Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

Discover Malta’s Charm with the Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

If you’re considering a way to see Malta beyond just snapping photos from a bus window, a walking tour through Mdina and Rabat might be just what you need. This experience combines history, culture, and food into a manageable 3.5-hour adventure, led by a knowledgeable local guide. What’s especially appealing is how it offers more than just a sightseeing walk—you’re also tasting Malta’s best street foods, sipping local drinks, and even catching a glimpse of the filming locations from Game of Thrones.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are the guide’s local insights and the opportunity to try authentic Maltese cuisine. Plus, the chance to walk through iconic filming spots adds a fun twist for fans of the show. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a walking tour of historic sites, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This experience suits anyone wanting a balanced mix of culture, history, and culinary delights—whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a Game of Thrones fan. It’s also ideal if you enjoy guided walks with small groups, as this tour caps at just 10 travelers, making it intimate and engaging. If you’re after an authentic Maltese experience that’s relaxed yet packed with highlights, keep reading.

Key Points

• Local Guides Make a Difference: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance your understanding of Mdina and Rabat.
• Food and Drink Included: Enjoy a full meal with local delicacies, craft beers, and wine—all included in the price.
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Walk past some iconic spots from the popular TV series, perfect for fans.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to just 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect some walking through narrow, uneven streets, so comfortable shoes are key.
• Value for Money: At $112, considering all food, drinks, and guiding expertise, it offers solid value.

An In-Depth Look at the Mdina and Rabat Food Tour

Setting the Scene: Why This Tour?

Malta’s history is layered and fascinating, but sometimes it’s hard to absorb just by wandering around. This tour offers a convenient way to see two of the island’s most charming towns—Mdina and Rabat—while also getting a taste of local life. It’s ideal if you prefer your sightseeing with a side of food and stories rather than just museums and statues.

Starting Point: Mdina’s Old City

Your adventure kicks off in Mdina, often called the “Silent City” for its peaceful, narrow streets. Walking through this ancient city, you’ll get a true sense of its history—all while passing by some of the filming locations used in Game of Thrones. The guide will take you through winding alleys and hidden corners, pointing out architectural details and stories that bring the place alive.

One reviewer, Natalie, mentioned how her guide Carl made the tour “fun as well as interesting” and highlighted the food stops as “amazing.” She also noted that the full meal included Maltese strawberries, pastizzis, and traditional dishes like bragioli and rabbit—so you’re not just nibbling, but indulging in hearty local fare.

Transition to Rabat

After exploring Mdina, you’ll head into Rabat, a lively town that feels more like a real Maltese community. Here, the tour allows you to stroll through popular sights like St. Paul’s Catacombs and other notable sites, but what makes it more special is wandering into less touristy spots and local cafes.

The guide will point out where Game of Thrones scenes were filmed, making it a treat for fans. Plus, you’ll have a chance to taste a variety of local delicacies, baked in traditional wood-fired ovens, and visit grocery stores, butchers, and cafes loved by locals.

Food and Drink Highlights

This tour is a feast—literally. You’ll be sampling Maltese street food, including pastizzi, and trying local beverages like Kinnie, a popular Maltese soft drink. You also get to try two different craft beers and finish with a glass of red wine, pairing perfectly with classic Maltese dishes like rabbit stew and bragioli (beef olives).

All of these are included, making it easy to indulge without worrying about extra costs. One guest, Heather, praised guide Chris for knowing all the local people and places, which added to the authentic feel of the food stops.

The Experience: Walking, Tasting, and Learning

The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, with most of it spent walking at a moderate pace. The group size is small, capped at 10 travelers, so the guide can really focus on your questions and interests. Expect to cover about 3 hours of walking through historic streets, with plenty of stops to eat, drink, and appreciate the scenery.

What We Like (and What to Watch Out For)

The main draw is the combination of local insights and delicious food. Guides like Chris and Carl are praised for their knowledge and making the experience fun. The opportunity to try hearty Maltese dishes like bragioli and rabbit, paired with local wines, provides great value for the price of $112.

However, because the tour involves walking through narrow, sometimes uneven streets, it’s best suited for those in moderate physical condition. Also, since the tour starts at 4:30 pm, it’s perfect for a late afternoon/evening outing—ideal if you’ve spent the day sightseeing or want a more relaxed start.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

The reviews highlight how genuine this tour feels—guides with local roots, tastings at visited spots, and a chance to see the real Malta beyond the typical tourist spots. As Heather said, “Highly recommended,” and Natalie called it “Excellent value,” emphasizing the quality of the food and guide.

Practical Tips and Final Thoughts

Bring comfortable shoes, and come hungry—this isn’t just a nibble, but a hearty meal. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, and remember that drinks and food are included, so pace yourself. The small size means more personal interaction, making it a relaxed experience where you can ask all your questions about Maltese culture and cuisine.

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a well-rounded taste of Malta—combining history, food, and a bit of pop culture—without the hassle of organizing multiple visits or transports.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a casual, tasting-focused introduction to Mdina and Rabat. It’s great for history buffs who appreciate local stories, food lovers eager to try authentic Maltese dishes, and Game of Thrones fans wanting to see filming locations. Small groups keep it intimate, making it a good choice for those who like a bit of personal attention from their guide.

It may not be ideal if you’re seeking a rigorous walking tour or visiting with young children who might find the pace or walking distance challenging. But overall, it offers a balanced, friendly way to enjoy Malta’s culinary and cultural scenes in a manageable package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes. The tour involves walking through narrow, uneven streets, so being comfortable on your feet is advisable.

Are food and drinks included in the price?
Absolutely. All tastings, including snacks, desserts, local delicacies, craft beers, and wine, are part of the package.

When does the tour start?
It begins at 4:30 pm, making it a good option for late afternoon or early evening plans.

Does the tour include entry to museums or historic sites?
No, the tour does not include entrance fees to any museums, churches, or historic sites, but it passes by many notable spots.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

In the end, if you’re looking for a relaxed, tasty, and insightful way to experience Malta’s historic towns, this Rabat and Mdina food tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a chance to walk, talk, eat, and learn—all while soaking in some stunning scenery and a sprinkle of pop culture. Perfect for curious travelers eager to go beyond the usual tourist routes.