Malta

Overview

Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a tiny but mighty destination packed with 7,000 years of history and endless seaside fun. The archipelago consists of three main inhabited islands: the bustling main island of Malta, the greener and quieter Gozo & Comino. For families, this is an incredibly easy destination to navigate; the islands are small enough that you are never far from the sea, and the legacy of 150 years of British rule means English is an official language and driving is on the left.

Culturally, Malta is a fascinating open-air museum where children can walk the same ramparts as the Knights of St. John and explore World War II shelters. Beyond the history, the vibe is distinctly relaxed and family-oriented. The summers are long and hot, perfect for boat trips and beach days, while the mild winters are ideal for hiking and exploring ancient temples without the crowds. Whether you are wandering the honey-coloured streets of a medieval citadel or snorkelling in turquoise bays, Malta offers a safe and welcoming environment for travellers of all ages.

Key Attractions

No family trip is complete without visiting Popeye Village in Anchor Bay. Originally built as the film set for the 1980 musical, it has been preserved as a fun park with boat rides, water trampolines, and animation shows that delight younger children. For a dive into history, head to the capital, Valletta City Center. Kids will love the daily cannon firing at noon from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offers panoramic views over the Grand Harbour, and the interactive exhibits at Fort St. Elmo - National War Museum.

In the centre of the island lies Mdina (The Silent City), a fortified medieval town where cars are largely banned. Families can explore its narrow, winding streets by horse-drawn carriage or visit the National Museum of Natural History located just inside the Mdina Main Gate. For beach lovers, Mellieħa Bay and Golden Bay offer wide stretches of soft sand and shallow waters safe for toddlers. If you are adventurous, take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino, famous for its intense turquoise water, though it is best visited early to avoid crowds.

On the island of Gozo, history gets even older at the Ġgantija Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with temples older than the Pyramids of Egypt. Afterwards, relax at the unique red sands of Ramla Bay or explore the fortified The Citadel (Cittadella) in Victoria, which offers 360-degree views of the island's countryside.

Practical Advice

Best time to visit: The shoulder seasons (April–June and September–October) offer the best balance of warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August can be intensely hot (often 35°C+) and busy. Winter is mild but can be windy and wet.

Logistics: Malta is part of the Schengen Zone and uses the Euro. Public transport is affordable and extensive, but buses can be crowded in summer. Renting a car gives you more freedom but remember to drive on the left. Tap water is safe to drink but is desalinated and has a distinct brackish taste, so most locals and tourists opt for bottled water.

Food & Drink

Typical meal times: Lunch is typically served from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, and dinner from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm, though many tourist areas serve food all day.

Typical meal costs: Mains in casual restaurants range from €12–25 (approx. $13–27 USD / £10–21 GBP). A quick snack like pastizzi costs less than €1 (approx. $1.10 USD / £0.85 GBP).

Dietary requirements: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are widely available, thanks to the strong Italian culinary influence. Vegan options are becoming common in major towns like Sliema and Valletta.

Family-friendly dining: Maltese culture loves children, and kids are welcome almost everywhere. Most restaurants offer high chairs and children’s menus (usually pasta, pizza, or nuggets).

Signature dishes:

• Pastizzi – Flaky phyllo pastry parcels filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas. The ultimate cheap, savoury snack found in every village.
• Fenek (Rabbit Stew) – The national dish, slow-cooked in wine, garlic, and tomato sauce. It is tender and mild, often served with fries or roast potatoes.
• Ftira – A ring-shaped, crusty Maltese bread, often served as a sandwich filled with tuna, capers, olives, and tomato paste.
• Aljotta – A hearty fish soup rich in garlic and herbs, often containing rice, making it a filling lunch for seafood lovers.
• Imqaret – Deep-fried diamond-shaped pastries filled with date paste and spices, usually served warm with ice cream.