Are you looking for cool things to do in Malta with kids that will make your vacation amazing? Then I got you covered!
Malta is a stunning island off the coast of Italy, famous for crystal-clear blue waters and stunning architecture.
Malta has proven to be a great destination in Europe for families, offering a safe place for children to explore and have some fun. But it can be hard to find family-friendly things to do in Malta when you have not been there yet.
Whether you have 7 days in Malta or only a weekend, this guide to Malta for families will help you find the best activities for kids.
This travel guide to visiting Malta with kids details the best activities, attractions and things to do in Malta for families, plus answers some of your most frequently asked questions, like where to stay and what to expect on a family vacation to Malta.
What Makes Malta a Family-Friendly Destination?
Malta is an awesome spot for a family vacay – and there are many reasons for that!
Malta has everything. It has some beautiful beaches like Mellieħa Bay, where the kiddos
can build sandcastles and you can relax in the sun. But it is much more than just a beach destination.
Malta has a lot of fascinating history. You can’t miss the ancient temples and cool forts. They’re like time machines that will excite every small adventurer’s heart.
The island has many amazing activities to offer. Go snorkeling or take a boat ride to a nearby
island and explore the filming set for famous TV shows or movies.
Another highlight in Malta is Popeye Village, a theme park that is both nostalgic for adults and fun for kids. And don’t even get me started on the food, which is a mix of Italian, British, and Arabic.
The locals are super friendly, and a lot of the Maltese speak English, so getting around is super easy.
Lastly, Malta is a pretty cheap destination. For a large family or a multi-generational trip, that is a huge upside for choosing Malta as a holiday spot.
FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN MALTA FOR FAMILIES
15 Best Things to Do in Malta With Kids
Whether you are traveling with young children or teens, you’ll find Malta offers a range of activities and attractions your family will enjoy.
Here are a few of the best things to do in Malta with kids.
1. Visit Popeye Village
This cool theme park used to be a movie set and it is now a colorful play area and water park.
Kids can meet Popeye, enjoy boat rides, and jump on cool trampolines. There is even a mini-golf course. In the summer, they’ve got a splash pool and some sunbathing decks.
There are funny puppet shows and cool treasure hunts, and sometimes they even do movie screenings in the place where it was actually filmed.
Popeye Village is one of the best things to do in Malta with kids for sure, and you can spend an entire day there without getting bored.
2. Make a Splash at Mellieħa Bay Beach
Malta is not primarily a beach destination, but it has got some great beaches for sure.
Located on the island’s northeast side, Mellieha Bay Beach is the perfect spot for sandcastles and swimming. It is the largest sandy beach in Malta.
It is one of the most kid-friendly beaches in Malta and it has a lot to offer for young travelers. Just don’t forget to pack your beach essentials!
There are some restaurants near Mellieha Bay Beach, as well, in case your family gets hungry after exploring.
BOOK A PRIVATE TRANSFER TO AND FROM MELLIEHA BAY BEACH
3. Explore Mdina and Attend a Glass Blowing Workshop
Mdina is known as the “Silent City” and it’s one of Malta’s oldest cities. It is definitely a cool place to visit in Malta with kids.
It is famous for cobblestone streets, old stone buildings, and some charming squares. Mdina has got a bit of a medieval vibe that young adventurers will love.
Another thing Mdina is famous for is glass blowing. Similar to the island of Murano in Venice, Italy, here you can watch artisans blow glass in Mdina, an experience that is fun for the whole family. Kids can even try their hand at it!
We thought it was one of the most special experiences in Malta with children. Plus, Game of Thrones was partially filmed there, which might excite the parents.
4. Let your Imagination Lead at Playmobil FunPark
The Playmobil FunPark in Malta is one of the coolest themed playgrounds ever. Especially if your kids are into Playmobil toys, they will have the time of their lives.
The park is right next to the factory where they make the toys. How cool is that?
The play area is split into different zones. There are areas for pirates, knights, and even a zoo.
Kids can play with giant versions of their favorite toys. There is also an indoor play area for when the weather is not great.
And for the grown-ups, there is a charming little café attached to the park. We thought this park was a great experience for young and old.
5. Expand your Mind at Esplora Interactive Science Centre
Esplora Interactive Science Centre is a great spot to visit with your kids in Malta. It is suitable for children of all ages and provides a great experience in my opinion.
It is located in Kalkara and it has some cool hands-on exhibits that make learning fun.
A planetarium, a giant hamster wheel, and an educational theater are awaiting.
The science center has different themed areas. We loved learning about the human body and space the most. It is honestly a cool place for adults and kids alike.
6. Cruise to Blue Lagoon on Comino
The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is my favorite place to visit in Malta with kids.
Not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, Malta’s lagoon is known for crystal clear water, a total hidden gem that you need to see on your vacation.
The only downside is that you can only visit with an organized tour. Be careful when picking your tour provider, as many of them offer so-called booze cruises and are not as suitable for children.
BOOK A FAMILY FRIENDLY DAY CRUISE TO THE BLUE LAGOON
7. Tour the Malta National Aquarium
Check out the underwater world in the Malta National Aquarium, the biggest on the island. It is located in Qawra, and it looks like a starfish from the outside.
They have lots of cool fish and even a tunnel you can walk through. It is like diving, but without getting wet.
The exhibitions are super interactive, so kids won’t get bored there easily. This is also a great bad-weather experience in Malta with children.
