Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour

Malta’s storied streets and culinary delights come alive on the Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour. This 3.5-hour adventure offers a balanced mix of cultural insights, scenic views, and mouthwatering Maltese dishes—all led by a fully licensed professional guide. Whether you’re a history buff or a food lover, this tour promises an intimate look at two of Malta’s most captivating towns, combined with tasting some of the island’s finest local specialties.

One of the things we especially love about this experience is its small group setup—limiting the group to a maximum of 12 travelers, which ensures a personal touch and meaningful interaction with the guide. Plus, the inclusion of local craft beer, wine, and soft drinks really elevates the tasting experience, making it both flavorful and relaxed. A potential consideration is that the tour’s duration is about 3.5 hours, so those with limited time might want to plan accordingly, especially if they wish to explore further on their own afterward.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, well-rounded experience—combining history, culture, and gastronomy—without the overwhelming crowds of larger, more generic tours. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to understand Malta through its most iconic towns and local flavors.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and better interaction with guides.
• Authentic Maltese cuisine includes pastizzi, rabbit, bragioli, and ob bi-ejt, along with local beers and wine.
• Expert guides with deep local knowledge, including family histories, add richness and context.
• Scenic stops like Mdina’s bastions and the cathedral offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Inclusive drinks and snacks help you enjoy the experience without extra costs.
• Cultural insights at key landmarks like St. Paul’s Grotto and the Main Gate add depth to the walk.

A Walk Through Malta’s Historic Heart: Mdina and Rabat

Starting at Mdina’s Baroque Gateway

The tour kicks off at the Main Gate, a striking baroque entrance that transports you into Malta’s ancient capital. As we step through this particular doorway, it’s clear why Mdina is often called the “Silent City”. It’s a place where history whispers from every stone, and the atmosphere feels remarkably untouched by modern life. According to reviews, guides like Darrell make sure you understand the significance of these landmarks, providing historical context that enhances the walk. One visitor mentioned that Darrell’s hosting was “very good,” and that he shared a comprehensive review of Mdina’s history while ensuring ample time to admire the architecture.

St. Paul’s Cathedral and Grotto

Next, we pause at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, the spiritual heart of Malta, with its ornate façade and impressive interiors—stunning enough to warrant some extra photos. Right nearby, the St. Paul’s Grotto offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s religious history, believed to be the place where Saint Paul stayed during his three-month visit to Malta. This stop adds a layer of religious and historical significance, making it more than just a scenic halt.

Tasting Pastizzi and Local Drinks

As we walk through Mdina, our guide introduces us to the famous pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas, paired with a refreshing Kinnie—a uniquely Maltese bitter-orange soft drink. This snack is a local staple, and it’s a delightful way to start the culinary journey. The guide’s attention to detail was praised in reviews, with mentions of how they tailored the experience to guests’ allergies and preferences.

Transition to Rabat and Its Atmospheric Streets

From Mdina, we descend into Rabat, characterized by narrow winding streets that seem to whisper stories of the past. Here, the tour takes on a lively, authentic vibe, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit during a local event. One reviewer shared that being in Rabat on the eve of a festa allowed them to witness the colorful setup of flags and lights and see the community coming together—something you might experience if your timing aligns.

Making Ob Biz-Ejt and Sampling Local Beers

In Rabat, you’ll get hands-on experience making ob biz-ejt—a traditional Maltese tomato-based dip topped with olive oil and herbs, served with bread and sides. Our guide walks us through the process, a fun and tasty activity that locals often do at home. You’ll also get to try some local beers, which, according to reviews, complement the flavors beautifully. The personal touch of guides like Bridgette and Darrell really shines here, sharing stories behind the dishes and drinks.

The Grand Finale: Maltese Rabbit and Local Wines

No Maltese food tour would be complete without tasting rabbit stew (stuffat tal-Fenek)—the island’s signature dish. We end the experience at a cozy local restaurant, where we indulge in tender, slow-cooked rabbit alongside other traditional delicacies and a glass of local red wine. Reviewers like Jennifer noted that guides made an effort to pay attention to personal preferences, making the meal all the more special.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary’s Highlights

Mdina Main Gate: Walking through this historic baroque gateway immediately sets a tone of grandeur and history. The gate is free to enter, and it’s easy to spend a few moments admiring the craftsmanship and imagining the city’s former glory.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: While not included in the ticket price, stopping here offers great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the grandeur of Malta’s religious architecture.

St. Paul’s Grotto: This site connects visitors to Malta’s early Christian history, believed to be where Saint Paul lived during his stay. The proximity of the grotto to the cathedral makes for an efficient and meaningful stop.

Culinary Stops: Sampling pastizzi and making ob biz-ejt are interactive highlights that let you taste local flavors firsthand, accompanied by local drinks like Kinnie and beers. The inclusion of snacks and drinks in the tour price means you can indulge without extra expenses—great value considering the quality and authenticity.

Rabat Streets & Local Life: The narrow streets of Rabat are perfect for experiencing everyday Maltese life, especially if you catch a local festivity or setup. The atmosphere during these moments adds a layer of depth to the tour.

Final Meal & Wine: The culmination at a local restaurant with rabbit and regional wines is a real treat, especially for those wanting to indulge in Malta’s famous cuisine.

Guides and Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently mentioned guides like Darrell and Bridgette for their deep local knowledge, friendly demeanor, and attentiveness. One noted how Darrell’s family has lived in Malta since the 1400s, adding a personal touch and authenticity to the tour. These guides don’t just narrate—they engage, tailor experiences where possible, and share stories that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at 10:30 am from Is-Serkin near the Crystal Palace Bar, making it a good choice for those who prefer mornings. The group size maxes out at 12 participants, fostering a relaxed, intimate environment. The price of around $80.64 per person offers good value, considering the inclusions—food, drinks, and expert guiding.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with some mobility, as it involves walking through historic streets and landmarks. It’s also weather-dependent; if rain affects the day, you might be offered an alternative date or full refund, providing peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone eager to combine culture, history, and authentic food within a manageable timeframe. Perfect for first-time visitors to Malta wanting an overview of Mdina and Rabat, and for those who appreciate a small-group setting where they can ask questions and get personalized insights. Foodies will enjoy the chance to taste traditional Maltese dishes, especially the iconic rabbit and local delicacies, while history lovers will appreciate the guided storytelling at key landmarks.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed pace, a mix of sightseeing and tasting, and a guide who knows the ins and outs of local life. If you’re interested in local drinks and enjoy making simple traditional recipes like ob biz-ejt, this tour will tick all those boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The focus of the tour is on traditional Maltese dishes, including rabbit and bragioli, but it’s best to check with the provider if vegetarian options are available or adaptable.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves walking through Mdina and Rabat, including narrow streets and some scenic viewpoints; it’s suitable for most with moderate mobility.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, local craft beer, a glass of wine, and a soft drink (Kinnie) are included as part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available if canceled within this window.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour available in the afternoon or evening?
No, the tour starts at 10:30 am; for afternoon or evening options, you might want to explore other offerings.

Final Thoughts

The Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour offers a delightful dive into Malta’s heritage and culinary traditions. It strikes a thoughtful balance between sightseeing and tasting, all led by guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. With authentic food, stunning views, and a small, friendly group, it’s a fantastic way to get a genuine feel for Malta in a short but meaningful timeframe.

Whether you’re passionate about history, eager to sample local flavors, or simply looking for a relaxed, engaging tour, this experience provides excellent value. Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a tasty, culturally rich introduction to Malta’s less touristy towns, this tour promises memories filled with flavor and history.