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Discover the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Valletta: A Guide to Travel with Kids

Discovering Valletta: A Family-Friendly Guide

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and attractions. From historical sites and museums to parks and beaches, there’s something for everyone in this charming Mediterranean destination. Here’s our guide to the best family-friendly things to do in Valletta.

Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Valletta

1. Upper Barrakka Gardens

📍 Location: Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

Start your Valletta adventure with a visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. This public park is a great spot for families to relax, enjoy a picnic, and let the kids run around in a safe, enclosed space. Don’t miss the daily cannon salute at noon!

2. Malta National Aquarium

📍 Location: Qawra Coast Road, St. Paul’s Bay

A visit to the Malta National Aquarium is a must for families with young children. The aquarium houses over 40 tanks with a variety of marine life, including Mediterranean fish, tropical fish, and even sharks. Interactive touch pools and a fun play area for children make this attraction a great day out for the whole family.

3. Esplora Interactive Science Centre

📍 Location: Villa Bighi, Kalkara

Esplora Interactive Science Centre is a fantastic destination for families looking to blend education and entertainment. The centre features a range of interactive exhibits, workshops, and shows that cater to all ages. Highlights include the Planetarium, outdoor play area, and a variety of hands-on experiments.

4. Fort St. Elmo National War Museum

📍 Location: Fort St. Elmo, Valletta

For families interested in history, Fort St. Elmo National War Museum is the perfect destination. The museum showcases Malta’s military history, with exhibits ranging from the Great Siege of Malta to World War II. The fort itself is also worth exploring, offering fantastic views of the Grand Harbour.

Family-Friendly Beaches Near Valletta

Although Valletta itself doesn’t have sandy beaches, there are several family-friendly options within a short drive from the city. Here are our top picks:

  1. St. George’s Bay – A sandy beach located in St. Julian’s, just a 15-minute drive from Valletta. The shallow waters and nearby amenities make this a great option for families.
  2. Mellieha Bay – Known as one of Malta’s best beaches, Mellieha Bay is a 30-minute drive from Valletta. This expansive sandy beach offers shallow waters, sunbed rentals, and a variety of water sports.
  3. Paradise Bay – A small, secluded cove with clear blue waters, located around 40 minutes from Valletta. The beach is equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small snack bar.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Valletta

Valletta offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, from hotels and guesthouses to self-catering apartments. Some top choices include:

Accommodation Location Features
Grand Hotel Excelsior Floriana, Valletta Spacious rooms, outdoor pool, kids club, and multiple dining options
Palais Le Brun Old Theatre Street, Valletta Boutique hotel with family rooms, rooftop pool, and on-site restaurant
Valletta Merisi Suites St. Ursula Street, Valletta Self-catering apartments with fully-equipped kitchens, rooftop terrace, and indoor pool

Final Thoughts

Valletta offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, attractions, and accommodation options, making it an ideal destination for your next family holiday. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on sandy beaches, or learning about science and nature, there’s something for everyone in this charming Mediterranean city. Don’t forget to rent your essential baby equipment from Tiny Trek Rentals to make your journey even smoother and more enjoyable!

Top 10 family-friendly activities to do in Valletta, Malta in 2023

1. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology 🏛️

  • National Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit for families with an interest in history and culture. The museum houses artefacts from Malta’s rich past, dating back to the prehistoric era, making it a fantastic educational experience for both children and adults.

2. Take a stroll in the Upper Barrakka Gardens 🌳

  • Located atop the city walls, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. With plenty of benches and greenery, this is a perfect spot for a family picnic or a leisurely walk.

3. Explore the Malta Maritime Museum ⚓

  • Discover Malta’s maritime history at the Malta Maritime Museum. This interactive museum is great for kids, showcasing everything from ancient ship models to naval uniforms and weapons.

4. Enjoy a fun day at the Playmobil FunPark 🎡

  • Just a short drive from Valletta, the Playmobil FunPark is a fantastic day out for families with younger children. The park features a variety of themed play areas, including a pirate ship, zoo, and farm, allowing kids to play and explore in a safe environment.

5. Attend a family-friendly performance at the Manoel Theatre 🎭

  • As one of Europe’s oldest working theatres, the Manoel Theatre often hosts family-friendly performances, such as puppet shows and children’s plays. Check their events calendar before your visit to see what’s on.

6. Participate in a traditional Maltese cooking class 👩‍🍳

  • Introduce your family to the flavours of Malta by enrolling in a cooking class, like those offered by Maltese Cooking Class. These hands-on classes teach you how to prepare authentic Maltese dishes, making it a fun and educational activity for the whole family.

7. Visit the Malta Classic Car Collection 🚗

  • Car enthusiasts of all ages will love the Malta Classic Car Collection, which showcases a range of vintage cars and motorbikes. Kids can even hop in some of the vehicles for a unique photo opportunity.

8. Explore the city on a Valletta Treasure Hunt 🗺️

  • Turn sightseeing into an adventure with a Valletta Treasure Hunt. This self-guided tour leads you through the city’s top attractions while solving puzzles and riddles along the way, making it an engaging and interactive way to explore Valletta with kids.

9. Take a scenic harbour cruise ⛴️

  • Experience the beauty of Valletta’s Grand Harbour on a harbour cruise. This relaxing boat trip offers stunning views of the city’s historic fortifications and the Three Cities, making it a memorable family outing.

10. Splash around at the Mediterraneo Marine Park 🐬

  • Located just north of Valletta, the Mediterraneo Marine Park is a fantastic destination for families who love marine life. The park features dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as the opportunity to swim with dolphins, making it a truly unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Activity Location Website
National Museum of Archaeology Valletta, Malta Website
Upper Barrakka Gardens Valletta, Malta Website
Malta Maritime Museum Birgu, Malta Website
Playmobil FunPark Hal Far, Malta Website
Manoel Theatre Valletta, Malta Website
Maltese Cooking Class Valletta, Malta Website
Malta Classic Car Collection Qawra, Malta Website
Valletta Treasure Hunt Valletta, Malta Website
Harbour Cruise Valletta, Malta Website
Mediterraneo Marine Park Bahar ic-Caghaq, Malta Website

With so many family-friendly activities to choose from, Valletta, Malta is a fantastic destination for your next family holiday. Don’t forget to rent your essential baby equipment from Tiny Trek Rentals to make your trip as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Safe travels! 🧳✈️

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