Malta has been on our family bucket list since 2019 when I was pregnant with baby M during Dan’s paternity leave. She was born in January 2020 and, well… we all know how the rest of that year went. We’ve had amazing adventures since, but it felt SO special to finally get to see this magical country!
We absolutely LOVED our time visiting Malta with kids – it’s an incredible mix of stunning natural beauty, mind-blowing historical sites (think Megalithic temples older than the Egyptian pyramids, and sacred ancient burial grounds), and all in a site with yummy good, welcoming people, and not right on the main European tourist path.
I hope this 5 day Malta trip itinerary (one week in Malta including travel days) is helpful and brings you lots of wonderful Malta experiences and memories!
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Tips for Visiting Malta With Kids
Cost Of A Malta Trip with Kids
Here are the general costs of our one week trip to Malta – I hope it’s helpful with your planning, too!
- Flights: about $1900 USD during a school holiday (these time periods are always the most expensive when flying from London!)
- Accommodations: $236 (we stayed all but one night in a friend’s home – it was so kind and generous of them to offer!)
- Tickets and Tours: About $675 – this was surprisingly expensive! Of course, the Hypogeum was a big expense (especially since we purchased last-minute tickets, more on that below), but we were surprised that many of the sites were more expensive than a lot of other historic sites in Europe, and the child prices were definitely higher than we’re used to.
- Food, treats, drinks: About $725, not including Dan and my special celebration dinner. We did some cooking in our friends’ home. We did find it somewhat difficult to find vegetarian food in Malta, but fortunately pastizzi were always an option and always delicious.
- Transit: About $500-550 including rental car, gas, ferry, taxi in London to the airport
In total, it ended up being a little over $4k USD for our trip. I’m sure we could’ve saved money by booking flights and accommodations further in advance, but this felt fairly reasonable for our family of 8.
What to Pack for a Malta Vacation: Minimal Packing Essentials for Families
I personally hate carrying extra stuff and especially with a big family, it’s important for us to pack minimally so we don’t feel totally overwhelmed when we travel. Here are some of our favorite minimal packing essentials for families!
- Diaper Belt Bag: I absolutely love this little bag because it holds so much but is really compact and easy to wear with a variety of outfits. You can use the code PASSPORTFAM10 for 10% off.
- Packing Cubes: I love packing cubes for keeping things organized, contained, and compact. I especially love these packing cubes.
- Lightweight Women’s Pants: I absolutely adore these pants for travel because they’re SO comfortable, fold super small, and dry in a flash. They were great for Malta in October when the weather was warm in the day and cooler in the evenings. More about why I love them HERE.
- Shoes: For this trip, I took two pairs of shoes – my favorite white sneakers as well as my favorite sandals.
- Backpacks: We only traveled with backpacks on this trip – my 14 & 12 year olds used their old school backpacks (these this are so durable and roomy, they’re awesome), and my 10 & 7 year olds used our beloved 18L hiking backpacks. My 4 year old used the terrific 12L version, and Dan used our favorite 40L backpacking backpack. My backpack is no longer made, but it’s similar to this.
- Pop Up Tent Baby Bed: We’ve had this super lightweight baby travel bed for over a decade. We love it so much because it’s so lightweight and fits easily in a suitcase without having to take a bulky and heavy pack n play.
- Lightweight Folding Baby Carrier; I absolutely love this baby carrier because it’s supportive but still lightweight and weighs about a pound. It was perfect for getting in and out of water in Malta, too.
For more packing ideas here’s what I packed for:
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Where to Stay in Malta With Kids
We stayed several days with some friends, and then one night in the Solana Hotel, which was our home base in Mellieħa, Malta. It was lovely and great if you want to head to Gozo. Our timing wasn’t ideal for staying there, but worked for us based on when we were able to stay with our friends. I would recommend staying your first few nights in either Valetta or Mdina, and then staying 2-3 nights in Mellieha as your home base for a Comino boat tour and visiting Gozo.
Here are a few other family-friendly options for accommodations in Malta:
- Gorgeous 3BR house in Valetta
- DoubleTree in St. Paul’s Bay
- Mensija Valley Apartments
- Valetta Apartment near the Grand Harbour
- Affordable 3BR Beachside Apt
- Malta Marriott in St. Julian’s
- Courtyard by Marriott Silema
- Marsaxlokk Guest House
- Affordable Gozo Farmhouse stay
- Gorgeous Flat in Mellieha with balcony & pool
- 1BR in Vittoriosa
Get Professional Family Photos for Your Trip
We absolutely love using Flytographer to get beautiful family photos; despite having a camera and tripod, there’s something so special about having someone else capture your family in a way that you can’t. It’s a terrific option for getting photos together while traveling (they have photographers all over the world), and we’ve even used them in our home city. We chose to save this for when we come back with the whole family, but it’s a really wonderful thing to do if you are able.
And, believe it or not, this tiny country does have Flytographer photographers! Click below to book a session!
MAP: Best Itinerary for 5 Days in Malta With Kids
See THIS MAP to view all the best sites for a Malta family vacation!
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Best Things to Do In Malta: Itinerary For Malta
We flew from London to Barcelona on a Friday evening. We had some long delays and didn’t end up arriving until 3am Saturday morning. We got some rest at Barcelona hotel and then headed back to the airport to fly into Malta later in the morning.
Malta Trip Itinerary – Day 1
Since we arrived to Malta in the early afternoon, we took it easy with sightseeing on our first day. Here’s what we did!
- Saluting Battery
- Upper Barrakka Gardens for sunset and picnic dinner
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral for Evensong
- Optional: City Quest Valetta
Saluting Battery
The Saluting Battery in Valletta is a historic artillery battery that offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s military past. There are daily cannon-firing ceremony at noon and 4 PM. You can also explore the battery’s history through guided tours and learn about its role in Malta’s defense. Kids will love watching the ceremonial salutes!
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Overlooking the Grand Harbour, Upper Barraka Gardens offers stunning views, especially at sunset, when the golden light shines on the historic fortifications and ships below. Enjoy a picnic dinner on one of the benches or grassy areas, surrounded by beautiful fountains, arches, and statues. We ended up getting pastizzi and enjoying them as a casual dinner outdoors. The kids loved watching the boats in the harbor!
St. John’s Co-Cathedral for Evensong
After finishing our pastizzi, we headed to St. John’s Co-Cathedral for Evensong. Visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Malta is a mesmerizing experience for families, with a blend of history, art, and awe-inspiring architecture. The ornate Baroque interior is filled with golden details, intricate marble tombstones, and stunning artworks, including Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Note that Caravaggio work is closed for evenings, so if you may need to make two trips if you’d like to see the masterpiece and enjoy Evensong.
Audio guides are available and offer insights into this iconic Maltese landmark. The official audio guides are included with your entrance fees.
Optional: City Quest Valetta
This treasure hunt and interactive sightseeing tour looks SO fun and I’m sad we didn’t have time for it (it also seemed like it would be not quite as much fun with tiny kids). If you have older kids or teens, I think solving puzzles around town would be a great way to explore the city.
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Malta Trip Itinerary – Day 2
We had an early start on our second day as Daniel headed to Fort St. Elmo at 6:50am to buy Hypogeum Tickets (more on that below!). We then attended Sunday morning Church service before spending the rest of the day exploring Mdina & surrounding areas.
- Fontanella Tea Garden for lunch
- Explore Mdina’s medieval streets
- Mdina Gate
- Knights of Malta Museum
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Dingli Cliffs
- Dinner at ION Harbour
Lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden
Fontanella Tea Garden in Mdina is a great spot for families to take a break and enjoy some tasty treats. Perched on the city’s walls, it has amazing views of the island. The menu has plenty of savory snacks and refreshing drinks to try. Be sure to sample the homemade cakes!
Mdina Gate
The Mdina Gate serves at the grant entrance to the city. It’s a great place to snap a few family photos and kids will love imagining the knights and nobles that passed through centuries ago. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring Mdina’s medieval streets and soaking in the city’s rich history.
Explore Mdina’s Medieval Streets
Mdina is known as the “Silent City,” because its narrow, winding streets are so peaceful and charming. It makes for a great place for families to wander! Kids will love the sense of adventure as they explore hidden alleys, spot old door knockers, and imagine life in the walled city centuries ago. With beautiful architecture, cozy cafes, and amazing views from the city walls, it’s a magical experience for all ages. We loved this city!
Knights of Malta Museum
The Knights of Malta Museum is a fun and educational stop for families, offering an interactive look at Malta’s fascinating history. The museum uses life-sized figures, displays, and a short audiovisual experience to tell the story of the Knights of St. John and their role in defending the island. Our kids enjoyed the immersive setup, including learning about the battles, daily life, and traditions of the knights. It’s a quick but engaging way to bring Malta’s history to life for the whole family.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
This stunning Baroque cathedral is said to be built on the site where Roman Governor Publius met St. Paul after his shipwreck on the island. Inside, you’ll find intricate marble floors, grand frescoes, and impressive artwork, including the stunning dome. The peaceful atmosphere and rich history make it a great stop for kids to learn about the connection to Malta’s patron saint. Don’t forget to visit the adjoining museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and treasures.
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Serkin Crystal Palace in Rabat
We grabbed a variety of pastizzis from here for dinner for the kids – they were delicious and some of the best we had!
Dingli Cliffs
Visiting Dingli Cliffs in Malta is an awe-inspiring experience, offering some of the best views on the island. Perched high above the sea, the cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for a peaceful walk or a family photo. Kids will enjoy spotting boats far below or exploring the surrounding countryside. Sunset is a magical time to visit, with the golden light making the views even more breathtaking. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a quiet moment to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty.
Dinner at ION Harbour
Dan and I left the kids for an evening while we headed out for a fancy dinner date to celebrate me visiting my 100th country! ION Harbour in Valletta is a Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views of the Grand Harbour. The menu is Mediterranean-inspired and uses fresh, local ingredients. The rooftop location makes it a perfect spot for a special evening, especially at sunset when the harbor glows with golden light. It’s ideal for those looking to combine exceptional food with an unforgettable atmosphere.
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Malta Trip Itinerary – Day 3
- Ħaġar Qim
- Blue Grotto viewpoint
- Marsaxlokk fishing village
- St. Peter’s Pool
- Tarxien Temples
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
Ħaġar Qim
Visiting Ħaġar Qim is a journey into Malta’s prehistoric past, making it a great outing for families interested in history and archaeology. These ancient megalithic temples, built over 5,000 years ago, are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. Our kids loved exploring the massive stone structures and learning about how people lived and worshiped thousands of years ago. The site also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and the visitor center provides interactive exhibits to make the experience more engaging.
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Blue Grotto Viewpoint
The Blue Grotto Viewpoint is a must-visit spot for breathtaking views of the island’s stunning coastline. From the clifftop, you can admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters and the dramatic rock arches that make this area so famous. It’s a great place for family photos! For a closer look, you can take a boat trip to explore the caves and their vibrant underwater colors, but the viewpoint itself is spectacular and completely free to enjoy. If you enjoy hiking and would like to have a fuller outdoorsy day, this Boat Cave Tour includes a boat exploration of Blue Grotto, along with hiking and swimming.
Marsaxlokk Fishing Village
Marsaxlokk fishing village is absolutely charming, offering a glimpse into Malta’s traditional seaside life. Known for its colorful luzzu fishing boats with painted eyes, the harbor is a beautiful spot to stroll and take photos. Families will love exploring the Sunday market, which sells fresh seafood, local produce, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxed seafood meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants while watching the boats bobbing in the water. The village’s laid-back vibe and picturesque setting make it a delightful stop for all ages.
If you’d like to have some of the trip coordination and transportation taken off your plate, you can book a single Southern Malta Tour that includes Ħaġar Qim, Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk.
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St. Peter’s Pool
St. Peter’s Pool is a stunning natural swimming spot near Marsaxlokk, perfect for families with adventurous kids and teens. This rocky cove features crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling and diving off the flat ledges. We didn’t ended up swimming as the waves looked pretty rough that day, but some others (mostly young adults) were there enjoying the water. Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. It’s a great place to spend a sunny afternoon soaking in Malta’s coastal beauty. You can also take this St. Peter’s Pool Boat Tour and add on the beach option for water play.
Tarxien Temples
These ancient megalithic temples, dating back to around 3,000 BC, are well-preserved and offer a unique insight into the island’s early history. Families can explore the intricate stone carvings and admire the large structures that once served as places of worship. The site is smaller than some of Malta’s other temples, making it a manageable stop for families with kids, and it was one of our favorites with the extensive bas-reliefs that depicted animals and spirals. The nearby visitor center provides educational exhibits that bring the history to life, making it both an engaging and informative experience.
Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
These awe-inspiring burial chambers come with a bit of a caveat. Technically children under 6 are not permitted; however, we had read a few accounts of other families bringing younger children and decided to chance it. Dan got tickets for both our children under 6 and we were all admitted without any issues. We kept our toddler in a front carrier and had our almost-5 year old be very responsible, ha. That said, we’ve also heard from others that their younger children were not allowed in, so be aware that you’ll be taking a risk in planning to visit with young ones. It was worth a shot for us and I’m so grateful it worked out because this was one of the most incredible sites we’ve ever seen anywhere in the world.
If you are able, visiting the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is an extraordinary experience for those interested in ancient history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an underground prehistoric burial complex, dating back over 5,000 years. You will be amazed by the intricate chambers, rock-cut architecture, and unique acoustic properties of the site. It’s a bit of a challenge to get tickets, as they are limited and must be booked in advance, but it’s well worth the effort for the chance to explore this rare and mysterious site. The visitor center offers fascinating insights into the history of the Hypogeum, making it an educational stop for kids and adults alike.
To get tickets for the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum in Malta, you can:
- Book in advance: The best way to get tickets is to book months in advance online at booking.heritagemalta.org. Prices in advance are €35 for adults, €20 for seniors, €15 for kids.
- Buy last-minute tickets: You can buy tickets for the following day at the Fort St Elmo ticket office in Valletta or the Gozo Museum of Archaeology in Victoria/Rabat in Gozo. Unfortunately, there were no tickets available online for the dates we wanted, so this is the route we took. The major downside of this is the expense; tickets are €50/person, regardless of age.
- Fort St Elmo: The office opens at 9 AM, so you should arrive early to get a ticket. Dan arrived before 7:30am to ensure we’d get 8 of the 20 tickets available per day.
- Gozo Museum of Archaeology: The Gozo office is less busy, so you can probably arrive at 8:45 AM.
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Malta Trip Itinerary – Day 4 (Add an Extra Day Here if You Can!)
We did all of this in one day – which felt doable, but it would’ve been nice to have a bit more time. Especially if you’re there in summer when the water is warmer, I highly recommend planning on a full day boat tour, and a second full day for Gozo.
- Comino’s Blue Lagoon/Crystal Lagoon tour
- Drive to Gozo via ferry
- Tal-Mixta Cave
- Ramla Beach
- Ggantija Temples
- Salt Pans
- St. John the Baptist Church
- Ta’ Pinu Basilica
- Victoria Citadel/Cittadella visitors’ centre
- Dinner at Ta Rikardu
- St. Geoge’s Basilica
- Church of the Madonna of Lourdes
Comino’s Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon
Visiting Comino, and its famous Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, is a must-do for families who love nature and crystal-clear waters. It’s definitely one of those things you can’t miss when visiting Malta with kids!
Comino is a small, car-free island with stunning beaches. The Blue Lagoon is particularly popular for its shallow, vibrant turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Crystal Lagoon, located nearby, offers an even more serene and less crowded spot for enjoying the water. Families can take a boat ride to the island, explore the scenic trails, and spend the day swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty. It’s a peaceful, beautiful escape ideal for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. We booked a 2-hour boat and snorkeling tour with Xlendi Cruises and had a wonderful time. Here are lots of similar ones.
We visited at the end of October, and lucked out with absolutely lovely weather. We had temperatures around 25-28 Celsius and sunny, which was lovely. It definitely wasn’t hot, but the water was about 27 degrees Celsius, and warm enough for even my wimpy self to get in! It was cool but not freezing and refreshing and beautiful (even in the morning). And it was MUCH MUCH less crowded than our guide told us it typically is in the summer!
I wouldn’t plan on swimming for extended periods of time if you go this time of year, so it worked well for our family to do a shorter 2-hour boat tour in the morning, and then explore Gozo for the rest of the day. If you’re there in a warmer season, I think you’ll definitely want to plan on a full day of exploring via boat!
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Gozo’s Tal-Mixta Cave
We drove to Gozo via ferry to explore the second most popular island in Malta. I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself if possible – driving in Malta is straightforward and it gives you much more flexibility to drive yourself. However, if you’re unable to or uninterested in driving yourself, this full-day Gozo Jeep tour is a great choice to explore the island!
Once arriving in Gozo, we started by exploring Tal-Mixta Cave. Located near the village of Xaghra, the cave offers a unique opportunity to explore a natural cave while taking in panoramic views of Ramla Bay and the surrounding countryside. The hike up to the cave can be a bit steep, but it’s worth it for the incredible views and the chance to explore the cave’s interior. Our kids loved exploring the cave’s cool, rocky interior! We ended up driving to the top, and the older 5 kids and I hiked down to Ramla Beach while Dan and baby S drove down in the car. It was a gorgeous walk! The walk up would be very doable, as well, but I recommend sturdy shoes as there are quite a few loose rocks on the path.
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach is popular among families thanks to its wide stretch of soft, reddish-golden sand and calm waters. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle building, it was a perfect spot for our kids to play. The beach is backed by lush green hills, adding to its natural beauty, and there’s a small café for snacks and drinks. We spent a couple hours here eating lunch and fresh pomegranates – delicious!
Ggantija Temples
These UNESCO World Heritage sites are over 5,500 years old, making them some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures, older even than the Egyptian pyramids. We were all absolutley fascinated by the massive limestone blocks and the mystery of how they were moved and assembled by prehistoric builders. The site is well-maintained with informative signs and a small museum that explains the temples’ significance. This temple site is more spacious and surrounded by scenic countryside, so it’s beautiful to wander, as well. A great mix of history, education, and a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Salt Pans
The salt pans are such a unique destination for families visiting Malta! These geometric salt flats, carved into the rock along the coast, have been used for centuries to harvest sea salt. We loved seeing the traditional process up close, especially during the summer when salt is being collected. It’s an amazing peek into Malta’s heritage. Additionally, the dramatic backdrop of the coastline and the endless rows of pans make it a great spot for photos. There’s a tiny little shop right by the salt pans, and it was fun to taste salt and purchase some to take back home. We loved chatting with the shop owner whose family has been harvesting salt for generations!
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St. John the Baptist Church
Visiting St. John the Baptist Church in Xewkija is an impressive experience. Known as the Rotunda of Xewkija, this massive church boasts one of the largest domes in Europe, and its stunning architecture is a sight to behold. Inside, the church is beautifully decorated, with intricate carvings and artworks. We only had time to drive by this one, but it was beautiful!
Ta’ Pinu Basilica
Ta’ Pinu Basilica in Gozo is a breathtaking spiritual site that draws visitors with its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture. Surrounded by open countryside, it’s a peaceful place for families to explore, with impressive stone carvings and colorful stained glass. Inside, kids and adults alike can learn about the basilica’s history and the miraculous events associated with it. The views from the area are also spectacular, making it a perfect spot to reflect and take in the beauty of Gozo. The drive up to it is stunning!
Victoria Citadel/Cittadella Visitors’ Centre
The Victoria Citadel, or Cittadella, is a must-see destination packed with history and stunning views. The Visitors’ Centre is a great starting point, with interactive exhibits and a short film to explain the Citadel’s fascinating past. Enjoy exploring the narrow streets, ancient walls, and restored fortifications that once protected the island’s inhabitants. Kids will especially love climbing the walls – fun and educational for all!
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Dinner at Ta’ Rikardu
Having dinner at Ta’ Rikardu in the heart of the Victoria Citadel is a cozy and authentic Maltese experience. Known for its rustic charm, the restaurant serves traditional dishes like fresh goat cheese and stew, all made with ingredients sourced from Rikardu’s own farm. We loved the welcoming atmosphere, and the kids enjoyed sampling the cuisine. The setting, tucked within the Citadel’s historic walls, adds to the charm, making it a memorable spot for a relaxing meal after exploring Gozo.
St. George’s Basilica
St. George’s Basilica is a beautiful Baroque church often referred to as the “marble basilica” because of its richly decorated interior. We were awed by the intricate marble floors, golden details, and stunning ceiling paintings. It’s a great place to learn about Gozo’s religious history and admire its artistic treasures. The central location also makes it easy to visit while exploring Victoria.
Church of the Madonna of Lourdes
The Church of the Madonna of Lourdes is a quiet spot perched on a hill overlooking Mgarr Harbor. Its unique Gothic Revival architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a lovely place for families to visit. From the church, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor, Comino, and Malta, perfect for photos. We did a quick stop before wrapping up our time in Gozo. Its location near the ferry terminal makes it an especially convenient stop when arriving on or departing from Gozo.
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Malta Trip Itinerary – Day 5
- Fort St. Elmo
- Lunch at Rubino’s
- National Museum of Archaeology
- Walk along the water in Valetta – this guided city walking tour would be great!
- Last night at Solana Hotel
Fort St. Elmo
Fort St. Elmo in Valletta is one of the best places to learn more about Malta’s rich history. This 16th-century fort played a key role in the Great Siege of 1565 and now houses the National War Museum. Both the kids and adults in our fam really enjoyed wandering through the fort’s imposing walls and learning about Malta’s military past through fascinating exhibits, including artifacts from World War II. This was a great overview of some of Malta’s more modern history and a really good spot to visit if you’re interested in the military and political background of the island.
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Lunch at Rubino’s
Having lunch at Rubino’s is a delightful experience, offering a taste of traditional Maltese cuisine in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Known for its homely atmosphere and historic charm, the restaurant serves classic dishes like pastizzi and stew. We appreciated the relaxed vibe and friendly service – it was a great spot for a leisurely meal after several busy days.
National Museum of Archaeology
The National Museum of Archaeology is another engaging stop for families interested in Malta’s ancient history. Located in a beautiful Baroque building, the museum houses a fascinating collection of prehistoric artifacts, including tools, pottery, and statues from the islands’ Neolithic period. This wasn’t a super popular stop in terms of rating but I’m so glad we visited here!
Our kids loved the impressive display of the Venus of Malta and other ancient sculptures, while interactive exhibits make learning about Malta’s early civilizations fun and accessible. We especially loved seeing several items from the temples we visited, including animal sculptures from Tarxien temples and the Sleeping Lady from the Hypogeum. It’s a great way for families to connect with the island’s rich cultural heritage in an educational setting.
Walk Along Valletta’s Waterfront
We spent the last bit of our final day in Malta walking along the waterfront in Valletta. It was the perfect low-key way to wrap up our trip – enjoying stunning coastal views and vibrant atmosphere. The paths around the Grand Harbour is especially lovely, with ancient walls on one side and boat-watching on the other. If we weren’t heading back up to Mellieha, this guided city walking tour would be great.
We then headed back to Solana Hotel, which was our home base in Mellieħa, Malta. It was a lovely family-friendly base for exploring the island. Its location in the charming village of Mellieħa provides easy access to sandy beaches like Għadira Bay and nearby attractions like Popeye Village, and it’s very close to Gozo. Our timing for staying here wasn’t ideal – we would’ve preferred to stay the night before or after heading to Gozo, but since our friends were so kindly hosting us, this was the night that it worked out for us to stay there. We appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and convenient amenities – a great choice for a Maltese getaway.
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