A Closer Look at the Farsons Brewery Experience in Birkirkara
If you’re traveling to Malta and looking for an authentic taste of the island’s brewing scene, the Farsons Brewery experience in Birkirkara might just be your ticket. This self-guided tour offers a chance to step into the brewery built in the 1950s, learn about Malta’s most popular beer brands, and enjoy some of the freshest local brews—all at your own pace. With audio guides in multiple languages and access to the historic brewing hall, this is a relaxed yet informative experience suitable for a wide range of visitors.
Two things I really appreciate about this experience are the flexibility of the self-exploratory tour—which lets you absorb the exhibits without feeling rushed—and the stunning panoramic views from the rooftop bar. It’s a chance to not only learn about Malta’s beer history but also to kick back with a cold drink while taking in the scenery. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this is purely a self-guided experience, meaning there’s no live guide to answer questions on the spot, which could be a drawback for those craving a more structured or guided tour.
Overall, what really makes this experience stand out is its combination of educational exhibits, fresh beer tastings, and breathtaking views—all wrapped up in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a beer lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a great place to unwind, this tour offers excellent value for money with its inclusions like five beer samples and access to the rooftop bar. It’s a well-rounded way to spend an hour or two, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace.
Key points / Takeaways
- Self-guided flexibility: You can explore the brewery’s exhibits at your own pace, with an audio guide available in multiple languages.
- Historical insight: Learn about the three entrepreneurial families behind Malta’s leading beer brands and the story of Cisk.
- Stunning rooftop views: The Cisk Tap rooftop bar offers sweeping vistas of Malta, making it the perfect spot for photos and relaxation.
- Tasty beer sampling: Enjoy five freshly brewed beers with detailed explanations, served by friendly staff—perfect for discovering your favorites.
- Modern exhibits: The brewery’s exhibits are described as modern and detailed, showing the brewing process and history without feeling dated.
- Additional perks: Shop at the Farsons Brandstore and browse the various eateries inside The Brewhouse for a full day of enjoyment.
Entering a Maltese brewing legend
The Farsons Brewery in Birkirkara has been Malta’s brewing hub since the 1950s, and stepping inside still feels like entering a piece of Maltese industrial history. The building’s vintage charm, combined with modern exhibits, makes for a compelling atmosphere. You’ll check in with friendly staff at The Brewhouse, which is conveniently located with nearby parking options, including a multi-storey on-site.
What I love about this setup is its relaxed and accessible style. There’s no need for a guided group if you prefer wandering at your own pace. Instead, an informative audio guide, available in languages like Maltese, English, German, Italian, and Polish, walks you through the brewery’s history, brewing techniques, and the stories of Malta’s beer brands. Several visitors have praised the clarity of the audio and how well the exhibits are laid out, making this a great educational experience for all ages.
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Exploring the historic brewing hall
Once inside, you’re free to explore the historic brewing hall, which showcases how beer was traditionally brewed and highlights the innovations over the years. It’s a visual and tactile journey through Maltese brewing history, with detailed exhibit displays and informative boards. Many reviews mention how modern and detailed these exhibits are, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Malta’s beer evolution.
You can also learn about the three families who joined forces to create what is now Malta’s leading brewery. This behind-the-scenes story adds a personal touch to the experience, making the history not just about beer but about entrepreneurship and community effort.
Sampling beers at The Cisk Tap rooftop
The highlight for many visitors is the beer tasting at The Cisk Tap, located on the rooftop of the brewery. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Malta, a perfect backdrop for relaxing with a cold beer. The five-beer tasting flight is well curated, with friendly staff explaining each brew in detail. Several reviews mention how the tastings are very well explained, and the staff’s helpfulness adds to the experience.
The beers are freshly brewed on-site, which means you’re sampling some of Malta’s best and newest brews. Whether you prefer a classic Cisk Lager or something more adventurous, you’ll find a sample that fits your palate. Plus, the outdoor terrace is an ideal place to unwind, especially on a sunny Maltese day.
Shop, dine, and savor
After the tasting, it’s worth browsing the Farsons Brandstore for souvenirs—perfect for remembering your experience. Inside The Brewhouse, you’ll find a variety of eateries offering food and snacks, making it easy to enjoy a meal or light bites alongside your beers. Many guests have raved about the delicious food options, and some have noted how well the food complements the beer tasting.
Practical considerations
The experience lasts about an hour, but you can easily stay longer if you wish to linger over a second round or explore the gift shop. Admission is flexible—tickets are available for reservation, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind for spontaneous plans. The tours are available every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:15 PM.
Note that children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and beer will not be served to persons under 17—important if you’re traveling with family. The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
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Who is this experience best suited for?
If you’re interested in learning about Malta’s brewing culture at your own pace, this tour offers a good mix of history, tasting, and views. It’s ideal for beer enthusiasts, casual travelers who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and anyone curious about Maltese entrepreneurship. The value for money is solid, especially considering the five beer samples and the panoramic rooftop bar.
However, if you’re looking for a guided group or a more interactive experience, this may feel a bit too self-guided. If you prefer a structured tour with a guide explaining everything in real-time, you might want to consider other options.
The Sum Up
The Farsons Brewery experience in Birkirkara offers a thoughtful balance of history, modern exhibits, and beer tasting. It’s a relaxed way to spend an hour or two, with the opportunity to learn about Malta’s most iconic beers while enjoying breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace. The self-guided format suits those who appreciate independence and flexibility, and the friendly staff and well-curated tastings make it a memorable stop.
For beer lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a genuine Maltese experience, this tour delivers excellent value for money. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic settings, local products, and educational yet informal atmospheres. You’ll leave with not just a deeper understanding of Malta’s brewing traditions but also some great photos and perhaps a few souvenirs.
FAQ
Is there any age restriction for the beer tasting?
Yes, beer is not served to persons under 17, so children and teens will need to enjoy the exhibits and views but won’t be able to partake in the tastings.
Are guides available during the tour?
No, this experience is self-guided, but an audio guide in multiple languages is provided to help you learn at your own pace.
How long does the tour typically last?
The tour lasts around one hour, but you can stay longer if you wish to linger at the rooftop bar or browse the gift shop.
Is parking available at the brewery?
Yes, there is a multi-storey car park on the site, making it easy to visit without worrying about parking.
Can I buy souvenirs or gifts?
Absolutely, the Farsons Brandstore offers a variety of branded souvenirs and merchandise.
What food options are available?
Inside The Brewhouse, you’ll find several eateries with options for meals and snacks that pair well with your beers.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the brewery is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
What languages are the audio guides available in?
Audio guides are available in Maltese, English, German, Italian, and Polish.
Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.