Brewery Experience Self Guided Tour Including Beer Tasting

If you’re a fan of beer or simply intrigued by local craftsmanship, the Brewery Experience Self-Guided Tour at Malta’s historic Farsons Brewery might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this tour, the details suggest it offers a relaxed, informative peek into Malta’s brewing story—perfect for a casual afternoon or a quick cultural fix.

What really appeals are the stunning views from the rooftop bar and the chance to explore a beautifully restored site that’s more than just a brewery. Plus, with an affordable price point of just under $18, it seems like a solid value for anyone interested in Malta’s drink culture. The only thing to consider is that this experience is quite self-directed—you’ll need to enjoy wandering at your own pace, rather than having a guide lead the way.

This tour would suit history buffs, beer lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, no-pressure activity that combines local flavor with great scenery. It’s especially good if you’re into trying local brews and want a straightforward way to learn about Malta’s brewing history without a crowded guided tour.

Key Points

• Self-guided exploration allows you to go at your own pace.
• Includes 5 beer tastings of 100 mL each, perfect for sampling local brews.
• Stunning rooftop bar offers great views of the Maltese skyline.
• Affordable price makes it accessible without sacrificing quality.
• Audio guides in multiple languages enhance the experience.
• Suitable for travelers of most ages—children get soft drinks, and under 12s enter free.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Overview of the Brewery and Its Transformation

The Farsons brewery in Birkirkara, now called The Brewhouse, has undergone a thoughtful transformation. It’s now a lively spot that marries historic charm with modern comforts—a place where the past and present meet. The brewery’s renovation preserves the essence of Malta’s brewing heritage, with old malt stores and copper tanks on display, making it a great spot for those interested in industrial history or craft brewing.

The tour’s focus is on providing a self-guided exploration—so you can leisurely stroll through the restored spaces, reading interactive displays and examining artefacts that tell Malta’s brewing story. This approach works well if you prefer to explore on your own rather than follow a guided group.

The Rooftop Bar and Beer Tasting

One of the highlights is the Cisk Tap rooftop bar, which offers the chance to enjoy a freshly brewed beer against the backdrop of the Maltese skyline. We love places that serve good beer with a view, and this seems to hit the mark. The tasting includes 5 different beers of 100 mL each, giving you a decent sampling without overdoing it, which is ideal for those who want to try a few local flavors without committing to a full pint.

The review from Lisa_H sums it up nicely: “The beer itself was nothing to write home about, but definitely a must-do for anyone who enjoys beer and likes to experience local beers in different places.” So, if you’re into craft or local beers, this part of the experience delivers.

Souvenir Shopping and Food Options

After sampling, you can browse the Farsons Brandstore, which offers souvenirs and memorabilia—think vintage-inspired items and exclusive merchandise. It’s a good way to pick up a keepsake of your Maltese trip or a gift for friends back home.

While food isn’t included, there are eateries at The Brewhouse where you can grab a bite or drinks afterward. Keep in mind, the focus here isn’t on a full meal but on the experience of tasting and learning.

The Itinerary in Detail

Entrance and Initial Exploration

Upon arrival, you’ll proceed to the reception, where staff will guide you into the self-guided tour. The experience is designed to last around 1.5 hours, but you’re free to stay longer if you wish, which is nice if you want to soak it all in or take your time taking photos.

Discovering the Brewing Process

As you wander through the restored spaces, you’ll see malt stores and copper tanks, each telling part of Malta’s brewing story. The interactive displays shed light on Malta’s entrepreneurial families who shaped the beer industry here. This adds a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship and history behind each sip.

Enjoying the Rooftop Views and Beers

Next, you’re encouraged to visit the Cisk Tap rooftop bar. The panoramic views of Malta’s skyline are a real selling point—perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing with your freshly poured beers. The sampling of five beers lets you compare different flavors, which is especially fun if you’re a fan of trying new brews.

Shopping and Additional Activities

Finally, a visit to the Brandstore is worth your time—whether to pick up a souvenir or simply browse the Maltese beer memorabilia. The overall experience feels like a well-rounded peek into Maltese brewing culture, all at your own pace.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and Value

At about $17.96 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering it includes entry, an audio guide in six languages, beer tastings, and access to the rooftop bar. Compared to guided tours, you’re gaining flexibility and saving money, making it a good option if you’re on a budget or prefer to explore independently.

Timing and Duration

The brewery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entries at 5:00 PM. The self-guided tour itself takes around 1.5 hours, but you can linger as long as you like. This flexibility is ideal if you want a casual activity or are fitting it into a larger day of sightseeing.

Considerations for Visitors

• Children under 12 are free but don’t get a drink, only a soft drink for ages 12-17.
• No guided tour is provided, so you’ll need to be comfortable exploring on your own.
• No transportation is included, so plan your arrival accordingly—public transport is nearby.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate, and it’s especially appealing to those interested in craft beer or Maltese culture.

Reviews and Feedback

The lone review is glowing: “This was an interesting self-guided tour about the history of beer and Cisk in Malta. The beer itself was nothing to write home about, but definitely a must-do for anyone who enjoys beer and likes to experience local beers in different places.” This suggests that while the beer may not be exceptional, the overall experience—history, views, and atmosphere—is well worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience fits travelers seeking a relaxed, self-paced look into Maltese brewing. It’s perfect if you enjoy trying local beers, want some great photos of Malta’s skyline, or enjoy exploring at your own pace without a guided group. It’s also a good option for those interested in local culture and history but prefer a less structured experience.

If you’re traveling with family or kids, it might be suitable since children under 12 enter free and only soft drinks are available for younger guests. However, keep in mind that the focus is on beer, so it’s more tailored to adult interests.

FAQ

Is the Beer Tasting Suitable for Children?
Children under 12 are free to enter but do not receive beer samples. Instead, they get soft drinks, making it family-friendly in that sense.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 17 days ahead, especially during peak times, to secure their spot.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio guide is available in six languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Polish.

Can I visit the brewery anytime between 10 AM and 5 PM?
Yes, you can use your ticket within that window; the last entry is at 5:00 PM.

How long does the tour usually take?
The self-guided tour and beer sampling take around 1.5 hours, but you’re free to spend more time exploring.

Is food included in the experience?
No, food is not included, but there are eateries at The Brewhouse where you can buy food and drinks.

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace with an audio guide.

Is this experience suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s especially suitable for those interested in Maltese brewing, views, and casual exploration.

All in all, if you’re looking for a laid-back, culturally rich activity with a view and a few local brews, this Malta brewery experience offers good value and a genuinely enjoyable way to connect with the local scene. It’s not about fancy guided commentary but about soaking in the atmosphere, tasting some beers, and enjoying Malta’s skyline—simple pleasures that make for memorable moments.