Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Exploring the Farsons Brewery in Birkirkara: A Complete Guide to the Malta Beer Experience
If you’re visiting Malta and have an interest in local brews, the Farsons Brewery tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s favorite beer brands. This self-guided experience at the historic 1950s brewery in Birkirkara combines history, modern exhibits, and, of course, plenty of tasting opportunities. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 100 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this tour both informative and enjoyable.
What we particularly like about this experience is its self-exploratory nature—allowing you to take your time, absorb the stories behind Malta’s most iconic beers, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the rooftop bar. However, keep in mind that it’s not a guided tour, so if you prefer a more structured experience, you might find the audio guides helpful. Perfect for beer lovers, history buffs, or those simply curious about Maltese brewing traditions, this tour offers good value and authentic insights into Malta’s brewing heritage.
Key Points
- Self-guided experience allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Includes beer tastings at the rooftop bar with panoramic views.
- Educational exhibits cover the history of Malta’s most popular beer brands.
- Ideal for beer enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxed, yet informative activity.
- Family-friendly (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult).
- Accessible and available daily with flexible scheduling.
An In-Depth Look at the Farsons Brewery Experience
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Farsons Brewery in Birkirkara isn’t just about tasting beer; it’s about understanding how a Maltese icon was born and evolved. The experience is tailored to be self-guided, meaning you can pick up an audio guide available in multiple languages—English, Maltese, German, Italian, Polish, among others—and wander through the exhibits at your leisure. Several reviewers praised this setup, mentioning how clear and informative the audio guide was, with one noting, “Very clear audio and easy to follow. We liked going round at our own pace.”
The main attraction is the rooftop bar at The Cisk Tap. Here, you’ll find a lively, relaxed atmosphere with panoramic views of Malta, perfect for unwinding after your exploration. Sample five different beers, freshly brewed, and served by friendly bartenders. Reviewers have raved about the quality and variety of the tasting, with one saying, “The samples were very well explained by a friendly barman,” adding that the rooftop terrace offers an excellent backdrop for photos.
The Brewery’s Heritage and Exhibits
The tour begins at the Brewhouse, where you check-in and receive your audio guide. From there, you’re free to explore the historical brewing hall and the exhibits that detail Malta’s beer-making journey. Several visitors appreciated how modern and detailed the displays are, offering insights into the entrepreneurial spirit of three Maltese families who merged to create the brewery.
You can also learn about the brewery’s evolution, its brewing techniques, and the stories behind Malta’s beloved beer brands like Cisk. Many reviews mention the well-curated exhibits and the friendliness of staff, especially those at the gift shop, who are happy to share extra tidbits or help you find souvenirs.
The Beer Tasting Experience
The highlight, of course, is the sampling session at The Cisk Tap on the rooftop. Here, you get to taste a range of five beers—a fantastic way to experience the diversity of the brewery’s offerings. Reviewers praised the quality of the beers, with one noting that they enjoyed trying all five and learning about each one from the bartender. Several mentioned that the beer tasting felt very generous, and that the friendly staff made the experience even better.
For those who prefer to have a full pint rather than a tasting flight, you can opt for a regular-sized drink. The views from the rooftop are a major bonus, providing a scenic backdrop that elevates the whole experience.
Visiting the Gift Shop and Food Options
After your tasting, you can browse the Farsons Brandstore, which offers a selection of souvenirs, local beers, and branded merchandise—great for bringing a piece of Malta home. Plus, within The Brewhouse, there are several eateries; reviews mention enjoying delicious food and tapas alongside their drinks. One reviewer highlighted that they ordered food while sampling beers, and described it as “amazing and filling,” making this a good spot to turn an hour into a relaxed afternoon.
Practical Details and Logistics
- The entire experience takes approximately one hour, making it suitable for a quick yet immersive activity.
- Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:15 PM.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children over 12, who must be accompanied by an adult.
- Entry fee includes the brewery tour, tasting of five beers, and access to exhibits.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages, enhancing the self-guided experience.
- No food or transportation are included, so plan accordingly.
What Could Be Better?
While the self-guided format offers flexibility, some visitors might prefer a guided tour that provides a more detailed narrative. Also, since food isn’t included in the ticket, you might want to plan to eat before or after, especially if you’re visiting during busy hours. Plus, not serving alcohol to persons under 17 is standard, but it’s good to be aware if traveling with younger family members.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is best suited for beer lovers eager to learn about Maltese brewing traditions in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate flexibility—taking their time with exhibits, enjoying panoramic views, and sampling some of Malta’s finest beers. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers will all find value here, especially if they enjoy a mix of education and leisure. Foodies and souvenir collectors will also appreciate the gift shop and nearby eateries.
If you’re after a lively, authentic experience that combines history, taste, and stunning scenery, the Farsons Brewery tour ticks all those boxes.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Malta doesn’t have to be all ancient temples and scenic coastlines. The Farsons Brewery experience offers a different flavor—quite literally—giving you an inside look at Malta’s most beloved beer brands while enjoying some well-crafted tastings with spectacular views. Its self-guided format is perfect for those who like to explore at their own speed, and the friendly staff and modern exhibits make it both educational and fun.
The beer tasting at the rooftop bar is a real highlight, offering a relaxed atmosphere and photo-worthy views. Plus, the option to browse souvenirs at the Brandstore and enjoy food within the brewery adds to its appeal. It’s a worthwhile detour for beer enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious about Malta’s brewing scene.
This experience represents excellent value for the quality of the tour, the range of beers, and the scenic setting. It’s a pleasant, informative, and tasty way to spend an hour or two, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Maltese craftsmanship and a few souvenirs to remember your trip.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is primarily focused on beer and exhibits, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.
Are beverages included in the ticket price?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a tasting of five beers at the rooftop bar included in your ticket.
Can I visit if I’m not a beer drinker?
Absolutely. Even if you don’t drink beer, the exhibits and the chance to see the brewery’s history are interesting, and the rooftop views are worth the visit.
Is the tour guided or self-guided?
It’s a self-guided experience, but audio guides in multiple languages are available for a more informative visit.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately one hour, including exploration, tasting, and browsing.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as availability may vary, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there’s a multi-storey car park on-site, making it convenient to visit.
Can I buy souvenirs at the brewery?
Yes, the Brandstore offers a range of merchandise and local beers.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s accessible for wheelchair users.
Are there food options available at the brewery?
Yes, there are eateries within The Brewhouse, and you can enjoy food alongside your drinks.
This detailed visit provides a perfect blend of Maltese brewing history, scenic views, and quality beer tasting—making it an experience to recommend for those wanting a relaxed yet enriching activity during their Malta stay.
