Malta: Private Day Tour with Mdina, Blue Grotto & Mosta Dome

Summary

Private Malta day trip with local flavors, sea cliffs and Mdina

You’ll wander Malta’s ancient streets in Mdina, taste fresh pastries and local liqueur, watch sunlight dance inside Blue Grotto caves, and feel sea air on Dingli Cliffs—all with a local guide who brings each stop to life. By sunset, you’ll carry home more than photos: little moments that linger.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t know what to expect from a private tour of Malta, honestly. But the first thing I noticed was how our guide, Maria, seemed to know everyone—from the bakery woman in Marsaxlokk (who handed me a warm pastizz like we were old friends) to the fisherman waving from his boat. The island feels small but layered, you know? We started at the Blue Grotto—those caves really do shimmer blue when the sun hits just right—and I caught this salty breeze that clung to my skin for hours after. I probably looked ridiculous trying to photograph Filfla in the distance, but nobody cared.

Lunch in Mdina was slower than I’m used to—Maria called it “island time.” She told us stories about her grandfather growing up behind those thick stone walls. The streets there are so quiet you can hear your own footsteps echoing around corners (and sometimes a cat meowing somewhere out of sight). I tried imqaret for dessert—date-filled pastry—and now I get why people rave about Maltese sweets. At Dingli Cliffs, the wind nearly stole my hat and I just stood there grinning at the sea below. It’s hard to explain but I felt both tiny and sort of… rooted?

We stopped at Mosta Dome last—Maria pointed out the bomb that fell through the roof during WWII but never exploded. She said locals see it as a sign of luck or faith, depending who you ask. The dome’s inside is painted with these dizzying patterns that made me tilt my head back for way too long (neck still hurts). On the drive back, we passed Popeye Village and even though it’s kitschy, something about those colorful houses against the water made me smile. It wasn’t what I expected from a day trip in Malta—but maybe that’s why it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Malta's landmarks and nature

• Visit Blue Grotto caves
• Enjoy views at Dingli Cliffs
• Pass by Verdala Palace gardens
• Walk and have lunch in Mdina
• Visit Mosta Dome church

Top questions

How long does this private Malta day tour last?

The full tour is 9 hours if you include Marsaxlokk; otherwise it may be shorter depending on stops.

Is hotel pickup included in this Malta private tour?

Yes, pickup is included for your convenience.

Do we visit Mdina during this day trip?

Yes, you’ll walk through Mdina and have lunch there as part of the itinerary.

Are food tastings included on this tour?

You’ll get to try homegrown Maltese produce, desserts like imqaret, and local liqueur during the tour.

Does this tour go to Blue Grotto?

Yes, Blue Grotto is one of the main highlights on this private Malta day trip.

Is this Malta tour suitable for families with children?

Yes—it’s suitable for all fitness levels and children are welcome with an adult.

What vehicles are used for transport?

An air-conditioned private vehicle is provided throughout the day.

Are entry fees included in this Malta experience?

All taxes, fees and handling charges are covered in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or accommodation anywhere in Malta, all entry fees and taxes along the way, private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with your local guide sharing stories at every stop—and plenty of time to sample Maltese treats and enjoy lunch before heading back in comfort.