Sightseeing in Malta
Including Mdina and The Citadel (Cittadella). On the map.
The vibe
Malta’s compactness makes every historic stone feel like a living museum you can wander through in a single day, a density you rarely get elsewhere. The mild winter and early spring give clear light and fewer crowds, while summer brings bright heat and busier streets. Visitors find the main sites bustling with ticket‑holding crowds, yet quiet alleys let you drift into a more local rhythm.
Mdina, Malta
Mdina
hartmut_bach / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Often called the 'Silent City', this medieval fortified hilltop town served as Malta's capital until the arrival of the Knights. Wandering through its narrow, winding alleyways reveals a breathtaking blend of Norman and baroque architecture, framed by towering bastion walls. The city offers a deeply atmospheric journey back in time with sweeping views across the island.
Access. Accessible via direct public buses from Valletta and major tourist hubs, or as a short drive/taxi ride.
Notes. Vehicular access is strictly limited to residents, making it a peaceful pedestrian sightseeing experience.
The Citadel (Cittadella), Gozo
Victoria
Kristov Scicluna / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Rising prominently above Victoria, the capital of Malta's sister island of Gozo, this medieval walled city has been a fortified refuge since the Bronze Age. Meticulously restored, the citadel features a majestic cathedral, historic prison cells, and panoramic viewpoints stretching across the entire island of Gozo. It stands as a striking historic destination distinct from the main island's attractions.
Access. Reached via the Cirkewwa-Gozo ferry, followed by a short local bus or taxi from Mgarr Harbor to Victoria.
Notes. Steep slopes and uneven cobblestones inside the fortifications.