Rabat Malta offers an excellent mix of history, culture, and local flavor, making it an ideal spot for a variety of guided tours. Its narrow streets, ancient sites, and proximity to Mdina provide a rich backdrop for exploring in ways that go beyond just wandering on your own. Whether you’re after an intimate glimpse of Malta’s hidden corners or a deep dive into its historic past, Rabat’s tours cater to diverse interests.
One of the most unique options is the Discover Malta by Tuk-Tuk: Tours around Rabat and Dingli, which offers a fun, eco-friendly way to see the area without tiring your feet. For food lovers, the Mdina and Rabat Food Tour combines delicious local bites with sightseeing, perfect for those who want to taste the island’s flavors alongside its history. History enthusiasts will appreciate the St. Paul’s Catacombs & Domvs Romana Combo Ticket, which reveals Malta’s early Christian roots and Roman aristocratic life.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top tours in Rabat, helping you choose the right experience for your interests and schedule.
1. Discover Malta by Tuk-Tuk: Tours around Rabat and Dingli
This tuk-tuk tour is a lively way to explore Malta’s lesser-seen corners, including Rabat, Mdina, and Dingli Cliffs. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed ride rather than long walks, especially in the Maltese heat. The tour includes a guided journey through narrow, winding roads that car tours might miss, giving you access to charming hidden spots and panoramic views.
One of the big draws is the personalized small-group setting—maximum four people—which ensures you get tailored attention from your driver-guide. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a great option for a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Malta’s local scenery and history. Reviews highlight the passion of the guide, Niki, who shares insights about Malta’s past and present, and the experience is often described as fun and informative. Many travelers also enjoy the opportunity for a local tasting, depending on availability, which adds a flavorful touch to the trip.
The tour is especially suited for those who want to cover more ground comfortably and in style. The price is reasonable at $37 per person, offering excellent value for the intimacy and local perspective you gain.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, engaging ride that combines local sights and flavors with the chance to ask questions, this tuk-tuk tour is a winner.
2. Malta: Mdina and Rabat Food Tour
This food-focused tour takes you through the historic streets of Mdina and Rabat, introducing you to Malta’s culinary traditions. Over approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll visit local hotspots where the locals eat, sampling dishes like Pastizz, rabbit stew, bragioli, and imqaret, along with regional wine and beer. It’s a delightful way to pair gourmet bites with cultural insights.
Your experienced guide will illuminate Malta’s culinary history while leading you through landmarks that include the ancient capital of Mdina and charming Rabat. Highlights include tasting local snacks, exploring 3000-year-old streets, and discovering the stories behind each dish. The stop at the Crystal Palace Bar sets the stage for a true Maltese experience, and the tour wraps up with dinner and wine tastings.
Guests praise the guide, Christine, for her knowledge and the generous portion sizes, emphasizing how the tour combines history, culture, and authentic flavors seamlessly. This experience is ideal if you enjoy learning about a place through its food and want a leisurely, social outing.
Value for money is high at $77, given the number of tastings, guided insights, and exclusive visits. It’s suited for foodies and history lovers alike.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those wanting to taste Malta’s culinary delights while exploring two beautiful towns.
3. Rabat: St. Paul’s Catacombs & the Domvs Romana Combo Ticket
For history buffs interested in Malta’s early Christian and Roman past, this combo ticket provides access to two key sites in Rabat. It’s a flexible option, allowing you to explore St. Paul’s Catacombs and the Roman Domus at your own pace over 30 days.
The Catacombs are among Malta’s most significant archaeological sites, revealing early Christian burial practices and providing a glimpse into religious life in antiquity. The Domvs Romana is an impressive Roman townhouse showcasing luxurious mosaics, artifacts, and the lifestyle of Roman aristocrats. Understanding the connection between these sites deepens your appreciation of Malta’s ancient roots.
Costing only $15 per person, the ticket is a budget-friendly way to spend time uncovering Malta’s archaeological treasures. Visitors often find it fascinating to see the largest evidence of Christianity in Malta and to wonder about the daily life of Roman elites. The sites are open for 30 days, giving flexibility in planning your visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts who want a self-guided, in-depth archaeological experience, with a focus on Malta’s earliest Christianity and Roman aristocracy.
