Valletta stands out as a fantastic city for food tours thanks to its dense mix of historic sites, lively markets, and traditional eateries—all packed into a compact, walkable city. Its rich history is reflected in the culinary scene, with old recipes passed down through generations and a blend of Mediterranean influences. Whether you’re eager to sample local delicacies like pastizzi or explore the city’s vibrant street food culture, Valletta offers plenty of options. Our favorites include the Valletta: Street Food and Culture Walking Tour for its engaging mix of landmarks and tastings, and the Valletta Food Tour for its detailed exploration and small group intimacy. Both give you a real flavor of Malta, combined with historical insights and plenty of delicious bites.
When choosing a food tour in Valletta, consider what interests you most—are you after a quick overview of the city’s main sights combined with sampling, like the Valletta: Food Walking Tour with Tastings, or do you want a more in-depth experience of local drinks and hidden culinary spots, like the Valletta: Food and Culture Private Tour? The options range from quick, lively walks to extensive culinary adventures that include market visits, tastings of Maltese specialties, and insights into the city’s historic landmarks.
1. Valletta: Street Food and Culture Walking Tour
At number 1, we recommend the Valletta: Street Food and Culture Walking Tour, which earns a stellar 4.9/5 from over 1,000 reviews. This 3-hour tour combines visiting Valletta’s most iconic landmarks with tasting Malta’s best street foods. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll cross the city’s historic sites while learning about local food traditions. Highlights include sampling traditional Maltese sweets, street snacks, and local lager, all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Guests praise the guide’s charisma and deep knowledge, with many mentioning how engaging and personable the tour leader was, making history and food equally interesting. The tour’s value lies in its combination of a cultural walk with authentic tastings, making it perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of sweets and local beverages offers a true taste of Malta’s street culinary scene. Ideal for those who love a lively pace, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling paired with tasting. The only potential downside is that it’s a shorter, 3-hour experience, so if you want more culinary depth, consider one of the longer options below. Bottom line: A lively, engaging introduction to Valletta’s sights and flavors, highly recommended for first-timers.
2. Valletta Food Tour
At number 2, the Valletta Food Tour has a perfect 5-star rating from more than 600 reviews. This 3.5-hour walk emphasizes tasting truly local dishes while exploring Valletta on foot. Starting in Floriana, the tour moves through the city gates, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and historic streets, with visits to small, family-run eateries. You’ll sample both classic and contemporary Maltese dishes, like rabbit stew and local cheeses, alongside traditional sweets and drinks. What sets this tour apart is the small group size (limited to 10 people), ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests love the knowledgeable guides—like Karl or Chris—who sprinkle their commentary with personal stories and restaurant recommendations. The inclusive nature of the tour means no hidden costs—food and drinks are all covered—making it excellent value for money. The itinerary’s highlights, including panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and stories about Malta’s culinary influences, make this a well-rounded experience. Best suited for those who want a deeper dive into Maltese cuisine with historical context, this tour is ideal for foodies and history buffs alike. Bottom line: An excellent choice for intimate, flavorful explorations with a focus on both history and modern Maltese food.
3. Valletta: Maltese Food and Drink Guided Walking Tour
Number 3 offers the Valletta: Maltese Food and Drink Guided Walking Tour, which garners a strong 4.7/5 from 452 reviews. This 3-hour tour immerses you in the city’s culinary scene, sampling authentic Maltese food and drinks, such as kinnie soda and local wines. It’s a guided stroll through Valletta’s key landmarks, combining sightseeing with tasting stops at historic venues. What makes this tour special is the focus on regional influences—learn how Malta’s diverse history has shaped its cuisine—and the opportunity to enjoy regional specialties in their original settings. Guests appreciate the guide’s depth of knowledge and personable storytelling, which makes the history of Valletta come alive alongside the flavors. This tour is a good fit for travelers who want a balanced mix of landmarks, cultural insights, and a variety of tastings, making it a comprehensive introduction. The price point is reasonable, especially given the inclusion of drinks and the intimate group size. If you’re interested in understanding Malta’s drink culture alongside its food, this tour offers an engaging perspective. Bottom line: An informative and flavorful walk that blends history, culture, and authentic Maltese bites seamlessly.
4. Valletta: Food Walking Tour with Tastings
Number 4 on our list is the Valletta: Food Walking Tour with Tastings, which garners 4.9/5 based on 161 reviews. This 3.5-hour experience focuses on discovering Malta’s traditional dishes in a variety of local settings. You’ll stroll through Valletta’s streets, visiting family-run venues and local shops, sampling a wide range of savory and sweet treats, plus regional drinks. The tour is notable for its diversity—each stop offers a different flavor profile, from hearty Maltese dishes to sweet pastries and refreshing drinks. Guests highlight the friendly guide and the chance to taste food prepared as it’s cooked at home—an authentic experience. The itinerary emphasizes cultural storytelling along with the tasting, giving a well-rounded view of Maltese cuisine. Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a comprehensive, relaxed food experience with enough time to explore the city’s atmosphere. The 3.5-hour duration makes it a good option for those with limited time but who want to maximize flavor and local charm. Bottom line: A versatile, authentic food walk that offers a broad taste of Malta’s culinary traditions.
5. Malta: 5 hr Vintage Bus Tour – Mdina & Blue Grotto inc. food
Number 5 is the Malta: 5 hr Vintage Bus Tour, which offers a scenic way to see Malta’s highlights in comfort. This 5-hour tour is especially appealing for those who want to combine sightseeing with food sampling. It includes visits to Marsaxlokk fishing village, the Blue Grotto, Dingli Cliffs, and the ancient city of Mdina, with stops for free time and food tasting at Siggiewi. The tour is led by Daniel, who is praised for his friendly manner and knowledge, making the experience lively and informative. Guests love how much they see in a short time, with the bus offering a relaxing way to cover more ground. The included food tasting in Siggiewi adds a culinary element that complements the sightseeing. Since it’s a half-day tour with a balanced itinerary, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Malta’s scenery plus local flavors—like fresh seafood and traditional snacks—without a full-day commitment. The only consideration is that it’s a bus tour, so those seeking more walking or hands-on food experiences might prefer other options. Bottom line: A practical, scenic way to combine Malta’s top sights with some regional flavors.
6. Valletta: Food and Culture Private Tour
Number 6 offers a private, tailored experience with the Valletta: Food and Culture Private Tour. For up to 2 people, this 3-hour tour is ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and personalized attention. Your guide introduces you to Valletta’s culinary scene featuring traditional Maltese specialties like pastizzi and rabbit, along with exploring the city’s landmarks. What makes this private experience stand out is the ability to customize the route and focus on specific interests, whether it’s food, history, or hidden corners. Guests appreciate the intimate, flexible format and the guide’s deep knowledge, which makes for a very engaging experience. While the price is higher—$386 for up to 2 people—it’s an excellent value for those wanting a private, focused, and immersive way to enjoy Valletta’s cuisine and sights. It’s best suited for couples or small groups who want a bespoke experience without the crowds. The main drawback might be the cost, which is steep for solo travelers or larger groups. Bottom line: A personalized, luxurious way to explore Valletta’s food scene at your own pace.
7. The Ultimate Valletta Food and Market Tour
Number 7 ranks as the most comprehensive, with a The Ultimate Valletta Food and Market Tour. Priced at $136 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure offers a deep dive into Malta’s culinary landscape, focusing on local flavors and the vibrant food market scene. You’ll sample a wide variety of regional dishes, desserts, and drinks, experiencing the full spectrum of what Malta has to offer. The tour emphasizes tasting in the busiest, most authentic market environment, helping you understand how Maltese ingredients come together in everyday life. Guests mention the richness of flavors and the opportunity to bring home new favorites. The guide’s expertise ensures you learn about Maltese food influences while enjoying generous tastings. This tour suits travelers with a serious appetite for food, wanting a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at Malta’s culinary culture. It’s great for those wanting a culinary adventure that’s both informative and delicious. The only caution: it’s a longer, more intensive experience, so pace yourself if you prefer gentle strolls. Bottom line: An in-depth, flavorful exploration perfect for food lovers eager to learn about Malta’s local ingredients and market culture.
$136 per person
8. Valletta: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local
Rounding out the list is Valletta: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local. Although reviews are not specified, the experience focuses on savoring traditional delicacies at least four eateries, guided by a local who shares insights into Valletta’s food scene. It’s a 3-hour tour designed to give a different perspective on the city through its food and drinks, with visits to historic eateries, trendy restaurants, and famous shops. This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a community-focused experience that emphasizes authentic, everyday Maltese food. It’s a relaxed walk that balances sightseeing with tasting, suitable for those wanting to explore Valletta’s culinary landscape without a rigid schedule. The appeal is the chance to discover “off-the-beaten-path” venues with a local guide, making it a good option for more adventurous eaters. The limited details mean it’s best for those who prefer spontaneous, informal experiences. Bottom line: A personable, authentic food journey led by a local, ideal for curious travelers wanting to experience Malta’s everyday food scene.
$77 per person
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Valletta
Choosing the right food tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a quick, lively introduction, the Street Food and Culture Walking Tour offers a perfect mix of landmarks and bites. For those wanting a deeper dive into Malta’s culinary traditions with a small-group setting, the Valletta Food Tour provides a thorough exploration with excellent reviews. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Maltese Food and Drink Guided Tour, which balances affordability with rich experiences.
If you’re seeking a customized, private outing, the Private Food and Culture Tour offers exclusivity—ideal for couples or small groups. For those who want to see Malta’s scenic highlights along with tasting, the Vintage Bus Tour combines sightseeing with regional flavors in a relaxed way.
Finally, for the most comprehensive experience, the Valletta Food and Market Tour dives into Malta’s local ingredients and bustling markets. Consider your travel style—whether you prioritize depth, affordability, or personalized service—to pick the perfect tour.
Final Thoughts
Valletta’s food scene offers something for every traveler interested in authentic Maltese flavors. If you want a lively, social introduction, the Street Food and Culture Walking Tour is a great choice. For a more in-depth, small-group experience that explores local dishes and drinks in detail, the Valletta Food Tour shines. Those seeking a private, tailored experience or a scenic day that combines sightseeing with tasting will find excellent options in the private and bus tours respectively.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early is advisable—Valletta’s culinary adventures tend to fill up fast, especially during the busy season. Whichever route you choose, expect to leave with a full belly, a new appreciation for Maltese cuisine, and plenty of stories to share back home.