Bursting with cultural richness and striking natural beauty, Malta is a Mediterranean gem waiting to be discovered. Intriguingly diverse, this compact archipelago offers an irresistible blend of historical charm and vivacious modernity, promising memorable experiences against a backdrop of crystal blue seas, ancient cities, tranquil villages, golden beaches, and rugged cliffs. Step away from the usual destinations and embrace an adventure steeped in history, culture, and natural splendour, as we guide you through some unforgettable family adventures that cater to all ages and interests.
A particularly special mention goes to our Grand Harbour Cruise. This awe-inspiring journey through the heart of the country’s impressive maritime history offers breath-taking views that will be forever etched in your memory. For more information, visit our official site [Hyperlink].
Malta’s warm and inviting climate makes it an ideal family holiday destination. Enjoy sunshine year-round, with radiant summer days perfect for beach fun and sightseeing, and mild winters offering a pleasant escape from colder regions. The island is steeped in a rich historical tapestry dating back thousands of years, from well-preserved medieval citadels to prehistoric underground temples. With its range of family-friendly accommodations and culinary delights, Malta promises a seamless and engaging vacation for every family.
Visiting Valletta
The capital city of Malta, Valletta, is a must-visit destination for any family. Experience history unfold before your eyes as you stroll through its narrow streets, which serve as silent witnesses to Malta’s rich past. Majestic baroque buildings, opulent palaces, and ancient fortifications grace these corridors, with each corner unravelling a new chapter of the city’s illustrious heritage.
Don’t miss visiting the spectacular St John’s Co-Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 16th century. The cathedral is widely renowned for its ornate interior, bathed in gold and home to world-class art, including Caravaggio’s famous masterpiece ‘The Beheading of Saint John’. This edifice perfectly encapsulates the grandeur and richness of Malta’s history and is sure to leave you awestruck.
Exploring Mdina & Rabat
The old capital of Malta, Mdina, holds the secrets of centuries within its silent city walls. Characterised by its narrow, winding streets and medieval architecture, Mdina presents a unique blend of Norman and Baroque styles. Here, you can immerse your family in the echoes of history as you explore its charming palazzos, grand courtyards, and historic sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Nearby Rabat, often overshadowed by Mdina, holds its distinct cultural significance. A visit here offers insights into the life of ancient Romans, showcased at the mosaic-filled Domus Romana. The St. Paul and St. Agatha catacombs are also of significant historical interest, offering a fascinating glimpse into early Christianity in Malta. Rabat is known for its traditional shops selling Maltese crafts, making it a perfect place to acquire a unique souvenir of your journey.
Touring the Three Cities
The Three Cities of Malta – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, are a treasure trove often overlooked by visitors. Each city carries a different story from Malta’s past, from the Great Siege of 1565 to the bombings of World War II.
Numerous organised tours guide you through these historical cities, providing information about architectural landmarks, local eateries, and cultural hotspots that you might otherwise miss. Jump on a traditional Maltese ‘dgħajsa’ boat for an unforgettable way to journey between the cities, offering your family stunning views and a deeper connection with Malta’s maritime heritage.
Spending a Day on Gozo
Deemed Malta’s tranquil sister island, Gozo offers an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle. Its verdant rolling hills, quaint fishing villages, and idyllic beaches provide the perfect backdrop for family adventure. Additionally, Gozo retains a traditional way of life, allowing your family to experience deep-rooted customs and folklore that define Maltese culture.
Gozo also houses unique attractions that captivate all ages. The prehistoric Ġgantija temples, older than the Egyptian pyramids, promise enthralling tales of ancient ritualistic practices. The Azure Window’s stunning geological formation and Gozo’s fortified city, Citadella, add to the list of must-sees. Each offers impressive panoramas of the island, providing unforgettable visual mementos.
The Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is a natural wonder that encapsulates the raw beauty of Malta’s coastline. This network of six caves, shimmering with the reflection of the azure sea and sky, captivates visitors with its magnificence. It’s an adventure that intrigues both young explorers and seasoned travellers.
Frequent boat tours offer a thrilling up-close experience of this awe-inspiring formation. The best time to visit is early morning when the sunlight strikes at the perfect angle, illuminating the caves’ mesmerising underwater flora. It’s a perfect opportunity to teach children about the marvels of maritime nature, making the Blue Grotto a must-visit.
