Visiting Malta offers many delights, but if craft beer piques your interest, the Farsons Brewery experience in Birkirkara delivers a uniquely Maltese perspective on brewing. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded outing that combines history, modern brewing, and spectacular views—all at your own pace.
What we really appreciate about this experience is its self-exploratory nature—you get to wander around and absorb the exhibits without the pressure of a guide. Plus, the rooftop bar with panoramic views is a highlight that promises a relaxed spot to taste several beers in a scenery-rich environment. The only caveat? It’s a short, one-hour experience, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into Malta’s brewing scene, you might want to also consider other options. But for those who enjoy a casual, authentic experience paired with some great Maltese brews, this tour hits the right notes—and at a very reasonable price point.
If you’re a beer lover, a history buff, or simply someone keen to see a different side of Malta, this tour offers a friendly, laid-back way to spend an hour. It’s especially suited for those who want flexibility, enjoy sampling local beers, or are curious about Malta’s entrepreneurial spirit behind its leading brands.
Key Points
- Self-guided experience gives you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
- Learn about Malta’s top beer brands and their fascinating stories.
- Explore the historical brewing hall to see how beer was brewed in the past and today.
- Capture stunning views from the rooftop terrace at The Cisk Tap.
- Sample five freshly brewed beers with guidance from audio guides available in multiple languages.
- Enjoy the overall value, combining history, views, and beer tasting in a single, accessible package.
A Closer Look at the Farsons Brewery Experience
The Farsons Brewery in Birkirkara is a cornerstone of Malta’s brewing scene, and this experience offers visitors a chance to peek behind the scenes of the islands’ most popular beer brands—especially Cisk, Malta’s flagship lager. The entry ticket grants you access to a self-guided tour that lasts about an hour, providing you with the freedom to move around and absorb the exhibits at your own speed.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Birkirkara.
What the Tour Includes
Upon check-in at The Brewhouse, you’re handed an audio guide (available in multiple languages including Maltese, English, German, Italian, and Polish). This is a real plus— it allows you to learn about the brewery’s history, the stories of the entrepreneurial families behind it, and the brewing process without a constant guide hovering over your shoulder. Several reviews praise the clear, informative audio that makes the experience accessible whether you’re a beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur.
The exhibits are modern and detailed, showing the evolution of brewing at Farsons. We loved the way the exhibits aren’t just dry facts—they tell stories, give insight into Maltese brewing traditions, and highlight the company’s innovative spirit. You can also wander into the historical brewing hall, which provides a glimpse into how beer was brewed in earlier times. It’s a tangible connection to Malta’s brewing roots, and for those interested in the craft, offers a satisfying glimpse into traditional methods.
The Rooftop Bar and Beer Tasting
The highlight for many visitors is the rooftop bar at The Cisk Tap. It’s not just a scenic spot to enjoy your drinks; it’s a carefully curated space with panoramic views of Malta, perfect for photos, relaxing, or soaking in the local atmosphere. From here, you can indulge in a beer flight of five different brews, all freshly brewed on-site.
The beers are served by friendly staff who are happy to explain each one. Reviewers consistently mention the helpful and welcoming bartenders, along with the well-explained beer samples. The beers are sampled with a free beer token, included in your ticket, which is seen as excellent value—especially considering the quality of the brews.
Additional Shopping and Eating Options
After your tasting, you might want to browse the Farsons Brandstore for souvenirs, or enjoy a meal at one of the eateries within The Brewhouse. While food isn’t included in the ticket, reviews suggest the food quality is good, and the setting makes for a relaxed, enjoyable visit.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience’s Strengths
Many reviews highlight the value for money. For a roughly one-hour experience, the cost includes a self-guided tour, five beer samples, and multilingual audio guides. The reviews are filled with praise for the friendly staff, the informative exhibits, and the stunning rooftop views. One visitor described it as “super chill, and fun,” noting that it wasn’t crowded and was perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Another reviewer appreciated the informative beer tasting, which included “explanations by a friendly barman,” and described the roof terrace as “great to sit and enjoy our drinks.” Many also enjoyed the history lesson behind the Cisk brand and the brewing process—a nice touch for those wanting more than just a tasting.
What Could Be Better?
The main limitation is the duration. At just about an hour, this isn’t a comprehensive brewery tour but more of an introduction. If you’re after a deeper brewing experience or want to see the production line in action, you might find this tour somewhat light. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan how to get to Birkirkara.
It’s important to note that children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult, and beer is only served to those 17 and older. The experience runs daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:15 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Why This Tour Works Well
This experience is best suited for beer enthusiasts who enjoy tasting a variety of brews with a bit of history behind them. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a relaxed activity, combining educational exhibits and spectacular views without feeling rushed. The self-guided format makes it flexible, ideal if you prefer to explore on your own rather than join a crowded group.
For those with limited time in Malta, this tour offers a quick yet charming glimpse into local brewing and Maltese culture. It also pairs well with a visit to nearby attractions or as a fun break during a day of sightseeing.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early to avoid peak times, especially in summer.
- Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot—especially during busy seasons.
- Remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan your route to Birkirkara.
- Take advantage of the multilingual audio guides; they make the experience more engaging.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk around exhibits and the rooftop terrace.
- Enjoy the scenic views from the rooftop bar, and consider staying for a couple of pints or food if time allows.
The Sum Up
The Farsons Brewery experience in Birkirkara offers a genuinely enjoyable snapshot of Malta’s brewing scene. With self-guided flexibility, delicious beer tastings, and stunning rooftop views, it balances education and relaxation. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a quick taste of local culture and beer in a friendly setting.
While it doesn’t provide an in-depth brewing tour, the value for money and authentic atmosphere make it a memorable stop, especially if you appreciate Maltese beers like Cisk. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a curious traveler, this experience provides a fun, informative, and scenic break in your Malta itinerary.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to plan your own way to Birkirkara, but there is a multi-storey car park at the site.
Can children participate in this experience?
Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult. Beer is only served to those over 17, so minors can enjoy the exhibits and views but not the tastings.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about one hour, allowing you to explore at your own pace with an audio guide.
Are the beer tastings free?
Yes, the five beer samples are included in your ticket, served at the rooftop bar.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of mobility needs.
What languages are available for the audio guide?
Audio guides are available in English, Maltese, German, Italian, and Polish—helping you get the most out of your visit.
This detailed, balanced look at the Farsons Brewery experience highlights its strengths and points out what to expect, helping you decide if it’s a good fit for your Malta trip. Whether you’re after a quick cultural fix or a relaxing afternoon with great views and good beer, this tour offers a taste of Malta’s brewing passion.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Food & Drink Experiences in Birkirkara
More Tickets in Birkirkara
More Tour Reviews in Birkirkara
- The Brewery Experience and beer tasting including transport
- Farsons Brewery Experience & The Chapels Gastrobrewpub
- The Brewery Experience and beer tasting including transport
- Birkirkara: The Farsons Brewery Entry Ticket and Beer Flight
- Brewery Experience with Beer Tasting and Optional Transport
- 3 Best Brewery Tours And Tastings In Birkirkara