Our Taste of Malta tour is what we are all about. Expect wonderful food and wine experiences from ancient salt pans to lunch with local farmers and dinner with wine makers and young chefs.
But also, be in for amazing history, art, stories and company. From possessing the oldest temples in the world, to receiving the highest number of bombs during the Second World War, it’s amazing to think that such small islands has so many rich layers of history.
Malta Tour Highlights
- Visit to traditional salt pans
- Valetta city tour, including St Johns Co Cathedral
- Pastizzi Making Experience
- Visit to Traditional Carpet Weaver
- Catamaran Sailing Adventure
- Hand’s On Gozitan Ftira Lunch
Cost
$8995pp (twin share)
$1250 single supplement
When
Our Malta Tour is scheduled for June 2027 and can be connected to our Taste of Sicily tour that runs before it. In 2027 Our Taste of Croatia tour also runs in May with a week in between our Taste of Malta Tour so they could be combined, giving you a week spare between the two.
June is a marvelous time to visit; the start of summer means beautiful warm weather but not ridiculous heat.
Our Malta tour is also the perfect private tour if you have a group of 6-12 people wanting to enjoy this bespoke intimate tour.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival day. For those arriving today, we suggest you aim to be in Malta by mid afternoon, enough time to check in and chill before we meet up to kick of our culinary adventure with a private dinner at Markus Divinus
In the high planes of the village of Dingli, there is a boutique winery patiently nurturing exquisite grapes. Markus Divinus is dedicated to producing wines that represent Malta’s agricultural heritage, with unique blends of local and international grapes to create exclusive flavours. Tonight we will enjoy a private dinner in this unique setting.
Day 2
Today we are exploring Valetta. We will immerse ourselves in the timeless charm of the old city as we wander its historic streets and enjoy some local food items along the way.
Some of the highlights of our day include Bragjoli, a traditional dish is beloved by locals and epitomises the robust flavours and comforting warmth of Maltese cuisine. Tender beef slices rolled around a delectable stuffing of bacon, onions, garlic, and parsley is slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. We’ll enjoy Kusksu, a traditional soup which reflects the simplicity and richness of Maltese cuisine.
You can’t visit Valetta without visiting St Johns Co Cathedral. Built in the 16th century, this baroque jewel is more than just a place of worship; it is a visual symphony of art and architecture. The austere exterior of the cathedral gives way to a breathtaking interior adorned with ornate gilded embellishments, as well as Caravaggio’s largest and only signed masterpiece – The Beheading of St John the Baptist.
With some free time in the afternoon to chill, swim, shop or continue exploring Valetta, we will meet up again for dinner. Tonight we are heading to Rogantino’s.
Tucked away on the outskirts of Rabat, this charming family-run restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Mediterranean home cooking. Renowned for its exquisite roast suckling pig, the restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Day 3
Today we embark on a journey through Malta’s medieval past as you delve into the winding streets and historic landmarks of the old capital Mdina.
Often referred to as the “Silent City,” Mdina is a hilltop fortress which served as Malta’s old capital city. You will feel the power as you enter its honey-coloured limestone walls and navigate its winding roads. Its panoramic views and range of architecture will undoubtedly captivate you as much as the noble families who continue to live here.
The most renowned street food item in Malta is the hot, flaky pastizzi. This diamond-shaped savory snack consists of around 50 paper-thin layers of pastry filled with curried peas or ricotta cheese. Today you will have the opportunity to taste them, but actually make them yourself. Which side will you take? Team pea, or team cheese?
Lunch is a rustic farm affair, direct from the farmers and straight to your plate. Indulge in a delightful farmer’s lunch amidst the serene ambiance of a private olive grove. This experience not only tantalises your taste buds, but also supports a network of local artisans, from bakers to beekeepers, offering you a genuine connection to Malta’s thriving rural communities.
The afternoon see’s us watch weavers. Weaving is one of the world’s oldest trades that hasn’t changed in over 9,000 years. In Malta, the first known piece of weaving dates back to around 800 BC, when the Phoenicians ruled the island. Today you will meet Antoine, who will show you how he has embraced this tradition by producing colourful carpets through medieval methods.
We’ll return to Valetta with time to freshen up before we head out to dinner. Situated within the historic walls of Valletta – Rampila is a restaurant that seamlessly blends historic ambiance with modern sophistication. With its Maltese stone arches, and vaulted ceilings, Rampila exudes an intimate and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable dining experience while taking in stunning views of Valletta’s fortified walls.
Day 4
Today we head to Gozo to explore its serene landscapes, historic sites, and authentic local culture for a memorable and enriching escape.
We will set sail on the crystal waters of the Mediterranean on our private sailboat. With numerous bays, anchorages, and hidden coves, Malta offers a sailor’s dream, where each journey becomes a voyage through time and natural beauty, seamlessly merging the thrill of the open sea with the rich maritime heritage of the Maltese islands.
For dinner we will enjoy farm-to-table experience around a generous shared table. Many ingredients are harvested directly from the family’s farm, complemented by trusted local producers. Rooted in seasonality and tradition, the evening celebrates family, storytelling, and the simple pleasure of sharing food together.
Day 5
With its distinctive skyline, the Citadel stands out as Gozo’s major landmark and this morning we will explore it. This hilltop fortification is rich in buildings of architectural, military and historical value, while its open areas offer a habitat to numerous rare species of flora and fauna. The Citadel has withstood invasions, sieges, and transformations, bearing witness to the changing tides of Gozo’s history.
We then head off to enjoy a hands-on cooking experience in a beautiful outdoor Gozitan setting, preparing a traditional ftira lunch using local ingredients and island techniques. Their freshly made ftira is served alongside a seasonal starter, a homemade dessert, and local wine, creating a relaxed, flavourful meal rooted in Gozo’s rural food culture.
After lunch the Xwejni Salt Pans await. This long-standing salt-harvesting tradition is carried on by local families today. Set into the limestone coastline, the shallow pans are filled with seawater and left to evaporate under the sun. During the visit, you will see the process up close and take part in a practical salt-harvesting demonstration.
Our evening meal is at Peppina. Here a young Gozitan chef whose approach is rooted in respect for the island’s seasons and producers results in an evolving menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients, reimagined into refined, contemporary dishes, with personal storytelling that brings Gozo’s modern food culture to life.
Day 6
This morning we will continue to explore Gozo including a visit to Dwejra Bay, Ta’ Pinu Basilica and Ggantija Temples.
For lunch we will enjoy a relaxed countryside meal in the heart of Gozo, hosted by a local who welcomes you into their rural way of life. This unique open-air lunch is prepared in a traditional oven and served in an informal field setting, offering a rare glimpse into island hospitality and the flavours of the land.
After lunch it’s on the ferry back to Malta to check in to our hotel and freshen up before our final meal together.
Ta Kris is situated inside one of the oldest and largest bakeries in the Sliema. The old features of the bakery have been kept and the dark Maltese furniture and warm décor make you feel like you are stepping back in time.
Day 7
Departure day.
What’s included on our Malta Tour
- 6 nights accommodation (double or twin share)
- 6 breakfasts
- 5 lunches
- 6 Dinners (including wine)
- Ferry to and from Gozo
- Local guides + Kiwi host
- Visit to traditional salt pans
- Valetta city tour, including St Johns Co Cathedral
- Pastizzi Making Experience
- Visit to Traditional Carpet Weaver
- Catamaran Sailing Adventure
- Hand’s On Gozitan Ftira Lunch
Not Included on our Malta Tour
- Flights
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
- Airport Transfers
Accommodation
We stay-
3 nights at La Falconeria Hotel in Valetta, a charming retreat in the heart of Malta’s capital city. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th century building, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends modern comforts with traditional Maltese charm.
2 nights at Reef Hotel & Spa in Gozo The architecture and interiors have been shaped to honour their setting – clean lines, textured stone, and calm tones soften the senses while drawing in natural light and landscape.
1 night 1926 Le Soleil Hotel. Nestled in the vibrant coastal town of Sliema, 1926 Le Soleil Hotel exudes an air of timeless elegance and comfort.
Group size
Taste of tours specialises in small group tours with an average group size between 8-10. Max number of 14 guest.
Activity Level
This tour does require you to have a reasonable level of mobility, mainly to enjoy the old towns like Valetta which need to be explored on foot. While you do not need to be able to run marathons you will be on your feet for 3ish hours at a time. Being able to walk 10,000 steps is recommended. Note – the streets are often cobbled and uneven, which is harder on the body.
If you have any mobility issues, please let us know before booking.
Packing tips
2 pairs of comfortable flat shoes! Make sure these are not new, but worn in. Being able to alternate your footwear also helps with achy feet.
Togs. Our hotel in Gozo has a pool plus we may be able to jump off the boat on our way to Gozo to enjoy the pristine water.
Lightweight rain jacket. It doesn’t rain much in Malta but always worth packing some murphy’s law insurance by way of a light weight jacket.
Check out more of my tips here
What our guests have said
FAQ
I’m travelling solo, what are my options?
More than half our guests a solo travellers. If you are travelling alone our tours are a great way to meet likeminded travellers.
If you want your own space paying a single supplement will mean you have your own room.
If you are an easy-going traveller and happy to share, we can introduce you to other solo guests to see if you would get on. We leave the decision to you if you want to share.
What is the average age of travellers?
Our youngest guests was 24, our oldest 85. The majority of our guests are aged between 55-75 years old.
As they say age is just a number, and like life the real requirement is a great attitude!
What’s Included?
A lot! This is a food tour, so we include all your meals, and this often includes wine at lunch and dinner. All the activities listed are included as well as local guides, a Kiwi host, air-conditioned transport.
What’s not included?
Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, tips.
How do I book?
Fill out the booking form here.
As soon as the tour meets its min number, we will be in touch along with an invoice for your deposit (25% non-refundable). Once the deposit has been paid your place is secured.
The balance for the tour is due 90 days before the tour begins.
If you would like to set up a payment plan please let us know and we can break the tour cost into monthly or weekly instalments.
How do I get there?
Our Malta tour begins and ends in Valetta. Valetta has a busy international airport and is well connected to the rest of Europe and the UK. You can also catch a ferry from Malta to Sicily.
I’m gluten free, is this an issue?
No, we will always try our best to accommodate your dietary requests.
If you have chosen a gluten free diet because your digestive system works better this way, we would suggest trying some of the local pasta to see how you react. Many of our guests who are gluten free in NZ enjoy the pasta and bread in Italy without any issues.
I’m vegetarian, is this a problem?
No. We are happy to accommodate your dietary requests.
Do you organise private tours of Malta?
Yes. This tour is a perfect tour for a small group of friends! Ideal group size is 6-10pax and we can tweak the itinerary to suit you.
Click here to read about my recent trip to Malta
Click here to book or feel free to give me a call or email (hello@tasteoftours.com 0210651537)
