Birkirkara is a surprising spot for drinking tours. While known for its charming streets and historic sites, it also boasts some of Malta’s top breweries, making it a great place to learn about local beer culture. What really stands out are the self-guided experiences that give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially at the iconic Farsons Brewery. For example, the Birkirkara: The Farsons Brewery Entry Ticket and Beer Flight offers a flexible way to taste freshly brewed beers while soaking in the brewery’s history. We love that you can enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop bar, The Cisk Tap, after sampling a variety of beers. This tour combines a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of educational moments, making it perfect for those who prefer to go at their own pace.
Birkirkara’s breweries offer a blend of history, great beer, and stunning views. Whether you’re after a quick visit or a longer tasting session, you’ll find options suited to different interests and schedules. Keep reading for our top picks, each with its own unique appeal, so you can choose the one that best fits your Maltese adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features four excellent drinking tours in Birkirkara, all centered around Malta’s leading brewer, Farsons. They range from self-guided visits to more comprehensive experiences with tasting sessions and even transportation. Some tours focus solely on beer tastings and brewery history, like the Birkirkara: The Farsons Brewery Entry Ticket and Beer Flight, rated 4.7/5. Others include additional features such as visits to a microbrewery or offering transport from major hotels, like The Brewery Experience and beer tasting including transport, rated 5/5. Read on to find the perfect fit for your Maltese beer journey.
1. Birkirkara: The Farsons Brewery Entry Ticket and Beer Flight
At number 1, this self-exploratory tour of Farsons Brewery offers a relaxed way to dive into Malta’s most famous brews. The ticket grants access to the historic 1950s brewery, where you can wander at your own pace and learn about the story behind Malta’s beloved beer brands. The experience includes a visit to the brewing hall and the rooftop terrace at The Cisk Tap, where you can enjoy panoramic views while tasting a selection of freshly brewed beers.
What makes this tour special is its self-guided format, complemented by informative audio options. Reviewers praise the ability to take your time and appreciate the exhibits without feeling rushed. The rooftop bar, with its sweeping views, is often highlighted as a favorite spot to relax with a cold beer. The staff is friendly and helpful, and many mention that the sampling at the end is both well-explained and generous.
This tour is ideal for beer lovers who enjoy autonomy and want to soak in the local brewing scene at their own pace. The price offers excellent value considering the access and tastings, making it one of the top-rated options in Birkirkara.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who value flexibility and want to explore Malta’s premier brewery behind the scenes, all while enjoying great views and a cold beer.
2. Brewery Experience with Beer Tasting and Optional Transport
Coming in at number 2, this self-guided tour of Farsons Brewery with tastings offers an even more flexible experience. Priced at just $17 per person, it emphasizes the ability to explore at your own pace over 1.5 to 2.5 hours. It’s a perfect choice if you want a budget-friendly yet informative brewery visit.
This tour also focuses on Malta’s most popular beers, with a chance to learn about the brewing process in the historic hall. The highlight — aside from the tastings — is the rooftop terrace where you can enjoy the views of the brewery and sample freshly brewed beers. Unlike more guided experiences, this option lets you take your time, making it suitable for curious travelers who enjoy their own rhythm.
The reviews emphasize how well-suited this tour is for independent explorers. Many mention the convenience of the self-guided format and appreciate the quality of the beers sampled. While it doesn’t include a guided commentary, it compensates with flexibility and affordability.
Bottom Line: Best suited for budget-conscious visitors who want a relaxed, self-paced brewery visit with authentic tastings and scenic views.
3. Farsons Brewery Experience & The Chapels Gastrobrewpub
At number 3, this comprehensive tour combines a visit to the historic brewery with a stop at The Chapels Gastrobrewpub. Priced at $43 per person and lasting around 3 hours, it delves deeper into Malta’s brewing traditions with a focus on craft beers and innovative flavors.
This experience offers a guided tour of the brewery, showcasing how decades of brewing innovation have kept Cisk at the top. You’ll enjoy tasting award-winning beers and a half-pint of The Chapel’s own crafted brew, paired with local snacks or small bites. The tour is particularly appealing for those interested in craft beer culture and the brewing process.
Guests mention the killer views from The Cisk Tap and the engaging narrative about Malta’s beer legacy. The on-site microbrewery allows you to see the future of Maltese brewing, making this a great option for beer enthusiasts who want a more in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an educational tour combined with great beer tasting and a taste of craft brewing in a social setting.
$43 per person
4. The Brewery Experience and Beer Tasting Including Transport
Finally, at number 4, this premium experience offers an all-inclusive day out. For around 3 hours, you’ll learn about Malta’s favorite Cisk beers in the historic Farsons Brewery, all while enjoying tastings from the rooftop bar. The key feature? Transport from major hotels and tourist areas is included, making logistics a breeze.
This tour is designed for those who want a seamless experience with minimal planning. You’ll get a guided audio tour—so it’s not fully self-guided—and the convenience of transportation adds significant value. Many reviews praise how smooth the entire process is, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport or those who prefer a more structured approach.
The highlight, aside from the beer tastings and brewery exploration, is the transport service that takes you directly from your hotel. This makes it perfect for travelers who want to maximize time and comfort. The sampled beers and panoramic views at The Cisk Tap round out a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a hassle-free, guided brewery visit with transportation included, especially if you’re short on time or prefer convenience.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Birkirkara
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, preferred pace, and interest level. If you enjoy independent exploration and want the best value, the self-guided tours are hard to beat. For a more immersive experience, the full brewery tour with tastings and craft beers offers a deeper dive into Malta’s brewing traditions. If convenience and minimal planning are your priorities, the all-inclusive experience with transport is ideal.
Timing also matters—most tours run throughout the day, but check availability in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking early guarantees a spot, especially for the highly-rated options.
Final Thoughts
Birkirkara offers a diverse array of beer tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you prefer self-guided visits, detailed guided experiences, or all-inclusive transport packages, Malta’s leading brewery has something to offer. For those who love authentic stories, scenic views, and cold beers, these tours provide just the right mix.
If you’re a casual traveler wanting a quick taste of Malta’s beer culture, the self-guided Entry Ticket and Beer Flight is a fantastic start. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the brewery and craft beer tour provides deeper insights. And if ease and comfort are your priorities, the transport-inclusive experience makes for a relaxed day of tasting and learning.
Whichever you choose, Malta’s brewing scene in Birkirkara is worth exploring — so book early and prepare to enjoy some of the best beers Malta has to offer.