Farsons Brewery Experience & The Chapels Gastrobrewpub

Travelers eager to explore Malta often look for authentic local experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing. If you’re a beer lover—or even just curious about Maltese flavors—this tour offers a well-rounded peek behind the scenes of Malta’s most iconic brewery, combined with the chance to sample both traditional and craft beers. Perfect for those who enjoy learning about local brands, tasting good beer with a view, and savoring some hearty pub fare, this experience is a delightful way to spend a few hours in Malta.

What we really like about this tour is its blend of history and tasting. You get a guided walk through the old brewery, which is both educational and atmospheric, plus a chance to sample award-winning beers in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of a microbrewery on-site brewing craft beers like IPA and Amber Ale adds an extra layer of interest for those keen on modern brewing trends. The chance to enjoy killer views from The Cisk Tap is also a big plus—who doesn’t love a good drink with a scenic backdrop?

A possible consideration is that the tour is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for minors under 17—something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with family members or guests with mobility challenges. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the brewery, which might be a logistical factor depending on where you’re staying.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic stories behind local brands, enjoy beer tasting, and want a bit of a culinary treat with pizza or burgers in a lively, welcoming setting. It’s especially great for those interested in Malta’s brewing culture or looking for a relaxed, enjoyable way to spend part of their day.

Contents hide

1 A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

2 Who Will Love This Experience?

3 The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

4 FAQ

Key Points

Authentic Maltese Beer: Learn the story behind Malta’s favorite beers, especially Cisk’s rise to popularity.
Variety of Tastes: Enjoy a tasting flight at The Cisk Tap, which offers stunning views, and a half-pint of craft beer at The Chapels.
On-site Microbrewery: See how fresh craft beers like Lager, IPA, and Porter are brewed right where you’re tasting them.
Food Options: Accompany your beers with a choice of pizza or burger, including vegan options.
Flexibility & Convenience: Book now and pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessible Experience: Available Monday to Friday, with multilingual guides, but not suitable for those with mobility limitations or under 17.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The adventure begins at the historic Farsons Brewery, a site that’s been making Maltese beer for decades. As you enter, you’re welcomed into a space steeped in local brewing tradition, with an informative 60-minute guided tour that walks you through the brewery’s history, innovations, and the development of Malta’s most beloved beer, Cisk. Anyone with a penchant for stories of local industry will find this part engaging, especially when the guide explains how decades of innovation have kept Cisk a Maltese staple.

The tour’s highlight is the tasting flight at The Cisk Tap, where you get to sample a selection of award-winning beers. This is more than just a sip—it’s an opportunity to understand what makes each beer special, whether it’s the crispness of the lager or the complexity of the amber ale. The killer views from the Tap add a memorable backdrop, making this a relaxing moment to reflect on Malta’s brewing legacy.

Next, you’re invited to The Chapels Gastrobrewpub—a lively, on-site pub where you can enjoy a half-pint of their own crafted beer. Here, you also choose a meal from pizza or burgers, including vegan options, making this part of the experience both sociable and satisfying. We loved the way the pub’s casual atmosphere complemented the beer tasting, creating a genuine Maltese pub experience without the tourist trap feel.

An intriguing element is the microbrewery on-site, where you’ll see the brewing process firsthand. This offers a contemporary twist, showcasing Malta’s modern craft beer movement with brews like IPA, Porter, and Marzen. You don’t just taste the beers—you see how they’re made, which adds depth to your appreciation.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Birkirkara.

The Details That Matter

The price of $43 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: a guided tour, a tasting flight, a half-pint of craft beer, and your meal. The value here isn’t just in the quantity of drinks but in the quality and the story behind each sip. You’re paying not only for the beer but for the insight into Malta’s brewing traditions and the chance to see a working microbrewery.

Timing-wise, the tour runs Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 18:30, with last entries at 17:00. When planning your visit, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own way to reach the brewery. The experience lasts around 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Reviews from past participants describe the experience as “informative and fun,” with many appreciating the friendly guides and the fantastic views. People note that the beer tasting is generous enough to satisfy, and the food options are well-liked, especially the pizza.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through the brewery.
Bring a camera—the views from The Cisk Tap are worth capturing.
Hydrate before and after the tour, especially if you plan to taste several beers.
Remember that the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
Since the variety of craft beers depends on availability, you might find some seasonal or limited-edition brews on tap.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for beer enthusiasts eager to uncover Malta’s brewing story, as well as travelers looking for a relaxed, social activity that combines education with tasting. It appeals to those who enjoy local flavors, scenic views, and an insight into craft brewing trends. Families with older children (over 17) will find it a fun, casual outing, but it’s not suitable for children under that age.

For those with a curiosity about Malta’s brand loyalty and beer culture, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into what locals cherish. It’s also a good choice for visitors who want a combination of history and modern brewing—a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

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The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Farsons Brewery Experience & The Chapels Gastrobrewpub offers substantial value for its modest price. You get a comprehensive look at Malta’s flagship brewery, a taste of award-winning beers, and the chance to see craft brewing in action. The scenic setting and relaxed atmosphere make it more than just a typical brewery tour; it becomes a memorable part of your Malta trip.

If you’re looking for an activity that’s both informative and enjoyable, and that pairs well with a love of good beer and good company, this experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who want an authentic taste of Malta’s beer culture without the heavy price tag. Just remember to plan your transportation, and come ready to relax and savor Malta’s brewing heritage.

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FAQ

Is transportation to the brewery included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Maltese, English, Italian, French, Spanish, Polish, and German.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 3 hours, including the brewery tour, tastings, and meal.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 17 years old due to alcohol consumption restrictions.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
No, this experience is not wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended.

Are additional drinks or food included?
No, additional food and drinks are extra and not included in the tour price.

What kind of beers can I expect?
You’ll find a variety of beers including Lager, Amber Ale, IPA, Porter, Helles, and Marzen, depending on availability.

Is there an option to customize the experience?
The experience is fixed, but you can choose your meal option—pizza, burger, or vegan burger—upon booking.

This Malta brewery tour strikes a nice balance between education, tasting, and scenic enjoyment, making it a worthwhile addition to any Malta itinerary for those who love their beer with a side of local culture.