From Rabat: Mdina and Mosta Private Food Tour

Exploring Malta’s Hidden Charms and Flavors in a Private Day Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Malta beyond the typical tourist spots, a private food and history tour from Rabat to Mdina and Mosta offers a thoughtful mix of culture, architecture, and local cuisine. This four-hour journey is designed for those who appreciate personalized attention and want a genuine taste of Maltese life, all while exploring some of the island’s most iconic sites.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly combines storytelling with delicious food, making each stop both educational and satisfying. The personalized guide ensures your questions are answered and your pace is relaxed. Plus, you get to enjoy a three-course dinner with wine—a real treat after touring. That said, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meet-up point, which could be a consideration for some travelers.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Malta’s cultural and culinary scene without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small, private groups, and prefer a flexible, intimate experience. If history, architecture, and authentic Maltese food sound appealing, this tour is a wonderful choice.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private group tour with a licensed guide providing tailored insights.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore Mdina’s ancient walls, landmarks, and stories.
• Culinary Delights: Taste traditional Maltese street food and a full three-course dinner with wine.
• Architectural Marvels: Admire the impressive Mosta Dome and historic cityscapes.
• Convenient Transport: Includes transportation between sites, with a final drop-off in Mdina.
• Flexibility & Ease: Skip the lines with a separate entrance at key sites, but note no hotel pickup is included.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting in front of Rabat’s historic Domvs Romana temple, you’ll meet your guide—an opportunity to get acquainted and set the tone for this personalized journey. From here, the walk through Rabat offers a chance to experience Malta’s old customs and tradition firsthand. You’ll likely sample traditional Maltese street food along the way, providing a tasty introduction to local flavors that set the tone for the day.

Rabat and Mdina are often described as the “silent cities,” and for good reason. Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital, feels like stepping back in time. Its narrow streets, stone buildings, and ancient walls create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for wandering and taking photos. Key sites include St. Paul’s Cathedral, which features stunning baroque architecture, and St. Agatha’s Church. The main gate and the surrounding bastions offer panoramic views, perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

One standout feature of this tour is the personalized narration from your guide, who shares stories about Mdina’s role during the rule of the Order of St. John and its preservation as an archaeological jewel. The reviews highlight guides like Luca and Mariam for their friendly, informative manner—making the experience both enriching and fun.

Next, a quick drive transports you to Mosta, home to Malta’s largest church, the Mosta Dome. The architecture here is striking: a neoclassical design with a massive, impressive dome that’s visible from quite a distance. The history of the church is fascinating, especially considering its role in WWII when the dome miraculously survived a bomb hit, which is a story you’ll hear and see reflected in local pride.

The highlight of Mosta, aside from its impressive architecture, is the opportunity to dine at a well-known local restaurant. Here, you’ll indulge in a three-course meal, matched with two glasses of wine—an authentic Maltese dining experience that showcases local ingredients and recipes. Reviewers have appreciated the quality and authenticity of the food, describing it as a “delicious and hearty meal” that perfectly caps off the tour.

The tour concludes with a drop-off back at Mdina, leaving you with a deep appreciation of Malta’s rich tapestry of history and flavor. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, informative, and incredibly flavorful, making it a fantastic way to spend a few hours discovering Malta’s soul.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Transportation, Timing, and Value

The transportation element is straightforward: a private vehicle or arrangements made for you between sites, which means no crowded buses or confusing schedules. The duration of four hours strikes a good balance—enough time to explore without feeling rushed. Starting times vary depending on availability, so you should check ahead and plan accordingly.

At $170 per person, the tour offers a fairly comprehensive package that combines history, architecture, and food in a single outing. When you consider the exclusive guide, private walking tours, and a three-course meal with wine, it provides strong value, especially for those wanting a curated experience. The inclusion of snacks and drinks during the tour enhances the feeling of a full day of indulgence.

However, keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to coordinate your arrival at the meeting point. You might find this inconvenient if you’re staying outside Rabat or Mdina, but it also means you can tailor your transportation separately.

What Travelers Say

The reviews reflect a generally positive sentiment, praising the personalized guidance and the quality of food. One reviewer mentioned that the guide was “friendly and knowledgeable,” making the experience engaging. Others appreciated the opportunity to see Less-Touristed parts of Malta, like Mdina’s quiet streets and the impressive Mosta Dome.

Some feedback notes that the walks are leisurely, suitable for all ages, and the dinner is a highlight, described as “authentic Maltese cuisine in a lovely setting.” The small size of the tour makes it feel intimate and tailored, which many travelers value.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful mix of cultural exploration and culinary delight, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience Malta’s history and flavor without the hassle of planning multiple activities. The private guide means plenty of flexibility and personal attention, while the included dinner adds an authentic touch that many tours overlook.

While the size and pace suit most travelers, those staying outside Rabat or Mdina should plan their transportation accordingly. The price reflects the personalized service and quality food, making it a valuable option for a mid-length, in-depth exploration of Malta’s heart.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, insightful, and delicious introduction to Malta, this tour from My Dream Malta checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the leisurely pace and focus on history and food make it suitable for family groups, especially if kids are interested in culture and cuisine.

Are there options for those with gluten intolerance?
The tour is not suitable for people with gluten intolerance, as specific dietary restrictions are not listed as accommodated.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Does the tour include transportation between sites?
Yes, transportation is included for moving between Rabat, Mdina, and Mosta, making travel easy and comfortable.

Can I customize the starting time?
Starting times depend on availability; it’s best to check in advance to select your preferred slot.

Are the guides licensed?
Yes, the tour features a licensed guide providing expert insights.

What is included in the meal?
A three-course dinner with two glasses of wine, plus non-alcoholic drinks, are included.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; you’ll need to meet at the designated spot.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for walking and outdoor exploration.

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

To sum it up, this From Rabat: Mdina and Mosta Private Food Tour offers a well-balanced combination of Malta’s historical sights and authentic cuisine, delivered with a personal touch. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable, tasty, and insightful experience without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious about Malta, this tour promises a rewarding snapshot of the island’s best.

You can check if your dates are available here: