Discover Malta’s Charm with a Traditional Dinner and Folklore Show
If you’re looking to enjoy a taste of Malta’s vibrant culture without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets, this Maltese Traditional Dinner and Folklore Show with Transfers offers a compelling package. For around $77, you get a 3-hour evening in Mdina, featuring a 4-course local dinner, free-flowing Maltese wines, and a lively folk dance and music performance. The experience is centered at Ta’ Marija, a family-run restaurant that’s been serving Maltese cuisine since 1964, giving the meal an authentic, homey feel.
What we really like about this tour is the inclusive transport—you don’t need to worry about finding your way or navigating busy Maltese streets after a long day. Plus, the entertainment, with dancers in eighteenth-century costumes, adds a fun and educational layer, revealing the stories behind Malta’s traditional dances. Another highlight is the lively dance floor where you’re encouraged to join in after the show, making the night interactive.
A possible consideration is that the pickup and transfer experience can vary, with some reviews mentioning delays or discomfort during the journey. If you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike long rides in unair-conditioned vans, this might affect how much you enjoy the transport. Nonetheless, most find the overall atmosphere and food well worth the slight inconvenience.
This tour is best suited for travelers craving local flavor, authentic Maltese entertainment, and good value for money. Solo travelers, couples, or small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to meet others on the shared experience.
Key Points
- Inclusive Transfers: Hassle-free round-trip transport from multiple locations around Malta.
- Authentic Maltese Cuisine: Enjoy a four-course tasting menu prepared by seasoned chefs.
- Unlimited Drinks: Generous servings of local wines, water, and coffee are included.
- Cultural Entertainment: Folk music, traditional dances, and costumes provide a lively dive into Maltese tradition.
- Social Atmosphere: An opportunity to dance and join the performers on the illuminated floor.
- Mixed Feedback on Transportation: While most find the transfers convenient, a few reviews mention delays and uncomfortable rides.
Planning more time in Mdina? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
In-Depth Review of the Experience
The Venue: Ta’ Marija in Mdina
Your evening begins with a pick-up from various points like Mellieha, St. Julian’s, or Valletta, typically around 6:15 PM. The transportation is organized by the tour provider, V. Tabone Travel, ensuring you don’t have to figure out Malta’s narrow streets yourself. Once you arrive at Ta’ Marija, a restaurant with a long-standing reputation since 1964, you’re welcomed into a warm, family-run environment that instantly sets a friendly tone.
This restaurant is more than just a dining spot; it’s a cultural hub. The atmosphere combines traditional Maltese hospitality with a touch of history, which is reinforced by the eighteenth-century costumes worn by the performers. The tables are reserved for your group, fostering an intimate environment where you can relax and enjoy the show.
The Dinner: Maltese Flavors on a Plate
The 4-course tasting menu is a highlight—featuring local dishes that showcase Malta’s culinary identity. You’ll choose starters and mains upon arrival, with options that include exotic Maltese ingredients like horse meat stew and rabbit, as some guests note. Those with special dietary needs are advised to inform the organizers at booking.
Reviewers praise the generous portions and good quality of the food, with many saying it exceeded expectations. One guest mentioned that the dishes are exotic and authentic, providing a real taste of Malta’s cuisine, which is often overlooked by travelers. However, vegetarians might find the menu somewhat meat-centric, with only a couple of vegetarian options available.
The wines are a definite plus—unlimited local varieties are included, allowing you to sip leisurely and enjoy the evening without worry about extra costs. Coffee caps off the meal, giving you a chance to digest while you get ready for the entertainment.
The Folklore Show: Dance, Music, and Stories
As the meal winds down, the folk dance and music performance begins. Dressed in traditional costumes, the dancers perform lively routines that, according to some reviews, are both educational and entertaining. The show features guitar music and dance demonstrations that tell stories of Malta’s past.
Most guests find the show engaging, with descriptions of beautiful costumes and spirited performances. One reviewer notes that the story behind each dance adds an educational layer, making it more meaningful. After the show, the illuminated dance floor invites you to join in. Many take the chance to dance along to international classics, making it a lively, communal experience.
The Transport and Overall Logistics
Transport to and from the venue is generally well-organized, but not without hiccups. A few reviews mention long wait times—sometimes over an hour—during pickups, and in some cases, the drivers were reported to be unprofessional, with issues like no air conditioning or getting lost. These are important considerations if you’re sensitive to comfort or punctuality.
Most guests agree that the overall experience outweighs these minor inconveniences, especially given the value for money. The timing is generally well managed, with pickups starting around 6:15 PM and dinner around 7:30 PM, leaving enough time to enjoy both the meal and entertainment.
Authenticity and Value
What sets this tour apart is its authentic focus—the family-run restaurant, traditional costumes, and local cuisine all contribute to a genuine Maltese experience. The included drinks and entertainment make it feel like a full evening out, rather than a rushed tour.
Most reviews highlight the friendly service and cheerful atmosphere, with many guests remarking that it feels like dining among friends. The entertainment is lively and informative, making the experience both fun and educational.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is ideal for travelers eager to taste Malta’s traditional cuisine while enjoying a cultural show. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local food and don’t mind some variability in the transportation experience. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed, lively evening will find this a worthwhile outing.
Families with older children might also enjoy the dance and music—just keep in mind that some guests found the transport a little uncomfortable. If you’re a wine lover, the included unlimited Maltese wines make this tour even more appealing.
The Sum Up
This Maltese dinner and folklore show offers a wonderful snapshot of Malta’s culinary and cultural heritage. The inclusive transportation, delicious food, and entertaining show make it a very good value—especially considering the local wines and personalized atmosphere. While the transport can sometimes be less than perfect, most guests agree that the authenticity and friendliness make it a memorable experience.
If you’re looking to explore Malta’s traditions in a relaxed setting, this tour provides a fun, flavorful, and informative night out. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of local life, without the fuss of organizing every detail themselves. Just bring your appetite, a sense of adventure, and a readiness to dance.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transfers are provided from several locations around Malta, making logistics simple.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, from pickup to drop-off.
What is the price? The tour costs around $77.08 per person, including dinner, drinks, show, and transfers.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated? You can advise the organizers of special dietary needs at booking; vegetarian options may be limited.
What should I wear? Casual yet tidy attire is appropriate. If you plan to dance afterward, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Is the dinner suitable for vegetarians? The menu features primarily meat dishes, but vegetarian options might be available—confirm when booking.
What’s the quality of the entertainment? Most guests find the folk show lively and educational, with dancers in traditional costumes and local music.
How are the reviews overall? The experience averages around 4 out of 5 stars, with many praising the food, entertainment, and friendly atmosphere.
What if I don’t want to dance? That’s perfectly fine; you can relax and enjoy the show without participating.
Can solo travelers join? Yes, solo travelers are welcomed. Some reviews mention being seated with others or befriending fellow guests.
This tour provides an excellent way to connect with Malta’s traditions and cuisine in a lively, welcoming setting. With some minor transportation quirks, it remains a highly recommended evening for those seeking authentic Maltese hospitality.