South Eastern Malta covers fifteen towns around the Grand Harbour and the southeast coast, from the capital Valletta and the fortified Three Cities to the prehistoric Hypogeum and Tarxien temples and the fishing port of Marsaxlokk.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Marsaxlokk Harbour and Sunday Fish Market
The colourful luzzu fishing boats, the harbourside promenade and the Sunday morning market make an easy, free outing; lunch on the waterfront suits all ages
Duration: Half day
Upper Barrakka Gardens and Grand Harbour Views
Terraced gardens with fountains and arches above the Grand Harbour, with views of the Three Cities and Fort St Angelo
Duration: 1-2 hours
Grand Harbour Ferry or Dghajsa Crossing
A short boat crossing between Valletta and Birgu or Cospicua, with close views of the fortifications
Duration: 1-2 hours
Fort St Angelo, Birgu
A large harbour fortress with ramparts and views across the Grand Harbour
Duration: 1-2 hours
National War Museum, Fort St Elmo
Military history of Malta in Fort St Elmo at the tip of Valletta
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Birgu Inquisitor's Palace and Malta Maritime Museum
Two Birgu museums within walking distance of each other, open on Sundays at the combined rate listed by Heritage Malta
Duration: 2-3 hours
Tarxien Temples
Prehistoric temples in Tarxien with carved spirals and animal reliefs, an introduction to ancient Malta for older children
Duration: 1 hour
Marsaskala Bay Promenade
Seaside promenade and fishing boats with space for children to walk and cafes along the bay
Duration: 1-2 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Jerma Palace Hotel (Marsaskala)
Seafront hotel in Marsaskala suited to bay-side stays with bus links to Valletta
Family features: Seafront location; check current facilities with the hotel
Phoenicia Malta (Floriana)
Historic hotel beside Valletta's City Gate with gardens, within walking distance of the capital's sights
Family features: Gardens; walking distance to Valletta
Grand Hotel Excelsior (Floriana)
Waterfront hotel on the Floriana seafront with views toward Valletta's bastions
Family features: Waterfront location; short walk or bus to Valletta
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Maltese restaurants are family-friendly and children are welcome at most hours
Pastizzi, ftira and plain pasta are easy, inexpensive options for children
Marsaxlokk waterfront restaurants serve fresh fish and simple grilled dishes; reserve on Sundays
Ask for half portions or share main courses
Tap water is safe, but bottled water is common at the table
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.