Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

Discovering Malta’s Hidden Flavors and Filming Fame: The Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

Imagine wandering through narrow, winding streets lined with centuries-old architecture, all while indulging in some of Malta’s best local dishes and getting a peek at some iconic Game of Thrones filming locations. That’s exactly what this Rabat and Mdina Food Tour offers—a perfect blend of history, culinary delights, and pop culture. This experience, rated 5.0 out of 5 with glowing reviews, is designed for those who want to soak up the authentic Maltese way of life while satisfying their curiosity and appetite.

What sets this tour apart? First, I love how it balances local stories with hands-on tasting experiences. The guides, like Chris and Carl, are not just knowledgeable—they’re passionate about sharing their home with visitors. Second, the inclusion of full-sized meals and local drinks makes the price of $112 feel like a real bargain in terms of value and richness of experience. A potential consideration? The tour lasts about three and a half hours, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for plenty of walking and tasting.

The tour’s structure is clever—covering two of Malta’s most charming towns, Mdina and Rabat, with a mix of history, culture, and food. The guide’s storytelling, combined with scenic stops, creates an engaging journey. Plus, the exclusive focus on local cuisine and filming sites makes it a unique way to explore Malta beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Authentic Maltese flavors: You’ll sample pastizzi, the beloved street snack, along with local craft beers, Kinnie soft drink, and hearty dishes like rabbit and bragioli.
• Expert local guides: Guides like Chris and Carl bring a wealth of knowledge, sharing insider tips and stories about Mdina, Rabat, and Malta’s film history.
• Film location insights: See key sites from Season 1 of Game of Thrones, adding a fun dimension for fans.
• Comprehensive tasting experience: All food and drinks, including full meals, are included, making it excellent value.
• Flexible and accessible: The tour begins at 4:30 pm, ending back at the starting point, with a small group size (max 10), ensuring a personal experience.
• Great for food lovers and culture seekers: Whether you’re into Maltese cuisine, history, or Game of Thrones, this tour has something for you.

Walking into Mdina, often called the Silent City, I love how time seems to slow down. Its medieval walls, narrow alleys, and elegant palaces whisper stories of centuries past. This tour takes you through the city’s winding streets, giving you a chance to appreciate its blend of ancient and modern life. The guide points out key filming spots from Season 1 of Game of Thrones, which adds a playful twist to the tour.

The highlight? The guide’s commentary makes Mdina’s history come alive. You can also expect some great photo opportunities along the way. The one-hour walk is enough to get a good feel for this UNESCO-listed site, without feeling rushed. Many reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, like Heather who says, “Chris knew all the local people and places. Highly recommended!”

After Mdina, the tour continues into Rabat, a lively town full of character. Here, the focus shifts to local life, visiting sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Grotto, and the famous Catacombs. But what I find most appealing is the chance to explore less touristy neighborhoods and discover local food spots. The tour includes stops at wood-burning ovens, grocery stores, butchers, and cafes, giving you a taste of everyday Maltese life.

The food tastings are extensive—don’t expect just a nibble. You’ll sample a variety of local delicacies and enjoy the chance to prepare your own ob biz-ejt, a traditional Maltese snack. As Natalie noted, “the food stops were amazing—I tried the best Maltese strawberries, pastizzis, and traditional bragioli and rabbit dishes. Come hungry; this isn’t just samples—it’s a full meal!”

The guide also introduces you to two different local craft beers and ends with a refreshing glass of red wine, perfectly complementing the hearty dishes.

One of the most memorable aspects of this tour is the culinary journey. The inclusion of local wines, craft beers, sodas, and desserts makes it a true feast. I appreciate how the focus remains on authentic Maltese food rather than touristy gimmicks. The dishes, such as rabbit stew and bragioli (beef olives), are hearty and flavorful, giving you a real taste of local cuisine.

The tour’s pacing allows you to savor each experience—whether it’s tasting a freshly made pastizzi or sipping a local craft beer. The fact that all food and drinks are included in the $112 price makes it an excellent deal, especially since some other tours only offer samples.

Starting at the Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Rabat at 4:30 pm, the tour is designed for small groups—up to 10 people—ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere. The walking is moderate, but comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity, especially if you’re looking to combine it with sightseeing or dinner plans.

Booking in advance is recommended, and the tour is flexible—cancel for free up to 24 hours before. The tour is also suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level and is friendly to service animals.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to taste authentic Maltese dishes and drinks, culture seekers interested in local life and film locations, and small groups looking for a personal, engaging guide. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed pace with plenty of tasting and storytelling, rather than a hurried sightseeing rush.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the filming location stops add a fun layer. For families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a well-rounded, immersive experience, this tour offers real value.

In my view, the Rabat and Mdina Food Tour provides a well-balanced introduction to Malta’s history, culture, and cuisine. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor shine through, making it more than just a walk-and-taste session—it’s a genuine connection to the Maltese way of life. The food, drinks, and sites visited are thoughtfully curated, ensuring you leave with a fuller belly and a richer understanding of the island.

While the price might seem steep for some, the all-inclusive nature of the tour, combined with the quality of the experiences, offers excellent value for money. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy interactive cultural experiences and want to savor authentic local flavors.

If you’re after a memorable, immersive half-day or evening exploring Malta’s heart, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
It begins at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Triq San Pawl, Ir-Rabat, Malta.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, it is; the walk involves some moderate activity but nothing too strenuous.

Are all food and drinks included in the price?
Yes, all food, including meals, snacks, desserts, and drinks like wine and craft beers, are included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is this tour good for Game of Thrones fans?
Absolutely—several filming locations from Season 1 are included as part of the sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through historic streets and towns.

Are there any entrance fees for museums or sites?
No, the tour covers only outdoor sites; entrance tickets for museums or churches are not included.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits travelers with moderate physical activity levels and those interested in local culture and cuisine.

All in all, this tour offers a delicious, engaging, and authentic glimpse into Malta’s historic towns, complemented by hearty food and a touch of pop culture fun. It’s a must for foodies and culture lovers alike.