Tour of Malta (Private Driver) Including Lunch Platter & Wine in the countryside

A Closer Look at Malta’s Private Driver Tour with Lunch and Wine

When I first looked into this private Maltese tour, I appreciated how it offers a flexible, personalized approach to exploring the island’s highlights. For around $959, your group of up to 8 can enjoy a full day of sightseeing at your own pace, complete with private transport, a delicious local lunch platter, and unlimited wine in the countryside. It’s ideal for travelers who want to skip the crowded group tours and focus on what appeals most to them.

Two things immediately caught my attention. First, the customizable nature of the itinerary means you’re not tied to a rigid schedule—your guide handles the logistics, so you can relax and truly soak in each stop. Second, the inclusion of local food and unlimited wine in a scenic setting seems like a fantastic way to experience Malta’s culinary culture in a laid-back atmosphere.

However, one point worth considering is the guides’ English proficiency—some reviews mention that their guide wasn’t fluent, which could impact the depth of information. Also, since the tour is priced per group, it demands a certain budget, but it does seem to offer good value considering the private service and wine included.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Flexible, private experience allows for personalized pacing and stops.
• Includes a full Maltese platter and unlimited wine, making it a relaxing culinary experience.
• Enables easy logistics with round-trip transfers and all transportation arranged.
• Covers a mix of cultural, natural, and leisure sights—from Mdina to Popeye Village and Blue Grotto.
• Guides can vary in language skills, so clarify expectations beforehand.
• A longer, more comprehensive alternative might be better for dedicated history buffs or those wanting more extensive tours.

A Personal Overview: The Allure of a Private Maltese Day

My first impression of this tour is that it’s tailored for those who prefer to craft their day rather than follow a preset schedule. Seeing that it’s only about 6 hours long, I’d say it’s a great way to fit in a lot without feeling rushed, especially since transportation, entry tickets (where applicable), and lunch are all included. The fact that it’s a private experience means you’ll have a dedicated guide, which often translates to more personalized attention—or, as some reviews suggest, variable guide quality.

The pick-up service makes it particularly appealing. You won’t have to worry about navigating public transportation or finding your way to each site, freeing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and stories. This flexibility is one of the main reasons travelers choose private tours over group ones, especially in a place as visually diverse as Malta.

The lunch in the countryside stands out as a highlight. You’ll enjoy a full platter featuring Maltese meat, goat cheese, olives, and more—paired with unlimited red and white wine. I love the idea of unwinding in a scenic setting with good local food and drink, which makes the tour not just about sightseeing but also about savoring Malta’s flavors.

Yet, the itinerary—though offering a well-rounded glimpse—might feel a bit rushed if you want a deep dive into each location. For instance, Mdina, “the silent city,” is rich in history and atmosphere, but with only an hour, you might only scratch the surface. Similarly, Popeye Village is a fun stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids, but it’s more of a leisure spot than a deep historical site.

Exploring the Highlights in Detail

Mdina: The “Silent City” with Over 4000 Years of History

Mdina is often called Malta’s most atmospheric town, with its narrow winding streets and medieval walls. During this tour, you get about an hour—just enough time to soak in the quiet charm and perhaps visit St. Paul’s Grotto, where tradition says he lived after his shipwreck. The guide can share stories that bring the place to life, though one review notes that guide’s command of English might sometimes be limited. Still, the location itself is captivating, perfect for a quick walk through history and architecture.

Ta’ Qali Crafts Village: Handmade Malta

Next, you’re taken to the crafts village in Ta’ Qali, which is situated on what used to be an RAF wartime airfield. Here, you’ll find artisans blowing glass, creating jewelry, or working on sculptures and lace. It’s a vibrant spot where you can observe Malta’s craft traditions firsthand, and you might even pick up a unique souvenir. The 30-minute stop is just enough to get a taste of Malta’s artisanal soul.

Malta National Aquarium: Marine Life and Artefacts

The aquarium is spread over 20,000 square meters with 41 tanks, showcasing species from the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, along with reptiles and insects. While admission isn’t included, it offers an engaging look at local marine life, with replicas of underwater artifacts. If you’re into sea creatures, this can be a fun, educational stop—but be aware that you might want to allocate more time if you’re keen on fully exploring it.

Popeye Village: The Filming Set with Kid-Friendly Charm

One of Malta’s most recognizable spots, Popeye Village, was originally the set of the famous film. It’s now a fun, colorful area where kids and adults alike can meet cartoon characters and enjoy the playful atmosphere. Since the tour only grants about an hour here, it’s best suited for a quick visit—though many find it a delightful break from more serious sightseeing.

Blue Grotto: Nature’s Photogenic Wonder

The Blue Grotto’s shimmering waters, visible from the shore, are a visual treat. The site is famous for its striking shades of blue and the way sunlight reflects off submerged flora. It’s a natural spectacle that draws about 100,000 visitors annually, and many include a boat trip to truly experience the caves. While the tour doesn’t include this, the view from the land is still impressive and worth a quick stop.

Valletta Waterfront: Malta’s Elegant Old Port

Finally, the tour winds down at the Valletta Waterfront, a beautifully restored 18th-century port area. The historic warehouses now house cafes, shops, and the cruise terminal, making it a lively place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere. It’s a fitting end to a day of exploring Malta’s diverse sights, especially if you’re planning to stay in Valletta afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Malta experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate flexibility, comfort, and a mix of cultural, natural, and culinary highlights. If you’re traveling with a group and want a more intimate, tailored day without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy local food and wine, as the countryside lunch and unlimited drinks add a memorable touch.

However, if you’re a history enthusiast hungry for detailed insights or plan to explore each site more thoroughly, you might find this tour somewhat brief. The guides’ language skills could also vary, so having some basic knowledge of the sites beforehand can enhance your experience.

Cost and Value Consideration

At nearly $960 for a group of up to 8, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it offers a private, all-inclusive experience—a luxury in itself. When you factor in transportation, entry fees where applicable, and the quality of the food and wine, it can be a good value for those seeking comfort and exclusivity. Travelers who want to make the most of a single day, avoiding logistical stress, may find it well worth the price.

Final Thoughts

This Malta private driver tour offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary enjoyment. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to see a variety of sights at their own pace, with the added bonus of local food and unlimited wine. While the guide’s language skills and the brief stops may be a slight drawback for some, the convenience and intimate setting make it an appealing option.

Perfect for couples, friends, or small families, it’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort and customization over a strict schedule. If your goal is a relaxing, scenic, and culturally rich day with a splash of Malta’s best flavors, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a fully private tour for your group of up to 8 people, meaning only your party will participate.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers round-trip transfers, a guided itinerary, a full Maltese lunch platter, and unlimited red and white wine during the countryside meal.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a manageable day trip from Valletta or other points.

Are entrance tickets included for sites like Mdina or Popeye Village?
No, the tour includes free or external viewing of sites like Mdina and Popeye Village—entrance fees are not included in the price.

What should I expect from the guide?
Guides are provided by A4 Malta; however, some reviews mention that English language skills may vary, so it’s good to clarify expectations beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially the Popeye Village stop, which is a kid-friendly attraction. The overall relaxed pace also suits families.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide will handle the logistics, and you can focus on what interests you most.

What if I want a more detailed historical experience?
This tour offers a broad overview, so history buffs wanting in-depth insights might prefer combining it with other, more specialized excursions.

In a nutshell, this private Maltese tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to see key sights, enjoy local flavors, and relax in scenic surroundings. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized day with a dash of culinary fun.