Scenic Tour by Vintage Bus to Buskett Garden & Dingli Cliffs

Scenic Tour by Vintage Bus to Buskett Garden & Dingli Cliffs

If you’re looking for a relaxed, visually striking way to see some of Malta’s most impressive natural and historic sights, this Vintage Bus Tour could be just what you need. Starting with a trip to Palazzo Falson in Mdina, continuing to the highest point in Malta at Dingli Cliffs, and ending in the peaceful Buskett Gardens, this half-day experience combines history, nature, and a touch of nostalgia.

At around five hours, it’s perfect for those who want a taste of Malta’s layered past without spending the entire day on the road. The charming 1928 vintage bus adds a unique flavor to the trip, making it stand out from more modern, rushed tours. With knowledgeable guides, you can expect to learn interesting stories along the way, all while enjoying some of Malta’s most breathtaking vistas.

Two aspects we particularly love are the drive to Malta’s highest point—the sweeping views across the island—and the opportunity to explore Palazzo Falson, a well-preserved medieval residence full of character and history. The inclusion of a coffee break with Maltese Frolla makes it a comfortably paced experience, not just a sightseeing marathon.

A potential consideration might be the group size or the vintage nature of the bus, which could be less comfortable for some travelers used to modern vehicles. Also, because the tour is about five hours, those with limited mobility might want to check if all sites are easily accessible.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, stunning landscapes, and a touch of Maltese history—all while traveling comfortably on a nostalgic vintage bus. If you’re eager to see Malta’s scenic overlooks and historical sites in a relaxed, engaging way, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic vintage bus experience adds a nostalgic charm to the tour.
• Stunning panoramic views from Dingli Cliffs are a highlight, especially the sight of Filfla.
• Palazzo Falson provides a well-preserved glimpse into medieval Maltese aristocratic life.
• Buskett Gardens offer a peaceful retreat, especially beautiful in spring.
• Guide-led explanations make the experience more informative and engaging.
• Included coffee and Maltese Frolla offer a tasty, local touch to the visit.

A Deep Dive into the Malta Vintage Bus Tour

Malta is a small island packed with history, scenic landscapes, and surprises around every corner. This tour offers a curated glimpse into that diversity, with an emphasis on comfort, authenticity, and sharing Malta’s visual and cultural treasures on a vintage bus that’s almost as old as some of the sites you’ll visit.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Starting Point: Palazzo Falson in Mdina
Your journey begins in Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city. The highlight here is Palazzo Falson, a 13th-century residence built on the site of La Rocca, a defensive structure dating back to the Arab period, with Roman roots prior to 870 AD. The building’s stone walls and period furnishings give you a real sense of Malta’s layered past. As one reviewer noted, the explanations provided are very detailed, allowing you to take your time exploring this historic house.

The visit to Palazzo Falson includes an entrance fee and is complemented by a coffee break here, where you can enjoy authentic Maltese Frolla (a flaky pastry) along with your coffee. This small break offers a chance to savor local flavors and reflect on what you’ve seen so far.

Next Stop: Dingli Cliffs
From Mdina, you’ll be driven to Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cliffs rise dramatically above the sea, with the Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene perched on the rocks, adding a charming, spiritual touch. Built in the 17th century, this chapel is just as much a landmark as the cliffs themselves.

Here, you’ll have opportunities to snap photos of Filfla, a tiny uninhabited islet visible from the cliffs—something that captures the essence of Malta’s rugged beauty. One guest described the view as spectacular, and it’s easy to see why; the sweeping sea vistas and sheer cliffs leave a lasting impression.

Final Stop: Buskett Gardens
The last destination is Buskett Gardens, located in the fertile valley of Wied il-Luq in Siggiewi. These gardens are especially lush in spring but offer shade and tranquility year-round. Located on the grounds of Verdala Palace—the President’s official residence—they are a peaceful spot for a gentle walk and a chance to enjoy Malta’s countryside.

Visitors describe the gardens as quiet and beautiful, and in winter, it’s a welcome escape from the busier tourist spots. Walking here allows for a moment of calm and appreciation of Malta’s agricultural heritage.

The Vintage Bus Experience

Traveling on a 1928 vintage bus provides more than just transportation; it’s a moving piece of Malta’s history. Passengers often find the ride not too bad despite the bus’s age, and it adds a nostalgic touch that modern coaches lack. Some reviews mention that the guide’s narration keeps you engaged, making the journey feel more like a shared adventure than a simple transfer.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guide and Commentary

Guides like Mario (mentioned in reviews) receive praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Their stories make the sites come alive, especially when explaining the history behind Mdina’s walls or the significance of the cliffs. This personal touch enriches the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Practical Details and Value

The cost is reasonable considering the transportation, guide services, entrance fees, and the included refreshments. You get a well-rounded look at Malta’s scenery and history without the hassle of organizing individual visits or navigating on your own.

The tour’s duration—about five hours—strikes a good balance between seeing enough and not feeling rushed. Pickup is included, and you can reserve with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy a touch of history and nature. It suits those with an interest in historic buildings, scenic vistas, and authentic Maltese flavors like Frolla and Kinnie (mentioned by a reviewer). The nostalgic bus ride adds a special charm, perfect for those who appreciate vintage or quirky experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This vintage Malta tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, historic sites, and local flavor. The guided narrative makes each stop more meaningful, and the comfortable pacing allows you to soak in the views without feeling hurried. It’s a great choice for travelers who want an authentic, visually stunning, and relaxed introduction to Malta’s highlights.

If you’re a fan of history, scenic overlooks, and enjoy unique transportation experiences, you’ll likely find this tour a real treat. The inclusion of local snacks and coffee adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it more than a simple sightseeing trip.

For those who like to explore at a comfortable, engaging pace while soaking in Malta’s natural beauty and history, this vintage bus tour hits the right notes. Just remember that the vintage bus means a more nostalgic and possibly less modern ride, which can be part of the charm or a drawback depending on your preferences.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, making it a perfect half-day outing to see Malta’s scenic and historic highlights.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Palazzo Falson in Mdina, drive to Dingli Cliffs, and walk through Buskett Gardens. Each site offers a different aspect of Malta’s landscape and history.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation on the vintage bus, with pickup from your hotel or a nearby point.

Are there any food or drink options?
Yes, a coffee break with Maltese Frolla is included at Palazzo Falson, and guides recommend trying local flavors like Kinnie and Pastici.

Is the vintage bus comfortable?
Most reviewers say the bus is “not too bad,” and the nostalgic charm is a plus. However, those sensitive to older vehicles might want to consider this aspect.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich snapshot of Malta that’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxed exploration, historic ambiance, and spectacular views—all wrapped up in a charming vintage ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: