Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour

Exploring Malta’s captivating towns of Mdina and Rabat with a fully licensed guide offers more than just a walk through historic streets. For $80.64 per person, this 3 hour 30 minute tour provides an engaging blend of local cuisine and cultural sights in two of the island’s most picturesque locations. Starting at the Mdina Main Gate, the tour takes you through aristocratic palaces, the Cathedral of Saint Paul, and the legendary St. Paul’s Grotto, with admission tickets covered for the main stops.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate authentic Maltese food, stunning views, and small-group experiences. With a maximum of 12 travelers, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized attention. The tour is well-loved, reflected in its perfect 5.0 rating from 21 reviews, and is frequently booked 48 days in advance. The only consideration is that the tour involves some walking through narrow, atmospheric streets, so a moderate level of mobility is recommended.

Key Points

• Explores Mdina and Rabat with a licensed guide, showcasing both towns’ history and cuisine.
• Includes tastings of pastizzi, ob bi-ejt, bragioli, rabbit, alongside local craft beer and wine.
• Visits iconic sites like Mdina Main Gate, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and St. Paul’s Grotto.
• Stops at scenic viewpoints including Mdina’s bastions with panoramic views.
• Tour duration of about 3.5 hours with flexible, small-group arrangements.
• Free cancellation available, with options to reschedule or refund if needed.

Mdina Main Gate: The Entrance to the Silent City

The tour begins at the Mdina Main Gate, a baroque archway that marks the entrance to Malta’s ancient capital. This historic gateway has appeared in several films, adding to Mdina’s cinematic charm. The 10-minute walk-through allows for a first glimpse of the city’s elegant architecture and sets the tone for the day. It’s an accessible starting point, and no admission fee applies here.

Visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul

Next, the tour stops in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, Malta’s main church, dedicated to the saint who is believed to have stayed in Malta for three months. While the admission fee is not included, the photo opportunity here offers a chance to admire the cathedral’s impressive façade and architecture. The cathedral’s central location makes it a highlight, blending religious significance with architectural beauty.

Exploring St. Paul’s Grotto: Tradition and Legend

The group then reaches St. Paul’s Grotto, a site thought to be the exact place where St. Paul resided during his time in Malta. Standing outside the church over the grotto provides a connection to the island’s spiritual past. This 10-minute stop emphasizes the historical importance of the saint’s stay, adding depth to the local narrative.

Walking Through Mdina’s Atmospheric Streets and Bastions

Strolling through Mdina’s narrow streets, the guide leads you past aristocratic palaces and atmospheric alleyways, revealing the city’s medieval charm. A highlight is the view from Mdina’s bastions, offering stunning panoramic vistas over the Maltese countryside and coast. These scenic outlooks provide perfect photo moments and showcase Mdina’s strategic importance.

Transitioning into Rabat: The Town’s Ancient Roots

From Mdina, the walk continues into Rabat, where the twisting streets evoke a sense of local life. Walking through the winding lanes, visitors get a feel for the authentic Maltese atmosphere, away from tourist-heavy areas. The connection between Mdina and Rabat is seamless, illustrating the towns’ shared history.

Witnessing the Set-up of Rabat’s Festa

If the tour coincides with local festivals, such as the eve of the festa, travelers witness flags and lights being prepared. This lively setup exemplifies community spirit, and seeing locals come together during these celebrations enhances the experience. While this depends on timing, it’s a memorable extra for those fortunate enough to visit during a festa.

Making Ob Biz-Ejt and Sampling Local Beers

At a central Rabat stop, participants stop to make ob biz-ejt, a traditional Maltese olive oil spread. This hands-on activity is complemented by tasting local beers, offering a culinary snapshot of Maltese flavors. The informal setting encourages questions and interaction, making it a favorite part of the tour.

Tasting Maltese Cuisine: The Star Dish – Rabbit

The tour culminates at a local restaurant, where the star of Maltese cuisine, rabbit, is served alongside other regional delicacies. Accompanied by a glass of local red wine, this meal provides a full-flavored conclusion to the gastronomic journey. The variety of traditional dishes ensures a satisfying end, highlighting the island’s culinary heritage.

Guided Insights from a Fully Licensed Professional

Throughout the tour, a licensed guide shares insights into Malta’s history, culture, and food traditions. From family histories to local anecdotes, the guide’s expertise makes the experience more engaging. The reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and attentiveness, which elevate the tour beyond just food and sights.

Logistics and Group Size

Starting at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar at 10:30 am, the tour maintains a small-group size of up to 12 participants, offering a personalized experience. The meeting point is easily accessible via public transportation, and the tour ends back at the starting location, making logistics straightforward.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for peace of mind. The tour is weather-dependent, but if canceled due to poor conditions, participants can choose a rescheduled date or receive a full refund.

Authentic, Intimate, and Delicious: Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This Mdina and Rabat food and history tour shines for those interested in small-group experiences that combine cultural exploration with local cuisine. The expert guidance, scenic views, and delicious food tastings make it suitable for travelers who enjoy walking tours with a focus on authentic regional flavors. The 3.5-hour duration is perfect for those seeking a compact yet immersive introduction to Malta’s historic towns.

The tour’s intimate nature and personalized approach—highlighted by glowing reviews—ensure a memorable visit. If you love discovering hidden stories, sampling traditional dishes, and seeing iconic sites with knowledgeable guides, this tour is an excellent choice. However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved through narrow streets.

Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rich combination of history, culture, and food in two of Malta’s most alluring towns. With a competitive price, expert guides, and delicious tastings, it provides a well-rounded experience that appeals to history enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The emphasis on local delicacies like pastizzi and rabbit, paired with scenic views and informative narration, makes it a valuable addition to any Malta visit.

While the small group size and personalized service stand out, it’s the depth of insight and authentic flavors that truly set this tour apart. Whether you’re seeking a culinary adventure or a cultural walk, this tour delivers a well-balanced taste of Malta’s heritage and hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers a fully licensed professional guide, local craft beer, a glass of wine, Kinnie soft drink, and various local delicacies like pastizzi, ob biz-ejt, bragioli, and rabbit.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to accommodate most mobility levels. However, walking through narrow, uneven streets may be challenging for some.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule option is offered.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Ir-Rabat at 10:30 am and concludes back at the same meeting point.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, providing a comfortable pace with plenty of time for tasting and sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its small group size, personalized guiding, and authentic culinary experiences in Mdina and Rabat differentiate this tour from more generic options.