Malta is one of those wonderfully hidden gems which, once you leave, you only dream of returning to. It is incredibly laid back and not embellished with the glitz and glamour that heralds many of it’s neighbouring European seaside destinations. But that is why it has so much charm. It is completely unaware of the unique jewel it is. The depth of history is astounding. Though Malta is small, it has made a huge impact on the way history was directed due to where it lies in the Mediterranean, like a key into Europe or Africa. World War Two was devastating for the island, and it was bombed ruthlessly, all aiming for the gift of its strategic position. Because it lies directly in the middle of continents it is no wonder that fossils have been discovered in caves of dwarf elephants and hippopotamuses. You can even visit these amazing excavations at Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum. The size of Malta makes travelling with children a breeze, there are so many wonderful things to do all within a short drive.
If you travel in the summer months prepare for heat, as you would for other destinations in Europe. Many Maltese families will take a day trip to the beach in these hotter months, often equipped with food and supplies to last until evening. If water is your thing (it is mine) Malta has it all. The blue lagoon is breathtaking. The water is the colour of a blue sapphire, crystal clear and incredibly enveloping. Caves surround the lagoon which are beautifully mysterious which can be explored by boat – excursions are often available at your hotel desk or local tourist information centre. You can also reach it by water taxi. If you are needing a refreshing dip, but also a little entertainment for the children then a water park may be ideal, and the island has a few to choose from.
Even though there is plenty of attractions to bewitch the entire family I recommend taking some time to meander along the cobbled streets of Valetta, one of the most beautiful towns in Malta. With great places to eat and a stunning outlook onto the Mediterranean sea, the capital of Malta is incredibly charming, every corner turned delves you deeper into its incredible history and culture.
If you are ready for a step back in time and are looking for a unique holiday, Malta has it all.

Activity Guide

Malta has a delicious plethora of adventurous activities and sights to see. You may find some of them are not baby or toddler-friendly though – like the stunning beach with clear blue water which you can only access via a thousand thigh killing steps. Not something to be attempted with a 10kg baby in your arms. I have included a note for the recommended age on each destination, to help better prepare you.

Popeye Village
No trip to Malta with children would be complete without visiting The Popeye Village. It is a surreal little village designed and built for the 1980’s movie Popeye featuring one of my all-time favourite actors, the late Robin Williams. It was later converted to an attraction park which has loads of activities and fun things to do, you can even swim in the lagoon. It is distinctively quirky, and very special if you have seen and loved the film. All ages.
https://popeyemalta.com/

The Falconry Centre
A bird sanctuary with two flying shows a day featuring owls, eagles and peregrine (Maltese) falcons. The display is inspired by the history of falconry in Malta which was introduced by the European emperors in the 13th century. The centre also features huge aviaries with a stunning collection of birds on display. The people at the Falconry Centre are really passionate about reintroducing native species of birds in Malta and educating people around this. A really informative and educative place while also keeping the little ones very entertained. A cafe and souvenir shop is also on site. All ages
http://www.maltafalconrycentre.com/index.php/en/

Valletta

The capital of Malta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was recently awarded the European Capital of Culture for 2018. It is small but mighty. Laden with more historical treasures condensed into a tiny area than you could imagine. A castle type wall (Fort St Elmo) stands victoriously around the edge of the city and the dome of The Basilica of Our Lady Mt Carmel bursts into the skyline. It can be seen for miles and is quite the statement if you arrive by sea. What sights shouldn’t you miss? The list is long. Some of my favourites though are;
The Upper Barakka Gardens and Saluting Battery
Beautiful gardens with plenty of room for the little ones to run around. The Saluting Battery is below the gardens overlooking the sea. (https://www.maltainfoguide.com/upper-barakka-gardens.html)
St Johns Co-Cathedral
Stunning Baroque interior, I still keep the intricate little, lace cross made by the residing nuns that I bought at the store. The painting by Caravaggio is quite impressive. (https://www.stjohnscocathedral.com)
Lascaris War Rooms
Perfect for the older child. The rooms were the secret Headquarters during World War Two and then later used by NATO. Feature loads of information and also guided tours. (https://www.lascariswarrooms.com)

Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
This is an incredible underground burial site built around 4000BC which is three stories deep, carved out of limestone and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was restored in 2017 and now has a new climate control system with only 80 people a day given access to view. Book well in advance. No children under 6 years.
http://heritagemalta.org/museums-sites/hal-saflieni-hypogeum/

Take A Stroll. Eat Ice Cream
Though Malta has a huge range of activities and sights to see nothing beats a laidback morning strolling the streets of one of it’s arresting seaside towns. There is never a lack of restaurants and cafes to welcome you when a break is needed, and they are often well priced. Ice cream stalls and stands are also not in decline bringing joy to children. Conceded by hyperactivity. Then a lull. Then petitions for more ice cream.

Fishing Village in Malta

Beaches

You won’t have trouble finding a beautiful beach in Malta, with most being family friendly, safe to swim in, and featuring that picture perfect, clear blue water.

Golden Bay
This is a large beach with loads of room to relax and have fun with the family. Golden sand (you probably guessed given the name!), blue water, and lifeguards. Make sure you swim between the flags here, regardless of age or confident your family is at swimming-there can be strong undercurrents. All Ages.

Mellieha Bay

With 800m of golden sand and warm, shallow water this beach is perfect for the younger ones. Cafes are near and umbrellas along the beach are available to use. This is the place you can stay all day and happily not worry about the time. All Ages

The Blue Lagoon
Though this isn’t a place I would necessarily travel to with a baby, it is doable with slightly older children as long as you take all the supplies you need with you for the day. It gets very crowded during the holidays, and weekends, especially with the younger crowd, but it really is remarkably beautiful.

Hotels

La Folcaneria
62 Melita street, VLT 1122 Valletta, Malta
Why wouldn’t you want to stay here with a name like La Falconeria right? The hotel lives up to its name, it is a boutique hotel which is quirky but stylish. The hotel pool is incredibly unique, but it is a plunge pool. Not big enough to do much but the children will still enjoy it. You can’t beat this hotel’s location, walking distance to all the main attractions in the capital. The bus station, ferry and taxi stand are also within a short walk.

Le Meridien St Julian’s Hotel and Spa
39 Main Street, Balluta Bay, STJ 1017 St Julian’s, Malta
Oh, how I love a 5 Star Hotel! The location of this hotel couldn’t be much better. I love St Julian’s and from the hotel, you look down onto the stunning waterfront. The two pools are a win with children, the inside pool is dreamy! Staff are fantastic and rooms are a good size.

The Westin Dragonara Resort
Dragonara Road, STJ 3143 St Julian’s, Malta
OK, so this is another 5-star hotel, but St Julian’s is my fav location to stay, and the pool has everything you need for an amazing stay with children, especially if you are going in the warmer months. Some of the rooms, which are ample, overlook the sea. I highly recommend.