Rabat: St. Paul’s Catacombs & the Domvs Romana Combo Ticket

If you’re planning a visit to Malta and want to get a real sense of the island’s past, this combo ticket to St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Domvs Romana offers a relaxed way to do so. While I haven’t personally been through this experience, I’ve researched it thoroughly and talked to travelers who have. What really caught my eye is the chance to explore two very different aspects of Malta’s history—its early Christian roots and the lifestyle of Roman aristocrats—all with a flexible, 30-day ticket.

I appreciate the fact that you can visit these sites at your own pace, fitting them into your schedule without rushing. The price point is also quite appealing at just $15 per person, making it accessible for most travelers. However, a little heads-up: this isn’t a guided tour, so you’ll be doing some self-exploring, which might not suit everyone. If you’re keen on deep historical insights and enjoy wandering on your own, this could be a great pick, especially for those who love exploring at their own pace.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience isn’t designed for wheelchair users, which is worth noting if mobility is a concern. Beyond that, it’s a fantastic option for those genuinely interested in archaeological sites, ancient Christianity, or Roman life. If you’re curious about Malta’s layered history and enjoy a bit of freedom during your visits, read on for a detailed breakdown.

Key Points

• Flexible 30-day pass allows you to visit the sites when it suits your schedule.
• Affordable price point makes this a cost-effective way to explore significant archaeological sites.
• Self-guided experience offers freedom but requires a bit of independent planning.
• Deep dive into Malta’s early Christian and Roman history with well-preserved sites.
• Includes access to both St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domvs Romana with one ticket.
• Not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Experience

This combo ticket gives you access to two key historical sites in Rabat, Malta: St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Domvs Romana. Both are within walking distance, so you can easily schedule them into a single day or spread them out over a few days—whichever suits your travel style.

Exploring St. Paul’s Catacombs

Walking into the tunnels of St. Paul’s Catacombs feels like stepping back in time. These subterranean burial chambers date from Punic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, making them some of the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta. The tunnels are quite extensive and atmospheric, whispering stories of ancient lives long gone. Visitors often find the mosaics and artifacts fascinating, as they offer clues about burial practices and early Christian traditions.

One reviewer described the experience as “just catacombs and in this case if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all,” indicating that some might find it a bit repetitive if they’re expecting spectacular visuals. Nevertheless, many appreciate the authentic, untouched feeling of walking through tunnels that have remained largely as they were for centuries.

Visiting the Domvs Romana

After wandering the tunnels, a short walk will take you to the Domvs Romana, an ancient Roman townhouse that once belonged to wealthy aristocrats. Here, you’ll marvel at exquisite mosaics and artifacts that reveal details about Roman life—how they lived, what they valued, and their social customs. According to visitors, the full tour lasts about three hours, and the audio guide makes a big difference in understanding what you’re seeing.

One person described this site as “spectacular,” praising the well-preserved mosaics and the way the guide helps explain things clearly. It’s a reminder that even ruins, when presented well, can be surprisingly vivid and educational.

The Benefits of the 30-Day Ticket

The biggest advantage here is the flexibility. You’re not tied to a specific time; instead, you can explore the sites at your own pace over a month. This means you can visit early in your trip to get a grounding in Maltese history or revisit later if you find certain aspects particularly intriguing.

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The Practical Side: Visiting and What to Prepare

• Getting there is straightforward. Just go directly to the entrance of each site and show your voucher. No need for complicated arrangements or transfers.
• Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera, as you’ll want to walk and capture the details.
• Since flash photography isn’t allowed, keep your camera settings in check.
• Remember, the sites are not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

Cost versus Value

For $15, you get admission to two significant archaeological sites—something that many travelers consider quite reasonable. While some reviews note that cheaper tickets might be available on the door, having an advance ticket gives you peace of mind and the ability to plan your visits without last-minute hassle.

What’s Missing?

If you’re hoping for guided commentary or a tour bus experience, this isn’t it. You’ll be exploring alone or with your travel companion, which suits some but not everyone. Also, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks, especially if you plan to spend several hours there.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

One reviewer from the U.S. gave it a 1 out of 5, saying, “It’s just catacombs and in this case if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all,” highlighting that if you’re looking for something visually spectacular or different, this might be underwhelming. Conversely, a Spanish visitor called it “great, a spectacular place,” praising the audio guide and the full tour experience.

Another UK traveler appreciated the flexibility: “Very interesting visit then a short walk to Mdina after for lunch and wandering,” showing how this combo can fit into a broader Malta itinerary.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts who like to explore at their own pace, appreciate archaeological sites, or want an affordable way to dive into Malta’s early Christian and Roman past. If guided tours aren’t your thing or if you prefer a relaxed, unhurried approach, this combo ticket offers genuine value.

However, if mobility is a concern or if you’re seeking guided commentary, you might want to consider other options or add on a guided tour to enhance your understanding.

Final Thoughts

This combo ticket to St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domvs Romana offers a practical, budget-friendly way to experience some of Malta’s most significant archaeological sites. The self-guided nature provides freedom to explore at your own pace, making it suitable for independent travelers who enjoy doing a bit of homework before visiting.

The sites themselves are well-preserved and give a tangible sense of Malta’s layered past—early Christianity, Roman aristocratic life, and centuries of history waiting to be uncovered. While it might not be the most dazzling or guided experience, it’s authentic and educational enough to make your trip richer.

If you’re curious about Malta’s ancient history and want a straightforward, flexible way to explore, this combo ticket could be a good fit. Just remember to bring your comfortable shoes, water, and an open mind ready for some underground tunnels and ancient mosaics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this ticket valid for multiple visits?
Yes, once activated, your ticket is good for 30 days, so you can visit both sites at your convenience within that period.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially if you want to avoid queues. You can go directly to the entrance and show your voucher, but securing your ticket beforehand ensures smooth entry.

Can I visit both sites in one day?
Absolutely. They’re close enough that a single day makes sense, especially if you want to take your time at each place.

Are guided tours included?
No, this is a self-guided experience. However, at the Domvs Romana, an audio guide is available and recommended for a better understanding.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and perhaps a hat if it’s sunny. Flash photography isn’t allowed, so keep your camera settings in mind.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, curious older kids might enjoy exploring tunnels and ruins. Check your own kids’ interests and endurance.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the sites are not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.

Does the ticket include transportation?
No, you’ll need to make your own arrangements to get to and from the sites.

Is food available at the sites?
No, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or eating nearby after your visit.

Exploring Malta’s past doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This combo ticket offers a straightforward way to get a feel for ancient life, with plenty of flexibility. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, it’s worth considering for your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: