Malta, a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty , is a Mediterranean gem that offers an unforgettable holiday experience for families. With a plethora of activities catering to all ages, this island nation promises an adventure for everyone. From interactive science museums to thrilling boat rides and charming film sets, here are 10 must-do activities that will keep the whole family entertained:
1. Popeye Village
This whimsical attraction is a must-visit for families with young children. Originally built as a film set for the 1980 musical production “Popeye” starring Robin Williams, Popeye Village has been transformed into a charming amusement park. Nestled in Anchor Bay, just 3 kilometers from the village of Mellieha , this unique village is one of the few remaining film sets that has been preserved and repurposed as a tourist attraction.
Description:
Step into the world of Popeye and Olive Oyl as you explore the village’s quaint houses, shops, and attractions. Kids will love meeting the iconic characters, watching lively puppet shows, and participating in interactive activities. The park offers a variety of entertainment options, including:
- Shows: Be entertained by lively performances featuring Popeye characters and talented animators. Imagine the excitement on your children’s faces as they sing along with their favorite sailor man!
- Cinema: Take a break from the action and watch a documentary about the making of the film. Learn how this charming village was brought to life and marvel at the craftsmanship that went into creating this iconic set.
- Boat Trip: Embark on a scenic boat ride around the bay (available in good weather). Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and soak in the stunning views of the Maltese coastline.
- Playgrounds: Let the kids loose on the playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing frames. Watch them make new friends as they explore the various play areas.
- Water Activities: During the summer months, enjoy water trampolines and an inflatable assault course. Splash around and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Anchor Bay.
Location:
Anchor Bay, 3 km from Mellieha, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, with specific attractions for younger children and teenagers.
Reviews:
Families rave about the unique atmosphere and the variety of activities available. The village is praised for its picturesque setting, immersive experience, and friendly staff. One visitor described it as “a hidden gem that bought back childhood memories!”
2. Malta National Aquarium
Dive into the underwater world at the Malta National Aquarium, a fascinating attraction for all ages. Located in Qawra, this modern aquarium is the only one in the Maltese archipelago, making it a truly special destination.
Description:
The aquarium features impressive water tanks, including a large walk-through tunnel that provides a close-up view of sharks, rays, and other exotic species. Imagine walking through a tunnel surrounded by these magnificent creatures! You’ll also find exhibits dedicated to reptiles, insects, and amphibians. The aquarium offers:
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with touch screens and interactive displays to learn about marine ecosystems. Discover the fascinating world of coral reefs, deep-sea creatures, and the delicate balance of life in our oceans.
- Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs designed for different age groups. From interactive workshops to guided tours, there’s something for everyone to learn and enjoy.
- Feeding Sessions: Watch the fascinating feeding sessions of various marine creatures. Witness the agility of sharks as they snatch their prey and the graceful movements of rays as they glide through the water.
- Play Area: Let the kids have fun in the outdoor play area. After exploring the underwater world, let the little ones burn off some energy in the playground.
Location:
Triq it-Trunciera, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, with specific activities and exhibits for younger children.
Reviews:
Visitors praise the aquarium’s modern facilities, diverse marine life, and educational value. Families appreciate the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to learn about marine conservation. One visitor commented, “Guides are very informative and their enthusiasm is great. Recommended for young and old!”
3. Esplora Interactive Science Centre
Spark your child’s curiosity at Esplora Interactive Science Centre, an engaging and educational attraction located in Kalkara. Housed in the historic Villa Bighi, this science center offers a unique blend of learning and fun for all ages. It was opened in 2016 following a request from the Maltese population, demonstrating the community’s involvement in the project and its importance to the local community.
Description:
Esplora features over 200 interactive exhibits that explore various scientific concepts. The center offers:
- Exhibition Halls: Explore themed exhibition halls dedicated to music, engineering, telecommunications, and the nature of matter. Discover the science behind music, build structures with giant blocks, and learn how telecommunications connect the world.
- Activity Centre: Participate in hands-on workshops, science shows, and interactive activities. Engage with science in a fun and exciting way, from creating bubbles to exploring the human body.
- Planetarium: Embark on a journey through the cosmos in the state-of-the-art planetarium. Explore the wonders of the universe, from distant galaxies to the planets in our solar system.
- Outdoor Adventure Experience: Explore the outdoor playscape, picnic area, amphitheater, and botanical garden. Let the kids run free in the playscape, enjoy a family picnic, or learn about the local flora in the botanical garden.
- Life at Bighi Exhibition: Housed in the Cot Lift, this exhibition features artifacts and memorabilia from the years when Villa Bighi was used as a hospital by the Royal Navy. Step back in time and discover the history of this fascinating building.
Location:
Villa Bighi, Triq Marina Bighi Complex, Kalkara, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, with specific activities and exhibits designed for different age groups.
Reviews:
Families appreciate the center’s interactive exhibits, educational value, and engaging activities. The planetarium and outdoor adventure experience are also highly praised. One visitor commented, “It’s a full day of fun for the whole family and it’s a great price too.”
4. Playmobil FunPark
Let your kids’ imaginations run wild at Playmobil FunPark, a haven for Playmobil enthusiasts of all ages. Located in Hal Far, this indoor and outdoor play area offers a safe and stimulating environment for children to explore.
Description:
The FunPark features different themed zones where children can play with life-size Playmobil toys and figures. The park offers:
- Indoor Play Area: Explore themed areas with princesses, knights, and police. Let your little ones become knights defending their castle, princesses attending a grand ball, or police officers chasing down criminals.
- Outdoor Play Area: Embark on pirate adventures on the pirate ship, slides, bridges, and tree house. Climb aboard the pirate ship, search for hidden treasure, and slide down into the depths of the park.
- Showroom: Discover the latest Playmobil range in the showroom. After a day of play, browse the showroom and find the perfect Playmobil set to take home as a souvenir.
Location:
HF 80, Industrial Estate, Hal Far, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for children of all ages, with specific areas for babies, toddlers, and older children.
Reviews:
Families praise the FunPark’s variety of play areas, affordable entrance fees, and friendly atmosphere. The park is particularly popular with younger children who enjoy the interactive exhibits and imaginative play opportunities. One parent commented, “We seriously felt like a child again and were in awe walking around the different areas inside the funpark.”
5. Upper Barrakka Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Valletta. Perched atop the city walls, these historic gardens offer breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.
Description:
Stroll along the gardens’ geometrically precise paths, admire the well-groomed hedges, and relax on the benches while enjoying the panoramic views. The gardens offer:
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and Fort St. Angelo. Capture breathtaking photos of the harbor and the surrounding cityscape.
- Saluting Battery: Witness the daily cannon firings at the Saluting Battery below. Experience a piece of history as you watch this traditional ceremony. You can even pay to visit the Saluting Battery itself for an even better view and to learn about its history and weapons.
- Monuments and Statues: Discover various monuments and statues dedicated to historical figures. Learn about the people who shaped Malta’s history as you explore the gardens.
- Barrakka Lift: Take the lift down to Valletta’s ditch and Lascaris Wharf. Enjoy a convenient and scenic descent to the lower levels of the city.
- Picnic Spot: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch or snack in the gardens. The Upper Barrakka Kiosk offers local sweet pastries, ice cream, and cold drinks.
Location:
292 Triq Sant’ Orsla, Valletta, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages.
Reviews:
Visitors appreciate the gardens’ tranquil atmosphere, stunning views, and historical significance. The Saluting Battery and the Barrakka Lift are also popular attractions. One visitor described the gardens as “a great place to hang out and enjoy the views.”
6. Malta Fun Train
All aboard the Malta Fun Train! This delightful attraction offers a unique and entertaining way to explore the cities of Valletta and Mdina.
Description:
Hop on the colorful train and enjoy a leisurely ride through the historic streets, taking in the sights and sounds of these charming cities. The Malta Fun Train offers:
- Guided Tour: Listen to informative commentary about the history and landmarks of Valletta and Mdina.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable photos of the cityscapes and attractions from the comfort of the train.
- Family Fun: Enjoy a fun and relaxing experience for the whole family.
Location:
Valletta and Mdina, Malta
7. Blue Grotto
Embark on a mesmerizing boat trip to the Blue Grotto, a network of sea caverns on Malta’s southern coast. Known for their vibrant blue waters and dramatic rock formations, these caves offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
Description:
As sunlight filters through the cave openings, it creates a magical spectacle of phosphorescent blues and greens, illuminating the cave walls and ceiling. The Blue Grotto offers:
- Boat Tours: Take a traditional boat ride (frejgatina) to explore the caves and admire the changing colors of the water. Each boat holds around 8 people, making it a perfect activity for families.
- Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Blue Grotto with a diving excursion. Discover the hidden depths of these caves and encounter the diverse marine life that inhabits them.
- Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of the caves and the surrounding coastline from the clifftop viewpoint. Capture stunning photos of this natural wonder and the azure waters below.
Location:
Wied iż-Żurrieq, Qrendi, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, although young children may need to be accompanied by an adult on the boat tours.
Reviews:
Visitors describe the Blue Grotto as a “unique experience” and a “must-see” attraction in Malta. The boat tours are praised for their scenic beauty and the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing blue waters. One visitor commented, “It is a unique experience. You have to lean back in the boat to get into the cave… Once inside, you are in an area with phenomenal blue light, which is very beautiful.”
