Birkirkara: The Farsons Brewery Entry Ticket and Beer Flight

If you’re planning a visit to Malta and want a taste of local brewing tradition, the Farsons Brewery experience offers a rewarding blend of history, crafting, and refreshment. This self-guided tour at Malta’s most prominent brewery promises a relaxed journey through the island’s beer story, topped off with a selection of freshly brewed beers and stunning views from the rooftop bar. It’s a great choice for beer lovers, curious travelers, and those simply looking to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with ample photo opportunities.

What we genuinely like about this experience is how flexible and informative it is—no stuffy guided tour here, just the freedom to explore at your own pace. The self-exploratory aspect makes it ideal for independent travelers who prefer to set their own rhythm, while the panoramic rooftop bar provides a memorable setting for tasting and relaxing. On the flip side, if you’re craving a guided narrative or want a more immersive, group interaction, this might feel a little too laid-back. But for those who value a mix of history, good beer, and views, this experience hits the right note.

This tour suits anyone interested in Maltese culture, beer enthusiasts eager to sample local brews, or travelers seeking a leisurely activity that combines history with a fun tasting. It’s especially perfect if you’re exploring Malta on your own, as it provides both education and indulgence in a relaxed, unhurried environment.

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom allows you to explore at your own pace without the pressure of a group.
• Learn about Malta’s leading beer brands and the history of the Farsons brewery through engaging audio guides.
• Enjoy tasting five different beers at The Cisk Tap rooftop bar with panoramic views.
• Capture stunning photos of Malta’s scenery from the brewery’s rooftop terrace.
• Visit the historical brewing hall to see the brewing process and learn how beer was traditionally made.
• Shop for souvenirs at the Farsons Brandstore to remember your visit.
• Accessible for most travelers, with wheelchair access and guides available in multiple languages.
• Cost-effective for the experience offered, with a price of just $17 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Farsons Brewery Tour

The Welcome and Check-in

Your journey begins at The Brewhouse in Birkirkara, where friendly staff greet you and provide your entry ticket. The check-in process is smooth, and you’re immediately immersed in the brewery’s lively atmosphere. The brewery itself is a historic site, established in the 1950s, and walking inside feels like stepping into Malta’s modern brewing heritage. The building’s architecture and ambiance hint at the long-standing tradition of beer-making on the island.

The Self-Exploratory Tour

The core of this experience is the self-guided tour, which lasts approximately an hour. Instead of a traditional guide, you receive an audio device (available in multiple languages including English, Maltese, German, Italian, and Polish) to listen to engaging commentary at your own pace. This approach has garnered praise from visitors like Maryrose, who noted how clear and easy the audio was to follow, making the experience both educational and relaxed.

You’ll wander through various exhibits showcasing the story of Malta’s most popular beer brands, particularly Cisk, which is a symbol of Maltese brewing. You’ll learn about the partnership of three entrepreneurial families that helped shape the local beer scene. The information is well-structured and visually supported by info boards and displays, making it accessible for all ages.

The Brewing Hall

One of the highlights is the historical brewing hall, a space that connects visitors with traditional craftsmanship. Here, you see the brewing equipment and learn how beer was made decades ago, giving you a tangible sense of Malta’s brewing evolution. Visitors who appreciate craftsmanship will enjoy seeing the machinery and possibly imagining the bottling process from earlier days.

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The Rooftop Bar: The Cisk Tap

After exploring the historic sections, you’re invited to end your tour at The Cisk Tap, a rooftop bar that offers sweeping views of Malta’s landscape. The bar itself is a gem, blending panoramic scenery with a laid-back atmosphere. Many reviews, including those from David and Maria, mention how the beer and the view at the end are truly memorable.

Here, you can indulge in a beer flight—sampling five freshly brewed beers from the brewery or opt for a full pint if you prefer. The barmen are friendly and knowledgeable, explaining each brew’s characteristics, which adds depth to your tasting experience. As Maria described, the staff are “pleasant, kind, and very interesting,” making the tasting session both fun and educational.

The Beer Flight and Tasting Experience

The beer flight is a major selling point. For $17, you get to taste a variety of beers, giving you a well-rounded sense of what Malta’s brewing scene has to offer. The reviews highlight how well the samples are explained, with one reviewer mentioning the “interesting talk about each of the drinks” by the bartender Andrea.

Plus, the audioguide enhances this experience, offering insights into each brew’s background, ingredients, and flavor profile. For many visitors, this elevates the tasting from just drinking to appreciating the craftsmanship behind each pint.

Shopping and Food Options

Beyond the tasting, you can browse the Farsons Brandstore, picking up souvenirs such as branded glasses or local beer memorabilia. Inside The Brewhouse, there are several eateries, including Kettles, where you can grab a bite to complement your drinks. While food is not included in the ticket price, the variety of dining options adds to the overall value.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The entire experience is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair access and multilingual audio guides accommodating diverse visitors. The brewery operates daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:15 PM. The activity is approximately one hour long, but most visitors find it comfortably fits into an afternoon.

Transportation to the site is not included, so planning a short taxi or bus ride might be necessary. Children under 12 are welcome if accompanied by an adult, and alcohol will only be served to those over 17, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Price and Value

At $17 per person, the price point is quite reasonable considering the self-guided exploration, multiple tastings, and spectacular views. Reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed the combination of historical insights and casual tasting, making the cost feel justified.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for independent travelers who want a flexible, relaxed activity that combines Maltese brewing history with a fun tasting session. It’s perfect whether you’re a beer lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic, low-pressure activity. Families with older children will find it engaging, especially those interested in local culture and traditional craftsmanship.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Maltese beverages and scenery, this activity offers a compact yet rich experience. And for those who appreciate good views paired with a quality beer, the rooftop bar makes it especially appealing.

Final Thoughts

The Farsons Brewery experience balances history, flavor, and scenery in a way that feels genuine and unhurried. The self-guided format allows you to take your time, soak up the atmosphere, and savor the beers at your own pace. The rooftop terrace transforms a simple brewery visit into a memorable moment with spectacular views of Malta.

While it might lack the personal touch of a guided tour, the combination of clear audio guides, interesting exhibits, and friendly staff more than compensates. The price is fair, especially given the variety of beers and the stunning setting.

If you’re in Malta and want a laid-back, authentic taste of Maltese brewing, this is a fine choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxed exploration, appreciate panoramic vistas, or are looking for a unique local experience that’s both enjoyable and educational.

FAQ

Is transportation to the brewery included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to The Brewhouse in Birkirkara, such as by taxi or bus.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, giving plenty of time to explore, taste, and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Are children allowed?
Children under 12 are permitted if accompanied by an adult. Beer is only served to those over 17, so alcohol consumption is limited for minors.

Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the brewery is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors with mobility needs.

Can I buy souvenirs during the visit?
Yes, there is a Farsons Brandstore where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia to remember your visit.

What languages are available for the audio guides?
Audio guides are available in English, Maltese, German, Italian, and Polish, making it accessible for various visitors.

Are food and drinks included in the price?
No, food is not included. However, you can purchase food at the onsite eateries, and the beer tasting is part of the experience.

When is the brewery open?
The brewery operates daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry at 5:15 PM.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
It is designed for individual exploration, but groups can participate as long as they follow the self-guided format.

To sum it up, the Farsons Brewery experience offers a delightful mix of Maltese brewing tradition, scenic views, and casual tasting for a fair price. It’s a fantastic way to spend an hour or two exploring Malta’s beer heritage without feeling rushed, making it well worth considering for your Maltese itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: