Children need exercise, sunshine and socialization amongst other things. The best ways to incorporate these three things in your child’s routine, is to take them to a playground. Luckily, Malta being a small island, you are always a short drive away from a playground, and in the majority of cases there is a playground in every locality.
However, when we are out and about we are just in need of ideas of where we can take our little ones. We have come up with a list of playgrounds, some less popular than others, that you might wish to visit with your kids (not all localities are being covered in the list).
Attard
Attard is situated in the central region of Malta. It is a quiet residential area and the local council has at heart the parks in its locality. Attard, is home to the President’s Palace and the surrounding gardens of San Anton.
The President's Kitchen Garden
The President’s Kitchen Garden is very popular with the locals. The Garden has recently been refurbished, making it the second park in Europe with interactive flooring.
The Kitchen Garden targets children aged 2 years up to 10 years, with an area for autistic children. With Malta’s strive towards more eco-friendly measures, this park is fully sustainable, though solar, wind and kinetic energy created by children themselves.
Your children will definitely enjoy their time at the President’s Kitchen Garden. If during your stay, you feeling like taking a snack, you can do so at the restaurant.
Gnien L-Istazzjon
Situated a few meters away from the President’s Kitchen Garden, is Gnien L-Istazzjon. This was previously the old train station for Attard and has been restored into a green space with benches and a children’s playground.
This garden / playground is fenced and has a gate, making it safe if you have children which tend to run away.
Birkirkara
Birkirkara is one of the largest and oldest towns in Malta. Despite the fact that Birkirkara, throughout the years has evolved into a commercial centre, it still retains it’s characteristics, with old houses, narrow streets and alleys.
This town, apart from having Malta’s largest bell, also retains a memory from Malta’s railway past, which can still be visited. It is now transformed in a public garden with a restaurant, for families to enjoy.
Gnien L-Istazzjon
Gnien l-Istazzjon has seen a transformation these couple of years. The train station has been restored to its glory and now children can enjoy this playground and yet experience some history. The playground has kept it’s train theme, with some play equipment in the form of a train.
You can also find the traditional swings, slides and climbing fun activities. This playground is shaded thanks to its large trees. We all know how hot the weather can be in Malta, even during spring time therefore some shade is always welcome.
Gnien John Borg
This play ground is situated in the heart of Birkirkara, in a quiet residential area. Within this playground you can also find two football grounds, which can be rented out. You just need to ask at the restaurant, which is at the entrance of the playground.
At Gnien John Borg you can find the traditional swings and slides. Your children can also enjoy rock climbing and other fun activities. This play area for the younger children is shaded by some large trees, which makes it ideal for those hot days.
Il-Gnien tal-Ahwa Kanonici
This playground has been inaugurated in 2019, so it is relatively new. Over 1,400sqm of garden, have been upgraded and transformed into a playground. A few meters away from this playground you can find St. Alyosius College and the Birkirkara Football nursery.
The playground area is surrounded by a colorful fence and is gated, which makes it safe for the little ones who like to roam around. Although small, this playground will definitely provide some entertainment to your kids.
Birzebbugia
Birzebbugia is a seaside village in the southern part of the Maltese island. This village is very popular with the locals, especially during the summer months. It is well know for its sandy beach – Pretty Bay.
The village is built around Pretty Bay and is surrounded with restaurants and coffee shops. A neighboring bay, is St George’s Bay and is a rocky bay which makes it ideal for snorkeling, sailing and fishing.
Pretty Bay Playing Field
This playground has the best of both worlds – the fun of the playing field and the sandy beach. This playground has ample space for the children to run around and enjoy the fun equipment. Here you can find not only the traditional swings but also colourful slides and other fun things.
If your child gets bored in the playground, you can always go to the beach a few meters away and be creative and build some sand castle.
Gudja
Gudja is situated in the southern part of the Maltese island, in the vicinity of the Malta International Airport. The village of Gudja dates back to the 14th centuary.
In the village of Gudja, you can find the medieval church dedicated to St Mary, which is one of the first twelve parishes in Malta. The parish church of Gudja is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is the only church in Malta with three bell towers.
Gnien Raymond Caruana
As with many villages in Malta, Gudja has its own garden and playground. The playing field has soft flooring, a Gazebo and a small football ground on the side. This is a little oasis for the families with children. This garden is also used for other social activities throughout the year.
Had-Dingli
Had-Dingli is a small village on the west coast of Malta, on the outskirts of Rabat. It is located by the sea, and is 300 meters above sea level, on the highest point in Malta. A must visit, is Dingli cliffs, which fall straight into the sea and provide open sea views over the small isle of Filfla.
In Dingli, you can not only enjoy the breathtaking views of Dingli cliffs and also Buskett Gardens. These gardens are the only woodland area in Malta. Overlooking Buskett you can see the Verdala Palace, which is the official summer residence of the President of Malta.
Gnien il-Haddiem
A little oasis for children in the village of Dingli. With its gazeboes, swings and ride on equipment, you will definitely be spending some quality time in this playground. The large trees give some needed shaded on those hot days.
Balzan
Balzan is a quiet residential village, which boarders with Attard, Lija and Birkirkara. This typical Maltese village, boosts several historical buildings, one of which is found in Three Churches Street. This is the old residence of Vincenzo Bosio, an officer of the Knights of St. John.
Balzan Playground
Situated just behind the Parish Church of Balzan is this playground. Despite the fact that it is not very shaded, it is very popular with the local families. Your children will still find this playground entertaining, climbing on the tree house like equipment and going down the slide.
Gharghur
Gharghur is located on top of a hill between two valleys, in the northern region of Malta. This locality offers some amazing views. This is a quiet village, which has retained most of its characteristics. Walking through it’s narrow streets, you can enjoy the beautiful townhouses, which are immaculately kept by their respective owners.
Gharghur has the best of both worlds, where it is quite central being just a few kilometers away from Naxxar and Birkirkara but yet is remote enough to enjoy tranquility and nature.
Gnien il-Paci
What better name than Gnien il-Paci (meaning Garden of Peace), in this peaceful locality of Gharghur. This playground is conveniently located next to a bus stop. Your children will definitely have fun playing in the playground. It has swings for the little ones but also for older children. The rock climbing session is just right for all ages. If your children want some more excitement, you can always walk through the streets and country side of Gharghur.
Marsascala
Marsascala is mainly composed of young families. Formerly a fishing village, and a popular summer residence throughout the years, its community has grown. During the summer months, its population grows, and the evenings are buzzing with people who decide to spend some quality time by the sea.
Marsascala playground
This playground is situated in the heart of Marsacala just opposite the sea. This area is surrounded by coffee shops and restaurants, where you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon with your family. This playground is on the main street, so you have to keep an eye on your child, to make sure they keep safe. At this playground, children of different ages will definitely be entertained.
Sant'Antnin Family Park
If you are in the vicinity you have to check this park out. This park is found on the way from Zabbar to Marsascala on the main road. Although the entrance is on a main road, the park itself is quite secluded, which makes it safe. Parking space is amply which is a plus. This park has many attractions for all ages and is spread over a large area. Between on activity and the other there is ample space, which makes moving around quite easy. There is also an outdoor gym, if you would like to take the opportunity and do some exercise. The only down side of the Sant’Antnin family park is that there is not enough shelter from the sun.
Mtarfa
Mtarfa was formerly part of the Rabat Local Council. A prominent landmark in Mtarfa is a clock tower, which was built in 1859. During World War I a naval hospital was built, which was subsequently changed into a secondary school.
Mtarfa Woodlands
Despite Mtarfa being a quiet residential area, it is always nice to find places where you can enjoy some quiet time. At Mtarfa Woodlands, you can enjoy some time with nature. Your children can have fun in the playground, or else explore some of the nature surrounding the playground or climb a tree. Make sure you take your picnic basket with you, because at Mtarfa Woodlands you can have a picnic as well. Mtarfa Woodlands is definitely a must visit.
Mtarfa Playground
Although Mtarfa is a small village, it still has its own playground. In the past years, it had been refurbished after it had been abandoned and left to shambles. Now, this space can be enjoyed again by the local families but also by families visiting the area.
Mellieha
Mellieha is situated in the northest part of the island. Mellieha is renowned for its sandy beaches namely Mellieha Bay or as known to the locals Ghadira Bay. Mellieha throughout the years has found home to many expats, who have settled very well in this beautiful town.