8. Malta Classic Car Collection
Take a trip down memory lane at the Malta Classic Car Collection, a museum dedicated to vintage automobiles. Located in Qawra, this museum showcases a diverse range of classic cars and motorcycles, from iconic sports cars to charming compacts.
Description:
Explore the museum’s 3,000-square-meter space and admire over 100 meticulously restored vehicles. The Malta Classic Car Collection offers:
- Classic Cars: Discover a wide range of classic cars, including Jaguar E-Types, Triumph Spitfires, Ford Thunderbirds, and Fiat 500s. Imagine cruising along the Maltese coast in one of these beauties! You’ll also find models from Alfa Romeo, Austin, Bugatti, Corvette, Mercedes, Morris, and Wolseley.
- Motorcycles and Scooters: Admire a collection of vintage motorcycles and scooters. From classic Vespas to powerful Harley Davidsons, there’s a two-wheeled wonder for everyone to admire.
- Memorabilia: Explore exhibits featuring costumes, objects, and ephemera from the 1940s to the 1960s. Step back in time and experience the fashion, music, and lifestyle of these bygone eras.
- Library: Browse through a collection of classic repair manuals from around the world. For the true car enthusiast, the library offers a fascinating glimpse into the mechanics and engineering of these vintage vehicles.
Location:
Tourist Street, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, although car enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the collection.
Reviews:
Visitors praise the museum’s well-maintained collection, immersive atmosphere, and informative displays. The museum is described as a “must-visit” for car enthusiasts and a “wonderful experience” for families. One visitor commented, “Lovely welcome, a lot bigger than you expect and a wonder collection of classic car along with many other things through out. Fantastic price would recommend.”
9. St John’s Co-Cathedral
Step into a masterpiece of Baroque architecture at St John’s Co-Cathedral, a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral in the heart of Valletta. Built by the Knights of Malta in the 16th century, this cathedral is a treasure trove of art and history.
Description:
Admire the cathedral’s ornate interior, adorned with intricate carvings, gilded arches, and impressive frescoes. St John’s Co-Cathedral offers:
- Baroque Art: Marvel at the works of renowned Italian Baroque artist Mattia Preti, who designed the cathedral’s vaulted ceiling and side altars. The intricate details and vibrant colors will leave you in awe.
- Caravaggio Masterpiece: Witness “The Beheading of St John the Baptist,” one of Caravaggio’s most famous paintings. This powerful and dramatic artwork is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
- Nine Chapels: Explore the nine richly decorated chapels, each dedicated to a different langue of the Knights of St John. Discover the history and symbolism behind each chapel and admire the unique artwork and decorations.
- Museum: Discover a collection of exquisite silverware, tapestries, and other treasures in the cathedral’s museum. Learn about the Knights of Malta and their legacy as you explore the museum’s exhibits.
Location:
St John Street, Valletta, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, although younger children may need some guidance to appreciate the historical and artistic significance.
Reviews:
Visitors describe St John’s Co-Cathedral as a “must-see” attraction in Valletta, praising its stunning architecture, impressive art collection, and historical significance. One visitor commented, “It is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen. The interior is absolutely breathtaking.”
10. Għar Dalam Cave and Museum
Embark on a journey through time at Għar Dalam Cave and Museum, a fascinating prehistoric site located in Birżebbuġa. This cave provides the earliest evidence of human presence in Malta, with artifacts dating back to the Neolithic Period.
Description:
Explore the cave’s 144-meter-long gallery and discover the remains of animals that roamed the island during the Ice Age, including dwarf elephants and hippopotamuses. The Għar Dalam Cave and Museum offers:
- Cave Exploration: Venture into the cave and observe the different geological layers, each containing fossils from different periods. Imagine walking in the footsteps of prehistoric creatures and early humans!
- Museum Exhibits: Discover a collection of animal bones, human artifacts, and pottery in the museum. Learn about the tools and objects used by early humans and marvel at the fossilized remains of extinct animals.
- Educational Displays: Learn about the formation of the cave, the history of the island, and the evolution of animal life in Malta. Discover how the island’s unique environment shaped the development of its flora and fauna.
- Garden: Explore the garden with indigenous plants and trees. After exploring the cave and museum, take a relaxing stroll through the garden and learn about the local flora.
Location:
Triq Ghar Dalam, Birżebbuġa, Malta
Age Range:
Suitable for all ages, although younger children may need some assistance navigating the cave.
Reviews:
Visitors describe Għar Dalam Cave and Museum as a “fascinating” and “impressive” attraction, praising its historical significance and educational value. One visitor commented, “If you are a natural history geek (like me) you will enjoy this place!”
