Family-Friendly Adventures in Paola, Malta!

Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling journey through time at the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola, Malta, a remarkable underground necropolis dating back to 3600-2500 BC. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a labyrinth of burial chambers and ritual sites, carved intricately into limestone.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early as visiting the Hypogeum is by appointment only, due to its delicate environment and visitor restrictions to preserve its integrity. Book tickets well in advance, as they often sell out quickly. Check the official website for availability and purchase tickets online.

Getting There

Take a bus or a short cab ride from Valletta to Paola. Public buses like #81 and #82 run frequently to Paola from Valletta and stop near the Hypogeum. If you"re driving, parking is available but can be limited, so arriving early is advised.

Tour Experience

Upon arrival, you"ll be greeted by a guide who will provide an introduction. Tours are typically small, ensuring a personal and less crowded experience. Inside, marvel at the incredible acoustics of the "Oracle Room" and hear whispers from across the chambers due to its unique sound properties — a hit with kids and adults alike! The complex is dimly lit to protect the ancient frescoes, adding to the mysterious atmosphere.

Interesting Fact

The Hypogeum is thought to have been a sanctuary and a necropolis, with over 7,000 bodies estimated to have been interred here over the millennia.

Post-Visit

After your tour, stroll around Paola or head back to Valletta for a bite to eat. Engage the family in discussions about what life might have been like during the temple builders" time and reflect on the incredible engineering and architectural skills of Malta"s ancient inhabitants.

Remember, photography is not allowed inside the Hypogeum, so prepare to capture the experience in your mind and through shared stories!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mdina

Why Visit?

Welcome to Mdina, Malta"s enchanting medieval city! Known as the "Silent City," Mdina offers a magical journey back in time, perfect for a family adventure.

### Morning: Arrival and St. Paul"s Cathedral

Start your day by arriving early to enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere. If you"re staying in Valletta, you can take a direct bus (such as the 51, 52, or 53) that will drop you off right outside Mdina"s main gate. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes.

Enter through the Mdina Gate and head straight to St. Paul"s Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Built in the 17th century, it stands on the site where governor Publius is said to have met St. Paul following his shipwreck on Malta. The cathedral"s museum, a trove of ecclesiastical art and artifacts, is a must-see and opens at 9:30 AM.

### Midday: Mdina Dungeons and Lunch

Next, delve into the Mdina Dungeons, located just a few minutes" walk from the cathedral. This attraction provides a spooky yet fascinating glimpse into Malta"s darker history through lifelike scenes and figures, captivating for both kids and adults.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of Mdina’s quaint restaurants. "Fontanella Tea Garden" offers delicious food with stunning views over the island, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

### Afternoon: Palazzo Falson and the Mdina Experience

Post-lunch, visit Palazzo Falson, a medieval noble house which now serves as a museum showcasing a rich collection of antiques and artwork. It’s a short walk from the main square and offers interactive guides ideal for keeping the kids engaged.

Wrap up your tour at "The Mdina Experience," an audio-visual show that brings the city"s 4000-year history to life in an engaging way. Screenings are available throughout the day.

Finally, stroll along the bastion walls for a panoramic sunset view before catching a bus back to your lodging. Enjoy your magical day in the timeless city of Mdina!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Grandmaster"s Palace

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through Malta"s rich history with a family-friendly tour of the Grandmaster"s Palace, located in the heart of Valletta. Start your adventure by taking a bus or a short walk from any central location in Valletta to St. George"s Square, where the magnificent palace stands as a testament to Malta"s grandeur.

Morning Exploration

Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a cool morning exploring the opulent State Rooms, adorned with frescoes and historic tapestries that tell tales of chivalry and valor. Engage the kids by spotting symbols in the artwork and discussing what life was like in the age of knights. Don"t miss the famous Council Chamber, where the legendary Knights of St. John held their strategic meetings. The chamber houses a priceless collection of Gobelins tapestries, making it a perfect spot for inspiring young historians.

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a short walk to Merchant Street just outside the palace for a variety of family-friendly dining options. Enjoy traditional Maltese cuisine or a quick sandwich as you prepare for the afternoon"s adventure.

Afternoon Adventure

Return to the palace to explore the Palace Armoury, one of the world"s largest collections of arms and armor still housed in its original location. Kids will be fascinated by the suits of armor, cannons, and swords, vividly imagining the battles they were used in. Use the interactive displays to learn about the craftsmanship and technology of warfare during the era of the Knights.

Wrap Up

Conclude your visit by taking a stroll around the Upper Barrakka Gardens, just a 5-minute walk from the palace. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and discuss your favorite parts of the day while the kids play amidst the lush greenery.

This educational and entertaining itinerary at the Grandmaster"s Palace offers a glimpse into Malta"s storied past, making it a perfect outing for families eager to explore and learn together.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mosta Dome

Why Visit?

Start your family day trip at the magnificent Mosta Dome, officially known as the Rotunda of Mosta, which is one of Malta"s most impressive architectural treasures. Begin by arriving early to beat the crowds. If you’re staying in Valletta, catch the direct bus (route 31, 41, or 42) which typically takes around 30 minutes. There’s also ample parking if you decide to drive.

Upon arrival, marvel at the Dome"s stunning facade. The Mosta Dome is famous for having one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, with an impressive diameter of 37.2 meters. Before entering, share an interesting fact with the kids: during World War II, a bomb fell through the dome during a mass but miraculously didn’t explode, earning the church the nickname "The Miracle Church" among locals.

Inside, take a guided tour (available in multiple languages) to fully appreciate the rich history and intricate art, including the beautiful frescoes and the replica of the bomb displayed inside. Tours generally last about 30 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore.

After visiting the dome, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby cafes, where you can try traditional Maltese cuisine like pastizzi (ricotta-filled pastries) or ftira (Maltese sandwich).

Post-lunch, spend a relaxed afternoon at the Mosta Valley, just a short walk from the dome. The valley offers picturesque walking trails that are easy for kids and provide a serene escape into nature.

End your day with a visit to Ta" Qali Craft Village, just a 10-minute drive away. Here, the family can watch local artisans at work and perhaps pick up a handmade souvenir to remember your trip.

This itinerary offers a mix of history, culture, and relaxation, perfect for a memorable family outing to Mosta Dome and its surroundings.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Marsaxlokk

Why Visit?

Marsaxlokk, a picturesque fishing village in Malta, offers a colorful and engaging experience for families. Here’s a detailed itinerary to maximize your visit:

Morning: Marsaxlokk Fish Market

Start your day early by visiting the Marsaxlokk Fish Market, open every Sunday. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere where locals sell fresh seafood and other goods. It"s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about local marine life and traditional Maltese fishing techniques. To get there, take bus 81 or 85 from Valletta, which takes about 35 minutes.

Lunch: Seafront Dining

Enjoy lunch at one of the seafront restaurants. Many offer "catch of the day" specials, perfect for sampling fresh fish while enjoying views of the traditional, colorful boats, known as "luzzus," dotting the bay. The boats, with their Phoenician-inspired eyes, are said to protect fishermen from harm.

Afternoon: St. Peter’s Pool

After lunch, take a short 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk to St. Peter’s Pool, a natural swimming spot known for its crystal-clear waters and ideal for snorkeling. This is a great place for families to relax and swim. There"s also a natural rock formation that serves as a perfect diving platform for the more adventurous.

Before You Leave: Fort Delimara

Cap off the day with a visit to Fort Delimara, a 19th-century fortification at the tip of Marsaxlokk Bay. While access inside the fort is limited, the surrounding area offers stunning views of the sea and coastline. It"s about a 10-minute drive from St. Peter’s Pool. Here, families can enjoy a leisurely walk and learn about Malta"s strategic importance in military history.

Marsaxlokk offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture, making it a memorable destination for families. Each spot is easily accessible by either walking or short drives, ensuring a relaxed pace suitable for visitors of all ages.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.