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Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina

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Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)

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The trackless train in Rabat and Mdina, widely known as 'Melita Trains', provides a convenient and informative way to explore the historic surroundings of Malta's old capital. The tour typically commences near the Domus Romana on the outskirts of Rabat, taking passengers on a roughly 30-minute narrated circuit through the town's welcoming streets and neighboring suburbs. During the journey, an onboard audio system delivers historical insights spanning from the Roman era and medieval times to the British colonial period. The route covers several key landmarks, including the Mtarfa district with its iconic clock tower, the imposing bastions of Mdina, and various historic churches in Rabat. Since its launch in the early 2000s, the service has become a favorite for families with young children, offering a shaded alternative to walking in the Mediterranean sun. While the train's aesthetic is modeled after vintage steam locomotives, it operates on modern tires and is powered by a standard engine. This attraction is handy for gaining a comprehensive spatial overview of the area before exploring the fortified city on foot.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The trackless train Rabat-Mdina is a tourist train ride through Rabat, Mtarfa and the outskirts of Mdina. The ride lasts about 30 minutes and gives hop-on hop-off service.
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Typical hours
Trains run daily from about 10:00 to 17:00, depending on season. No fixed timetable; trains depart when full.
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Photography
Photography is allowed from the train; open carriages offer good views. Keep cameras secure while the train moves.
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Time needed
The full loop takes about 30 minutes; allow extra time if hopping off. A great way to orient yourself in the area.
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Combine with
Combine the ride with visits to the silent city of Mdina and the Rabat catacombs. The train stops near major attractions.
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Getting there
The train departs from a designated stop near the Mdina gate or in Rabat. Easily accessible by bus from Valletta.
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Insider tip
Sit on the left side for the best views of Mdina. The train is very popular; expect queues in peak season.

Geography

Coordinates
35.88200, 14.40300

Facts

  • The tour duration is approximately 30 minutes.
  • The departure point is located next to the Domus Romana.
  • The route encompasses Rabat, Mtarfa, and Mdina's outskirts.
  • Onboard audio commentary is provided in multiple languages.
  • Offers a shaded sightseeing experience for families.
  • The vehicle is designed to look like a vintage steam train.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rabat, MaltaRabat, Malta<1 km · SWExplore →
Ta' Qali Crafts VillageTa' Qali Crafts Village2 km · NEExplore →
Mtaħleb ValleyMtaħleb Valley2 km · SWExplore →
Buskett GardensBuskett Gardens3 km · SEExplore →
DingliDingli3 km · SWExplore →
Victoria Lines FaultVictoria Lines Fault3 km · NExplore →
Meridiana Wine EstateMeridiana Wine Estate3 km · EExplore →
Olive Oil Tasting MaltaOlive Oil Tasting Malta4 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (10)

Mdina Gate ,,View of the view"

Viewpoint at Mdina's city gate overlooking the surrounding area.

Church of the Nativity of Our Lady

Church in Rabat, Malta, dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.

Saint Paul's column

Column honoring Saint Paul in Rabat, Malta.

The Mdina Dungeons Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Mdina showcasing torture devices and dungeons.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:30-16:00💶

Mdina Gate

City gate in Mdina, Malta, the main entrance to the fortified city.

National Museum of Natural History🏛 museum

Natural history museum in Mdina, Malta, housed in a historic palace.

Collegiate Church of St Paul

Church in Rabat, Malta, dedicated to Saint Paul.

Statue of Saint Paul

Statue of Saint Paul in Rabat, Malta.

Ta' Duna Chapel

Chapel in Rabat, Malta, also serving as an information point.

Casa Bernard

Historic building in Rabat, Malta.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where does the trackless train start?
Right next to the Domvs Romana in Rabat.
How long is the ride?
The tour lasts about 30 minutes.
What do you see during the tour?
Rabat, Mtarfa, and the outer walls of Mdina.
Does the train go inside Mdina?
No, it only goes around the fortified city.
Is there commentary?
Yes, there is audio commentary during the ride.
Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina: where is it located?
Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina is located in Malta.
Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mdina Gate,View of the view", Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Saint Paul's column.
Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina: why is it worth visiting?
The trackless train in Rabat and Mdina, widely known as 'Melita Trains', provides a convenient and informative way to explore the historic surroundings of Malta's old capital.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nature

Chadwick Lakes (Freshwater) — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Chadwick Lakes (Freshwater)
A man-made system of dams that forms a freshwater habitat during the rainy season.
🗺️
Mtaħleb Valley
A fertile valley that slopes down to the sea, home to one of Malta's few streams.
Il-Qlajja Hill — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Il-Qlajja Hill
A prominent hilltop near Mdina.
Victoria Lines Fault — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
Bahrija Plateau — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Bahrija Plateau
A rural plateau with beautiful views and walking trails.
Ta&#39; Randu Hill — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Ta' Randu Hill
A hill near Siġġiewi that dominates the landscape in the southwest of Malta.
Dingli Cliffs — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Dingli Cliffs
The highest point in Malta, offering breathtaking views of the open sea.
Ta&#39; Ċinċ Hill — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Ta' Ċinċ Hill
A hill near Birkirkara that functions as part of the interior topography.

More places

City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
An easy way for families to explore Malta's main attractions on an open-top bus.
Three Cities Ferry Service — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Three Cities Ferry Service
A ferry service connecting Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea).
Bacchus Winery — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Bacchus Winery
A restaurant and venue in Mdina with a historic wine cellar.
Wied il-Qlejgha (Chadwick Lakes) — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Wied il-Qlejgha (Chadwick Lakes)
A series of dams that collect water during the rainy season, forming an important freshwater habitat.
The Vegetable Patch — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
The Vegetable Patch
A farm specializing in the cultivation of a variety of vegetables.
Buskett Gardens — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Buskett Gardens
One of Malta's few woodland areas, home to many bird species and insects.
Buskett Gardens (Woodland) — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Buskett Gardens (Woodland)
One of Malta's few woodland areas, originally planted as a hunting ground by the Knights.
Wied tal-Luq — Trackless Train Rabat-Mdina (Malta)
Wied tal-Luq
A valley near Buskett known for its rich biodiversity.