Why Visit Malta – Even with a Young Child

Malta is one of those destinations that seems to divide opinions. Before our trip, I heard everything from “You probably won’t like it” to “It’s love at first sight!” For us, our Maltese adventure turned out to be a mix of everything: seaside relaxation, urban exploration, and thrilling discoveries. And yes, we absolutely loved it!

In this post, I want to help those who, like us, might be setting off with a few doubts. I’ll share ideas, tips, and inspiration on why Malta is worth visiting – even with a young child. I’ll also show you how to make the most of 6 days on this enchanting island, ensuring your Maltese adventure is as enriching and enjoyable as possible.

A Unique Island Full of Contrasts

Malta is a tiny island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, yet it’s packed with attractions that far exceed its size. Smaller than Budapest, it boasts a rich and diverse history and culture. Over thousands of years, numerous civilizations left their mark, creating a blend of European and Arabic influences in its architecture and cuisine. This unique mix is what makes Malta so captivating.

What Makes Malta Special?

Malta has something for every type of traveler: dramatic rocky coastlines, serene sandy beaches, bustling cities, tranquil villages, and thousands of years of historical landmarks.

Whether you’re strolling through the narrow, golden-stone streets of Valletta (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, or exploring Gozo’s mysterious caves and cliffs, the island’s diversity will undoubtedly enchant you.

Malta with a Young Child? Absolutely!

As parents of a young child, we understand that traveling can sometimes be challenging, but Malta turned out to be a surprisingly family-friendly destination. Its compact size means short distances between attractions, and tranquil beaches like Mellieha Bay are perfect for little ones. Thanks to Malta’s mild climate, the weather is pleasant almost year-round.

Mellieħa and St. Paul’s Bay: Ideal Bases for Exploring Malta

When it comes to accommodation, Mellieħa and St. Paul’s Bay are excellent choices. They offer a peaceful environment, proximity to the sea, and a great starting point for exploring the island. From here, you can easily reach the nearby islands of Gozo and Comino.

The ferry to Gozo departs from the Cirkewwa terminal, just a short drive away, while Comino’s iconic turquoise Blue Lagoon is accessible via organized boat tours or independent trips.

We stayed near St. Paul’s Bay, a location that offered the perfect balance: close to the sea but also within easy reach of Malta’s livelier areas. For families with young children, it’s an especially ideal choice. The nearby Mellieħa Bay (or Ghadira Bay) is one of Malta’s largest and most beautiful sandy beaches. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for kids.

A Week of Adventures Awaits

Soon, I’ll share a detailed breakdown of our week-long trip, including family-friendly activities and practical tips to ensure a stress-free experience in Malta. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a family holiday, I hope this post inspires you to fall in love with Malta just as we did.

Let’s dive into the adventures and explore why Malta is often called the jewel of the Mediterranean!

A Note on the Timing of Our Trip

High season in Malta typically falls during the summer months, but we visited during the first week of July, and the crowds were still manageable. This made everything more enjoyable – fewer people at the main attractions, easier access to photo spots, and we even managed to catch the first ferry to Gozo or the small boat to Comino without hassle.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I’ll take you through the highlights step by step. 😊

Day 1 in Malta: Arrival and First Impressions

After a pleasant 8:30 AM departure from Stansted, we landed in Malta around 12:30 PM local time, following a roughly three-hour flight. Malta is one hour ahead of the UK, so the time difference was easy to adjust to. Before our trip, we had already decided to rent a car – for us, especially with a young child, it’s the most practical option. Using QEEQ, we pre-booked our car rental, and once again, it didn’t disappoint.

Malta’s left-hand driving might deter some people from renting a car, but if you’re comfortable with it, I highly recommend it. Although the island is small, the hilly and winding roads mean it can take 45–60 minutes to travel from one end to the other. We always opt for a small car, and this time we got a Peugeot 208, which was perfect. Not only was it cheaper and more convenient for parking, but it was also just the right size for our needs. For more tips on car rentals, check out [this guide].

After picking up the car, we headed straight to our accommodation, which was about a 50-minute drive from the airport.

We rented a spotless apartment via Airbnb in Xemxija, near St. Paul’s Bay. The balcony offered a stunning view of the sea and the many small boats anchored there. What made it truly special was the little beach right across from the apartment – we fell in love with it immediately. It turned out to be a perfect spot for our daughter: safe, calm, and convenient.

Once we arrived and unpacked, we wasted no time heading down to the beach for a dip in the crystal-clear sea. There was no rush; with such a beautiful stretch of coastline just steps away, we decided to soak up the afternoon sun and stayed there until around 5 PM.

Afterward, we made a quick trip to a nearby shop to stock up on breakfast essentials and fill the fridge for the next few days. (Tips and tools shopping tips Self-Catering Vacation)

We spent the evening on our balcony, enjoying a cozy dinner while taking in the peaceful views of St. Paul’s Bay. We went to bed tired but happy, full of excitement for the adventures awaiting us in the coming days.

Helpful Tip to End the Day:

If you’re renting a car in Malta, it’s worth choosing a smaller vehicle. Not only are they more budget-friendly, but they’re also easier to navigate through the island’s narrow streets and crowded parking spots. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore every corner of the island and make the most of your time there!