Discovering the Magic of the Exclusive Mdina Concert & Evening Tour

If you’re looking to spend an evening in Malta that combines history, music, and literary elegance, this exclusive concert in Mdina offers an intriguing blend. Designed for lovers of classical music and authentic Maltese charm, this experience unites the silent beauty of Mdina’s ancient streets with an atmospheric concert inside St. Paul’s Cathedral. As a reviewer, I find this tour especially appealing because of its intimate setting and carefully curated program that promises a memorable cultural evening.

What I particularly like is the combination of a guided walk through the charming streets of Mdina—the so-called “Silent City”—with the musical and poetic concert that follows in the historic cathedral. The fact that it’s a one-night-only event adds an exclusive feel that’s hard to match. The concert features works by Mozart, Rachmaninov, and Vivaldi, performed by a well-regarded string quartet and accompanied by a notable Maltese soprano.

A potential consideration is the timing and accessibility: the tour starts at 18:30 and the performance begins at 19:30, so it’s a tight schedule for those who want a relaxed evening. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, which might limit some travelers.

This experience is ideal for those who love classical music, poetry, and historic towns, and who appreciate a blend of cultural richness in a singular evening. It’s perfect for couples, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a romantic, artsy Malta experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

  • Single-night exclusive event with a guided walk and concert in Mdina
  • Beautiful setting inside the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral for the concert
  • Music by renowned composers like Mozart, Rachmaninov, and Vivaldi performed by the Cordia String Quartet
  • Literary elements with poetry readings by actor Mikhail Basmadjian, featuring Shakespeare and William Blake
  • Reserved Platinum seating offers premium views of the performance
  • Includes a 50-minute evening tour of Mdina’s silent, ancient streets and a 10% dining discount at local restaurants

A Closer Look at What to Expect

This experience, brought to you by Udjenza, starts at 18:30 with a guided walking tour of Mdina, lasting around 50 minutes. Here, you’ll stroll through cobblestone streets, discovering the hidden gems and historical highlights of Malta’s old capital. The guide’s insights help illuminate Mdina’s past, making the walk both engaging and educational. It’s a fantastic way to set the scene before heading into the cathedral for the evening’s main event.

The concert begins at 19:30 inside St. Paul’s Cathedral, a majestic setting that lends a sense of reverence and intimacy. The program, titled “A Midsummer Dream,” captures the essence of summer’s arrival through a carefully curated selection of classical pieces. The Cordia String Quartet, under the musical direction of Jacob Portelli, performs with precision and passion. Their repertoire includes works by Mozart, Vivaldi, Debussy, and Rachmaninov, creating a playlist that spans several centuries of classical music.

Adding a literary layer, actor Mikhail Basmadjian recites poetry from Shakespeare, William Blake, and Ruar Briffa, adding depth and emotion to the evening. His voice, combined with the music, makes for a multi-sensory experience that elevates the atmosphere. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the performances and the knowledgeable guidance, which makes the entire evening feel thoughtfully curated.

The reserved Platinum seats guarantee a prime spot, offering an unobstructed view of the performance and making it feel like a special occasion. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to enjoy the concert comfortably, especially if you’re keen on a more refined experience.

You’ll finish the evening with time to relax or explore further, with a recommended post-concert dinner reservation. Attendees also benefit from a 10% discount at Xara Collection restaurants in Mdina, providing a nice incentive to enjoy local cuisine after the show.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience special is its combination of cultural elements—a historical walk, stunning architecture, classical music, and poetry—delivered in an atmospheric setting. The concert in St. Paul’s Cathedral is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of summer, music, and words, all within a centuries-old church that exudes reverence and beauty.

The limited timing (one night only) lends it a sense of exclusivity, making it ideal for travelers who want a distinctive Maltese evening. The small group size on the guided walk ensures a more personal experience, and the reserved seating at the concert guarantees comfort and sightlines.

We loved the way the music and poetry complement the historic environment, creating a romantic and inspiring atmosphere. Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as key highlights. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide shared fascinating insights, making the streets come alive,” while another appreciated the concert’s emotional impact and the beautiful setting.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts around 2 hours, starting at 18:30, with the walking tour and the concert lasting approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes combined. It’s a walk-only experience; thus, comfortable shoes are essential, as the streets of Mdina are cobbled and sometimes uneven.

The concert venue inside St. Paul’s Cathedral features reserved Platinum seats, which offer a great view and comfort. The performance is in English, with no mention of other languages, but the poetic readings are in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

While the experience is wheelchair accessible, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. If you’re traveling with a companion who needs assistance, it’s worth confirming ahead of time.

Pricing covers the guided tour, concert, reserved seating, and a small discount at local restaurants, providing good value considering the quality of music, the setting, and the overall experience. Additional costs like transportation and meals are not included, so plan your arrival and post-event dining accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

For lovers of classical music, poetry, and historic towns, this special evening in Mdina offers a genuine taste of Malta’s cultural richness. The combination of an intimate guided walk, an elegant concert, and poetry readings creates a multi-layered experience that’s both inspiring and educational.

The quality of the musicians and guides appears to be high, and the setting inside the cathedral makes for an unforgettable backdrop. It’s especially suited for those seeking a romantic, arts-focused night or travelers eager to enjoy Malta’s cultural scene in a meaningful way.

If you appreciate well-curated experiences that blend history, music, and literature, and you’re comfortable with the timing, this tour is a worthy addition to your Malta itinerary. Just remember to book in advance, as it’s a one-night-only event that promises to be a highlight.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the experience is family-friendly, the concert and poetic readings might be more appreciated by older children or teens interested in classical music and poetry.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
No special preparation is needed. Just wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera if you want to capture the beautiful streets of Mdina.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. Travelers should plan to arrive at the start location on their own.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the event?
Given the exclusive nature of the event, it’s best to reserve in advance. Availability may be limited for such a special one-night-only performance.

What if I can’t attend the concert?
You can book the guided walk without attending the concert, but the full experience with the music and poetry is what makes this event stand out.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code is specified, but since it’s a cultural event inside a cathedral, smart casual attire is appropriate.

What if I have special needs or mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so check with the provider if you have specific requirements.

To sum it up, this exclusive concert and guided tour in Mdina offers a rare chance to enjoy Malta’s historic charm with a sophisticated musical and literary touch. It’s an experience that promises to linger in your memory—the perfect blend of history, music, and poetry in one of the island’s most enchanting locations. If you’re after a meaningful cultural evening that combines learning, beauty, and a touch of exclusivity, this tour is undoubtedly worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: