Rabat and Mdina Food Tour

Exploring Mdina and Rabat Through Food and Film

If you’re visiting Malta and eager to combine history, food, and a splash of TV fame, the Rabat and Mdina Food Tour offers an engaging way to see these two iconic towns. For $112, over roughly 3.5 hours, you’ll stroll through medieval streets, sample authentic Maltese dishes, and even visit some of the filming locations from Game of Thrones. Guided by a knowledgeable local, this tour balances history, gastronomy, and pop culture, making it a well-rounded experience for curious travelers.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it blends culinary delights with local storytelling—an excellent way to dive into Maltese life beyond typical sightseeing. You’ll get to taste pastizzi, local craft beers, and rabbit stew, all while soaking in the atmosphere of ancient city streets. The second highlight is the opportunity to explore less touristy alleyways and neighborhoods, which reveals the genuine character of Mdina and Rabat.

A possible drawback is that, with a moderate physical fitness level required for walking, those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging. Also, since the tour is focused on food and film locations, if your main aim is deep historical or religious site visits, you might want to supplement this experience with additional excursions.

This tour suits those who love local food, want an authentic Maltese experience, and are excited about Game of Thrones filming spots. It’s perfect for foodies, TV fans, and travelers who prefer a small group setting for a more personal experience.

Key Points

• Authentic taste of Malta: Includes a variety of local delicacies, drinks, and a full meal.
• Historical and cultural insights: Walk through Mdina and Rabat, learn their stories, and see film locations.
• Expert local guide: Knowledgeable guide who makes the experience fun and informative.
• Value for money: All food and drinks are included, making it a comprehensive, no-surprise experience.
• Short, well-paced: At 3.5 hours, it’s a manageable way to explore and indulge.
• Small group setting: Max 10 travelers for a more intimate, engaging tour.

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

Discovering Mdina: The Silent City with a Twist

Starting in Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled capital, we’re immediately struck by its narrow, winding streets and medieval charm. Our guide, possibly Carl or another local expert, takes us on a walk through these quiet alleyways that feel more like a film set than a bustling city.

You’ll love the way the guide shares stories about Mdina’s past as a fortified city and how it earned its nickname as the “Silent City,” due to its peaceful, almost deserted streets. As we wander, we pass Game of Thrones filming locations from Season 1, which gives fans a tangible connection to the show’s fictional world. These spots are sprinkled throughout Mdina, often hidden in plain sight, making the experience feel like a treasure hunt for TV fans and history buffs alike.

Rabat: Layers of History and Flavors

Next, we head to Rabat, just outside Mdina’s walls. This is where the tour truly shines for anyone interested in local life. Walking through Rabat’s lively streets, we visit St. Paul’s Collegiate Church and the Grotto, along with the catacombs, which reveal the early Christian past of the area.

What makes Rabat special on this tour is the chance to see less touristy neighborhoods. We pass local grocery stores, butchers, and wood-burning ovens, where the smell of fresh bread and roasted meats fills the air. Our guide keeps the stories flowing, telling us about traditional Maltese life, while we sample a variety of local delicacies—from pastizzi (flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas) to bragioli (beef olives) and rabbit stew, a true Maltese specialty.

Culinary Highlights and Tasting Experiences

One of the standout features of this tour is the food. We’re not just nibbling; we’re eating a full meal. The tour includes samples of Maltese strawberries, cheese, and desserts, complemented by local craft beers and Kinnie (a uniquely Maltese soft drink). We also get to try making our own ob biz-ejt, a type of Maltese fish pâté, which is a fun, hands-on experience.

The drinks are carefully selected to match each course, with two craft beers and red wine served to wash down the rabbit and bragioli. The guide explains the significance of each dish, offering cultural context that enriches the tasting experience.

The Balance of History, Food, and Film

The combination of walking, tasting, and storytelling makes this tour highly engaging. Enthusiasts of Game of Thrones will appreciate the chance to see filming spots, while food lovers will value the quality and authenticity of the cuisine.

According to reviews, guides like Chris and Carl are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer notes that their guide “knew all the local people and places,” which adds a personal touch to the experience.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour begins at 4:30 pm at Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Ir-Rabat, making it a perfect early evening activity. It’s a small group of up to 10 travelers, which enhances interaction and personalized attention.

Included are all food, drinks, and snacks, but note that entry to sites like churches or museums is not covered—this tour is about local life and flavors, not paid attractions.

The tour is accessible for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking through historic streets and some uneven terrain. The duration of about 3 hours 30 minutes** is well-paced, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers consistently mention the excellent value for money. For $112, you get a full meal, multiple drinks, and an intimate guided experience. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make the tour both fun and informative, elevating it beyond just a food walk.

While the cost might seem moderate, the inclusion of all food and drinks makes it a comprehensive experience—you won’t find many tours in Malta offering this much authentic cuisine and insight for the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a food lover eager to taste real Maltese dishes and want a local guide’s perspective, this tour is ideal. History buffs who enjoy seeing Game of Thrones filming locations will find plenty to capture their interest. Travelers seeking a small, intimate group experience will appreciate the personal attention.

On the flip side, if your primary goal is to visit churches, museums, or religious sites, you’ll need to plan additional excursions. Also, if walking is a challenge, consider your mobility before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Since the tour includes dishes like rabbit stew and bragioli, it may not be suitable for vegetarians. However, you might find alternative local delicacies if you ask ahead.

What is included in the price?
All food, snacks, desserts, and drinks—including alcohol—are included. You only need to cover personal expenses or additional entrance fees outside the tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, starting at 4:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are children allowed?
The tour is designed for adults and older children comfortable with walking and eating. No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but consider the physical activity involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time. A full refund is available if canceled in time, ensuring flexibility.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Is-Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar in Ir-Rabat and concludes there as well.

Is transportation included?
No, this is a walking tour, so be prepared to walk through the streets of Mdina and Rabat.

Final Thoughts

The Rabat and Mdina Food Tour offers a flavorful, insightful, and entertaining way to explore Malta’s historic towns. It’s perfect for foodies wanting to indulge in local delicacies, TV fans eager to see Game of Thrones filming spots, and small-group travelers seeking a personal guide’s insights.

Whether you’re savoring Maltese strawberries, exploring ancient catacombs, or simply wandering the silent city streets, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Malta’s soul. It’s a great value considering the amount of authentic food and cultural storytelling packed into just a few hours.

If you’re looking for a delicious, cultural, and fun way to spend an afternoon or early evening, this tour should be on your Malta list. Just come hungry, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable journey through Malta’s history, flavors, and film fame.