4. Nature Highlights Private Walking Tour with Transport
If you prefer spending your time outdoors, this private tour with transport leads you through three of Malta’s most beautiful natural sites: Chadwick Lakes, The Victoria Lines, and Bingemma Valley. Led by a qualified botanist, it’s perfect for those interested in Malta’s flora and fauna.
The five-hour itinerary combines nature walks, scenic views, and educational commentary about Malta’s biodiversity. You’ll enjoy a peaceful escape from the crowds while learning about native plants, wildlife, and geology. The guide’s expert knowledge makes this experience stand out, offering insights you won’t find elsewhere.
This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, educational outdoor experience. The small group size and personalized attention mean you can tailor the walk to your interests. The approximate price is $182 per person, but many find the quality of the guide and the exclusivity worth it.
Bottom Line: A top choice for nature lovers seeking a leisurely, educational walk in Malta’s scenic countryside.
$182 per person
5. From Rabat: Mdina and Mosta Private Food Tour
This private food tour combines Malta’s historic sights with its culinary delights. Starting in Rabat, your guide takes you to Mosta to enjoy a taste of Malta’s famous Mosta Dome, then continues to Mdina to walk its narrow streets and visit a local restaurant for traditional Maltese dishes.
For around $170, the tour offers a personalized experience, allowing you to learn about Malta’s culture and history while sampling specialties like lampuki (fish), pastizzi, and regional wines. The guide’s insights make the experience more meaningful, and the transportation between sites is included.
Guests love the combination of sightseeing and delicious local food, feeling it’s a great way to understand Malta’s culinary culture firsthand. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, customized experience with a focus on food and local stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a flexible, private tour that blends food, history, and local charm.
$170 per person
6. Malta: Footsteps of St. Paul and Mdina, Private Tour
This private tour takes you on a walk in the footsteps of St. Paul, exploring Rabat’s St. Paul’s Grotto, the shipwreck site in St. Paul’s Bay, and Mdina’s Cathedral. Over about five hours, you’ll learn about the saint’s time in Malta and see key religious sites.
The tour includes stunning views from Mdina’s bastions and a chance to try local pastizzi in Rabat. It’s ideal for travelers interested in religious history and Malta’s connections to St. Paul. The guide’s local knowledge makes these stories come alive, giving you a nuanced understanding of Malta’s Christian heritage.
Pricing at $255 offers a comprehensive, personalized experience. The small-group setting ensures a flexible, engaging visit. Guests appreciate the depth of information and the scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history and religious site enthusiasts who want an in-depth, private experience.
$255 per person
7. Mdina & Rabat: Private Walking Tour
This private walking tour explores the ancient streets of Mdina and the lively town of Rabat. Over about five hours, you’ll visit Mdina’s impressive walls, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Rabat’s bustling center.
The tour offers a rich narrative about Malta’s medieval and modern history, with insights into how Mdina resisted Ottoman forces in 1565. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive, flexible walking experience that balances history, architecture, and local life.
Guests note the friendly guide and the in-depth stories that make each site come alive. The tour is suited for those who enjoy walking at a relaxed pace and want to see both towns thoroughly.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want an immersive, private tour of Malta’s historic heart.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Rabat Malta
Choosing among these tours depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you love outdoor adventures and nature, the Nature Highlights Private Walking Tour is perfect. For history enthusiasts, the combo ticket to St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domvs Romana offers a deep dive into Malta’s earliest Christianity and Roman era.
If you’re into food and culture, the Mdina and Rabat Food Tour and the private food trip to Mosta and Mdina are excellent options. For a fun, eco-friendly ride that covers multiple sights, the tuk-tuk tour is a standout value.
Remember to consider your activity level—some tours involve walking or outdoor exploration, while others are more about seated visits. Booking early is advisable, especially for private or popular tours, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth trip.
Final Thoughts
Rabat Malta offers a diverse set of tour options, from scenic rides and food tastings to archaeological explorations. For those wanting a quick, fun overview, the Discover Malta by Tuk-Tuk is hard to beat. History lovers should consider the St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domvs Romana for a meaningful look into Malta’s past.
If you’re after a personalized experience, the private tours like the Mdina & Rabat Private Walking Tour or the Footsteps of St. Paul will give you a tailored, in-depth visit. For nature fans, the Nature Highlights Tour offers a peaceful, educational escape.
No matter how you choose to explore, booking early will help you secure the best times and ensure your Malta adventure in Rabat is one to remember.