The Grand Harbour Cruise
Imagine viewing the imposing Maltese fortifications from the sea, with a refreshing breeze caressing your face, and the Mediterranean sun setting in the backdrop. The Grand Harbour Cruise turns this dream into reality. It’s an undeniably enticing proposition for families, offering a unique perspective of Malta’s history and captivating skyline that stretches from Valletta to the Three Cities.
The cruise leisurely sails through centuries of history, narrated by an experienced guide. You’ll see iconic landmarks like Fort Sant Angelo, watch historical cities unfold from a distinct angle, and sail into creeks that were once battlefield sites. Whether it’s learning about the maritime history or simply enjoying splendid views, the Grand Harbour Cruise guarantees an enriching experience for all.
Golden Bay Beach
Renowned for its shimmering golden sand and clear turquoise waters, Golden Bay Beach is a favourite destination for family outings. This Blue Flag accredited beach is splendidly equipped with amenities like sunbeds and restrooms, making your beach day comfortable and convenient.
But it’s not just the sunbathing that calls visitors to Golden Bay. There’s a plethora of water sports and activities to keep the excitement going. You can engage in supervised and regulated jet skiing, parasailing, or paddle boat rides. And for those who prefer land, beach volleyball or a captivating sundown with a bonfire can complete your fun-filled day.
Discover the Marsaxlokk Fish Market
The Marsaxlokk Fish Market is a vibrant, bustling hub offering a unique taste of traditional Maltese life. With its colourful variety of local seafood laid out in stall after stall, the market doubles as a feast for your eyes. Here, you’ll experience the excitement of locals bargaining for the freshest catch of the day. Notable for its authenticity, the market is frequented by the island’s renowned chefs and gourmets in pursuit of premier quality seafood.
Venturing into this market also presents the opportunity to try local culinary delights. Be sure to sample pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas, a classic Maltese treat. Also, don’t miss Lampuki pie (fish pie), another favourite, and indulge in a variety of seafood dishes on the spot – the true Marsaxlokk style!
Explore the Dingli Cliffs
Emblematic of Malta’s rugged beauty, the Dingli Cliffs are awe-inspiring natural features that drop dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea. These towering cliffs, among the highest points in Malta, offer some of the most spectacular panoramic views on the island. The cliffs are set against sprawling farmlands and rural villages, providing a glimpse into the more pastoral aspects of Maltese life.
Ideal for a slow drive, a leisurely walk, or an energetic jog, the Dingli Cliffs possess a tranquillity perfect for those seeking an escape from bustling city streets. A visit in the late afternoon or at sunset will reward you with views of the sun plunging into the ocean, staining the horizon in hues of orange and red. A tiny chapel dedicated to the Patron Saint of Sailors, St. Mary Magdalene, stands right at the edge of the cliffs, making the location even more photogenic. The Dingli Cliffs encapsulate the natural allure and peaceful charm unique to Malta.
Visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon
The island of Comino, with its crystalline Blue Lagoon, offers some of the most stunning vistas in Malta. This is due to the lagoon’s vibrant azure waters, which are both extraordinarily clear and mesmerisingly beautiful. With its sandy bottoms and bright marine life darting beneath the surface, it’s perfect for snorkelling and a day at the beach. Additionally, Comino’s sparse population ensures it retains its natural charm, free from large-scale commercial developments.
Regular boat tours from both Malta and Gozo make Comino easily accessible for visitors. These tours offer opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing and basking in the sun. The turquoise waters, fine white sands, and dramatic rocky cliffs make it a haven for sunbathers and photographers alike. Few marine spectacles across the globe are as breath-taking as Comino’s Blue Lagoon – it’s simply a must-visit!
Conclusion
Exploring Malta with your family promises a unique blend of adventurous outdoor activities, fascinating historical sites, and relaxing beach escapades. From exploring the ancient city of Valletta to basking in the sun at Golden Bay Beach, there’s something magical awaiting every family in Malta.
Our Grand Harbour Cruise, especially, comes highly recommended for an unforgettable experience. It offers a magnificent perspective of Malta’s history, narrated through the impressive forts and bastions. The tranquillity of gliding over the shimmering Mediterranean waters is a memory your family will cherish forever.
In encouraging you to plan your next family adventure, remember that Malta offers a variety of experiences for all ages – history buffs, outdoor adventurers, foodies, or relaxation-seekers, you’re all catered for!
By reading this, you’ve only just scratched the surface of what Malta has to offer. As we bid you ‘saħħa’ (good health in Maltese), let the charming allure of this Mediterranean gem draw you in deeper. We promise you that a family holiday in Malta is a wonderful adventure you won’t soon forget.
