Private Tour of the Maltese Island (Private Driver)

Exploring Malta with a private driver promises an intimate, flexible, and well-paced adventure—perfect if you prefer a tailored experience over crowded group tours. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a great way to see key sights with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport.

What stands out most is the personalized attention via a private driver, allowing you to customize your stops and enjoy Maltese highlights without feeling rushed. We love the inclusion of local snacks and bottled water, which adds a thoughtful touch that makes the day more enjoyable. The balanced mix of cultural, natural, and fun stops appeals to a wide range of travelers, from history buffs to families.

A potential consideration is the cost, which at just over $500 for up to 7 people, might seem steep for some, but the private aspect and curated experiences often justify the price. If you’re seeking a flexible, family-friendly trip that covers Malta’s top sights, this tour is well worth considering.

Good To Know

• Flexible, private experience suited for groups up to seven, personalized to your interests.
• Includes several iconic stops, from Mdina to Blue Grotto, with detailed explanations from knowledgeable guides.
• Snacks and bottled water are included, making the day more comfortable.
• Timing is approximately 6 hours, allowing for a relaxed, unhurried exploration.
• Lunch is not included, so plan ahead for a meal at Valletta Waterfront.
• Reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience engaging and informative.

Why Choose a Private Maltese Island Tour?

This tour is designed for travelers who prefer a more intimate and customizable experience. Instead of a large bus with many strangers, you’ll have a private driver and a small group (up to 7), which means more flexibility on how long to spend at each stop. The ability to choose your pace and receive personalized commentary from your guide makes it especially appealing for those eager to learn about Malta’s history, culture, and natural beauty without the rush.

The tour’s well-rounded itinerary strikes a good balance between cultural sites, natural wonders, and family-friendly attractions. The inclusion of snacks and bottled water ensures you stay refreshed, and the option to start from your hotel adds convenience to your day.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Mdina Old City

Your day kicks off in Mdina, the so-called “silent city,” which has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years. Its quiet, narrow streets and ancient structures evoke a timeless atmosphere, perfect for photos and soaking in history. According to reviews, the guide’s story-telling enhances the experience, with one reviewer mentioning how their guide Abigail was “very patient and did a wonderful job.”

You might find that the highlight is St. Paul’s Grotto in Rabat, where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul stayed after shipwreck. This spot adds a spiritual dimension to your visit, and the fact that the city is lamp-lit at night makes it even more magical if you decide to return after sunset.

Ta’ Qali Crafts Village

Next, the tour takes you to Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, a charming spot housed in an old RAF airfield. Here, you can browse local pottery, filigree jewelry, gemstones, and preserves—perfect for picking up authentic Maltese souvenirs. Reviewers loved how the workshops show craftsmanship in action, offering a glimpse into traditional Maltese trades. With only 20 minutes allocated, it’s a quick but satisfying stop to pick up gifts and learn about Maltese artisanship.

Popeye Village Malta

A fun break from cultural history, Popeye Village is a beloved film set turned amusement park. The set’s colorful buildings and ocean backdrop make it a hit with families and photo enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the set, enjoy pools, take boat rides, and watch animators at work. One reviewer mentioned spending a whole day there, highlighting its charm and family appeal. Note that admission isn’t included, so you can choose to visit based on your interests and time.

Malta National Aquarium

A hit with kids and adults, the Malta National Aquarium offers themed zones like the Grand Harbour, Shipwrecks, and Tropical Ocean. The aquarium’s design makes it easy to follow different ecosystems, and since admission is free, it’s a great value for those interested in marine life.

Blue Grotto (Il-Hnejja)

One of Malta’s most photographed spots, the Blue Grotto, features stunning caves with waters that reflect cyan and emerald hues. The 30-minute stop allows you to marvel at the natural beauty and snap memorable photos. According to reviews, the accessible boat rides are an enjoyable way to see the caves, even if the waters are choppy. Visitors often mention the spectacular colors and the photo opportunities as major highlights.

St. Peters Pool

Located in Marsaxlokk, St. Peters Pool is a natural swimming spot with crystal-clear waters and flat rocks perfect for sunbathing or jumping in for a swim or snorkel. Reviewers note that the inviting waters make it a highlight of the trip, providing a relaxing break before heading to Valletta. The 45-minute stop is ample for a quick dip and appreciation of the surrounding scenery.

Valletta Waterfront and Lunch

The tour concludes with lunch at Valletta Waterfront, a bustling area packed with cafes and restaurants. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy local Maltese dishes (lunch isn’t included, so bring your appetite). The waterfront is also the gateway to Valletta, Malta’s capital, and an open-air museum of historic port architecture. While the guide doesn’t stay with you, this stop offers a chance to explore at your own pace, with many reviewers appreciating the scenic views and lively atmosphere.

Practical Details and Value

At $520.57 per group, this experience is priced for groups up to seven, which means it offers a more personalized, flexible alternative to larger bus tours. When you factor in private transportation, bottled water, and snacks, the overall value increases, especially for families or small groups who enjoy tailored experiences.

The duration of approximately 6 hours strikes a good balance—ample time to explore without feeling rushed. Plus, the tour is booked about 86 days in advance, indicating a high demand and confidence in the experience’s quality.

The pickup option, whether from a hotel or meeting at Mdina, adds convenience. The mobile ticket system simplifies planning, and the free cancellation policy provides peace of mind should your plans change.

Guides and Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, with mentions of guides like Abigail and Stephen, who worked closely with travelers to customize the itinerary. Their knowledge helps bring Malta’s sights to life, making the experience more engaging and meaningful. Travelers also appreciated the snacks and the attention to detail, like providing Pastizzi, a traditional Maltese pastry, which adds a local flavor to the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour suits families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized Malta experience. It’s ideal if you want flexibility, expert guidance, and the opportunity to visit a variety of sights without the hassle of planning each stop separately. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and local food—plus, it’s a great way to cover Malta’s major highlights in a single day.

If you’re the type of traveler who values comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights, this tour offers a fantastic option. However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so bring some cash or plan to dine at Valletta Waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start the tour from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickups can be arranged, making it a convenient start for your day in Malta.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The itinerary features family-friendly stops like Popeye Village and St. Peters Pool, and reviews suggest the guides make the experience fun and engaging for all ages.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, and a Maltese snack (like Pastizzi). Lunch and entry to attractions like Popeye Village are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver and guide can potentially tailor the stops to your interests—just ask when booking.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 7 guests, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This private Maltese Island tour offers a well-curated, flexible way to experience key sights with the comfort of private transport and the advantage of personalized attention. The stops cover Malta’s highlights—from historic Mdina to natural wonders like the Blue Grotto and St. Peters Pool—making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

The inclusion of local snacks and a knowledgeable guide elevates the experience, providing insights you might miss on self-guided outings. While the price might seem high at first glance, the quality of the experience, small group size, and expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment.

If you prefer a relaxed, tailored exploration with the option to customize your day, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially good for those who want a safe, informative, and enjoyable way to discover Malta’s diverse attractions without the stress of planning each detail.

To sum it up, this private tour is a solid choice for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and expert insights. Whether you’re with family, friends, or a small group, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Malta’s unique charm and beauty—plus plenty of memorable moments to cherish.