Malta is a beautiful place to take a family beach holiday, with plenty of pristine beaches and warm Mediterranean waters where children can play safely for hours. Beneath the rugged coastline, sea caves and lagoons wait to be discovered by sandy-toed explorers young and old.
Despite being one of the smallest countries in the world, Malta is also home to an abundance of interesting and historical features, including three World Heritage Sites. There are also many attractions dotted around the island, offering everything from waterparks to museums – but which are the best to visit as a family? Here are some of the best places in Malta to add to your family holiday itinerary.
Mellieha
The captivating beauty of Mellieha is underrated. Home to Malta’s longest sandy beach, Ghadira Bay, which is pleasantly sheltered and known for its calm waters, it’s a perfect family spot. Be sure to also visit ‘Popeye Village’, a charming attraction which was the film set of the 1980’s musical production ‘Popeye’. It has since been transformed into a fun filled attraction for ‘the young, and young at heart’. With performers in costume leading the whole family on dances throughout the streets, floating trampolines, mini golf, a fun pool and free popcorn, you’ll be sure to have a memorable and fun day out. Set deep in Anchor Bay, the scenery is also mesmerising and a perfect place to snap some gorgeous photos.
Santa Marija
A huge part of Maltese culture is their religion, which they boldly celebrate with extravagant festas, or village festivals. The largest of these is the festival of Santa Marija, held annually on the 15th August. If you can make it, it is a marvel not to be missed! But don’t worry, with over sixty other villages holding further festas throughout the summer, you’re sure to be able to find one to join in with during your visit. They aren’t easy to miss, after all, as they feature an array of advanced pyrotechnics, dancers, delicious food and dazzling decorations.
Gozo
Malta’s sister island, Gozo, is well worth visiting while you’re in Malta. The kids are sure to enjoy the short boat trip over, where you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins in the crystal clear waters. Once you set foot on this far more laid back island, there are plenty of things to do and see. Arguably the islands most famous attraction is the Cittadella, a limestone fortress of incredible architecture, home to a rich catalogue of artefacts dating back to the stone age.
Qawra
Whilst you may get lucky enough to spot a fish or a crab while snorkelling around the caves and beaches, you’re going to want to head to the Malta National Aquarium to truly appreciate the magical underwater world of the Maltese islands. With rooms dedicated to replicating artefacts and real life dive sites around Malta, the whole family can enjoy a first-hand experience of the abundance of marine-life found here. There is even an interactive pool where children can hold and learn about starfish and other small sea creatures.
Remember to stay safe when travelling and take plenty of photographs. With so many fantastic places and attractions to see across the Maltese islands, where will you go first?
