Malta: Footsteps of St. Paul and Mdina, Private Tour
Location: Malta, Malta
Country: Malta
Rating: 5
Price: $255 per person
Supplier: SoletoTravel by GTS
An Honest Take on a Malta Classic
If you’re drawn to stories of early Christianity, ancient cities, and stunning views, this private tour offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s spiritual and historic layers. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that takes you through the places where legend says St. Paul once trod, along with a visit to the enchanting walled city of Mdina.
What we love most about this tour is its focus on authentic sites—from the Grotto of St. Paul to the historic Mdina Cathedral, each location feels meaningful rather than just touristy. Plus, the local Pastizzi tasting adds a delicious, genuine Maltese flavor to the day.
A potential drawback is the five-hour duration, which, while manageable, means some might wish for a longer exploration at each stop or a more leisurely pace. Also, since the tour is private, the price might seem steep for some travelers, but the personalized attention and included tickets often justify the cost.
This tour suits those with a keen interest in religious history, medieval towns, and spectacular vistas—perfect if you want a compact, insightful day without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Focus on Authenticity: Visit key sites linked to St. Paul, not just tourist spots.
- Private Experience: Personalized guides and flexible pick-up/drop-off make it smoother.
- Includes Entrance Tickets: No need to worry about long lines at St. Paul’s Grotto or Mdina Cathedral.
- Cultural Flavor: Try Maltese pastizzi—an instant local favorite.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from Mdina’s Belvedere lookout.
- Well-Paced Tour: Around 5 hours, covering major sites with breaks for refreshments.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rabat Malta.
Exploring the Itinerary in Depth
Starting Point and Pickup
Your day begins with pickup from either your hotel or cruise ship—convenient and stress-free. The tour offers two pickup locations: Sliema or Valletta, both central spots. This flexibility makes it suitable whether you’re based in the busy capital or the seaside town of Sliema.
St. Paul’s Bay and the Shipwreck Site
Driving along St. Paul’s Bay, you’ll glimpse the spot where, according to legend, St. Paul’s ship was wrecked during his shipwrecked voyage. The guide will point out the location where St. Paul’s bonfire was built, now marked by the Church of the Bonfire. The views here are quite striking—think of a peaceful bay framed by rugged coastlines.
Burmarrad and San Pawl Milqi
Next, you’ll visit San Pawl Milqi, the site where Publius, the Roman governor, is said to have welcomed St. Paul. This spot is steeped in legend and offers a peek into Malta’s ancient Roman connections.
Rabat and St. Paul’s Grotto
A highlight of the day is the visit to St. Paul’s Grotto in Rabat. Here, you can walk through the small, atmospheric cave where Paul is believed to have stayed for three months. The site features a statue of St. Paul, donated in 1748, and a silver vessel from 1960 celebrating the 1900-year anniversary of the shipwreck.
Tasting Break: Pastizzi and a Coffee
After absorbing some history and spirituality, you’ll pause for a taste of authentic Maltese pastizzi—flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas—and a quick coffee. It’s a simple but delightful way to connect with local life and take a breather before heading to Mdina.
Mdina: The Silent City
The ancient walled city of Mdina takes center stage next. Perched on a plateau, this city is a masterclass in Baroque architecture and medieval charm. You’ll explore the Mdina Cathedral, believed to be the former home of Publius, and then enjoy panoramic views from Mdina’s Belvedere, where the countryside unfurls in every direction.
Walking Tour and History
Your guide will take you through narrow streets, revealing stories behind the city’s majestic walls, silent streets, and historic buildings. Mdina feels like a living museum, quiet and full of character.
Ending the Day
After about an hour of discovery, your driver will take you back to your hotel or cruise terminal, leaving you with a satisfying glimpse into Malta’s past and beautiful vistas.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The combination of religious sites and medieval charm really hits the mark for travelers interested in Malta’s layered history. The inclusion of entrance tickets to both St. Paul’s Grotto and Mdina Cathedral** saves time and hassle, allowing you to focus on soaking in the sites.
The scenic views from Mdina’s Belvedere are frequently praised—many visitors mention how the vistas help put the city into context as a strategic high point overlooking the island.
Authentic local flavors, like pastizzi, provide a taste of Malta’s everyday life, which many find a welcome break from more formal tours. The fact that the tour is private means you can tailor the pace somewhat, ask questions, and get personalized attention from your guide.
On the flip side, some reviews note that the duration might be tight for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of each site. If you’re particularly interested in archaeology or architecture, you might find yourself wishing for more time at key spots.
The Cost Versus the Value
At $255 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it packs a lot into just five hours. You get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance tickets, and a taste of local food—all of which add up. For history buffs or those wanting a curated experience with minimal hassle, the value stands up well.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, especially those intrigued by religious legends and early Christian stories. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a private, guided approach rather than standalone sightseeing.
If your time in Malta is limited and you want a focused, meaningful overview of key sites linked to St. Paul and Mdina, this tour hits all the marks. It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues—since some sites involve walking in areas that might be uneven—as well as families with very young children or those seeking a leisurely, unstructured day.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a well-balanced mix of spirituality, history, and scenic beauty. The sites visited are meaningful, not just tourist checkboxes, and the inclusion of local pastizzi for flavor makes the experience more authentic.
You’ll feel like you’ve gained a deeper understanding of Malta’s connection to St. Paul while also enjoying some of the most picturesque views on the island. The private setting ensures a customized, relaxed experience—perfect if you’re eager to learn without feeling rushed.
For travelers interested in Malta’s ancient stories, medieval streets, and scenic outlooks, this tour provides a compact yet enriching day. It’s especially fitting for those who value personalized guiding and cultural authenticity over cookie-cutter sightseeing.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour may not be suitable because some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and narrow streets.
What’s included in the price?
You get a 5-hour private guided tour, full transportation, entrance tickets to St. Paul’s Grotto and Mdina Cathedral, Pastizzi tasting, and convenient pick-up and drop-off**.
Can I customize the start time?
Availability varies; check with the provider, but the tour typically runs at different start times based on your booking.
How long is the tour in total?
It lasts about 5 hours, allowing enough time to visit key sites, enjoy views, and have a brief break.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be walking through historic streets and sites.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included; however, you can purchase food and drinks during the stops or bring your own.
How do I meet the guide?
You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel or cruise ship, with the guide holding a sign with your last name.
What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Check the availability, but mornings or early afternoons typically work well to avoid late-day heat and crowds.
Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for travelers over age 12; very young children or those with mobility limitations might find it challenging.
What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Some sites may be less enjoyable in heavy rain, but the overall experience remains worthwhile.
This private tour combines the best of Malta’s legendary past, panoramic views, and local flavors—all in a manageable five-hour journey. Whether you’re a history lover or simply want a taste of Malta’s charm, it offers a balanced, memorable experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: