Valletta , Malta

Valletta Food Tour

Active

(686 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Through the language of food you will be told all the stories behind the Maltese capital city, its buildings, its culture and events and top of all its people who are a melting pot of various civilizations as is the food eaten by the locals a fusion of the same influences.

What do coffee and revolts have in common?
How was Carnival a controversial matter?

This will be the most amazing experience of Valletta you will get while trying different foods and drinks of these islands whether the traditional stuff or the more contemporary things.

You will be shown the beautiful Maltese Capital City in between of the different stops where we try all the food and drinks. You can rest assured this excursion will double up as your lunch for the day and give you lots of advice on where to eat throughout the rest of your stay.

Available options

Valletta Food Tour

What's included

We're sure you will love the fried date pastry sweet which we call imqaret. We also taste the baked cheese snack called Twistees and some sea salt chocolate along with the coffee.

The Maltese have pastizzi for breakfast and we will let you decide whether you like the pea or ricotta ones better.

A nice bottle of local beer at one of the Valletta clubs to wash down the ftira with.

We get to try the cooked infused Maltese coffee with chicory, cloves and aniseed.

We get to taste the local bitter sweet drink, Kinnie.

We end our morning having some nice ftira lunchtime bread which we traditionally fill with tuna chunks, tomato conserve, onions, capers, olives and other Mediterranean produce.

Detailed itinerary

We start in Floriana, the suburb to Valletta, to see the storage area for grain and then walk through botanical gardens past beautiful monuments to get to the gates of Valletta.

Take in the beautiful surroundings of the entrance into Valletta with the Triton Fountain and the Renzo Piano project which includes Parliament House.

Stop 3

Get the most amazing Instagram photo with the view of the spectacular Grand Harbour as a backdrop while canons get fired!

Walk through the streets of Valletta and get told the stories behind the Maltese capital through the language of food.

What's not included

Gratuites

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

213 reviews

5★

202

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

473 reviews

5★

458

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet on the left hand side of the Triton Fountain when looking towards the gates of Valletta. We will be under the trees in front of the Tourist Info Office. It is right next to the main bus terminus of Valletta.

Important notes

Meeting point is in front of the Tourist Information Office which is located on the side of the Triton Fountain. Do not confuse this with the Tours Information Office which is a different location.

About Valletta

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. This fortified city offers a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque influences, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking Mediterranean charm.

Top Attractions

St. John's Co-Cathedral

A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, St. John's Co-Cathedral is one of Valletta's most iconic landmarks. It was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and features stunning interiors, including Caravaggio's famous painting 'The Beheading of St. John the Baptist'.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours €10

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Located on the highest point of Valletta's fortifications, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The gardens are a peaceful retreat and a perfect spot to enjoy the city's skyline and maritime heritage.

Nature/Historical 30-60 minutes Free

Grandmaster's Palace

The Grandmaster's Palace served as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John. Today, it houses the Maltese Parliament and the Palace State Rooms, which are open to the public. The palace is a prime example of Maltese Baroque architecture and offers a glimpse into the island's rich history.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours €10 for the State Rooms and Armory

The National Museum of Archaeology

Housed in the historic Auberge de Provence, the National Museum of Archaeology showcases Malta's prehistoric heritage, including artifacts from the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods. The museum's highlights include the famous 'Sleeping Lady' figurine and the Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni replicas.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Valletta Waterfront

The Valletta Waterfront is a vibrant area located along the Grand Harbour. It features a mix of historic buildings, restaurants, bars, and shops. The waterfront is a popular spot for dining, leisurely walks, and enjoying the city's maritime atmosphere.

Entertainment/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, varying costs for dining and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ftira

A traditional Maltese bread roll, often filled with tuna, olives, capers, and fresh tomatoes. It is a popular breakfast or snack item.

Breakfast/Snack Can be made vegetarian by omitting the tuna.

Pastizzi

A flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or peas. Pastizzi are a popular street food item and can be found in bakeries throughout Malta.

Snack Vegetarian.

Rabbit Stew (Fenek)

A traditional Maltese dish made with rabbit, wine, garlic, and herbs. It is often served with potatoes and is a staple of Maltese cuisine.

Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Stuffed Squid (Kappunata)

A popular seafood dish made with squid stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then cooked in a tomato sauce.

Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Boat tours Snorkeling and diving Hiking and nature walks Beach hopping Sunbathing Enjoying a spa day Exploring historic sites Visiting museums and cathedrals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Valletta is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the summer peak season. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

18-30°C 64-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Maltese, English
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Valletta is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is essential to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions

Getting there

By air

Malta International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from Valletta

By bus

Valletta Bus Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Valletta and Malta. The network is well-connected, affordable, and frequent. Buses are equipped with modern facilities and are accessible for passengers with disabilities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: eBolt, eCabs

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Three Cities Sliema Floriana

Day trips

Mdina

20 km (12 miles) from Valletta • Half day to full day

Mdina, also known as the 'Silent City,' is a medieval walled city located in the center of Malta. It is known for its historic architecture, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Mdina is a popular day trip destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a glimpse into Malta's past.

Blue Grotto

10 km (6 miles) from Valletta • Half day

The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caves located on the southern coast of Malta. It is known for its stunning blue waters, dramatic rock formations, and the opportunity to take a boat tour into the caves. The Blue Grotto is a popular day trip destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Gozo

50 km (31 miles) from Valletta • Full day or overnight

Gozo is a small island located northwest of Malta, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular day trip or overnight destination for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace and a chance to explore Malta's rural charm.

Festivals

Malta Arts Festival • July Valletta International Baroque Festival • January Notte Bianca • October

Pro tips

Visit Valletta during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices
Explore the city's historic sites and attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
Use public transport, walk, or rent a bicycle to get around Valletta and the surrounding areas
Try local dishes and specialties, such as pastizzi, ftira, and rabbit stew, at traditional bakeries, markets, and restaurants
Take a boat tour or ferry to explore the surrounding islands and regions, such as Gozo, Comino, and the Three Cities