Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour

Exploring Malta’s charming towns of Mdina and Rabat through a guided food tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. This 3.5-hour experience is designed for travelers wanting to taste authentic Maltese cuisine while soaking in centuries of history and scenic views.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to try local favorites like pastizzi, rabbit, and Bragioli straight from the places where locals enjoy them. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Edwin, who bring the stories of Malta alive with passion and insight. Third, the well-curated combination of food tasting, cultural exploration, and filming locations—including Game of Thrones sites—adds layers of interest.

A potential consideration: the tour involves quite a bit of walking through historic towns, so comfortable shoes are a must. Unlike some food tastings that might be spread out over several days, this tour packs a lot into a relatively short time, making it a good choice for those who prefer an active, immersive experience.

This tour suits anyone curious about Maltese history, food lovers eager to sample regional specialties, or fans of Malta’s film fame. Whether visiting for a quick cultural fix, a foodie adventure, or a Game of Thrones aficionado, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Authentic Food: You’ll taste legendary Maltese dishes like pastizzi, rabbit, and bragioli.
• Cultural Insights: The guide shares stories and history, making the towns come alive.
• Stunning Locations: Walk through Mdina’s ancient streets and Rabat’s historic sites.
• Local Drinks: Enjoy Maltese beer, regional wine, and the local soft drink Kinnie.
• Filming Spots: Visit iconic locations used in Game of Thrones filming.
• Value: All food and drinks are included, and the price reflects a comprehensive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar

The tour kicks off just outside Is-Serkin, known as Crystal Palace Bar, a local favorite. Meeting here provides a relaxed start, with the guide ready to introduce the day’s itinerary and share some initial Maltese hospitality. It’s an easy, informal spot that sets the tone for a friendly, intimate group experience.

Rabat and Its Hidden Gems

The first stop in Rabat is a guided walk. Here, you’ll get a quick taste of local snacks—think of it as an appetizer to the day ahead. The guide, known for their enthusiasm and knowledge, ensures you learn about Rabat’s role in Maltese history while nibbling on traditional treats. The 20-minute segment sets the stage for the deeper exploration of Mdina, which is just a short walk away.

Exploring Mdina: The Silent City

The highlight of the tour is a one-hour guided walk through Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital. With its narrow, cobbled streets and medieval walls, Mdina looks straight out of a fairytale. Your guide will point out key filming locations used in popular TV and film productions, especially Game of Thrones, which has added an extra layer of intrigue for many guests.

The walk isn’t just sightseeing—it’s storytelling. Expect to learn about the architecture, the history of rulers, and how Mdina earned its nickname “The Silent City.” Many reviewers, like Daniela, appreciated the guide Edwin’s storytelling, describing the experience as “wonderful.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rabat’s Food Tasting and Coffee Break

Back in Rabat, the tour continues with a food tasting session—this is where you really get a feel for Maltese flavors. You’ll sample a variety of regional foods, including a chance to try ob bi-ejt—a Mediterranean-inspired snack where you might get to do your own “ob biz-ejt” (a playful phrase for tasting and enjoying).

A coffee tasting follows, perfect for recharging before the next round of eats. It’s not just about the caffeine; it’s about savoring local brewing styles and learning about Maltese coffee culture.

Beer, Tapas, and Regional Flavors

Next, the group moves on to enjoy local Maltese beer and tapas-style snacks. Sprawled in Rabat, you’ll indulge in more food, alongside beer, and get a taste of how Maltese locals pair drinks with their bites. With approximately 30 minutes allocated, this is ample time to relax, chat, and savor the lively ambiance.

The Grand Finale: Dinner with Wine and Sweets

The final stop is a more substantial tasting experience—a dinner featuring rabbit and Bragioli, traditional Maltese dishes, washed down with regional wine. This part of the tour provides time to unwind, chat with your guide, and really appreciate the flavors of Malta.

Ending on a sweet note, the imqaret—Maltese date-filled pastries—are served as a perfect, sugary finish. Guests have described this segment as both delicious and satisfying, with one reviewer thanking Edwin for a “wonderful experience.”

Return to the Starting Point

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting spot, giving you time to reflect on the day, take photos, and perhaps plan your next Maltese adventure.

The Value of This Tour

At $77 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. All food and drinks—including wines, beers, and soft drinks—are included, which means no surprises or additional costs. The guided nature ensures a depth of knowledge that enriches your understanding of Malta’s history and culture, making each bite and sight more meaningful.

What’s particularly compelling is how well this tour balances culinary indulgence with cultural insights. The guide, Edwin, is praised for his passion and storytelling, which enhances the experience beyond just eating and sightseeing.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking through cobbled streets and historic sites.
• Go hungry—there’s a generous amount of food and drink, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on any flavors.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point—just across from Is-Serkin—especially if you want to settle in or take photos.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of history, food, and scenery without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It’s ideal for fans of Game of Thrones, as several filming locations are included, and for foodies eager to taste authentic Maltese cuisine. The small-group format makes it suitable for those seeking a more personalized, intimate experience.

People interested in local drinks and regional delicacies will also find this tour rewarding, thanks to the sampling of Maltese beer, wine, and traditional snacks.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability.

Is the food included in the tour price?
Yes, all food and drinks—such as pastizzi, rabbit, Bragioli, imqaret, Kinnie soft drink, Maltese beer, and regional wine—are included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins just across the road from Is-Serkin (Crystal Palace Bar) and ends back at this meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because of walking through historic streets and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on food tasting and walking suggests it’s best for older children or teenagers who enjoy exploring and trying new foods.

Final Thoughts

The Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s culinary and historic charms. With expert guides, plentiful local cuisine, and visits to iconic filming locations, it’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon soaking in Malta’s essence. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a film enthusiast, this tour delivers value and memorable moments in one delightful package.

If you’re looking to understand Malta beyond its stunning coastlines and explore its soul through flavors, stories, and sights, this experience should be on your list. Just remember to come hungry and ready for an adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: