Visit Rabat, Mdina and San Anton Gardens - Malta
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
San Anton palace is a palace in Attard, which is the official residence of the President of Malta. It was originally built in the early 17th century, and it was used as a residence by Grand Masters.
Available options
Half day tour Mdina
Pickup included
Full Day Tour Mdina
Full Day Tour Mdina<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transport
admission ticket.
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
San Anton palace is a palace in Attard, which is the official residence of the President of Malta. It was originally built in the early 17th century, and it was used as a residence by Grand Masters.
The palace is surrounded by the extensive San Anton Gardens, parts of which have been open to the public since 1882. During this tour we will first visit this Garden and then continue to the next stop which is Rabat. Rabat is a town in the Northern Region of Malta. The name of the town is derived from the Arabic word for "suburb" as it was the suburb of the old capital Mdina. Rabat is home to the famous Catacombs of St. Paul. These catacombs were used in Roman times to bury the dead as, according to Roman culture, it was unhygienic to bury the dead in the city Mdina. The Maltese catacombs were never meant to be hiding places during persecutions or as living quarters.
Our next and final stop is Mdina, which served as the island;s capital from antiquity to the medieval period. The city is still confined within its walls, and has a population of just under 300. Mdina remained the capital of Malta throughout the Middle Ages, until the arrival of the Order of St. John in 1530, when Birgu became the administrative centre of the island. Mdina experienced a period of decline over the following centuries, but then saw a revival in the early 18th century.
At this point, it acquired several Baroque features, although it did not lose its medieval character. Mdina is on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it is now one of the main tourist attractions in Malta.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Mellieħa
Mellieħa, known as the 'Village of the Seven Villages,' is a charming coastal town in northern Malta. It is famous for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and breathtaking views, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
Mellieħa Bay
Mellieħa Bay is one of Malta's largest and most popular sandy beaches, known for its clear waters and stunning views.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
The Popeye Village
A unique film set turned tourist attraction, Popeye Village was built for the 1980 musical film 'Popeye' and offers fun activities for all ages.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10-15 per person
St. Agatha's Tower
A 13th-century watchtower offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and countryside.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay
A picturesque, secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ftira
A traditional Maltese bread roll, often served with various fillings like tuna, olives, and tomatoes.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available
Stuffed Squid
Squid stuffed with a mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, and sometimes pine nuts, then baked or fried.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood
Pastizzi
Flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or peas, a popular street food in Malta.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Boat tours
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic walks
Museum visits
Historical site tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers the best weather for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it can be crowded and hot.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Maltese, English
- Widely spoken: English, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mellieħa is generally safe with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Malta International Airport • 20 km from Mellieħa
By bus
Mellieħa Bus Terminus
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Mellieħa and are affordable and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: eCabs, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mellieħa Town Center
Anchor Bay
Għajn Tuffieħa
Day trips
Gozo Island
30 km from Mellieħa • Full day
Gozo is a beautiful island known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and relaxed atmosphere.
Comino Island
20 km from Mellieħa • Half day to full day
Comino is a small, uninhabited island famous for its crystal-clear waters and the Blue Lagoon.
Mdina
20 km from Mellieħa • Half day
Mdina is a historic walled city known for its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views.
Festivals
Mellieħa Summer Festival • August
Malta International Fireworks Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit the beaches early in the morning for a peaceful experience
- Explore the town's narrow streets and hidden alleys for a local feel
- Try local pastries and coffee at Café 2000
- Book ferry tickets in advance for day trips to Gozo and Comino
- Visit St. Agatha's Tower for stunning sunset views
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