BUY TICKETS TO THE MALTA NATIONAL AQUARIUM
8. Jet Ski or Paddle Board to the Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is another cool spot you can check out in Malta with your family.
It looks stunning from the mainland on the cliffs, but you can also take a boat trip, jet ski, or even a paddleboard there to see it up close.
It is definitely an impressive spot in Malta that will excite even the smallest traveler.
BOOK A JET SKI TOUR OR A PADDLEBOARD TOUR TO THE BLUE GROTTO
9. Fort Rinella
Fort Rinella is a cool, family-friendly spot in Malta. It was built by the British in the late 1800s.
It is famous for having a massive gun that could fire super far.
Nowadays, it is a museum. You can watch live reenactments and learn about history. The kids will love the big cannon for sure.
10. Splash & Fun Water Park
The Splash and Fun Water Park in Malta will be a hit with your kids for sure.
First off, they have some fun water slides. There is a lazy river too, perfect for just chilling. Kiddie pools are there for the little ones. Plus, they also organize games and activities to keep everyone busy.
You can spend an entire fun day there with your family without getting bored. One of my favorite places in Malta with kids.
11. Go Horse Riding
Several farms in Malta offer riding lessons or even guided rides through the countryside. The horses are super tame and also beginner-friendly, so your kids will have a great time for sure.
It is a great way for kids to connect with nature, and they will take you to some cool spots on the island that you otherwise couldn’t visit.
This activity is not toddler-friendly, so it is more suitable for older kids and teenagers.
We booked our ride at sunset, and it was a great experience for sure.
12. Join a Walking Tour through Valletta
Valletta is a super interesting city to explore for young and old.
Stunning fortresses, cute and colorful streets, and beautiful views of the Valletta Cruise Port and the big ships are provided. You can join a walking tour or a scavenger hunt, or maybe even explore the magical place by yourself.
From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, you will have an amazing view, you can even see the famous Three Cities of Malta.
Either way, your kids will have a fun time and learn about history and culture at the same time.
13. Kayak through Sea Caves
Another fun thing to do in Malta with kids is hitting the sea in a kayak.
You can explore sea caves and inlets together and have a great time on the water.
This Malta activity is best suited for older children and teenagers for sure. However, you can book a kayaking adventure that includes tips and guidance for all skill levels before you head out.
14. Go for a Swim in St. Peter’s Pool
St. Peter’s Pool in Malta is a great spot to check out with your family.
The natural pools are great spots to swim and explore. Surrounded by large, flat rocks, the natural swimming spot is great for little daredevils who want to leap from the rocks into the water.
The area definitely makes for a great background for a family picture, as well.
This is also a place where locals hang out, so your kids might even meet some new friends.
BOOK TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM ST. PETER’S POOL
15. Take a Gozo Day Trip
My last but not least favorite thing to do in Malta with kids is taking the ferry to Gozo.
Gozo is Malta’s sister island. It is a beautiful island in the Maltese archipelago famous for cute, historic towns, beaches, and amazing nature to explore.
Explore the narrow streets, historical buildings in the island’s capital city of Rabat and visit the Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the island.
If you have little explorers in your family, don’t miss the Ggantija Temples. These prehistoric temples are older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. They are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and provide a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s ancient history.
BOOK A HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS TOUR IN GOZO
Conclusion: Malta With Kids
In conclusion, Malta is a hidden gem for a family vacation.
With its mix of history and fun, there is something to do in Malta for every age.
Take a step back in time at Fort Rinella and give your kids a unique history lesson they’ll actually enjoy. Then switch gears and splash around at Splash and Fun Water Park.
A day trip to Gozo or Comino by boat are great experiences that your small ones won’t forget so quickly.
From the Upper Barrakka Gardens in the capital city of Valletta to the cute Popeye Village, Malta has it all.
Chill at the famous beaches of Malta or ride a horse in the evening. Many cool activities will await your family.
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FAQs: Malta With Kids
Is Malta Child Friendly?
Yes, Malta is super kid-friendly! With its rich historic places like Fort Rinella for educational outings and places like Fun and Splash Water Park for a day of play.
There is a balance of fun and learning. Beaches, boat trips, and family-friendly eateries also make it easy to keep the little ones happy. Malta is also safe and inexpensive, which makes it a great spot for a family holiday.
Where to stay when visiting Malta with Kids?
Staying in Mellieha is a great choice for families. It is close to sandy beaches like Mellieha Bay, perfect for kiddo-friendly beach days. Plus, it is near the Fun and Splash Water Park.
The area is pretty laid-back, but still offers plenty of restaurants and shops. You get the best of both worlds—relaxation and activities, all in one spot!
READ REVIEWS, COMPARE PRICES, AND SEARCH FOR HOTELS IN MELLIEHA, MALTA HERE
How do you get to Malta?
You can get to Malta by both air and sea. One of the easiest ways to get to the island nation is to fly into Malta International Airport, located near the town of Luqa. The airport offers service from many major European cities as well as some North Africa and Middle Eastern destinations.
Additionally, you can book a ferry to Malta from Sicily, Italy, which takes a few hours.
Finally, Malta is also a popular cruise destination, so you can visit Malta’s capital city of Valletta for a day while on a Mediterranean Cruise.
Do you have a question or comment about any of these things to do in Malta with kids? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
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