Posted on Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Family-friendly Malta presents a wealth of activities for all ages.

From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the capital, Valletta, to beach trips, boating excursions, and visiting ancient historic sites, this sunny Mediterranean island ticks all the boxes for a classic summer holiday.

Here's our quick guide to having an enjoyable summer break on Malta.

Which area of Malta is the best to stay?

Many visitors stay in the capital, Valletta, since this affords access to the city's many historical attractions, plus lots of good restaurants and a fun nightlife. And since Malta is so small and the public transport so good, other sites on the island are within easy reach.

However, for a more beach-focussed stay, consider St. Julian's, well known for its lively nightlife and entertainment options - and the stunning Spinola Bay.

If you prefer a quieter location, consider the tranquil island of Gozo, Serene Mdina, or the charming fishing town of Marsaxlokk.

How to get around Malta?

The island has a very well-developed bus system which is inexpensive and can take you to all the key locations.

It’s possible to rent a car, but given the island's small size and the heavy traffic, it might be more stress than it's worth. 

Taxis, bicycles, scooters are also available. However, walking is often the most logical and pleasant way to see the sights.

Can you walk between the 3 cities in Malta?

Yes, many visitors choose to stroll among the Three Cities.

Vittoriosa and Senglea are just 1.2km apart, while Senglea and Cospicua are 1.7km away from each other.

Is Malta expensive to visit?

As with many locations, how much you spend on Malta will depend on your choices.

High-end hotels in tourist areas will be more costly than guest houses in quieter towns. Hopping in and out of taxis will cost vastly more than using the cheap bus network. 

But overall, it's considerably more affordable than many Western European destinations. A coffee is around €2, while a beer costs about €3 (0.5L).

What's the food like in Malta?

Maltese eateries offer classic Mediterranean fare: soups and antipasti for starters, meat or fish dishes for mains.

Must-tries include bragioli (strips of beef wrapped in minced beef and herbs), and aljotta (fish soup).

Vegetarians might sample soppa ta l’armla (widow’s soup), made of potato, cauliflower and egg.

Top attractions in Malta

Upper Barrakka Gardens - 12pm saluting battery (Valletta)

The saluting battery fires its cannons at exactly 12 noon every day. It's worth experiencing up-close, although you'll almost certainly hear the guns wherever you are in Valletta.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens also afford spectacular views across the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities (the Vallettan districts of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua).

The Lower Barrakka Gardens (Valletta)

Twinned with the Upper Barrakka Gardens is the Lower Barrakka Gardens, offering similarly impressive views over the Grand Harbour.

In the centre of the lush garden is a neoclassical temple - a monument to Sir Alexander Ball, the British admiral who was sent to help the Maltese in the blockade against the French (1798), and who became the first Civil Commissioner of Malta. 

St. John's Co-Cathedral (Valletta)

The stunning 16th century Baroque cathedral of St Johns is a key attraction in the heart of old Valletta. Even those averse to ecclesiastical sites can’t fail to be impressed by the incredible works of art and intricate details inside.

It is home to two masterpieces by Caravaggio, one of which is signed by the man himself (the only example in existence).

Built as a church for the Knights of St John, the cathedral is still a fully working place of worship.

 

Lascaris War Rooms (Valletta)

This fascinating underground complex was where the Defence of Malta was orchestrated during World War Two.

Since Malta was key to controlling this part of the Mediterranean, the Lascaris War Rooms played a critical role in ensuring the defeat of Axis forces in North Africa.

Walk in the footsteps of Eisenhower, Montgomery and other famous commanders. 

After learning of the intensity of the wartime air raids, you'll emerge from the War Rooms wondering how Valletta remains so stunning. 

What's more, situated 40 feet underground, the War Rooms offer a welcome respite from the summer heat.

Cost of entry to the Lascaris War Rooms: Adult €14, child €7. Guided tour €17 adult, €7 child.

Fort St Elmo - National War Museum (Valletta)

Another war-centric yet engrossing attraction, Fort St Elmo contains two chapels and a host of notable military artefacts, including Roosvelt's Jeep ('Husky'), and Malta's award for gallantry, the George Cross. 

The museum also features the remains of Gloster Sea Gladiator N5520 "FAITH" - one of a trinity of fighters christened Faith, Hope, and Charity.

These were among the few airborne resources the Maltese defences had in World War two, but proved invaluable - as did their RAF volunteer pilots - in repelling aerial assaults by the Aeronautica Militare.

Cost of entry to Fort St Elmo: Adults €10, Children €7.50.

Mdina

A 30-minute bus or taxi ride west of Valletta lies Mdina, an ancient fortified city adjacent to the town of Rabat.

It doesn’t take long to stroll around the grand old architecture of the city, but most visitors come away delighted by the experience.

Horse drawn carriages offer guided tours around the city (25-35 euros, depending on your haggling skills), but you can easily enjoy it on foot.

Plenty of shady courtyard restaurants offer nourishment and respite from the heat.

The bus to Mdina from Valletta costs just €2 (bus numbers 51, 52 or 53).

Popeye Village Malta

Contrasting sharply with the Lascaris War Rooms and Fort St Elmo is Popeye Village Malta, once the set of the 1980 musical production.

While it may seem a little trivial after learning about the Siege of Malta, kids and adults alike can’t help but be impressed by this fun packed attraction.

Explore detailed interior sets from the movie, enjoy a round of mini golf, and have a bounce on the water trampoline. 

If for any reason you’re not won over by Popeye Village, head to the park's winery for some self-medication and views over the stunning Anchor Bay.

Entry cost to Popeye Village, Malta: Adults €22, children €16.

Mosta Rotunda

Given the amount of Axis ordnance rained down on Malta during World War Two, it's incredible that buildings as large as the Mosta Rotunda survived.

However, it had some near misses: in 1942 a bomb pierced the dome (the third largest unsupported example in the world) and landed on the church floor - but didn’t detonate. 

Founded in 1614 and inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the Rotunda is a must-visit for history fans. 30 minutes from Valletta by bus.

Cost of entry to Malta's Mosta Rotunda: €5.

Beaches on Malta

With fewer sandy stretches that you might expect from a Mediterranean destination, Malta nevertheless boasts some picturesque coastal areas.

Malta is considered one of the best dive spots in Europe, and is rewarding for snorkelers, too. 

Blue Lagoon, Comino

Among the most popular locations is the Blue Lagoon, so called for the intensity of its azure waters, which contrast with the adjacent pale-coloured sand and rock.

Arrive early to secure your sunbathing spot!

Golden Bay

For a classic sandy-beach experience, head to Golden Bay - one of 12 Blue Flag beaches in Malta.

Locals join in the fun on weekends, often with their own barbecues.

Xlendi Beach

Another great family-friendly location is Xlendi Beach - ideal for swimming thanks to its shallow waters.

Along with scuba diving and snorkelling, there are caves and cliffs to explore.

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