Excursion Heritage & high tea at palazzo parisio by vintage coach tour at Valletta
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Experience Malta’s noble heritage during this refined, half-day excursion to Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar.
Scenic Drive to Naxxar by Vintage Bus
Depart the pier aboard a charming vintage bus for the approximately 35–45-minute drive inland to Naxxar. En route, pass through local towns and countryside landscapes that display Malta’s signature limestone architecture and Mediterranean flair. Your guide provides commentary on Maltese history, traditions, and the island’s legacy of noble residences.
Palazzo Parisio
Upon arrival, begin your guided walking tour of Palazzo Parisio, an 18th-century mansion often described as a miniature Versailles. Behind its restrained façade lies a world of lavish aristocratic interiors. During your visit, admire gilded salons, marble staircases, mirrored halls, and frescoed ceilings that reflect the lifestyle of Malta’s noble families. Learn about the heritage of the Parisio estate, its historic owners, and the cultural circles that once animated these refined rooms.
Palace Gardens
Next, proceed outdoors to the palace’s formal gardens, regarded among the finest in Malta. Stroll past sculpted hedges, flowering borders, and fragrant citrus trees arranged in harmonious parterres. Designed for leisure and contemplation, these tranquil grounds beautifully contrast the ornate interiors of the residence.
Afternoon Tea
Your visit concludes with an elegant Afternoon Tea, served either in the gardens (weather permitting) or within the palace’s Luna restaurant. Enjoy a selection of finely prepared finger sandwiches and handmade pastries presented on tiered stands, accompanied by tea or coffee. This timeless ritual offers a graceful immersion into the refined lifestyle that once characterised Malta’s noble estates.
Following your tea experience, re-board the vintage bus and commence the approximately 35-minute journey back to the pier.
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate within the palace and garden areas. Walking is at the discretion of each guest. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe shoes is recommended. Smart-casual attire is suggested for Afternoon Tea. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary depending on conditions and venue availability. Afternoon Tea may be served indoors if weather does not permit garden service.