Mellieha’s main village feast is “Il-Vitorja” and is celebrated during the first week of September and reaches its peak on 8th September. During the week of the feast, there will be many activities, such as concerts, fireworks, food stands and exhibitions.
Playground next to the Parish Church
This playground is situated in one of the best points of Mellieha, with views extending to Gozo. Just behind the Parish Church, this playground is very safe and is ideal for toddlers and older children. If you are coming by car, don’t worry there is ample parking space. Next to the playground there is small restaurant / coffee shop where you can either have a coffee or grab a snack.
Selmun Family Park
Just before entering Mellieha, you can find a small residential area known as Selmun. This place enjoys breathtaking views of Xemxija and St Paul’s Bay. In this family park your children can run freely around. You can use the outdoor gym, or just relax under one of the many trees. Your children can have some fun at the playground too.
Mosta
Mosta is one of the largest towns in Malta and throughout the years it has grown into an important commercial centre. A landmark in Mosta, is the Mosta Parish Church with its imposing dome. The Mosta dome is the third largest unsupported dome in the World.
Playground behind Parish Church
This playground is situated in the heart of Mosta, behind the Mosta dome. After a busy day, running errands, it is nice to reward your children with some fun play time. This playground is the ideal place, it is a quiet oasis, away from the hustle and bustle.
Naxxar
Covering an area of 11 square KM, Naxxar is an old town in the central-north of Malta. This lovely village, is mostly residential, but throughout the years it has seen some businesses opening shop at Naxxar. A definite stop, whilst in Naxxar, is Palazzo Parisio. This Palazzo, was the private residence of Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna and dates back to the 19th century. Nowadays, you can visit the Palazzo and enjoy the beautiful garden.
Naxxar Playground
The Naxxar playground is not only popular with families living in Naxxar and also of surrounding villages. This playground, I dare say, is one of the most playgrounds that has shade, which is ideal for Malta’s hot temperature. Although this playground is on one of the busiest roads, it is fenced all around and has a gate that can be locked. If you are in the vicinity of Naxxar, you should check this playground out, the kids will love it.
Qawra
Qawra is seaside resort on the north part of Malta. It is a touristic area, and attracts British tourists in particular. In fact you can find many hotels, holiday apartments, restaurants, coffee shops, bars and even a casino. The promenade stretches for around 3km all the way to St. Paul’s Bay. It provides a great space for leisure walks and jogs whilst enjoy some awesome views of the open sea and St.Paul’s island.
Malta National Aquarium Playground
Situated in the square just outside the Malta National Aquarium, you can find this nautical themed playground. Despite being small, this playground offers plenty of fun activities for your children. Children can climb into the Nautilus II and slide down, whilst younger ones can go down a small slide. This playground is surrounded with a fence and a gate which is kept closed at all times. A down side of this playground, is that it does not offer any shelter from the sun although the breeze of the sea can make the heat somewhat more bearable. If you or your kids feel like having a snack you can either take a seat at the kiosk in the square, or else head over to the Malta National Aquarium restaurant.
Rabat
Rabat is located just outside the old capital city of Malta, Mdina. Rabat earned significance due its proximity to Mdina, during the arrival of the Order of St.John. During the late 19th century, when Malta was under the British rule, Rabat saw the introduction of a number of social services, such as the first primary school, the initiation of the first medical and postal services and the start of the train service between Valletta and Rabat.
During the 20th century, the population of Rabat increased. New areas started to be developed such as Tal-Virtue and Ghajn Qajjet. Although Rabat is a residential area, it substantially contributes to Malta’s economy by exploiting tourism and agriculture. Many films such as Munich and Black Eagle were partially shot in Rabat or Mdina.
Rabat Playground (next to Mdina entrance)
This playground is very popular with the locals and it can get very busy during the weekend. Situated just outside the entrance of Mdina on one side and to a parking area on the other side, makes it very convenient for families and tourists visiting Mdina. The busiest time would be Sunday afternoon, when many Maltese families, like to visit a popular coffee shop in Mdina and then spend some time in the playground before heading home.
