The island of Malta is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean sea, just south of Sicily and north of the African coast. Malta might be a small island, but is huge in history and beauty.
With a population of 475,000 over an area of 316 square kilometers, Malta is the 10th smallest island in the world and the 5th most densely populated country. The capital city is Valletta and the island’s official languages are Maltese and English. Catholicism is the official religion.
Malta has been inhibited since approximately 5900B.C and throughout these years it has been reigned by various powers amongst which Phoenicians and Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, French and in 1815 it became a British Colony. Malta became a Republic in 1974 and in 2004, it joined the European Union and became part of the eurozone monetary union in 2008.
Malta is a safe and family friendly island, so if you are travelling with kids whether on vacation or relocating, we have listed some ideas of what you can do with kids and other good to know points below.
1. The Weather in Malta
Being in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has hot summer months and mild winters. During the summer months, we have an average of 12 hrs of sunlight, whilst in winter we have an average of 6hrs of sunlight.
Summers are hot, and it is highly recommended that you avoid the sun between 1200pm and 0330pm. During the summer months, it can be very hot and it is advisable to wear sun block and hats at all times. As a matter of fact, you do not see anyone in playgrounds during that time of day. Locals visit playgrounds only after 0500pm, when the sun is less hot. If you are at the beach, make sure to apply sunblock at all times, to wear a hat and to stay hydrated.
Spring and Autumn are cooler, with nice days where you can enjoy a picnic or just a fun day outdoors. Winter is mild with short periods of cold weather brought by north-easterly winds. The annual rainfall is low and we rarely experience days on end of rain.
Notwithstanding the mild winter time, it is often very windy, and even though we are on an island we still need to dress the kids warm and if it rains in Malta then it is recommended to put on rain boots as some areas can get flooded.
2. Malta Transport
Malta does not have any underground, trams or trains and the only method of transportation is by bus, taxi, ferry or private car. Due to the infrastructure of the country and traffic especially during rush hour, some journeys can take longer than you would expect, for such a tiny island.
Malta Bus Transport
If you are travelling by bus, you can download the ‘tallinja app’ on your mobile phone, which will help you plan your journey. Whether visiting Malta on vacation or relocating you can purchase a card (to be used whilst on holiday) or else apply for a top up card. Otherwise you can buy your bus ticket directly on the bus.
Malta - Gozo Ferry Transport
If you decide to visit Malta’s sister island Gozo, then to cross over you have to catch the Malta – Gozo Ferry from You can go around Gozo by bus or by hiring a car.
If you purchase a Tallinja card you can also use it for the ferry crossing to Valletta on either side of the harbours surrounding the capital city. Your kids will definitely enjoy the boat rides. When using the tallinja card, you will benefit discounts on the single way ticket.
If you purchase the card, every time you board the bus, simply touch the card with the reader on the bus, and the amount will be deduct automatically. You would only be paying a one way ticket, so upon using the bus for your return you would need to scan again your card.
Renting cars in Malta
If on the other hand you decide to rent a car, remember that in Malta we drive on the left hand side. Make sure to ask the rental car company for a car seat which is adequate for your child’s age. Renting a car is not expensive and would be the most convenient way to go around the island especially if you are travelling with kids. Unfortunately, in some touristic areas it might get busy and would have to wait for quite some time in the sun to catch the bus, which is not ideal with small children.
As with everything else, do your research before renting a car and check their reviews as you might find a few like Gold Cars Rental Company, which always seems to find an excuse to charge extra upon returning your car.
3. Healthcare in Malta
The Maltese healthcare system and it’s professionals are very well respected. In Malta there is only one state hospital which is Mater Dei Hospital and another one in Gozo. You can also find a few private hospitals and clinics.
Any EU citizens visiting Malta on holiday are eligible to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and receive medical assistance in the state hospital and clinics at no cost. EHIC is a complement to your health insurance and not a substitute, so make sure you have the right cover.
If you are an expat who will be residing in Malta for over 3 months, then free healthcare can be provided by the state hospital and clinics as long they they have the E121 form, which is obtained from your home country. This form is registered with the Maltese Health Department Entitlement unit, who in return will issue you with a certificate of Entitlement.
If you are a non-EU citizen, then you have the purchase a health insurance, which covers you abroad.
However, if you are in Malta and just need to see a General Practitioner for yourself or your child, just pop by one of the many local pharmacies and they give an appointment. The majority of pharmacies have a resident doctor who would visit at a specified time.
4. Schools in Malta
The educational system in Malta, is very much based on the British model. School is obligatory from the age of five years till sixteen years old.
In Malta schools can be divided into three categories: state/public schools, church schools and private/independent schools. State schools can be found in almost every locality on the Maltese island and are free of charge. Transport to and from school is also free.
Church schools are run by the Church and although tuition is free, parents are asked to contribute through a donation. Entry into church schools is by ballot.
Then there are the independent / private schools and a few international schools. International schools normally cater for foreign nationals residing in Malta and their curriculum is in line with international curriculum. In both cases, parents are required to pay for tuition fees, uniforms, stationery, books and transport.
If your child speaks a little bit of english, whatever school they attend they would be able to easily communicate, as english is spoken and taught in all schools.
5. Childcare and Babysitting Service in Malta
Due to the short travelling distances, many Maltese parents resort to either their parents or other relatives to assist with childcare whilst they are working or to babysit when the need arises.
However, with the increase of mothers going into the labour market and many grandmothers are now still working outside the home, young families are now resorting to established nurseries for childcare facilities and babysitting services.
In the last decade, the number of childcare centres has increased, due to the Government’s effort to encourage women to work outside the home. In fact, for parents who both work, childcare is offered free of charge upon proof of employment.
Standards are very high and very good care is taken of children attending childcare. These childcares accept babies as young as 4 months up until the age of 3 years. Once they turn 3 years, they can transition to kindergarten…..the big school.
Some of these childcare centres accept children even for a few hours a week subject to payment (if only one parent is in employment). Some even offer baby sitting services if you just want to go out in the evening.
6. Restaurants
If you are in Malta, you have to try some traditional Maltese food. In Malta, very few restaurants offer traditional Maltese food on their menu, therefore you would have to visit a specialized restaurant.
One of the Maltese traditional dishes is rabbit. If you would like to try this dish, just head over to Mgarr (a village in the northern part of the Maltese islands). The restaurants in this village, specialize in rabbit dishes. Another two restaurants that specialize in traditional Maltese food are, Diar il-Bniet in Had-Dingli and you can also buy some Maltese delicatessen, and Ta` Nenu Bakery in Valletta which serves the traditional Maltese ftira among other traditional dishes.
The majority of the restaurants in Malta are very family friendly and offer a Kids menu. If the restaurant does not have a kids menu, just ask if they can make a small portion for your child. Despite being very child friendly, however very few restaurants have nappy changing facilities.
However, on the other hand some restaurants have gone an extra mile and managed to create a play area for children. The majority of restaurants with a play area, offer it free of charge and have high standards.
Check out our Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Malta blog post
7. Beaches in Malta
The Maltese beaches are generally clean and safe for swimming, however some beaches are exposed to north-easterly winds which can produce some strong undercurrents. Observe any caution flags and swim where the locals swim.
During the summer months, it can be very hot and it is advisable to wear sun block at all times and hats.
Once protected, you can head off to one of the many sandy beaches and enjoy the clear waters. If sandy beaches are not your favourite, you will definitely find some rocky beaches to suit your taste. Almost all sandy beaches are equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds for rent.
Mellieha Bay (also known as Ghadira Bay), is one of the best beaches to visit with kids. This sandy beach is 800m long and has been awarded the Blue Flag.
This beach is well known for its shallow waters. You will have to walk out into the sea for a few meters until you cannot touch your feet to the sandy seabed.
Another family friendly beach, is Armier bay and Little Armier. If you would like to visit this beach, ideally you rent a car, as it is not easily accessible by bus.
At Armier bay, you will find operators that rent sunbeds and umbrellas. However, at Little Armier you will not find such operators. It is therefore, very common for families to set up tents to be used by their children for some shade.
There are many more beaches that are not being mentioned, but you can check this article to find other beaches.
With Malta’s climate, you can visit beaches for a swim even till October. However, as the weather gets colder, you can still enjoy the beach for a picnic.
8. Playgrounds in Malta
Almost every village and town in Malta, has a playground equipped with swings for children and families to have some recreational time. Wherever you are staying, make sure to check out the local play ground.
However, there are various larger parks around the island, where children can let loose some of their energy. You will definitely spend hours of fun, and some of them come with a restaurant too.
