Malta is a wonderful place for food lovers. Its small size means you can explore a multitude of flavors in a compact area, with influences from Sicily, North Africa, and the Mediterranean blending into a unique local cuisine. What sets Malta apart for food tours is the chance to enjoy authentic bites while absorbing the history and culture of the islands. Whether it’s sampling Pastizzi in Valletta, tasting Ftira bread, or enjoying a Pirate Boat Party with drinks and snacks, Malta offers a wide variety of options for every palate. One of our favorites is the Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour, which combines delicious street eats with a deep dive into the city’s history.
Our list highlights tours that are perfect for those wanting a taste of local life, some focusing on private experiences, others on lively group outings. We’ve included options that cater to different budgets, levels of activity, and interests — from culinary walking tours and historical explorations to evening folklore shows with food.
1. The Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour
At number 1, the Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour offers an excellent introduction for those who want to taste Malta’s essential street foods while soaking in the city’s sights. For around $63, you’ll spend about 3 hours walking through Valletta’s historic streets, tasting local specialties like Pastizzi and Ftira, and enjoying drinks like Kinnie and local beer. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of delicious bites and cultural storytelling, with visits to Upper Barrakka Gardens, Castille Square, and the Merchant Street Market.
Guests consistently praise the engaging guides—”Ernest’s passion for Maltese history and cuisine makes the experience unforgettable,” said one reviewer. The tour is perfect for budget travelers who want to keep costs down without sacrificing authenticity or depth. Because it starts at a convenient location and ends with free time to explore, it’s a flexible option for most schedules. Keep in mind, this tour is quite filling, so consider skipping a big breakfast beforehand.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, in-depth taste of Valletta’s street food scene with a good dose of local history, this tour is hard to beat for value and charm.
2. Valletta Food Tour – Eat like a local
Coming in at number 2, the Valletta Food Tour – Eat like a local combines food with cultural insight in an intimate setting. For about $52, this approximately 3-hour tour limits participation to 15 people, ensuring a more personal experience. Your guide takes you through the city’s vibrant food spots, introducing you to Maltese cuisine’s influences and traditions, with plenty of local snacks included.
Reviews highlight the lively storytelling—”Julia’s passion for Maltese food and history brought the city alive,” one traveler shared. This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a small-group experience with more interaction and personalized attention. It’s also well-suited for first-timers eager to learn about how Malta’s history shaped its food, all while tasting a variety of treats. The inclusion of multiple tastings makes this a good value for a 3-hour experience, though some might find it a little crowded at stops.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a small, engaging group with a focus on Maltese flavors and history, this tour provides both in one package.
3. The Valletta Food Tour Experience, a private tour
For those seeking a more tailored experience, the Private Valletta Food Tour offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace. At $196.59 per person, it provides a 3.5-hour personalized culinary journey through Valletta’s main landmarks and hidden corners. Your guide, Mariella, customizes the experience based on your interests and dietary preferences, ensuring you sample Malta’s best along the way.
This tour stands out for its flexibility—whether you’re a foodie eager to discover local delicacies or a history buff wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting, it adapts to you. Reviews rave about Mariella’s knowledge—”She helped us understand Malta through its food and history,” said one guest. Because it’s private, it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: If privacy and customization are priorities, this tour offers a thorough and flexible introduction to Valletta’s culinary scene.
4. Private Valletta Food Tour
Number 4, the Private Valletta Food Tour, is ideal for travelers who want undivided attention from their guide. For a group up to four, at $499.01, you get about 3 hours exploring Valletta’s food and sights. This tour offers great flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to your tastes and interests. You’ll visit key landmarks while sampling Maltese dishes, all with the benefit of a private guide who can answer questions and suggest personalized stops.
Guests mention how knowledgeable Matthew is—”He made the history come alive while showcasing Malta’s flavors,” one reviewer notes. Since it’s private, it’s well-suited for those who prefer a slower pace or have specific dietary needs. The main advantage is getting a customized, intimate experience, though it’s pricier than group options.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, flexible introduction to Valletta’s food and culture, this private tour is hard to beat if you’re traveling with a small group.
5. Malta: Lazy Pirate Boat Party with Drinks & Food
Number 5 takes a different approach—the Lazy Pirate Boat Party combines fun, music, and seaside dining. For $78, you get a lively 5-hour cruise from Sliema with unlimited drinks, snacks, and fruit, plus a moonlit swim. The boat is an energetic environment, with a DJ spinning tunes and plenty of opportunities for socializing.
