Malta with kids
Everything you need to know for an unforgettable family holiday
Malta with children is one of those destinations you might not think of right away… until you get there. Then you understand: short distances, super kid-friendly, lots to do, crystal-clear sea, great beaches, and good weather all year round. We traveled with the kids through Malta and Gozo and were really surprised how fun and easy this destination is.
In this complete guide, you’ll find everything for a perfect holiday: the best spots, beaches, activities, playgrounds, practical tips, and our recommendations from our own Malta & Gozo with children travel guide + Google Maps.
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All about Malta
Malta — officially the Republic of Malta — is an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, just south of Sicily. It lies perfectly between Europe and Africa: south of Italy, east of Tunisia, and north of Libya. The archipelago consists of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.
The largest island, Malta, is the vibrant center full of culture, history, beaches, and charming coastal towns. Gozo is quieter and greener, while Comino is mainly known for the Blue Lagoon.
Despite its rich history and variety of landscapes, Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world. It is roughly twice the size of Texel and has just over half a million inhabitants. This makes it one of the most densely populated countries in Europe: about 1,447 people per km². Due to this high population density, Malta is highly urbanized, with relatively little untouched nature.
Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Maltese is a unique language with Arabic, Italian, and English influences. English is spoken everywhere.
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How child-friendly is Malta?
Malta is a surprisingly great destination for families with children. The island is compact, safe, easy to navigate, and full of fun activities for all ages. In addition, you’ll find plenty of playgrounds, charming coastal towns, and child-friendly beaches..
Safe and welcoming
Malta is known for its friendly, hospitable people and immediately feels comfortable for many families. The country has low crime rates, excellent infrastructure, and modern healthcare. This makes traveling here very relaxed, even with young children.
Child-friendly accommodations
The island offers a wide range of family hotels, apartments, and holiday homes. Many accommodations feature kids’ clubs, (children’s) pools, spacious family rooms, cots, special kids’ meals, and sometimes even babysitting services.
Food & drink with children
The Maltese cuisine is a mix of Italian and Mediterranean — perfect for kids. Pasta, pizza, risotto, grilled meat, and fresh fish are on almost every menu. Many restaurants have separate children’s menus, and you’ll find an ice cream shop or snack bar on nearly every corner. Dining with kids here is truly no challenge.
Climate in Malta & Best Time to Visit
Malta has a typical Mediterranean climate with long, warm summers and mild winters. This makes the island suitable for a family vacation almost all year round. Below is what you can expect per season — useful for choosing your ideal travel period.
🌸 Spring (March – June)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Malta. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, nature is in bloom, and the island is still wonderfully quiet. Perfect for sightseeing, walks, and outings with young children. Occasional rain showers may occur (especially in March and April), but they are usually brief. We visited in June and already enjoyed summery weather.
☀️ Summer (July – September)
This is peak season and the warmest period. Temperatures can reach 30–35°C, and there is almost no rain. Ideal for families who love beach days, snorkeling, and boat trips. Note: July and August are the busiest months, especially in popular seaside towns.
🍁 Autumn (September – November)
Perhaps the best time for families. Temperatures drop to a pleasant 20–30°C, the sea remains warm, and the island becomes much quieter. There may be more wind, and by November the chance of rain increases.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Winter is mild, with temperatures around 10–17°C. There is a higher chance of rain and wind, but it’s a great period for culture, visiting cities like Valletta and Mdina, and enjoying walks without crowds. It never feels truly cold, and you often have many places almost to yourself.
The best villages and towns in Malta with children
Malta sometimes feels like walking through an open-air museum. The golden streets, centuries-old stones, and stunning views give the island a unique atmosphere. Some places look like they came straight from a movie set (and sometimes they really did). We couldn’t choose just one favorite — each village and town has its own charm. These are the places you definitely want to visit on a family holiday in Malta.
Valletta & The Three Cities
The capital of Malta is small, manageable, and full of history — ideal for kids. Right opposite Valletta are the Three Cities: Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua. Together they form one of the most beautiful areas of the island.
Valletta was built in 1566 by the Knights of Malta and is entirely listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Yet it’s small enough to explore in a single day — perfect for children who aren’t up for long walks. Wander through the narrow streets, hop on the fun train for a first impression, and relax in the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where the cannons are fired daily at 12:00 (kids love this).
How to visit Valletta most enjoyably
Park or start in the Three Cities and take the traditional water taxi to Valletta (€2 p.p.). In 10 minutes you sail past the most beautiful views of the Grand Harbour. Then take the lift up to the center — fun and easy with kids.
The Three Cities: quieter, charming, and so photogenic
Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua together form a beautiful, much quieter alternative to Valletta. Wander through narrow streets, see colorful balconies, fortress walls, and small squares where children can play. It’s so atmospheric and peaceful here that it feels like discovering a local village — highly recommended.
Mdina: the “Silent City”
Mdina may be the most beautiful place in Malta. The old capital sits on a hill, has hardly any cars, and feels like stepping 1,000 years back in time. Children love running through the maze of streets. Inside the city walls, you’ll find stunning photo spots, gates, and palaces. After your visit, relax at Fontanella Tea Garden for the best view on the island (and possibly the most delicious slice of chocolate cake ever).
Must-see in Mdina
– Get lost in the quiet, narrow streets
– Mdina Gate (the famous city gate)
– Mdina Dungeons (fun if your kids are >6)
– St. Paul’s Cathedral
– Mdina Glass (beautiful souvenirs!)
Combine Mdina with nearby Rabat, where you’ll find lots of playgrounds, catacombs, and the fun train.
Rabat: charming, relaxed & fun for kids
Rabat is located right next to Mdina but feels much more lively. This is the place to stroll through authentic streets, enjoy street food, and discover historic sights — often without large crowds.
Fun things to do:
– Malta Fun Trains through Rabat and the surrounding area
– St. Paul’s Catacombs
– Walk through old alleys with typical Maltese balconies
– Sunday market with local products
If you have time, drive to the Buskett Gardens or the impressive Dingli Cliffs for sunset.
Marsaxlokk: colorful fishing village with a lively market
Marsaxlokk is the village of the traditional Luzzu boats: brightly colored fishing boats with the eyes of Osiris on the bow. Especially on Sunday mornings, the village comes alive with the large fish market — a fun experience for children. You can enjoy delicious meals at the many seafood restaurants along the water. The village is small, charming, and perfect for a short stop during your road trip.
Victoria (Gozo)
Victoria, the capital of Gozo, is a nice mix of culture, shops, cafés, and narrow streets. The absolute highlight is the Citadel.
Nature in Malta: the Most Beautiful Beaches, Cliffs & Caves
Although Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, that doesn’t mean you won’t find nature here — quite the opposite. The island surprises with impressive cliffs, turquoise bays, rugged coastlines, and hidden rock pools. The natural areas may be smaller than on other islands, but the spots that exist are truly some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.
In this section, I’ll take you through Malta’s most stunning natural spots: from the towering Dingli Cliffs to the bright blue waters of the Blue Grotto, and the best beaches for families. Perfect for a road trip — and even more complete if you use the Malta with Children Google Maps guide, where I’ve marked all the beaches, playgrounds, viewpoints, and swimming spots for you.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Malta
Malta is known for its stunning coastline, with a mix of beautiful sandy beaches and idyllic rocky coves. Many travelers are surprised by the variety: from wide, child-friendly bays in the north to quiet, hidden beaches tucked between cliffs.
Golden Bay
On the northwest coast lies Golden Bay, one of the island’s most famous beaches. The golden sand, spacious bay, and clear water make it an ideal spot for a relaxing beach day with children. There are plenty of facilities such as sunbeds and a beach bar.
Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay)
The largest and most child-friendly sandy beach in Malta. The water remains shallow for a long distance, making it perfect for young children. The area is lively, with cafés, restrooms, watersports, and plenty of space to play.
Għajn Tuffieħa (Riviera Beach)
Perhaps the most beautiful beach on the island. You reach it via a long staircase (a little workout 😉), but it’s worth it: peace, phenomenal views, and turquoise water. A favorite spot for families looking for a quieter and more natural environment.
Paradise Bay
A small but stunning cove near the ferry to Gozo. The soft sand, surrounding rocks, and clear water make it a top beach for snorkeling and families.
St. Peter’s Pool
This is not a sandy beach, but a spectacular natural rocky cove with crystal-clear water. It’s famous here for cliff jumping — fun for older children and teenagers. Young kids should be carefully supervised. The water is beautiful, the atmosphere relaxed, and it feels a bit like a secret spot (though it can get busy!).
Ghar Lapsi
Our personal favorite. This rocky cove on the south coast is perfect for snorkelers. The water is crystal clear, and the rock formations make it feel like you’re swimming in a natural lagoon. You’ll also find some nice places to eat here.
Cliffs & Viewpoints: the rugged side of Malta
If you think Malta only has beaches, you really need to explore the cliffs. The coastline is spectacularly beautiful in some spots, with high rock walls and deep blue sea far below.
Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs may be the most impressive natural spot on the island. Here, the rocks rise up to 253 meters above the sea, offering phenomenal views. You can see the uninhabited island of Filfla and the vast Mediterranean Sea. The viewpoint is reached after a short walk. You can park at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel, but the road is narrow; it’s easier to park on the south side of Triq Panoramika. The walk to the viewpoint is stunning, especially at sunset when the cliffs turn golden.
Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders. The sea here is so blue it almost looks unnatural. From the viewpoint, you can see how the cave and rock arches glow bright blue in the sunlight. Want to see it even more beautifully? Take a boat trip from Wied iż-Żurrieq. In about half an hour, you’ll sail past several caves where the light refracts magically through the water. A fun activity for kids.
📍 Extra tip: get the Malta Google Maps guide
Want to have all the beaches, playgrounds, hidden gems, great eateries, and walking routes in one place?
Then the Malta with Children Google Maps guide is perfect. It shortens your search time, shows you what’s nearby, and helps you find the most beautiful spots you might otherwise miss.
Child-Friendly Attractions in Malta
Malta is surprisingly kid-friendly — perhaps one of the most child-friendly islands in Europe. You’ll find not only great beaches and playgrounds (more than on any other island we’ve ever seen), but also a wide range of attractions designed specifically for children. From theme parks and aquariums to water fun and fairs, boredom is impossible here.
All information about these child-friendly attractions in Malta can be found in my detailed blog: Top Attractions for Kids in Malta. Below is a preview of the best spots you simply shouldn’t miss.
Popeye Village
Originally built as a film set for the Popeye movie, it is now one of the happiest places for kids. You can stroll through the colorful wooden village, watch shows, play in the playgrounds, make your own “film recording,” and in summer, swim at the seaside water park. A fun experience for little ones and a super photogenic stop.
Playmobil FunPark
This park is perfect for young children. Inside, you’ll find large Playmobil sets where kids can play endlessly, and outside there’s a great playground. Regular workshops and themed days are held, from Easter to Halloween.
Malta National Aquarium
Over 26 aquariums, a tunnel full of sharks and rays, a touch pool, and daily feeding presentations. Ideal for a morning or afternoon, and be sure to combine it with the outdoor playground — one of the best in Malta.
Splash & Fun Water Park
Slides, lazy river, wave pool, and a separate toddler area. This is the island’s top water park and a hit with families. Especially during the summer months, it’s a wonderfully refreshing day out.
Luna Park & Rulina Fun Park
Malta has several small amusement parks with carousels, bouncy castles, and fairground rides. Great for an evening of fun or when the kids need to burn off some energy.
Gozo with children: Malta’s calm, green little sister
Gozo is the smaller, greener, and much quieter sister of Malta — and in my opinion, an absolute must-do during your trip. The island immediately feels more relaxed: more nature, less traffic, charming villages, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families. While Malta can sometimes be busy, Gozo offers space, peace, and a touch of authenticity.
You can easily reach Gozo by ferry from Ċirkewwa (20 minutes), and once on the island, getting around is simple by bus, taxis, or — best of all — a rental car. Gozo is compact but incredibly diverse, with beautiful beaches, interesting sights, and plenty of child-friendly activities for at least two to three days. Below are the highlights you won’t want to miss.
Highlights of Gozo for families
Ramla Bay
Gozo’s most famous sandy beach — wide, red-gold sand, gently sloping, and perfect for children.
De Citadel in Victoria
A medieval fortified city with views over the entire island. Fun to explore and ideal with slightly older kids.
Inland Sea & Dwejra
A natural lagoon connected to the sea through a narrow opening. You can take a boat tour through the rocks here, often a hit with children.
Xlendi Bay
A cozy coastal village with a promenade, child-friendly restaurants, and an easily accessible small beach.
Wied il-Għasri
An impressive gorge with turquoise water — beautiful for hiking and a great spot for photos.
Tal-Mixta Cave
Gozo’s most famous cave, overlooking Ramla Bay. A magical place, especially at sunset.
Comino with children: a day full of sun, sea, and adventure
Comino, the smallest of the three inhabited islands of the Maltese archipelago, is a true paradise for nature lovers. Although the island is only 3.5 square kilometers, it offers an abundance of natural beauty and adventurous activities perfect for children. The trip to Comino is an experience in itself, with stunning views over the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. For families with children, it’s an ideal outing that perfectly combines adventure and relaxation.
There are several ways to visit Comino, from organized tours to renting a boat yourself. For an overview of all options, check out GetYourGuide, where you can easily find the best choices for a day trip with the family. We chose an organized tour with the Hornblower, and it’s highly recommended! The boat has a slide, allowing children (and secretly us adults) to immediately slide into the water or jump from different heights. Contrary to what you might expect from a busy party boat, it was a relaxing cruise. Tip: be on board early to secure a spot on the sun deck and fully enjoy the boat experience. The captain made sure to dock slightly away from the crowds at the Blue Lagoon, which was perfect for a peaceful walk around the island. The boat is fully equipped with food, drinks, and toilets, making it a stress-free experience for the whole family.
Transportation in Malta: car rental or public transport
Renting a car in Malta
Want to explore Malta at your own pace? Renting a car is the best option. With a car, you can leisurely discover the entire island, from Valletta’s narrow streets to quiet bays and hidden spots. We recommend renting through Sunnycars, a reliable provider with transparent pricing. All essential insurance and extras are included, so there are no surprises. You can pick up your car at Malta International Airport or at one of the other rental locations on the island. Check out the car rental options here.
Important tips for driving in Malta:
- Driving side: in Malta, people drive on the left; it can take some getting used to, especially on bends and when overtaking.
- Traffic rules: similar to other European countries.
- Roads: generally well-maintained, but small roads can be narrow and winding.
- Parking: can be challenging in busy cities like Valletta and Sliema. Pay close attention to parking zones and time limits, and check if your accommodation provides parking.
Public transport in Malta
Prefer not to drive yourself? Malta has a well-organized bus network connecting major cities and attractions. It’s an affordable and reliable way to explore the island. The Tallinja Card is highly recommended for frequent travelers. This card allows unlimited bus travel during its validity period. Extra perks include free ferry rides between The Three Cities and Valletta and free access to the lift to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. You can purchase the Tallinja Card here.
Where to stay in Malta with children
Malta offers a surprisingly varied range of accommodations and regions for families. When choosing where to stay, it’s helpful to consider your family’s needs: are you looking for peace and relaxation, or do you want to be close to attractions and cultural hotspots? A few tips for booking:
- Child facilities: check for baby cots, playgrounds, or pools, especially when traveling with young children.
- Location: Malta is small, but it can be useful to choose two different accommodations — for example, one in the north and one in the south — to minimize travel times and easily visit all the sights.
- Gozo: if you have extra time, the peaceful sister island Gozo is definitely worth a visit.
Best regions to stay
Bugibba en Qawra
These neighborhoods on the north coast are ideal for families. They offer many child-friendly activities, affordable accommodations, and a lovely promenade for walking or cycling.
- Pros: child-friendly attractions, good value for money.
- Cons: rocky beaches instead of sand.
- Tips: AX ODYCY Hotel, Salini Resort, Happy Rentals, DoubleTree by Hilton Malta.
Mellieħa
Perfect for families who love beaches. Mellieħa Bay is one of the largest and most child-friendly beaches in Malta, with shallow water ideal for little ones.
- Pros: large sandy beaches, peaceful surroundings.
- Cons: farther from Valletta and other cities.
- Tips: db Seabank Resort + Spa, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Malta Golden Sands, Mellieħa Holiday Centre, Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa.
Sliema
A central and lively location, close to Valletta and St. Julian’s. Ideal for a mix of culture, shopping, and seaside relaxation.
- Pros: proximity to Valletta, good public transport and ferry connections.
- Cons: fewer beaches.
- Tips: 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa, Waterfront, HOLM Boutique & SPA, Art Deco Villa.
St. Julian’s
Lively neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, shops, and hotels with child-friendly facilities. Ideal for those who want to stay close to entertainment and urban amenities.
- Pros: many amenities, family-friendly hotels.
- Cons: can be busy in peak season; choose a hotel with a pool.
- Tips: InterContinental Malta, The Westin Dragonara Resort, Hilton Malta, Cavalieri Art Hotel.
Valletta
The historic capital is perfect for families who want to combine culture and history with their stay. You can combine your overnight stay here with day trips to the nearby beaches of St. Julian’s and Sliema.
- Pros: rich in culture, easily accessible.
- Cons: less suitable for beach lovers, often higher prices.
- Tips: The Phoenicia Malta, The Gomerino Hotel, San Karlu, The Embassy Valletta Hotel.
Our favorites
During our holiday in Malta, we chose to stay in two different accommodations: one in the north and one in the south. This way, we could explore all the highlights of the island without long travel times.
AX ODYCY Hotel (Qawra)
A great choice for families, featuring an outdoor pool, slides, water playground, indoor pool, and multiple restaurants with play areas for children. Click here for more info and booking.
Portside Lodge (Marsaskala)
Spacious apartments with a private kitchen, ideal for families who want a bit more flexibility. From the lodge, you can easily walk to the promenade with plenty of restaurants, and the pool offers beautiful views of the sea and typical Maltese houses. Click here for more info and booking.
Book Your Family Vacation to Malta with Kids
On Booking.com you can easily find kid-friendly accommodations in Malta, and the cheapest flights are available on Skyscanner. Prefer a fully organized holiday? Check out TUI. For fun excursions, boat trips, and activities, visit GetYourGuide.com, and you can easily rent a car through Sunny Cars.
Still exploring options for a family-friendly holiday? On our homepage, you’ll find an overview of popular destinations for families.
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