11 Best Family Friendly Attractions in Malta
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 7 minutes
By: Shaun
Are you planning a trip to the Maltese Islands and looking for the best family-friendly attractions? Are you asking yourself what activities you can do with the little ones in Malta? Then read on as this article is for you!
Whether you are a local or a tourist, there’s plenty to see and do on the beautiful Maltese islands. We will take a look at some of the top family-friendly attractions you can find and why they are worth a visit.
So grab your loved ones and get ready for some fun and adventure!
What to do with kids in Malta?
1. Visit The Malta National Aquarium
Malta National Aquarium | Image by HH58 on Wikimedia Commons
Located in Qawra, The Malta National Aquarium you cannot miss the building as you are driving the coastline, as the building has a big starfish-shaped dome. The aquarium features a large variety of marine life from across the Mediterranean and several tropical regions. The site is divided up into different areas, all focusing on the marine life of one particular location. Besides the well over 50 tanks, the aquarium has an area dedicated to reptiles and amphibians.
The Malta National Aquarium is open every day between 10:00 and 18:00, and the location is very easily accessible with parking nearby and through public transport. The building also includes a bistro, and just outside you can find Pjazza San Pawl, a public open space where the kids can play and enjoy themselves in the playground while you admire the view out over St. Paul’s islands and the open sea.
2. Explore Popeye Village
Popeye Village | Image by Callisto_Schmidt from Pixabay
Malta was part of many film and TV show productions over the years, and one set that remains intact was built for the 1980 musical film Popeye, starring the late Robin Williams as the titular character.
Popeye Village is an unmissable attraction that will for sure delight kids and adults alike as visitors can explore the various buildings and sets from the movie, including the characters’ homes, the village square, and the dock area. The village also features a playground, a restaurant, and various activities such as boat rides and live shows.
3. Visit Malta Falconry Centre
The Maltese Falcon | Image by Frank Vincentz from Pixabay
Falconry in Malta goes all the way back to the 13th century, when European nobles used to send their best falconers to capture these birds as they migrated over Malta. This centuries-old tradition can be experienced today at the Malta Falconry Centre, which you can find in Siggiewi.
The center is run by expert falconers and aims to educate the public about this art while also reintroducing native species of birds to the islands. Visitors to the falconry get the opportunity to interact with various birds of prey, like falcons, hawks, and eagles, through educational tours, flying displays, falconry lessons, and bird handling.
4. Explore Science at Esplora
Esplora | Image by MaltaCM from Pixabay
If your kid has an inclination towards science, don’t miss the Esplora Interactive Science Centre. Esplora, meaning “to explore” in Maltese, is a science museum located in Kalkara and is designed to be an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
The centre features a variety of exhibits, interactive displays, and hands-on activities related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and regularly organises science workshops and events in collaboration with various local entities like the Police Forensics Lab and the Astronomy Faculty of the University of Malta.
The site at Esplora also houses a planetarium, with a wide variety of shows being shown every day. Make sure you ask the reception desk what the programme is for the planetarium shows.
5. Have fun on the beaches
Paradise Bay | Image by Karen Bryan on Flickr
While all the above activities require you to pay a ticket to visit them, one of Malta’s biggest attractions is free for all, and that is, of course, the many beaches scattered across the islands.
From the gentle slopes of the sandy beaches to the cliffs at some rocky beaches, we are sure you will find a beach suitable to yours and your kids level of comfort with the water. You definitely cannot make it to Malta and not experience first-hand one of the Maltese people’s favourite summer activities.
If you are not sure which beach to pick, then explore your options with our post covering the best beaches in Malta and Gozo.
6. Slide down at Splash & Fun Park
Splash and Fun Malta | Image by Splash and Fun Malta
If you want to take a break from all the beaches but not from the water, then you can visit the Splash & Fun Park. Situated about 10 minutes drive from St. Julians in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq (meaning “sea of pebbles”), the park features a variety of water rides and slides, wave pools, and a lazy river.
