Brewery Experience Self Guided Tour Including Beer Tasting

If you’re wandering through Malta and have an appreciation for good stories and even better beer, the Brewery Experience at The Brewhouse (formerly Farsons brewery) offers a compelling blend of history, taste, and scenic cityscape views. This self-guided tour is designed to give you a relaxed yet enriching glimpse into Maltese brewing, perfect for those curious about local traditions without the pressure of a guided group.

What really makes this experience shine is the interactive displays and the chance to sample five different beers—each 100 mL—at a very accessible price point. Plus, the rooftop bar, The Cisk Tap, offers not only refreshing drinks but also panoramic views of Malta’s skyline that are a treat for the eyes.

A notable consideration is that the tour is self-guided, which is ideal if you prefer exploring at your own pace. However, if you’re looking for a guided experience with detailed commentary, this might not be your best fit. It’s best suited for independent travelers, beer enthusiasts, and history buffs who want to combine their love for Maltese culture with some well-deserved relaxation and scenic downtime.

Key Points

Beautifully restored historic brewery blending past and present
Self-guided format offers flexibility and personal pace
Includes beer tastings—five samples of Maltese brews—plus soft drinks for younger visitors
Stunning rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Maltese skyline
Affordable price point makes this a value-rich experience
Ideal for those interested in local beer, Maltese history, or a relaxed social outing

A Closer Look at the Maltese Brewing Experience

The Historic Setting and Modern Transformation

The original Farsons brewery in Birkirkara has been reimagined as The Brewhouse, a lively hub that nods to Malta’s brewing roots while embracing contemporary vibes. The building’s beautifully restored spaces are filled with vintage artefacts, restored malt stores, and gleaming copper tanks that tell of the brewery’s long history.

Walking through this space, you’ll notice the attention to detail in preserving the building’s character. We loved the way the historical elements are seamlessly integrated with modern displays, making it a visually engaging journey. The experience isn’t just about beer; it’s a walk through Maltese industry and entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by three families who pioneered the industry.

The Self-Guided Tour Experience

The main draw here is the self-guided format. You’ll receive an audio guide in six languages—English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Polish—which is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing visitors to learn at their own pace and revisit sections if something piques their interest.

The tour covers the brewing process, from selecting raw ingredients to the final pouring, with interactive displays and preserved artefacts that make the process tangible. We appreciated the way this setup makes it easy to control your experience—whether you want to breeze through or linger over details.

The Beer Tasting and the Rooftop Bar

The highlight for many is the opportunity to sample five beers, each 100 mL, included in the ticket price. While these are modest pours, they’re enough to appreciate the subtle differences and flavors of Maltese brews. The reviews note that while the beers may not be extraordinary, the experience of tasting local beer in such a scenic setting is valuable.

For those under 17, a soft drink is included—making it a family-friendly outing, though obviously, minors won’t partake in the tasting. The Cisk Tap rooftop bar is a real treat, offering stunning views of the Maltese skyline and a relaxed space to enjoy your drinks. The combination of scenic vistas and refreshing beers is a perfect way to wind down after the tour.

Additional Shopping and Food Options

Post-tour, visitors can browse the Farsons Brandstore, which offers memorabilia, vintage-inspired merchandise, and exclusive brews. It’s a nice touch if you want to bring home a souvenir of your Maltese beer adventure.

While food isn’t included in the tour, the Brewhouse eateries are available if you want to extend your visit. Expect casual bites and drinks, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.

Practical Details and Value

At just under $18 per person, the tour offers impressive value. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 5:00 PM, giving plenty of flexibility in planning your day. The tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours, but there’s no time limit—so you can linger or explore as long as you wish.

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of booking 17 days ahead. The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, making it a comfortably paced experience without feeling crowded.

Real Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Lisa, summed it up well: “This was an interesting self-guided tour about the history of beer and Cisk in Malta. The beer itself was nothing to write home about, but definitely a must-do for anyone who enjoys beer and likes to experience local beers in different places.” Her comment highlights that while the beers might be typical, the overall experience is a worthwhile cultural journey.

Many visitors have noted the stunning rooftop views as a highlight—something that elevates the simple act of drinking beer into a memorable moment. The flexibility of the self-guided format and the historical displays make this an engaging experience for independent explorers and those curious about Malta’s brewing story.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for independent travelers looking for a relaxed, educational activity that doesn’t require a guide to move at their own pace. Beer lovers, in particular, will enjoy tasting local brews in a historic setting with the bonus of scenic views. History buffs will appreciate the authentic displays and the sense of connection to Malta’s entrepreneurial past.

Families with older children or teenagers might also find this outing enjoyable, especially with the soft drink option for youths and the casual, scenic environment. It’s an excellent way to combine cultural appreciation with a leisurely social experience.

If you’re seeking an affordable, flexible, and interesting glimpse into Maltese brewing, this self-guided tour at The Brewhouse offers more than just beer—it offers a taste of Malta’s lively, entrepreneurial spirit.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience, so you can explore at your own pace with an audio guide available in six languages.

How long does the tour last?
The self-guided part takes about 1.5 hours, but you can stay longer if you wish.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you get to sample five beers (100 mL each), plus a soft drink for those aged 12-17. No drinks are served to children under 12.

Can I visit the brewery on the weekend?
Yes, the tour operates every day from Monday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 12 enter free if accompanied by an adult but do not receive a drink. Soft drinks are available for youths aged 12-17.

What about food options?
Food isn’t included, but you can purchase food at the Brewhouse eateries or browse the Brandstore for souvenirs.

Is there parking nearby?
The data doesn’t specify parking details, but the location is near public transportation, so planning accordingly is advisable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a limit to the number of visitors?
Yes, the maximum group size is 100 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

In summary, the Brewery Experience at The Brewhouse offers a laid-back, informative, and scenic glimpse into Malta’s brewing world. It’s a dependable choice for those wanting a mix of history, local flavor, and fantastic views—all at a reasonable price.