Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Malta, this Mdina and Rabat Food Tour offers an inviting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Led by a fully licensed guide, you’ll wander through these ancient towns, discovering their past while indulging in some of the island’s most beloved foods.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to sample local Maltese specialties like pastizzi, rabbit, bragioli, and imqaret—all while walking through streets that have seen over 3,000 years of civilization. Plus, if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll love the opportunity to visit filming locations scattered around these scenic towns.

One thing to consider is that the tour has a packed itinerary, so you’ll want to come hungry and prepared for a fair bit of walking. It’s a fantastic choice for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste (literally) of Maltese life in its most genuine form. Travelers who enjoy guided experiences with local flavor will find this tour especially rewarding, though those on a tight schedule may need to plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Authentic local food at places frequented by residents, not just travelers
• Guided walking tour through Mdina and Rabat, rich in history and filming locations
• Variety of tastings including Maltese snacks, wine, beer, and regional dishes
• Knowledgeable guides who share both culinary and historical insights
• Includes food and drinks in the price, offering great value
• Flexible for different interests—food, history, or GOT filming sites

A Delicious Journey Through Malta’s Historic Heart

This guided food tour of Mdina and Rabat combines the best of both worlds—delicious eating and captivating history. It lasts 3.5 hours, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The tour is operated by Best Tours Malta, and judging by the glowing reviews, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable experience.

The experience starts at a familiar local spot, Is-Serkin, also known as Crystal Palace Bar, where you’ll meet your guide and get a quick overview of what’s ahead. From there, the adventure unfolds with stops in Rabat and Mdina, two of Malta’s most iconic towns, each packed with charm and stories.

Starting Point and First Impressions

Meeting just across from the Crystal Palace Bar, the tour begins in the lively town of Rabat. Here, your guide (we heard it was a friendly and knowledgeable young man named Edwin from reviews) will introduce you to Malta’s street food culture. The first tasting, of the famous pastizzi, is a must. These flaky, savory pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas are Malta’s version of fast food—deliciously addictive and available from many local vendors.

Discovering Rabat’s Hidden Gems

Walking through Rabat, the guide entertains with stories of Malta’s past, while you get to see some filming spots from Game of Thrones. The mixture of history and pop culture adds an extra layer of interest. You’ll learn about the town’s significance as a gateway to Malta’s ancient civilization, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Mdina: The Silent City

Next, you’ll move into Mdina, often called the “Silent City,” with its narrow streets and medieval charm. The guided tour here lasts about an hour, during which you’ll explore landmarks that have stood for centuries. It’s easy to see why Mdina has attracted filmmakers—its timeless appearance is perfect for capturing old-world Malta. The guide’s insights make the history come alive, and the panoramic views from the city walls are worth the visit alone.

Sampling Maltese Flavors

Back in Rabat, the tour resumes with a food tasting session that features local cheeses and coffee, giving you a taste of everyday Maltese life. Then, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute session of beer, snacks, and tapas, including regional favorites. Reviewers mention the excellent selection of local craft beers and flavorful regional foods, which add to the experience’s authenticity.

The Grand Finale: Maltese Dinner and Wine

To wrap up, the group heads to a final stop for a full dinner featuring rabbit and bragioli (a Maltese beef stew), washed down with a glass of local wine. The food is described as hearty and authentic, prepared with regional flavors. The imqaret, a sweet Maltese pastry filled with date, provides a sweet ending. Guests consistently praise the generous portions and quality of food and drinks, all included in the tour price.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authenticity and Local Flavor

One of the standout features is the focus on local hotspots rather than touristy eateries. Reviewers like Karen and Daniela appreciate that guides like Christine and Edwin are extremely knowledgeable and passionate, sharing not just food tips but also Maltese culture and history.

Food and Drink Quality

The inclusion of pastizzi, rabbit, bragioli, imqaret, Kinnie soft drink, local beer, and regional wine makes this a well-rounded culinary experience. Guests find the variety and quality of tastings impressive, especially considering the tour price of $77, which is a good value for all that’s included.

Guides and Atmosphere

People rave about the guides—Louise called her guide “extremely knowledgeable” and friendly, making the entire experience more engaging. They also appreciate the small-group feel, which allows for a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Convenient and Flexible

Starting and ending at the same spot makes logistics simple. Plus, the “reserve now, pay later” option offers flexibility if your plans change. The 24-hour cancellation policy adds peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.

Important Details and Practical Tips

• The tour runs for about 3.5 hours, so wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven old streets.
• As food is a core part of the experience, arrive hungry—reviewers warn to come prepared for a lot of delicious food.
• The meet-up point is just across from Is-Serkin Bar, a recognizable spot in Rabat.
• The tour is conducted in English, and the group size is likely small to medium, fostering interaction and personalized attention.
• It’s perfect for those interested in cultural exploration combined with culinary delights, especially fans of Maltese cuisine and history.

The Sum Up

This Mdina and Rabat Food Tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. You’ll walk through centuries-old streets, learn about Malta’s past from an engaging guide, and enjoy a hearty range of local foods and drinks—everything included in a fair price.

Ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing, this tour provides an authentic taste of Maltese life. Whether you’re a foodie eager to try regional specialties, a history buff wanting to understand Malta’s past, or a pop culture enthusiast eager to see Game of Thrones filming locations, this experience hits the spot.

The tour’s friendly guides, high-quality tastings, and immersive atmosphere make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon in Malta. Just arrive ready to eat, listen, and soak in the local vibe.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, providing enough time to explore both Mdina and Rabat without feeling rushed.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You meet just across the road from Is-Serkin Bar, also known as Crystal Palace Bar, which is a convenient and recognizable location.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, all tastings—pastizzi, regional snacks, rabbit, bragioli, imqaret, soft drinks, beer, and wine—are included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and an appetite! The tour involves walking around historic streets, and there’s a good deal of delicious food to try.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the focus is on food and history, it’s best suited for adults or older children who can appreciate the food and walk comfortably.

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

Will I see Game of Thrones filming locations?
Yes, some stops include scenes from Game of Thrones, adding a fun element for fans of the series.

Is there a guide?
Absolutely. The tour is led by a professional, fully licensed guide, who shares insights on Maltese culture, history, and cuisine.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Malta’s culinary and historical treasures in a relaxed, engaging setting. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about Maltese life, this guided walk offers genuine value, memorable flavors, and a chance to see Malta through the eyes of locals.