The park also has an area dedicated for the younger children, with smaller slides and water features suitable for them.
7. Enjoy a show at Mediterraneo Marine Park
Mediterraneo Marine Park | Image by Andrew Milligan sumo on Flickr
Just a stone’s throw away from Splash & Fun Park, one can visit the Mediterraneo Marine Park. Since opening its doors in 1997, it has become a top tourist destination on the island, with one of its main attractions being the opportunity to swim with dolphins.
The park has under its care more than 150 animals, including sea lions, parrots, reptiles, and obviously dolphins, and throughout the day they give educational presentations to teach its visitors more about these amazing creatures.
8. Have an Adventure at The Playmobil FunPark
Playmobil FunPark | Image by Continentaleurope on Wikimedia Commons
The popular German toy line Playmobil has been manufacturing a portion of its products at a factory in Ħal Far for decades, and since 2011, visitors can visit The Playmobil FunPark on the factory grounds.
The park has an indoor air-conditioned area divided into two sections: a baby and toddler area, and another area for kids aged 4 to 13. There is also a pirate-themed outdoor play area where kids can act out their imaginations on the pirate ship, slides, bridges, and tree house, all set in a safe setting ideal for the entire family.
While your kids are having a blast, you can grab a coffee and a snack at the FunPark cafeteria or shop for the latest Playmobil play sets.
9. Watch the show at The Malta 5D Cinema
Malta 5D Cinema is a multi-sensory cinema experience located in Valletta’s Old Bakery Street. It combines 3D film technology with special effects such as moving seats, wind, and water to create a fully immersive experience.
The theatre screens an 18-minute show that explores the history and culture of Malta. The presentation is available in several languages to make sure you can get the most out of this immersive experience. Once done with the show, don’t miss the unique exhibition showcasing several traditional Maltese balconies.
10. Explore The Adventure Park in Ta’ Qali
Ta’ Qali is best known with the locals for its football stadium, but it also hosts an array of other amenities, chief among which is the BOV Adventure Park, a multifaceted entertainment complex boasting a diverse range of activities to satisfy the appetites of its visitors. The park features activities such as zip lining, rock climbing, and obstacle courses, as well as more relaxed activities like cycling and mini-golf.
Furthermore, the park also features a dedicated playground specially designed for young children as well as picnic areas ideal for families seeking a tranquil location away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is a very popular spot with the Maltese, especially during sunny winter weekends.
11. Visit The Malta Aviation Museum
Ian Gratton | Image by Alan Wilson on Flickr
If you have any budding aviation enthusiasts in your family, a visit to the Malta Aviation Museum is a must. The museum is located in Ta’ Qali and features a range of aircraft, engines, and other aviation-related exhibits.
Kids can even sit in the cockpit of a real aeroplane! Guided tours are available, and there’s also an on-site café for refreshments.
Conclusion
In summary, Malta has a wealth of family-friendly attractions to offer, from water parks and theme parks to beaches, cultural attractions and delicious food. By planning your itinerary in advance, you’re sure to have a fun-filled and memorable family vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malta a good place for a family holiday?
Malta is a great holiday destination for families. The islands provide a wide range of family-friendly activities for children of all ages. Ranging from theme parks to museums to the long list of beaches, you will definitely find enough things to do for a memorable vacation.
Is Malta safe for families?
Malta is considered a safe destination to visit; however, as with any other destination, do not let your guard down, especially when walking at night, on public transport, in parking areas, or when using ATMs.
Where can you go with children in Malta?
Malta provides several family-friendly attractions, including the Malta National Aquarium, Esplora, the Playmobil FunPark, the Mediterraneo Marine Park and the many beaches across the islands.
What kind of food can families expect to find in Malta?
Malta has a rich culinary heritage with a mix of Mediterranean and North African influences. Families can enjoy local dishes such as pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), rabbit stew, and lampuki (a type of fish). There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes throughout the island, so you're sure to find something to suit everyone's tastes.
