Mosta Crafts Village Mdina and Valletta Full Day Tour

Exploring Malta in a single day can seem ambitious, but this full-day tour by Supreme Travel Ltd promises a rundown of the island’s most iconic sites. From the impressive Mosta Rotunda to the charming streets of Mdina, and the regal halls of Valletta, this trip covers a lot of ground. Along the way, you’ll get a taste of Maltese craftsmanship at Ta’Qali Crafts Village and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off — a real plus if you prefer not to navigate Malta’s narrow streets on your own.

Two aspects stand out for me. First, the guides—especially one named Daiva—are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience more engaging and informative. Second, the inclusion of entrance fees and a lunch in the price makes this a good value — especially for first-time visitors who want a guided overview without hidden costs.

However, a notable consideration is the traffic. Several reviews mention long delays during hotel pickups, sometimes over an hour and a half. While the guide does their best to keep things on track, it’s worth being prepared for potential delays that might cut into your free time at certain stops, like Valletta.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Malta’s most famous sites in one day, perfect for first-timers.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Daiva are often praised for their storytelling and insights.
• Value for money: Entrance fees, lunch, and transportation included make the cost reasonable.
• Traffic considerations: Expect delays during hotel pickups, which can shorten free time at stops.
• Cultural highlights: Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site, historic churches, and local crafts markets.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned coach and hotel pickup make the journey comfortable.

Entering Malta’s Heritage: Mosta Rotunda

The tour begins at the Mosta Rotunda, a colossal church with a breathtaking dome, famous for surviving heavy WWII bombing. Standing inside, I love the way this building combines resilience with beauty; you can’t help but feel the weight of history. The guided tour of about 50 minutes, with admission included, gives you a chance to admire the intricate interior and hear stories about its miraculous survival.

Many reviews highlight the church’s impressive size and history. Jennifer, who visited in October 2024, appreciated that the guide, Dina, did a great job navigating through the story of the Rotunda despite the busy schedule. This site offers a tangible connection to Malta’s resilience and faith.

Shopping and Crafts: Ta’Qali Crafts Village

Next, you head to Ta’Qali Crafts Village, a lively hub where artisans work and sell. The highlight is a visit to a silver filigree shop and a glass blowing demonstration. It’s a fantastic chance to pick up authentic Maltese souvenirs, like delicate jewelry or blown glass, directly from the producers.

You’ll definitely want to allocate about 40 minutes here. A review from Asanda_N mentions that the crafts market is well worth a visit and the included demonstrations add a nice touch. Some visitors appreciate the opportunity to see craftsmanship firsthand, making it more than just a tourist stop.

Stepping Back in Time: Mdina

The next stop is Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital and a city that feels like stepping into a time capsule. With its narrow, winding streets and ancient walls, Mdina offers a peaceful contrast to the busier coastal towns. On foot, I love exploring its squares and alleys, with many pathways closed to cars, providing a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

The 1.5-hour walking tour is a good length, offering enough time to soak in the architecture and snap photos. Several reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling made Mdina come alive, with visitors like Julija P praising Daiva’s depth of knowledge about Malta’s history, life, and culture.

Valletta: The Heart of Malta

The final—and arguably most lively—part of your day is in Valletta, a UNESCO-listed city that’s full of history and impressive views. The tour includes about 3 hours of free time to explore. Highlights include Barracca Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which boasts incredible baroque art and architecture.

Many visitors find Valletta to be a whirlwind of sights and sounds. Colette P notes how the tour was “well organized” and that the included entrance to St. John’s Church made it great value. But keep in mind, the limited free time—about 45 minutes for lunch—means you’ll want to plan quickly or grab a snack on the go.

Logistics and Overall Experience

This tour runs from 8:30 am to around 4:30 pm, with hotel pickup included, which simplifies transportation. The air-conditioned coach is comfortable, and the small group size (max 50 travelers) allows for easier interaction with guides.

The guides seem to be a strong point, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable, friendly staff, especially Daiva. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees enhances perceived value, especially when compared to booking each element separately.

A common challenge noted is the traffic congestion, especially during pickups, which can add significant delays—up to 95 minutes in some cases—before the tour even begins. While the guides do their best, travelers should be prepared for this possibility and plan accordingly.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re visiting Malta for the first time and want a well-organized overview in one day, this tour offers good value and a variety of sights. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided sightseeing and convenience, rather than self-guided wandering. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees means fewer surprises and more focus on enjoying the day.

However, if you’re seeking a very flexible or leisurely pace, or have mobility concerns, the long hours and busy schedule might feel rushed. The tour is designed for those willing to walk and stand for periods, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

The Sum Up

This full-day Malta tour provides a solid introduction to the island’s most memorable sites. It balances rich history, local craftsmanship, and scenic views, all wrapped into a package that’s convenient and offers good value. The guides, especially those like Daiva, are often praised for their ability to bring the stories to life, making the experience more meaningful.

While traffic delays are a downside, they are part of the local reality, and the tour’s structure still manages to pack in a lot within a day. For first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Malta’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets, this tour hits the mark.

Ultimately, if you’re after a comprehensive, guided snapshot of Malta, with some authentic moments at places like Mdina and Valletta, this experience is worth considering — especially if you’re okay with a busy schedule and a bit of traffic.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, making the day hassle-free and more comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and finishing around 4:30 pm, including travel time and sightseeing.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees to Mosta Church and St. John’s Co-Cathedral are included, along with a lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around historic sites and some standing, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. It’s suitable for those who can handle a fair amount of walking.

Will I experience local crafts?
Absolutely. A visit to Ta’Qali Crafts Village includes demonstrations of glass blowing and jewelry making, with opportunities to buy souvenirs directly from artisans.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to adjust your plans if needed.

This Malta full-day tour offers a practical balance of culture, history, and convenience — perfect for travelers eager to get a taste of Malta’s best in just a day.