Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and want to blend history, culture, and cuisine, the Rabat and Mdina Food Tour might just be your perfect outing. This 3.5-hour experience promises a scenic walk through two of Malta’s most iconic cities, with a focus on not only their storied past but also their vibrant food scene. From the winding alleyways of Mdina to the lively streets of Rabat, you’ll get a taste of local life, complete with insider stories and plenty of delicious Maltese bites.

What really makes this tour stand out is the blend of historic sites, authentic food sampling, and Game of Thrones filming locations. The guides are knowledgeable locals, and the food is included—making it a practical, value-packed way to spend an afternoon. That said, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and an average level of fitness are recommended. Perfect for history lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a more immersive Maltese experience, this tour offers plenty of reasons to smile.

What We Love About This Tour

• Insightful Local Guides: The guides, like the personable Carl and Chris, are known for their local knowledge and friendly approach, making the tour feel personalized.
• Diverse Food Tasting: From pastizzi and local craft beers to rabbit and bragioli, the food stops are both plentiful and satisfying, giving you a true taste of Malta.
• Historic and Film Location Highlights: Walking through Mdina’s ancient streets and passing key filming spots from Game of Thrones adds a touch of cinematic magic.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price covers all food and drinks, which means no surprise costs—just bring your appetite.

Possible Drawback

The tour is confined to walking, so if you have mobility issues or prefer chauffeur-driven experiences, it may not suit you. Also, since it’s scheduled for late afternoon (starting at 4:30 pm), some travelers might prefer a daytime tour for better sightseeing or sunlight.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience suits those who enjoy a mix of history, local culture, and food, especially if you’re keen on the Malta filming locations from Game of Thrones. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an inclusive, guided walk that’s both educational and delicious.

Good To Know

• Authentic Maltese experience with local guides sharing insider stories
• Includes all food and drinks, offering excellent value
• Ideal for history buffs and food lovers wanting a well-rounded taste of Malta
• Walks through Mdina and Rabat, showcasing both ancient and lively modern areas
• Game of Thrones filming spots offer a fun, cinematic touch
• Small group size enhances personalized attention and interaction

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Mdina Old City: Walking Through a Living Museum

Starting in Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” you can expect to stroll through narrow, winding streets lined with medieval buildings. The guide points out key filming locations from Season 1 of Game of Thrones, adding a layer of excitement for fans. The atmosphere here is almost timeless, with quiet alleyways and stunning panoramic views from the city walls.

One reviewer, Natalie, called it a “lovely tour of beautiful Mdina” and appreciated how the guide, Carl, made everything engaging while sharing local stories. She also highlights that the food stops here are more than just snacks—they’re substantial and reflect Maltese cuisine, including fresh strawberries and pastizzi.

Rabat: From Historical Sites to Local Flavors

The tour moves on to Rabat, a bustling hub of local life with historic gems like St. Paul’s Catacombs, Grotto, and the church. The guide takes you beyond the tourist spots to lesser-known neighborhoods, highlighting the everyday life of locals. You’ll pass traditional cafes, grocery stores, and butchers—perfect for getting a genuine feel of Maltese daily life.

Katherine describes Rabat as a “blend of ancient history and modern life,” citing her enjoyment of an authentic meal in a wood-burning oven bakery. The visit also touches on filming locations from Game of Thrones, adding a fun dimension for fans.

Food and Drink: A Maltese Feast

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the food. You’ll start with pastizzi, flaky pastry snacks filled with ricotta or pea, paired with the local soft drink Kinnie—a bitter-sweet soda unique to Malta. Then, you’ll try your hand at ob biz-ejt (a Maltese cheese pie) while sampling two craft beers brewed locally.

For the main course, the guide introduces quintessential Maltese dishes like rabbit stew and bragioli (beef olives). The meal is washed down with red wine, elevating the experience. All food and drinks are included in the price, which is remarkable considering how generous the servings are—this isn’t just a tasting; it’s a full meal.

The Guide and Group Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize the value of knowledgeable guides like Chris and Carl, who are locals with a genuine passion for their heritage. They share not only facts but personal anecdotes, making the experience lively and engaging. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size fosters a friendly, social atmosphere.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, beginning at 4:30 pm from Is-Serkin. Starting in the late afternoon means you’ll experience the cities in a softer light—perfect for photos and enjoying cooler temperatures after a warm day.

Price and Value

At $112 per person, the tour offers excellent value, considering the included food, drinks, and expert guidance. Compared to independent dining and sightseeing, this all-in-one experience saves you time and money while enriching your understanding of Maltese culture.

Accessibility and Group Size

With a moderate physical fitness level recommended, be prepared for some walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces. Group size is limited to 10, ensuring personalized attention.

Meeting Point and Convenience

The tour begins at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar, conveniently located near public transportation. It ends back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your accommodation afterward.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

• Chris’s local insights made the tour stand out, with one reviewer calling him “an amazing guide” who knew “all the local people and places.”
• The food stops were frequently praised, with comments about trying the “best Maltese strawberries,” pastizzis, and hearty local dishes.
• The wine and craft beer selections received particular mention, elevating the dining experience.
• Several reviewers mentioned that the tour made them feel like local insiders, thanks to the guides’ personal stories and recommendations.

Final Thoughts

This Rabat and Mdina Food Tour combines history, film magic, and culinary delights into a well-curated experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers. Its small group size and fully inclusive nature make it a hassle-free way to enjoy Malta’s best offerings in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after a taste of Maltese culture, love discovering filming locations, or simply want a substantial meal paired with fascinating stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate local guides with genuine knowledge and want to avoid the pitfalls of overpriced, impersonal tours.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour with extensive museum visits, the rich mix of historic streets, flavorful food, and lively local atmosphere creates a memorable Maltese adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking through narrow, uneven streets, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Are all food and drinks included?
Yes, all food, snacks, and drinks—such as pastizzi, craft beers, wine, and local delicacies—are covered in the ticket price.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 4:30 pm at Is-Serkin and finishes back at the same location about 3.5 hours later.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds are offered within 24 hours of the start time.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most, children should be able to walk comfortably and enjoy the food experience. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Are entrance fees for historic sites included?
No, the tour doesn’t include entry tickets to museums or churches; the focus is on walking through public areas and tasting local food.

In essence, this tour offers a rich, flavorful snapshot of Malta’s past and present, guided by passionate locals and complemented by hearty, authentic food. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience that covers history, pop culture, and cuisine in one engaging package.