While reviews vary—“The music and atmosphere make this a memorable evening,” one says—it’s less about food and more about the experience. The snacks are simple, but the highlight is the lively party atmosphere and stunning views of the coast at sunset or under the stars.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a festive night out with drinks, dancing, and a splash of the Mediterranean sea, rather than a culinary immersion.
$78 per person
6. Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour
At number 6, the Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour offers a charming blend of walking, local eats, and historical sights. For $80.64, over about 3.5 hours, you’ll explore two picturesque towns with a licensed guide. The tour includes tasting pastizzi, enjoying local drinks like Kinnie, and visiting landmarks such as Mdina’s aristocratic palaces and Rabat’s catacombs.
Guests praise the mix of culinary delights and cultural sights—”Our guide made history come alive with stories and tastings,” says one reviewer. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine food with sightseeing in a relaxed setting. The walking is manageable, and the stops are well spaced, making it easy for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: A delightful mix of history and local flavors, great for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace and want a taste of two iconic towns.
7. The Food & History Private Tour of Malta
Number 7, the Food & History Private Tour is a comprehensive 4- to 5-hour experience in Mdina, Rabat, and Mosta. For $160.49 per person, it combines sightseeing with tasting Maltese dishes, including breakfast, lunch, and a sweet dessert with liquor. Your private guide shares insights into local traditions, enriching your understanding while you sample Maltese ravioli, rabbit dishes, and more.
Guests mention that the tour is very personalized—”Catherine knew exactly what we wanted and tailored the stops,” one review states. It’s perfect for those who want an all-encompassing day covering multiple towns, with flexibility to focus on what interests you most. Because it’s private, it’s an excellent option for families or couples who want a customized experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a full day of culinary and culture with complete flexibility, this private tour provides a rich, tailored experience.
8. Maltese Folklore Night Tour incl. food and drinks
Rounding out our list at number 8, the Folklore Night Tour offers an evening of traditional dance, local dishes, and lively entertainment. At $72 for about 4.5 hours, you’ll enjoy folkloric performances with traditional costumes and storytelling, complemented by a meal in a family-run restaurant.
Reviews note the fun atmosphere—“The dancing and music made it a memorable night,” says one. The food is described as “really tasty,” though some mention the service can be a little rushed. It’s suitable for families or travelers wanting a cultural experience combined with hearty Maltese food.
Bottom Line: A fun, family-friendly way to experience Maltese culture through dance and food in a relaxed evening setting.
9. Rabat and Mdina Food Tour
Finally, the Rabat and Mdina Food Tour offers a comprehensive look at both towns on a 3.5-hour journey. For $112, you’ll walk their streets, see filming locations from Game of Thrones, and taste local specialties like pastizzi and rabbit stew. The tour is well-reviewed for its mix of history, scenery, and food—“Darrell’s knowledge and friendliness made it special,” said a recent guest.
It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine a sightseeing itinerary with authentic food tasting, especially if they’re fans of Malta’s cinematic spots. The tour balances walking with enough time to relax and enjoy the flavors.
Bottom Line: For a combination of cinematic scenery, culinary delights, and cultural insight, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Malta
When picking your perfect tour, consider your budget, how much walking you’re comfortable with, and whether you want a private or group experience. For example, if you love small-group intimacy, the Valletta Food Tour – Eat like a local is ideal. For those wanting a completely customized day, the Private Valletta Food Tour is a great choice.
If your main goal is a lively night out, the Lazy Pirate Boat Party offers fun, drinks, and sea views. For a cultural flavor with a touch of history, the Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour provides a relaxed, scenic experience. Budget travelers will love the Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour, which packs a lot of flavor for a reasonable price.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak travel months, to secure spots on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Malta offers a spectrum of culinary experiences that reveal both its rich history and lively present. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided private adventure or a fun group outing with lively music and drinks, the options are plentiful. For a deep dive into local flavors and stories, tours like the Valletta Street Food and Culture Walking Tour or the Mdina and Rabat Food and History Tour are perfect.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance guarantees you’ll secure a spot. So, pick the tour that best matches your interests and let Malta’s food and culture surprise you. Happy eating!