From Sliema: Mdina and Rabat Trip

Exploring Malta’s Silent City and Historic Rabat: A Practical Review

If you’re considering a quick trip from Sliema to explore Malta’s famous Mdina and Rabat, you’ll find plenty of options. One such experience is a 4-hour guided walk that promises a taste of Malta’s enchanting streets, historic architecture, and stunning vistas. While this tour offers a relaxed way to see some of Malta’s most enchanting spots, it’s important to know what you’re signing up for—especially since reviews indicate mixed experiences.

We like that the tour includes private transportation—a real plus for getting comfortably from Sliema to the heart of the island without the hassle of organizing your own transport. Plus, the opportunity to socialize with an international crowd and enjoy some local snacks makes it feel like a friendly, laid-back outing. On the flip side, some older reviews suggest the guides may not offer deep historical insights, which could be disappointing if you’re a history buff. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a casual, social exploration rather than an academically detailed history lesson.

Key Points:

• Affordable Price: At $23, this tour provides a budget-friendly way to see Mdina and Rabat.
• Relaxed pace: The itinerary offers plenty of walking but also time for breaks and socializing.
• Social atmosphere: It attracts a diverse, international group, perfect if you enjoy meeting new people.
• Limited historical commentary: Guides focus on leading the walk rather than explaining detailed history.
• Convenient logistics: Transportation and logistics are taken care of, making it easy for travelers.
• Potential for variable guide quality: Some reviews mention a lack of in-depth knowledge from guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at Burger King in Sliema, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers before hopping onto a private coach for a comfortable 30-minute ride to Rabat. The ride itself offers a chance to get your first glimpse of Malta’s scenery and chat with others in the group.

Once in Rabat, the walk begins, and your guide will lead you through charming streets lined with a delightful mix of old stone buildings and lively local scenes. One highlight is the visit to St. Paul’s Church, an important religious site with a history dating back centuries, which provides a nice photo opportunity and a glimpse into local life.

Following that, you’ll stop for a quick snack at Il-Serkin, reputed for the best pastizzi in Malta—a flaky, savory pastry that’s a Maltese favorite. This optional snack is a perfect break to soak in Maltese flavors and mingle with your new friends.

Next, you’ll relax in a peaceful park with views over the Mdina ditch—a quiet spot that offers a moment of calm amid your exploration. From here, the famous Mdina Gate marks your entry into the Silent City—a place that feels like stepping into a timeless postcard. Walking through Mdina’s narrow streets, you’ll see iconic views, ancient walls, and picturesque alleys perfect for photographs.

You’ll spend about 45 minutes walking through Mdina, taking in its atmospheric streets, with some free time afterward to revisit favorite spots or enjoy a coffee. The tour finishes with a comfortable coach ride back to Sliema, where you’ll arrive around 7 p.m.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The scenic walk through Rabat and Mdina is definitely a highlight. The old city walls, stunning vistas, and quiet, narrow streets create a sense of stepping back in time. It’s a great way for travelers to see the highlights without the need for a highly detailed, historical tour. The inclusion of local food and opportunities to relax in peaceful parks add a warm, authentic touch.

The transportation logistics are straightforward and stress-free, particularly for those who prefer not to navigate Malta’s bus system or rent a car. Meeting at a familiar spot like Burger King makes it easy to find, and returning at the same place ensures a smooth end to your day.

The Reality: What the Reviews Say

While many enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and scenic stops, some travelers have expressed disappointment. One review indicated that the guides simply read from their phones, providing no real insight or context—which can be frustrating for those wanting a deeper understanding of Malta’s history. The same reviewer felt guides lacked local knowledge, which diminishes the experience if you’re hoping for expert commentary.

Another review echoed this sentiment, suggesting the tour is more of a social walk than a detailed historical exploration. This makes it ideal for travelers who want a casual, friendly outing but less suitable for those seeking in-depth historical stories or guided commentary.

Value and Practicalities

At just $23 per person, this tour is certainly budget-friendly, especially considering the included transportation and guides. Early bird tickets are even cheaper—$10—if you book in advance. The tour’s duration of four hours fits well into a day’s sightseeing, giving you a taste of Malta without a significant time commitment.

However, it’s worth noting that since food and drinks are not included, you should budget extra if you want to sample local snacks or cafes. Also, the tour isn’t focused on history or detailed site explanations, so if that’s what you crave, you might want to consider other options or self-guided visits.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for budget travelers, solo explorers, or groups seeking a relaxed, social outing. It’s suitable if you prefer a casual walk with plenty of opportunities to chat and relax without being tied to a strict itinerary. If you enjoy scenic views, informal company, and a taste of local life, you’ll likely find this tour enjoyable.

However, if you’re a history enthusiast or someone who appreciates detailed guides and expert commentary, you might find this tour somewhat lacking. The guides do their best to lead the walk, but the reviews suggest they don’t dwell much on historical details.

Final Thoughts

This Mdina and Rabat tour from Sliema offers a simple, affordable way to see some of Malta’s most iconic sites, especially if you’re after a relaxed, social experience. The scenic walks, relaxed pace, and inclusion of local snacks make it appealing for casual travelers, students, or those with limited time.

However, be prepared for a more superficial tour that emphasizes the walk and social aspects over in-depth historical explanations. If you’re someone who enjoys engaging guides with expert knowledge, you might want to look elsewhere.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a friendly introduction to Malta’s Silent City and Rabat, especially if you value ease of logistics and an international atmosphere over detailed historical insights.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided during the tour, making it easy to get from Sliema to Rabat and Mdina without stress.

Can I join on the day of the tour?
It’s possible, but not recommended. You can pay cash on-site for €15, but spots are limited and you risk not finding a place if the tour is fully booked.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Since the tour is in city areas, no special equipment is necessary. Bringing water might be a good idea, especially on warmer days.

How long is the walk?
You can expect around 45 minutes walking in Rabat, with additional walking in Mdina and breaks along the way.

Does the tour include guided commentary?
Guides will lead the walk, but reviews suggest they don’t provide detailed historical explanations—they mainly lead the way.

What time does it start and end?
Meet at 14:45, departure at 15:00, and returns around 19:00.

Where do we meet and end the tour?
At the doors of Burger King in Sliema, with the return taking you back to the same spot.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can buy snacks during the stops, such as at Il-Serkin.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking a relaxed, social walk with scenic views, not heavy on historical detail. Ideal for solo travelers, groups, or those on a budget.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is open to all ages and nationalities, attracting a diverse crowd including locals and travelers alike.

This tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy some of Malta’s most charming spots in a friendly and budget-conscious setting. While it might not satisfy history buffs, it certainly has its charms for those looking to soak in the atmosphere and meet fellow travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: