An insider guide to the best family attractions in Malta with tops picks for families with children of all ages.
This week, I am delighted to welcome on Learning Escapes guest writer Ed Lansink who shares with us his tops picks for a family vacation in the stunning island of Malta. Ed is the author of Malta Uncovered and is a wealth of information about the island and all it can offer to families and not only.
If you are looking for a great family destination mixing beach fun and culture, Malta may just be the perfect destination!
Please note: all attractions listed in this post were selected by the author on the basis of his knowledge of Malta and no compensation nor incentive was received for their inclusion.
Best family activities in Malta
If you haven’t figured out your next family vacation yet, why not consider booking a flight to Malta? This stunning island country is famous not only for its rich history and natural beauty but also for its seemingly endless activities and attractions fit for the whole family.
From various theme parks and museums to stunning beaches and water sports, there’s definitely something for everyone.
We put together a list of family-friendly attractions in Malta that are sure to make your stay memorable. Check out some of them below.
Bird Park Malta
If you want your family to get up close with the environment and animals, be sure to take them to the Bird Park Malta.
This nature-themed leisure park offers tourists educational tours and interaction with over 200 species of birds and other wildlife. The park’s knowledgeable tour guides are sure to share some interesting facts about animals, such as their habitat and feeding routines.
You can even join the park’s daily handling sessions where you can hold and interact with different types of birds under the supervision of friendly staff.
The good news is, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy this place. Children aged 13 and up can get access to the park for only €8, while those under 12 can enter for €5. If you are visiting with a toddler under 3, you can take him inside free of charge.
You can find additional information on the park official website
Popeye Village Anchor Bay, Mellieha
The gorgeous ‘Popeye Village’ is a firm family favourite attractions in Malta. Photo courtesy of Pixabay.
Another family-friendly attraction in Malta is the Popeye Village. Upon setting foot to this place, you will easily recognize the iconic film set for the hit 1980 musical production of “Popeye,” starring Robin Williams.
This famous spot is open all year round and steadily attracts thousands of tourists, especially movie enthusiasts. Aside from the film set, Popeye Village offers fun and vibrant activities for the whole family, such as indoor play areas, outdoor mini fair, animated shows, and a boat trip around the Anchor Bay.
Since the place tends to be bustling with visitors, public transportation can get easily crowded. That being said, you might want to consider renting a car in Malta to avoid any hassle while traveling with your family.
You can find additional information about the Popeye Village on their official website
Esplora Interactive Science Centre
This science-themed attraction is the latest addition to the long list of museums in Malta. Located in Triq Marina, Kalkara, Esplora offers a fun and educational day for the whole family.
Visitors of all ages will have the chance to explore and learn about science both inside and outside the building. Some of the activities to try here include science shows, hands-on workshop and a visit to the Planetarium. The whole family can even wander freely around the Science Center where they can enjoy a stunning landscape.
The Esplora Interactive Science Center is the first of its kind in the country and has been led by The Malta Council for Science and Technology. You can find additional information here
Malta 5D
This new generation of entertainment has been named as one of the must-see attractions in the country.
The Malta 5D offers families a realistic experience of history through its state of the art movie equipment. Guests can explore the island’s rich history with 3D film, complete with moving seats, air blasts, water spray, and leg ticklers — adding more realism to it.
There is also an exhibit of local artists on display in the foyer. Price ranges from €6 for children to €9 for adults.
Malta National Aquarium, Qawra
This family-friendly marine attraction is home to over 100 species of aquatic animals, such as sharks, turtles, and seahorses.
It features 41 tanks with reptiles, insects, and amphibians. One of the highlights of the Malta National Aquarium is the tank which houses species from Indo-Pacific Ocean, including black tip sharks, leopard sharks, zebra sharks, bamboo sharks, rays, and eels.
Fort Rinella
If you want to learn a thing or two about Malta’s rich history, be sure to take your whole family to the famous Fort Rinella.
This historical place is known as one of the four 100-ton gun batteries that were built on the island for the purpose of protecting the harbor. Today, the site is open to the public and offers a look back at the fort’s interesting past.
The whole family can relive history with an informative and fun re-enactment of the events by costumed soldiers and even a live firing of cannons. It even has free audio-guides in different languages, including Arabic, Dutch, German, Spanish, Russian, French, Danish, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, and English.
Playmobil Fun Park
This leisure park is perfect for a fun-filled day with the whole family. The Playmobil Fun Park offers hours of fun ideal for guests of all ages. It has an indoor and outdoor play area, water area, and well-equipped facilities. The Playmobil shop also features a full range of toys with various themes, such as city life, aquarium, pirates, fairytale, knights, police, and more. These toys are even available to play on-site.
I hope you enjoyed this overview of the best family activities in Malta. Safe family travels!