architectural history. The Vilhena Palace, now a Natural History Museum, provides local cultural context, and the Chapel of Saint Agatha offers a peaceful spot for reflection.

Walking the Medieval Walls and Visiting Greeks Gate

A significant part of the experience is walking along Mdina’s medieval walls, which once protected the city from invasions. The imposing Greeks Gate is a notable highlight, marking the boundary of the city and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

As the group explores the fortifications, the guide shares stories of defense and history, helping visitors appreciate the strategic importance of Mdina’s location. The views from the walls are a favorite for many, offering a peaceful moment to take photos and marvel at the surrounding landscape.

Timing, Pace, and Group Experience

The overall pace of the tour is described as well-timed and engaging, with the guide balancing fact-sharing and storytelling. The group size of no more than 25 ensures that everyone can participate actively, ask questions, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The afternoon timing allows visitors to experience Mdina’s post-sunset tranquility, with shops still open and the ambiance transforming after dark. The tour avoids the midday heat, making it comfortable for most participants, though those with mobility challenges should be aware of stairs at underground sites.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Because the underground sites include stairs, visitors should be prepared for some physical exertion. The tour is suitable for most travelers but may be less accessible for those with mobility issues or who require additional assistance. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water if needed.

While the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, the central Mdina location makes it easy to continue exploring or enjoy a meal afterward. Public transportation options are nearby, making access simple.

Guide’s Style and Knowledge

The tour guides, such as Carmel, Matthew, and John, are consistently praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with the group. Their storytelling includes details about Mdina’s history, architecture, and even extra topics like Game of Thrones—which some guides incorporate naturally into the tour.

Guests appreciate guides who are personable, well-organized, and engaging, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The small group setting fosters an intimate environment, allowing for plenty of question-and-answer moments.

Comparing This Tour to Others

At $29.54, this tour offers notable value, especially given the free entrance to underground sites and the comprehensive itinerary. It’s particularly suitable for history lovers and those seeking a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.

While some reviews note that the tour spends more time in Rabat than Mdina, most find the pacing appropriate and appreciate the depth of information. The afternoon timing is ideal for those wanting to avoid crowds and enjoy Mdina’s evening charm.

Limitations and Considerations

A few guests express disappointment when the tour spends more time walking through Rabat streets than exploring Mdina, or wish for more time in Mdina itself. The underground sites involve stairs, so travelers with mobility issues should prepare accordingly.

Touring in the afternoon means some museums and attractions may close shortly after the tour ends, so additional visits require planning. The tour does not include food or drinks, so bringing a water bottle or planning refreshment afterward is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour

This tour offers a balanced blend of architecture, history, and underground exploration within a small-group setting. Its value for money and high praise from past participants make it a strong choice for first-time visitors to Malta or those eager to see Mdina’s and Rabat’s most significant sites.

While it’s not suited for those seeking an extended visit or with mobility constraints, most guests will find the timed pace, expert guides, and underground highlights well worth the $29.54 investment. The personalized experience and focus on key sites make this tour a convenient, engaging introduction to Malta’s historic core.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts directly at Mdina Gate in central Mdina.

Are underground sites accessible for everyone?
The underground visits involve stairs, so some physical exertion is required. It may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes and covers key sites in Mdina and Rabat.

What is included in the price?
The entrance fees for the catacombs, WWII shelters, and St. Paul’s Grotto are included.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?
Travelers with mobility challenges should consider the stairs involved in underground sites; the tour is mainly suitable for most visitors with normal mobility.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour’s central location makes it easy to find refreshments afterward.