Introduction

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - Introduction

If you’re looking to combine history, culture, and mouthwatering Maltese cuisine in one walking experience, the Mdina and Rabat Food Tour might just be your perfect match. This 3.5-hour guided adventure promises a taste of local life, visits to iconic filming spots, and the chance to savor Malta’s beloved traditional dishes.

Two things we love about this tour are its authenticity — you’ll eat where locals go, not tourist traps — and the depth of the guide’s knowledge that makes history come alive. One consideration is that it’s quite food-heavy, so you’ll want to show up hungry.

Designed for those eager to explore Malta’s ancient streets while indulging in regional food and drinks, this tour appeals to history buffs, film fans, and foodies alike. Whether you’re after a comprehensive culture or just a fun taste of Maltese flavors, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - Key Points

  • Authentic local spots serve traditional Maltese foods and drinks.
  • The tour covers 3000 years of history in Mdina and Rabat.
  • Food and drink are included in the price, offering great value.
  • The guide’s knowledge and storytelling bring history and culture to life.
  • You’ll visit Game of Thrones filming locations in these historic towns.
  • The tour is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Overall Experience and Value

At $77 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. It’s a well-balanced blend of historical walking, culinary sampling, and cultural discovery. Booking through a reputable provider like Best Tours Malta, you are assured of a professional guide, a lively group atmosphere, and an itinerary that maximizes your time in Mdina and Rabat.

Compared to other experiences, this tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach—not just food tasting but also storytelling, sightseeing, and even some film history. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want to understand Maltese culture beyond just eating, as well as those fascinated by Malta’s role as a filming backdrop.

Duration, Group Size, and Meeting Point

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting at a conveniently accessible location just across from Is-Serkin, also called the Crystal Palace Bar. The group size tends to be small to medium, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The timing varies, so checking availability ahead of your trip is essential.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar:
Your guide will meet you here, a familiar local spot that sets a relaxed tone for the tour. You’ll get your first taste of the Maltese spirit, Kinnie, a soft drink unique to Malta, which makes for a great introduction to local flavors.

Stop 2: Rabat (guided tour and snacks)
Walking through Rabat, you’ll encounter narrow, atmospheric streets that have seen centuries of history. Your guide will point out key sites and share stories about the town’s past. During this stop, you’ll sample local snacks, making it a perfect blend of sightseeing and tasting.

Stop 3: Mdina (guided tour)
Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital, feels like stepping into a movie set. Its silent city atmosphere, medieval walls, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside make it a highlight. Expect a one-hour guided walk—you’ll learn about the city’s origins and see notable landmarks, all while soaking up its enchanting ambiance.

Stop 4: Rabat (food and coffee tasting)
Back in Rabat, the focus shifts to food tasting—from traditional Maltese dishes to regional coffee styles. This is a chance to relax and chat with your guide about Maltese life and customs.

Stop 5: Rabat (beer and tapas)
Here, you’ll sample two local craft beers along with more regional snacks and tapas-style dishes. This lively stop gives you a taste of Maltese social life, with opportunities to chat with locals or fellow travelers.

Stop 6: Rabat (dinner and wine)
The tour culminates in a full dinner featuring rabbit and Bragioli (beef olives), accompanied by a glass of local red wine. To finish, you’ll enjoy Imqaret, sweet Maltese pastries filled with dates. The focus on regional food here offers a satisfying conclusion to your culinary journey.

End back at the starting point:
All in all, the stops are well-paced, offering ample time to savor each dish and absorb the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Excels

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - Why This Tour Excels

Authentic Food Experiences

Every bite and sip is carefully chosen to showcase traditional Maltese cuisine. From the iconic Pastizz (savory pastries) to rabbit stew, these are dishes you likely won’t find elsewhere in such authentic settings. Reviewers frequently mention the quality and generosity of the tastings, often noting that they go home full and satisfied.

Knowledgeable Guides

Guides like Christine and Edwin receive high praise for their enthusiasm and expertise. Their storytelling enhances the experience, making history feel relevant and engaging. One review mentions, “Christine is an amazing tour guide. We learnt so much about the history of Malta, culture, and Mdina,” highlighting how guides bring stories to life.

Stunning Views and Filming Locations

The inclusion of Game of Thrones filming sites adds a fun dimension for fans of the series. Walking through Mdina’s ancient streets and Rabat’s historic quarters, travelers can imagine scenes from the series, making this tour particularly memorable.

The Food and Drink

The variety of tastings — from Kinnie soft drink, Maltese beers, regional snacks, and regional wines — offers great value. The food quality is consistently praised, with many reviewers noting they felt full and satisfied at the end.

Practical Considerations

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - Practical Considerations

Price and Value

At $77, this tour is a solid investment for a comprehensive cultural and culinary experience. The cost includes all food and drinks, so it’s effectively an all-in-one package without any hidden costs. Given the high praise from guests about the quality and quantity of tastings, many find it excellent value.

Accessibility and Comfort

The tour involves walking through historic towns with cobbled streets and narrow alleys, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The timing allows for a relaxed pace, suitable for most travelers, although those with mobility issues may want to check specific accessibility options.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Flexible booking options are available — you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is especially helpful when planning a busy Malta itinerary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want to taste Malta’s flavors, learn its stories, and walk through its ancient streets. Food lovers, history enthusiasts, and Game of Thrones fans will find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also perfect for those who prefer small-group experiences with personal attention and local insights.

The Sum Up

Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour - The Sum Up

The Mdina and Rabat Food Tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine that appeals to many types of travelers. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Maltese life, a full belly of regional specialties, and perhaps even some memorable film locations for your photo album. The knowledgeable guides, authentic food stops, and beautiful scenery make this a well-rounded way to spend a half-day in Malta.

If you’re after a genuine, engaging, and delicious introduction to Malta’s ancient cities, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience local flavors in a friendly, informative setting without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour features traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit and bragioli, so vegetarians might find limited options. It’s best to contact the provider directly for specific dietary accommodations.

How much walking is involved?
Expect walking through narrow streets and historic sites, but the pace is moderate, allowing time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

Are the food and drinks included in the price?
Yes, all tastings—including pastizzi, craft beers, wine, and regional snacks—are included in the $77 price point.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
While the tour focuses on traditional foods, it’s advisable to inform the tour provider in advance to discuss any dietary needs.

What is the meeting point?
You meet just across from Is-Serkin Bar, also called Crystal Palace Bar, at the beginning of the tour.

Is this tour good for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but younger children might find the length and pace challenging. Check with the provider for group suitability.

How do I know if I should book in advance?
Because availability varies, especially during peak travel seasons, booking ahead ensures you secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

This tour offers an authentic slice of Maltese life, combining history, scenery, and a hearty taste of local foods. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore new flavors or a history buff interested in Malta’s storied past, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here: