Malta is a true Mediterranean gem that serves as the perfect destination for family holidays. While exploring children activities Malta has to offer, we discovered that this small island provides far more than just sunshine and beautiful beaches. Our family of four (children aged 8 and 10) spent unforgettable vacation days here, discovering places that equally enchant kids and adults alike.
What makes Malta for families such an excellent choice? First and foremost, its compact size – you can easily travel between attractions, with every journey taking a maximum of 30-40 minutes. The island offers a safe environment, friendly climate (nearly 300 sunny days per year!), and English-speaking residents. Additionally, Malta’s history spans thousands of years, which means incredible monuments and sites to explore with young adventurers.
During our stay, we visited places as diverse as Popeye’s movie village, an underwater aquarium with a tunnel full of sharks, megalithic temples older than the pyramids, and colorful boats in fishing harbors. We’ve prepared a list of the 15 best activities for kids Malta offers, all tested by our own family!
- Popeye Village – Movie Set Village in Anchor Bay
- Malta National Aquarium – Underwater Adventure in Qawra
- Playmobil Fun Park – Paradise for Building Block Fans
- Splash & Fun Water Park – Water Fun in Bahar ic-Caghaq
- Esplora Interactive Science Centre – Learning Can Be Fun!
- Mdina Dungeons – Historical Adventure Underground
- The Malta Experience – 7000 Years of History in 45 Minutes
- Limestone Heritage Park & Gardens – Maltese Tradition in Action
- Ta' Qali Artisan Village – Maltese Crafts Come Alive
- Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum – Journey into Prehistory
- Valletta Fun Train – Exploring the Capital by Maltese Train
- Eden Cinemas – Latest Movies in Air-Conditioned Theaters
- Malta 5D – Island History in Five Dimensions
- Jurassic Immersive Experience Malta – Dinosaurs Come to Life
- The Embassy Cinemas Valletta – Cinema Experience in Historic Building
- Practical Tips for Families with Children in Malta
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary – Malta with Kids Guarantees Successful Holidays!
Popeye Village – Movie Set Village in Anchor Bay
One of Malta’s most distinctive attractions is Popeye Village, the colorful village built for the 1980 Hollywood movie starring Robin Williams. This is where children can feel like they’re in a fairy tale, while parents take a nostalgic journey back to their own childhood.
The village consists of 19 original wooden houses painted in vibrant colors – yellow, blue, red, and green. Each serves a specific purpose: Popeye’s house, Brutus’s shop, the mayor’s office, or Olive’s home. Our kids were thrilled that they could enter every building and see what life looked like in the fictional Sweetheaven.
The biggest hit for our young travelers were the live shows featuring actors portraying cartoon characters. Performances take place several times daily in English, but the physical comedy and gestures make everything perfectly understandable for children. Our younger son was so fascinated that he spent the rest of the day repeating Popeye’s characteristic sounds!
At the park, you’ll also find:
- Mini cinema with a documentary about the movie production
- Animator Village with children’s workshops
- Playground with various attractions
- Small sandy beach in the bay (perfect for a quick swim)
- Food outlets with snacks
Practical information: Check current prices and opening hours at popeyemalta.com • Getting there: by bus or car (paid parking) • Prices vary seasonally – summer offers more attractions but higher costs
Popeye Village is definitely a place worth visiting during your Malta family holiday. The picturesque bay location means the view from the road alone takes your breath away!
Official website – https://popeyemalta.com
Malta National Aquarium – Underwater Adventure in Qawra
Malta National Aquarium is one of the most modern children activities Malta offers, transporting the whole family into the fascinating world of seas and oceans. The aquarium building was designed in a starfish shape and makes an incredible impression from the outside.
The biggest sensation for our children was the underwater tunnel, where you walk surrounded by sharks, rays, and hundreds of colorful tropical fish. Our kids stood there mesmerized as enormous sharks – the world’s largest fish – swam overhead! This was one of those moments when even we adults stood with mouths agape.
The aquarium consists of several themed sections:
- Mediterranean Sea with local Maltese fauna
- Coral reefs with tropical fish
- Shark zone with several species
- Touch pool with rays you can interact with
- Sea turtle section
- Interactive educational zone
We were also impressed by the interactive exhibit where children can touch starfish, small rays, and other safe marine creatures. The guide shared fascinating facts about marine life, and our kids asked dozens of questions!
Next to the aquarium, there’s also a beautiful marine-themed playground with wave-like swings, turtle-shaped slides, and numerous climbing elements.
Practical information: Hours: daily 10:00-18:00 (last entry 17:30) • Check current prices at aquarium.com.mt • Getting there: bus to Qawra or private car
Malta National Aquarium is definitely one of the attractions you cannot miss when exploring Malta for families!
Official website – https://www.aquarium.com.mt
Playmobil Fun Park – Paradise for Building Block Fans
When our children heard about Playmobil Fun Park in Malta, it immediately topped their “must-see” list. And they weren’t disappointed! This unique theme park is a true paradise for fans of the famous German building blocks and all children who love creative play.
Located in Ħal Far, the park offers huge indoor and outdoor spaces. The main attraction consists of gigantic models and dioramas built with Playmobil blocks – from medieval castles to modern cities. Our older son, who loves history, was enchanted by the life-size replica of Maltese knights!
The park is divided into several themed zones:
- Knight zone with castles and tournaments
- Pirates and treasure island
- Modern city with skyscrapers
- Farm with animals
- Building zone (create your own constructions)
- Outdoor playground with Playmobil elements
What delighted the children most was receiving a basket of Playmobil blocks at entry to play with throughout the park. Our kids spent hours building their own stories while we could relax comfortably on the benches.
Practical information: Very reasonable prices – details at playmobilmalta.com • Hours: check online, different for weekdays and weekends • Getting there: near airport, bus X4 or private car • Parking: free
Playmobil Fun Park is where time flies incredibly fast. Plan at least 3-4 hours for your visit!
Official website – https://www.playmobilmalta.com
Splash & Fun Water Park – Water Fun in Bahar ic-Caghaq
When Malta’s temperature reaches over 30 degrees, nothing beats cooling off at Splash & Fun Water Park. This water park offers some of the best kids activities Malta provides and works perfectly on hot days.
The water park offers diverse attractions for all age groups. Our children immediately rushed to the colorful slides – from gentle ones for younger kids to extreme ones for older children. They particularly enjoyed the “Lazy River” – where you can peacefully float on inflatable rings while admiring surrounding palm trees.
The main attraction is the wave pool, where the wave machine activates every 15 minutes. Watching children jump in artificial waves was priceless – our younger son screamed with joy every time a big wave lifted him up!
Park attractions include:
- Colorful slides of varying difficulty levels
- Artificial wave pool
- Lazy River
- Pool for toddlers with mini slides
- Adult jacuzzi
- Olympic swimming pool
Practical information: Season: May-October • Current prices and hours at splashandfun.com.mt • Getting there: bus to Bahar ic-Caghaq • Note: open only during summer season!
Plan a full day at the water park – children won’t want to leave!
Official website – https://www.splash.mt
Esplora Interactive Science Centre – Learning Can Be Fun!
Esplora is where science meets fun in the most spectacular way. This interactive science center in Kalkara proves to children (and adults!) that physics, chemistry, and biology can be incredibly exciting.
Housed in the historic Villa Bighi building, the center offers over 200 interactive experiments. Our children were thrilled with the opportunity to experiment independently – they could create tornadoes, study gravity, experiment with sound and light. Our older son spent half an hour on an air flow experiment!
Most interesting sections in Esplora:
- Hall of Fame (gallery of inventors and discoverers)
- Science Theatre (live science shows)
- Physics experiment zone
- Children’s chemistry laboratory
- Planetarium with space shows
- Outdoor Science Garden
We particularly remember the Science Theatre show where an animator performed spectacular chemistry experiments. The planetarium is another must-see attraction – you can “fly” into space there!
Practical information: Check opening hours at esplora.org.mt – they vary throughout the week • Book planetarium seats immediately upon arrival • The center also offers weekend workshops for children
Official website – https://esplora.org.mt
Mdina Dungeons – Historical Adventure Underground
Mdina Dungeons combines historical education with excitement. Located in medieval Mdina, this underground exhibition transports children to dark medieval times, showing Malta’s history in an interactive and engaging way.
The tour route leads through several chambers where wax figures, sound effects, and lighting present the island’s history from Arab times to the Knights of Malta. Our children were fascinated by realistic scenes depicting life in medieval Mdina.
The exhibition was designed with families in mind – while the subject matter might seem dark, the presentation is educational and contains no content that might frighten young visitors.
Practical information: Tour duration: about 45 minutes • Getting there: bus to Mdina • After visiting, it’s worth strolling through Mdina itself
Official website – https://www.mdinadungeons.com
The Malta Experience – 7000 Years of History in 45 Minutes
The Malta Experience is an excellent way to learn Malta’s rich history in a child-friendly format. This documentary film with beautiful footage and professional narration presents 7000 years of Maltese history – from prehistoric times to the present.
The film excellently prepares visitors for exploring real monuments on the island – after the screening, our kids viewed Valletta’s fortifications with greater understanding.
Practical information: Location: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta • Screenings: check schedule online • Languages: English and other European languages
Official website – https://www.themaltaexperience.com
Limestone Heritage Park & Gardens – Maltese Tradition in Action
Limestone Heritage Park is where children can see how Maltese buildings were constructed and learn about the island’s traditional crafts. This theme park is located in a former quarry in Siggiewi.
The main attraction features demonstrations of cutting and carving Maltese limestone. Children can touch and try using replicas of old tools. The park also organizes workshops for children.
Practical information: Check opening hours at limestoneheritage.com • Plan about 2-3 hours for visiting • Getting there: bus to Siggiewi
Official website – https://limestoneheritage.com
Ta’ Qali Artisan Village – Maltese Crafts Come Alive
Ta’ Qali is a charming artisan village where traditional Maltese crafts are created before visitors’ eyes. Most craftspeople are happy to talk about their work and allow children to observe the creative process up close.
Practical information: Entry: free • Hours: check online, closed on weekends • Perfect place for a peaceful afternoon with children
Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum – Journey into Prehistory
Ghar Dalam is a cave in Birżebbuġa where the oldest traces of life in Malta were discovered. In the museum, children can see fossilized bones of dwarf elephants and other animals that once inhabited Malta.
Practical information: Check opening hours online • Tour duration: about 45 minutes • After visiting, you can swim at nearby Pretty Bay
Valletta Fun Train – Exploring the Capital by Maltese Train
Valletta Fun Train offers a comfortable way to explore Malta’s capital with children. The 35-minute route covers the capital’s main points of interest. Tickets are valid all day, so you can hop on and off different trains.
Practical information: Starting point: at Triton Fountain • Frequency: every 30 minutes • Languages: English, French, German, Italian
Official website – https://maltafuntrains.com
Eden Cinemas – Latest Movies in Air-Conditioned Theaters
Eden Cinemas in St. Julian’s is a modern multiplex cinema offering the latest Hollywood blockbusters. It’s a great option for relaxing in air-conditioned comfort during hot days.
Practical information: Location: Eden Leisure Complex, St. Julian’s • Check program online • Often features special family screenings at lower prices
Official website – https://theeden.mt
Malta 5D – Island History in Five Dimensions
Malta 5D in Valletta is a cinema attraction combining education with entertainment. The film uses physical effects like moving seats, wind, or fog, making children feel like participants in historical events.
Practical information: Screenings: every 30 minutes • Location: Old Bakery Street, Valletta • Languages: English, French, German, Italian
Official website – https://www.malta5d.com
Jurassic Immersive Experience Malta – Dinosaurs Come to Life
This interactive exhibition uses VR and AR technologies to create an unforgettable dinosaur experience. Children can “walk” among dinosaurs in virtual reality.
Practical information: Check location online (may change) • Especially recommended for children 5-12 years • Tour duration: about 60-90 minutes
Official website – https://jurassicimmersiveexperience.com/malta/
The Embassy Cinemas Valletta – Cinema Experience in Historic Building
The Embassy Cinemas is a unique cinema in Valletta’s heart, combining cutting-edge technology with historical interiors. The theaters are smaller than typical multiplexes, creating a more intimate atmosphere.
Practical information: Location: Old Theatre Street, Valletta • Check program online • Often organizes special children’s screenings
Official website – https://www.embassycinemas.com
Practical Tips for Families with Children in Malta
Transportation around the island: Malta is small, so all attractions are relatively close to each other. Public buses are inexpensive but can be crowded during peak season. With children, renting a car might be more convenient, but remember about left-hand traffic!
Best time to visit: With children, we recommend April-June and September-October. Temperatures are pleasant (20-28°C) and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot, but it’s ideal for water attractions.
Safety: Malta is one of the world’s safest countries. Remember sun protection and regular water consumption.
Food: Maltese cuisine is child-friendly – pizzas, pasta, and fresh fish are popular. Most restaurants can provide smaller portions for children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Optimally 7-10 days. This allows peaceful exploration of main children activities Malta offers without rushing, with time for beach relaxation and possibly a Gozo island trip.
Absolutely! Malta is one of Europe’s safest countries. Residents are very child-friendly, and medical care is excellent.
We recommend Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and Pretty Bay in Birżebbuġa. These sandy beaches have gentle water entry and are safe for children.
Most comfortable is a direct flight (about 3 hours from most European cities). Various airlines offer regular connections from major European cities.
Yes, especially if you plan to visit several paid attractions. Different cards include museum and attraction entry plus public transport.
Summary – Malta with Kids Guarantees Successful Holidays!
Malta is a true treasure for families with children, offering the perfect mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Our experiences exploring Malta for families convinced us that this small Mediterranean island can compete with Europe’s biggest family destinations.
Complete list of things to do in malta with kids:
- Popeye Village – movie set village in Anchor Bay
- Malta National Aquarium – underwater adventure in Qawra
- Playmobil Fun Park – paradise for building block fans
- Splash & Fun Water Park – water fun in Bahar ic-Caghaq
- Esplora Interactive Science Centre – learning can be fun!
- Mdina Dungeons – historical adventure underground
- The Malta Experience – 7000 years of history in 45 minutes
- Limestone Heritage Park & Gardens – Maltese tradition in action
- Ta’ Qali Artisan Village – Maltese crafts come alive
- Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum – journey into prehistory
- Valletta Fun Train – exploring the capital by train
- Eden Cinemas – latest movies in air-conditioned theaters
- Malta 5D – island history in five dimensions
- Jurassic Immersive Experience Malta – dinosaurs come to life
- The Embassy Cinemas Valletta – cinema experience in historic building
Malta proves that the smallest countries can offer the biggest adventures. Are you ready to be convinced for your next Malta family holiday on this magical island?