Naxxar is a surprisingly lively hub for exploring Malta’s diverse landscapes, cultural highlights, and culinary traditions. Its central location makes it perfect for discovering both nature and history, all without the crowds you’ll find in more tourist-heavy spots. Among the options, we really like the private Blue Grotto and Mdina tour for its combination of scenic views, historical sites, and local culture. The experience offers a flexible, personalized way to see Malta’s highlights, including the Blue Grotto and Mdina, with the added bonus of hotel pickup and a dedicated chauffeur. It’s a great mix if you want a comfortable, informative outing that hits the main sights without the rush. For more details, check out the Malta: Blue Grotto, Dingli, Rabat, Mdina, Ta Qali & Mosta tour.
Naxxar’s position also makes it ideal for exploring Malta’s charming villages and traditional lifestyles. If you’re curious about authentic local life, the Local Villages Tour takes you through Mellieha, Mgarr, and other quaint spots, offering spectacular views and picturesque streets. And for those interested in Maltese cuisine, the Rabbit Cooking Class provides a hands-on way to learn a beloved local dish—perfect for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
Here’s a quick overview of the top tours in Naxxar:
- A comprehensive private tour covering Malta’s top highlights (more info)
- An authentic village exploration focusing on rural charm and scenery (more info)
- A culinary experience learning how to cook traditional Maltese rabbit dishes (more info)
1. Malta: Blue Grotto, Dingli, Rabat, Mdina, Ta Qali & Mosta
For around $148 per group, up to four people, this private tour offers a full but flexible look at Malta’s most iconic sights. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting with the famous Blue Grotto, where you can take a boat ride through shimmering sea caves (the boat ride is a highlight). Afterward, the journey continues to Dingli Cliffs, where the views of Malta’s rugged coastline are truly impressive, especially at sunset. The tour then moves to Rabat, home to ancient catacombs and lively street life, before heading into Mdina, Malta’s silent city, with its narrow streets and scenic vistas. A visit to Ta Qali crafts village allows you to see traditional artisans at work, creating delicate glassware and ceramics, while the stop at Mosta features the spectacular dome church with a story of resilience after WWII.
Guests consistently praise the flexibility and depth of this tour, noting that it hits a good mix of Malta’s scenic, historic, and cultural highlights. The driver-guide is knowledgeable and helpful, and the private car means you can customize your experience. Reviewers mention that the tour provides a good balance, with enough time at each stop to explore or relax. The Blue Grotto boat ride and Mdina are especially popular, often cited as must-see highlights.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a personalized, scenic, and historical overview of Malta, with the convenience of hotel pickup. It’s best suited for those who prefer a flexible, private experience without rushing through sights.
2. Local Villages Tour – Mellieha, Mosta, Naxxar & Mgarr
This 4-hour tour costs about $148 per group of up to four people and offers a slower-paced experience focused on Malta’s rural charm. The tour explores Mellieha, known for its long sandy beach and central square, ideal for soaking in local life and architecture. The highlight here is the Rotunda Church of Mosta, famous for its enormous round dome, which was struck by a bomb during WWII but remarkably remained intact. Naxxar itself features narrow streets and traditional houses, perfect for wandering and appreciating authentic village life. The final stop, Mgarr, is an agricultural village surrounded by vineyards and farmland, giving visitors a taste of Malta’s countryside.
Tour guests appreciate how this outing combines scenic views with quiet, picturesque streets. The tour guide shares insights about local traditions, farming, and history, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Especially for travelers interested in experiencing Malta’s hidden, less-touristy side, this tour offers plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed exploration.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a leisurely, scenic trip through Malta’s countryside and villages, this tour provides a wonderful taste of rural life and stunning coastal views, with the convenience of a small-group experience.
3. Malta: Traditional Maltese Rabbit Cooking Class
At just $96 per person, this 3.5-hour hands-on cooking class is perfect for food lovers eager to learn about Maltese cuisine. Led by local hosts Kris & Denise, you’ll help prepare a classic rabbit stew, a dish deeply rooted in Maltese tradition. The experience begins with a tour of the family’s kitchen, where you’ll learn about ingredients like fresh herbs, local olive oil, and traditional spices. As you cook, the hosts share stories and insights about Maltese food culture.
Once the meal is prepared, you’ll sit down to enjoy your homemade rabbit stew, along with a homemade dessert and two side dishes. Many reviews highlight the warmth and friendliness of the hosts, as well as the quality of the ingredients—often connected to the family’s own farm or garden. Guests rave about the authenticity and flavor of the dishes, describing this class as a memorable cultural experience.
This tour is especially suited for adventurous eaters and those interested in culinary traditions, offering a genuine taste of Malta’s home-style cooking. The personal connection with local hosts makes it stand out from more generic cooking classes.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, interactive experience that ends with a delicious meal you helped prepare, this cooking class provides a tasty and authentic introduction to Maltese food.
How to Choose Your Perfect Malta Tour
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. If you’re after a rundown with scenic views and history, the Malta: Blue Grotto, Dingli, Rabat, Mdina, Ta Qali & Mosta private tour offers excellent value for a half-day. For travelers who prefer a laid-back exploration of authentic villages, the Local Villages Tour is ideal, especially if you enjoy picture-perfect streets and scenic countryside. Food enthusiasts should consider the Maltese Rabbit Cooking Class for a culinary adventure that’s as fun as it is delicious.
When choosing, consider your budget, timing, and personal interests. The private tour offers flexibility and highlights a broad spectrum of Malta’s best, while the village tour provides a slower, more intimate look at rural Malta. The cooking class is perfect for a hands-on, cultural experience that leaves you with new skills and a full belly.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. The private tour can be tailored to your preferences, and culinary classes tend to fill up quickly—so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts
Naxxar and the surrounding Maltese region offer a range of engaging tours that cater to different interests. Whether you want a private sightseeing experience, a relaxed village stroll, or a hands-on culinary adventure, there’s something for all. We recommend the Blue Grotto and Mdina tour for a comprehensive, scenic overview, or the Village tour if you prefer authentic, tranquil settings. Food lovers should not miss the chance to learn how to cook traditional Maltese rabbit.
Whatever you choose, booking in advance will help you secure your spot for these memorable experiences. Malta’s charm isn’t just in its sights but in its stories, flavors, and local hospitality—so pick the tour that best matches your curiosity and enjoy every moment.