If you’re dreaming of turquoise seas, ancient history, and a destination where gelato stands are as common as playgrounds—pack your bags, because Malta is calling. This sun-drenched Mediterranean gem is often overlooked due to its neighbors, Italy and Greece, but spoiler alert: Malta is every bit as stunning and a whole lot more family-friendly than you might think.
As a mom who travels with kids, I can tell you that Malta is not just for honeymooners and history buffs. It’s a family playground where you can combine culture, beaches, and adventure—and still sneak in a glass of wine at sunset.
Here’s your ultimate guide to where to stay, play, and explore with kids in Malta.
🌍 Why Malta is a Great Family Destination
Malta may be small (you can drive across the island in under an hour), but it packs in big adventures. It’s safe, English is widely spoken, and family life is woven into the culture. Kids aren’t just tolerated in Malta—they’re welcomed. From seaside strolls to castle climbs, you’ll find endless opportunities to keep both toddlers and teens entertained.
🏨 Where to Stay in Malta with Kids
When traveling as a family, your accommodation can make or break your holiday. Luckily, Malta offers plenty of family-friendly hotels, resorts, and apartments that cater to parents with little ones in tow.
1. St. Julian’s & Sliema
- Best for: Families who want to be near the action.
- Why: Easy access to restaurants, shopping, and waterfront promenades. Plus, frequent ferries to Valletta.
- Stay at: Hilton Malta (hello, kids’ pool and family suites) or AX The Palace for a boutique feel with great family amenities.
2. Mellieħa Bay
- Best for: Beach-loving families.
- Why: Home to Malta’s largest sandy beach with shallow, calm waters perfect for toddlers.
- Stay at: db Seabank Resort & Spa with kids’ clubs, splash pools, and all-inclusive convenience.
3. Gozo Island
- Best for: Families who want a slower pace.
- Why: Gozo feels more rural, with rolling hills, charming villages, and relaxed beaches.
- Stay at: Farmhouse rentals or family-run B&Bs—perfect for spreading out with kids.
🎡 What to Do in Malta with Kids
Now to the fun part: playtime! Malta is bursting with attractions that mix fun with learning (yes, education sneaks in here too).
1. Popeye Village (Mellieħa)
This village was where the 1980 Popeye movie was originally filmed. This colorful seaside village is now a quirky theme park. Kids can meet characters, jump on trampolines, or splash in the water play areas. Parents? Enjoy the sea views with a coffee…or maybe something stronger!
2. Mdina, the Silent City
Wandering this ancient, walled city feels like stepping into a fairy tale. This was truly one of my favorite locations to explore while we visited Malta. It is a wonderful town where you can let the kids play knights and princesses on cobbled streets while you enjoy stunning views. Pro tip: Go in the evening when it’s cooler and quieter.
3. Malta National Aquarium (Qawra)
A lifesaver on hot afternoons, and trust me, the afternoons can get very hot here. The aquarium is small but fun, with interactive exhibits and a play area. The second-best part of the aquarium is how cool the building is.
4. Splash & Fun Water Park
Because nothing says vacation like watching your kids shriek down water slides while you lounge nearby. There are three water parks in Malta:
- Splash and Fun: Located in Bahar Ic-Caghaq, it offers a variety of water slides and pools.
- Bugibba Water Park: A popular spot for families with various water attractions.
- Quattro Water Park: Another option for water activities and fun.
These parks cater to different age groups and provide a range of water-based entertainment.
5. Valletta’s Gardens
Upper Barrakka Gardens is stroller-friendly and perfect for picnics with sweeping harbor views. You can spend an hour or several hours exploring the gardens if you want to take a nature adventure to learn about the different local plants.
🏖️ Best Beaches for Families
Let’s be honest: sometimes kids just want to dig, splash, and repeat. Luckily, Malta’s got beaches for days, even for a small island.
- Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay): Long, sandy, and shallow—perfect for toddlers.
- Golden Bay: Great mix of sand and shallow water with facilities nearby.
- Ramla Bay (Gozo): Famous for its red-golden sand and calm waters.
Pro tip: Pack beach shoes. Some of Malta’s beaches are rocky; flip flops will also work, but water shoes of some kind are recommended.
🍝 Family-Friendly Eats
Food here is a delightful mix of Italian, Middle Eastern, and local flavors—and most restaurants welcome kids with open arms. I highly recommend booking a local dinner show, which allows you to experience some of Malta’s traditional dances and enjoy a taste of the local cuisine.
- Ta’ Kris (Sliema): Casual and cozy Maltese food, great for introducing kids to new flavors.
- Palazzo Preca (Valletta): Family-run with friendly staff who happily cater to kids.
- Seaside kiosks: Cheap, cheerful, and easy for picky eaters.
🚗 Getting Around Malta with Kids
Though it is a small island, it is kind of a parent’s dream. You can get almost anywhere in 30–40 minutes.
- Car rentals: Best if you want flexibility with little ones. (Remember, they drive on the left here!)
- Ferries: Fun for kids and a great way to reach Valletta or Gozo.
- Buses: Affordable and frequent, but can get crowded.
🧳 Pro Tips for Parents
- Bring sun protection: It is sunny almost year-round. So be prepared for that!
- Plan for naps: Keep afternoons open for rest, pool time, or stroller walks.
- Book early: Family-friendly hotels fill up fast in peak season (June–August).
- Visit shoulder seasons: April–May or September–October mean fewer crowds, lower prices, and still-beautiful weather.
Malta may be small, but it delivers a big punch for families. You’ll explore castles and learn about Templar Knights, swim in crystal-clear waters (my daughter loved the snorkeling around the island, took to it like a fish to water!), and wander charming streets where kids can burn energy and parents can soak in history.
Traveling here as a family means you can have your adventure and your downtime. Think of it as the Goldilocks of Mediterranean travel: not too big, not too busy—just right.
So pack your sunscreen, grab the kids’ floaties, and get ready to discover why Malta is one of Europe’s best hidden gems for families.