Although the playground is surrounded by trees, however it is not very shaded. It is situated on the main road with no protection, so keep an extra eye on your children.
Salina
Salini is a very small village in the northern part of the Maltese islands, and which boarders with Bahar ic-Caghaq, Naxxar, Mghatab and St. Paul’s Bay. The word ‘salini‘ means salt pans. An interesting place to visit whilst in Salina is the Bird Park.
Salina Family Park
Back in 2004, a project was launched to afforest and develop recreational areas. An area of approximately 49,000sqm was identified and converted into the Salina Family Park. Later, Kennedy Grove was integrated into the Salina National Park forming the lower extension to the Park.
This recreational area includes open fountains, playing equipment with footpaths, artificial turf and rubberized matting. Your children will definitely enjoy themselves in the playground situated in the lower part known as Kennedy Grove. You can also take some snacks, as there are benches and tables where you can have a picnic, under the shade of a tree.
Sliema
Sliema is a mixture of tourist resort, residential and commercial area. You can find many coffee shops, restaurants, bars hotels and shopping malls. Sliema landscape has drastically changed in the last decade, and only a few Victorian and art nouveau houses remain. The rest have been replaced with apartment blocks, hotels and other establishments.
The Sliema promenade stretches a few kilometers, which makes it ideal for long walks or runs. Various benches are available along the way. Sliema is very popular not only with tourists but also with the locals.
Qui-Si-Sana Playground
Qui-Si-Sana playground is situated just a few meters away from the busy commercial centre of Sliema. The playground is surrounded by greenery and is sectioned according to the age of children. As soon as you enter from the Sliema promenade side you will find an outdoor gym for those fitness enthusiasts. Although surrounded by greenery and trees, this playground is not shaded. Notwithstanding, it offers lots of fun, and after spending some shopping time, your children will definitely deserve some playground time.
Independence Gardens
The Independence Garden offers some tranquility from the daily hustle and bustle of Sliema. These gardens offer a variety of activities for your children. They can have fun in the playground, on the traditional swings and slides, or run around the garden and at the same time enjoying the sea views. The configuration of the gardens, makes it very safe, without you having to worry about the traffic on the main road. Don’t worry, if you feel hungry after so much fun, there are plenty of restaurants and coffee shops in the surrounding area.
Ta` Qali
Ta` Qali is situated in the limits of Attard and is not that easily reachable by bus. This wide open space house the Malta National Football Ground, Ta` Qali National Park, crafts village, and farmers` market (sets up every Tuesday and Saturday morning). Ta` Qali was originally, a station for the Royal Air force.
BOV Adventure Park
The BOV Adventure Park is one of the largest park, even when taking into consideration the picnic area just next to the entrance to the park. The park is suitable for all ages. Your children will definitely enjoy climbing up the play equipment and get down the slide. If your children enjoy splashing in the water, make sure to take an extra change of clothes and towels, as there are various open fountains where they can refresh from the hear. At the very back of the park there is also a restaurant where you can enjoy a quick snack.
Petting Farm
This playground is somewhat different from other playgrounds, as it is home to some 20 types of animals, not to mention the different species of rabbits and birds. Apart from rabbits and birds, the children can have a look at emu, llama and pheasant. At the petting farm, your children can make use of one of the dispensers and feed the animals. At the Petting farm you can also find a few play equipment.
Ta` Xbiex
Ta` Xbiex is situated in the eastern part of the Maltese Islands just opposite Marsamxetto harbour. Ta` Xbiex is mostly known for the number of foreign embassies it has. In the last couple of years, Ta` Xbiex has seen an increase in insurance companies, audit firms and yacht services who decided to set up shop there. In Ta Xbiex you can find a yacht marina as well.
Gnien il-Kunsill ta` l-Ewropa
The Ta Xbiex playground is situated in the yacht marina and has a nautical theme to its play equipment. Despite being small, it sure offers a lot of imaginative play time for your little ones. This playground has ample space, where your children can have fun running around, or riding a scooter. Just a few meters from the playground you can find a kiosk where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a quick snack.
We hope that you would be able to visit some of the above playgrounds. We are pretty sure that your children will love them. If not possible, check in your locality, there is definitely a playground where your kids can entertain themselves.