During the hot summer months, playgrounds will be very quiet during the day. However, locals prefer to visit playgrounds during the evening, when the heat of the sun has calmed down. It is a nice way to end to evening at a playground and maybe an ice-cream as well.
Malta is known for their nice and fun filled playgrounds even though they are much more different then other countries. All playgrounds have a nice different shape. Are you looking for a playground next to your location, then check our blog post.
9. Entertainment For Kids
Malta is a family friendly island and you can take your children practically anywhere. However, there are many activities that are specifically targeted for kids, which you would definitely enjoy as a family.
Museums
With thousands of years of history, Malta has a lot to offer with regards to Museums. However, some Museums might not be very entertaining for kids or even not adequate for toddlers due to them being dark. In the last couple of years, Malta has started to move away from the traditional museums and opting for more interactive ones, such as Esplora Interactive Science Centre.
For more traditional museums you can visit Malta 5D in Valletta. This 30 minute show allows you to re-live Malta’s impressive history. The unique effects will definitely impress not only your child but adults alike. If having your seats moving is not for you, why not head to Fort Rinella in Kalkara where you can admire one of the largest canons. Fort Rinella has been ranked by TripAdvisor as Malta’s No 1 attraction.
If you would like to read more about kid friendly museums make sure to check our Best Malta Museums for kids blog post.
Animal Parks
In Malta you will not find a national zoo. However, if your children would like to see some live animals you can visit a few private parks, which are highly regulated.
If you love Birds, then you and your children definitely have to visit the Bird Park Malta situated in Salina which houses a variety of over 200 species of birds and animals. Your kids will definitely enjoy having a closer look at owls and flamingos.
On the other hand, if you prefer marine life you can head over to the Mediterraneo Marine Park in Bahar ic-Caghaq. At the Mediterraneo Marine Park your family can see a variety of life species which include sea lions and dolphins. You can also book your seat to watch one of the shows. Or else you can head over to the Malta National Aquarium in Qawra, where you can enjoy different fish species.
Pools
Malta is renowned for its beaches, however sometimes you might want to relax and chill by the pool. A fun pool complex is definitely Splash & Fun Water Park in Bahar ic-Caghaq. The park offers activities for all ages. For the little ones there is a separate pool, whilst older children can enjoy themselves in the lazy river or the wave pool or the slides.
On the other hand if you want to enjoy the sea and a pool for your little ones at the same time, then your go to is Popeye Village. This venue became famous, when it was built as a set for the 1980 film, Popeye, featuring Robin Williams. Popeye village is open all year round however during the summer months you can also enjoy the beach or else the kids pools.
Other Family Friendly Activities
Malta is not all about beaches, pools and museums, there are other fun activities that you can do with your kids depending on their age. If you children are 140cm tall then they enjoy some Go Karting fun, at the Badger Karting ,Ta` Qali.
Let off some energy at the Velocity Trampoline Park in Tarxien. This is Malta’s only trampoline park and one of the largest in Europe. Their free jumps are ideal to practice flips, leaps and keeping fit. The trampoline courts will definitely offer some great fun for all the family.
If you have younger children, then head off the Playmobil Fun Park. The park is an extension of the Playmobil factor in Malta, which manufactures the miniture figurines sold around the world. You can also book yourself a tour of the factory or else visit the fun park, where your little ones will spend hours playing at different stations or outside on the pirate ship. Hours of fun await for all the family at the Playmobil Fun Park. There is also a coffee shop where you can grab a snack and also a shop which stocks the full range of the Playmobil sets.
10. Sports Activities
All children in Malta are encouraged to participate in sports activities. Some schools offer extracurricular activities among which sports, and for which you child can enroll. If you are looking to enroll your child, there are plenty of private entities that offer the facilities. Whatever kind of sports your child is interested in, you will definitely find a place.
Some sports classes start from the age of 3 years, some offering an introduction to different disciplines, whilst others are specific such as swimming. However, other disciplines start at an older age due to the nature of the sports.
11. Children Parties
Gone are the days when birthday parties were organized at home with some relatives and close friends. Nowadays, a child’s birthday party can sometimes look like a mini wedding. In the last couple of years, venues, animators, and cake decorators have drastically increased. As soon as your child start attending school, start expecting birthday party invitations. The older they get the less parties they would have.
Party Venues
You can organize a birthday party for your child, practically anywhere it all all depends on your child’s liking. If you child loves animals you can organize their birthday party at a private animal park, such as L-Arka ta` Noe.
The majority of restaurants that have a playarea, will be able to host a birthday party. Others venues might have get their own decorations and entertainment. If you fancy a place, and you would like to organize your child’s birthday party just ask.
Entertainment
Some venues offer their own animators to entertain your kids and their guest, whilst others might ask you to get your own animators. If you have chosen a venue that has a play area, it is likely that some time would be allocated for the kids to have fun in the play area. The rest of the part would be split in animators and eating. It is normal practice that an animator would dress up as your child’s favourite character.
Food and Birthday Cake
When you choose a venue for a birthday party, normally it comes with food included. The food price would be per child and sometimes they can offer a package for refreshments for the parents.
The food offered is normally party food, so don’t expect anything healthy. If you are invited to a party and your child has a food intolerance make sure to inform your host.
Nowadays, cakes have become an important attraction of the birthday party. If you would like your child’s birthday cake to look like a pirate ship, then you will definitely find someone who would be able to make it for you. Sometimes, the venue itself leaves the option open for you to bring your own cake.
12. Fun Activities for Kids
School age children are encouraged to take up sports as extracurricular activities, but we all know that not everyone likes sports. Some schools offer extra curricular activities, which are not exclusively related to sports such as art, choir and coding.
If you child’s school does not offer extra curricular activities, you can always find private companies that offer such services. On the other hand, if you child is still not of school age, you can still find fun activities to do with your pre-schooler. You can find mother and baby clubs which focus on babies such at the Baby Sensory Club. At this club, weekly sensory classes are offered from newborns up to 5 years.
At Funwithkids.com we also offer workshops for kids. For more information about these workshops you can contact me on: [email protected]
13. Buying Groceries in Malta
If you relocating to Malta, or if staying in a holiday apartment getting groceries and daily needs is pretty easy. Wherever you are staying, rest assured that if you walk towards the centre of the village you will find a convenience shop selling milk, bread and everyday needs.
However, Malta has various large supermarkets, where you find everything under one roof – from meat, to the cheese counter, to fish and vegetables such as Valyou, Lidl, Greens and Pama. Check out the website http://www.shopsmalta.com where you can find the major supermarket chains in Malta. Some of these large supermarkets, offer online shopping and have it delivered to your doorstep.
Every Tuesday and Saturday you can find the the Farmer’s Market which sets up in Ta` Qali. However, you can get fruit and vegetable either from a large supermarket or else spot one of the vans in your locality. You just need to find their spot.
With regard to meat, there is a butcher in every locality however again, all large supermarkets will have their own butcher.
If you are a fish lover, then at least once, you have to head over to Marsaxlokk, early Sunday morning to buy fresh fish from the market. Not every locality might have a fishmonger, but larger village will definitely have one.
It is worth noting, that in some villages a market sets up on particular dates. At these markets you can find a bit of everything from clothes, to vegetables, to household items and grocery items.
Here are some places where the markets set up (you will find a bit of everything at these markets):
- Monday – Mosta
- Tuesday – Ta` Qali Farmers Market
- Tuesday – Birgu
- Wednesday – Birkirkara
- Friday – Birkirkara
- Saturday – Qormi
- Saturday – Ta` Qali Farmers Market
- Sunday – Marsaxlokk fish market
- Sunday – Rabat next to St Paul’s church
- Sunday – Valletta known as ‘Il-Monti’
Note that everyday in Valletta there is the market ‘Il-Monti’ but the Sunday one is larger.
14. Entertainment for Teens
If your children are in their preteens / teens age, then going to the playground might no longer be as entertaining. However, you will definitely find, that teens can also have fun together with the family.
Why not head to the cinema to watch the latest blockbuster? Situated in St Julian’s the Eden cinema offers the latest block busters. Just opposite the cinema, you can find the Bowling Alley, where you will definitely have some fun.
If the cinema and bowling are not enough, then you can head over a few meters down the road, to Baystreet. Baystreet is a shopping complex and on the top floor you can find Multimaxx. This offers family entertainment, specializing in Laser Tag but also other attractions such as video games and pool tables.
We hope that you have found this blog post useful if visiting or relocating to Malta. If you have any questions, just leave a comment.