Family-Friendly Adventures in Qawra!

Malta National Aquarium

Why Visit?

Embark on an underwater adventure at the Malta National Aquarium, located in Qawra, within the town of St. Paul"s Bay. Ideal for families, the aquarium is a gateway to exploring marine life and engaging in educational fun.

### Getting There

The Malta National Aquarium is easily accessible by public transport or car. If you"re using public transport, buses such as routes 31, 45, and 48 from Valletta drop you off directly at the aquarium. For those driving, ample parking is available onsite.

### Itinerary

Morning Arrival

- Start at 10 AM: Begin your visit right at opening to enjoy the exhibits without the crowds. Upon arrival, grab a map and schedule of the day"s events from the front desk.

Educational Tours

- 10:30 AM: Join the guided tour available (check for availability upon entry), where knowledgeable staff lead you through the various zones explaining the marine life hosted within each tank. Children can learn about local Mediterranean species and more exotic creatures like the reef sharks.

Interactive Zones

- 11:30 AM: Head to the touch pools, a highlight for children, where they can gently interact with starfish and sea urchins under supervision.

Lunch Break

- 12:30 PM: Enjoy a family lunch at La Nave Bistro, within the aquarium, offering views of St. Paul’s Islands. Try the fresh seafood platter.

Reptile and Amphibian Section

- 1:30 PM: Explore the newly added reptile and amphibian section, featuring colorful frogs and sleek lizards.

Scavenger Hunt

- 2:30 PM: Participate in the aquarium"s scavenger hunt, challenging kids to find specific creatures using clues provided at the start.

Gift Shop Visit

- 3:30 PM: Conclude your visit by stopping at the gift shop, where kids can pick a souvenir to remember their aquatic journey.

Departure

- 4 PM: Head back to your hotel or next destination, enriched with new marine knowledge and memorable family experiences.

Interesting Fact: The Malta National Aquarium’s main tank holds 750,000 liters of water, replicating the underwater environment of the Maltese coastline and houses species like the Mediterranean moray.

This itinerary offers a blend of education, interaction, and fun, tailored to engage both kids and adults in marine conservation awareness and the beauty of underwater life.

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

Rotunda of Xewkija

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring the Rotunda of Xewkija

Morning: Visit to the Rotunda of Xewkija

Start your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Rotunda of Xewkija, the largest dome in Gozo, Malta. Known as the Church of Saint John the Baptist, this architectural marvel towers over the village of Xewkija. To get there, take a direct bus from Victoria (Rabat), or if you’re driving, it’s only about 10 minutes from the capital.

Upon arrival, marvel at the intricate exterior and step inside to see the beautifully adorned interiors. The church’s dome is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, a fantastic piece of architecture that is both awe-inspiring and perfect for teaching kids about engineering and architecture. Climb up to the dome’s viewpoint for a panoramic view of Gozo. Remember, the climb might be challenging for younger children, but the view from the top is worth it.

Lunch Break: Local Cuisine

For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant in Xewkija or Victoria to enjoy some traditional Maltese cuisine, such as ‘Fenkata’ (rabbit stew) or ‘Pastizzi’ (ricotta-filled pastry), both child-friendly and delicious.

Afternoon: Xerri"s Grotto and Ninu"s Cave

After lunch, deepen your exploration of Xewkija by visiting Xerri"s Grotto and Ninu"s Cave, located about a 5-minute drive from the Rotunda. These two natural limestone caves offer a cool underground adventure, ideal for curious kids and adults alike. The caves are adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, making it a natural history lesson about geological formations.

Evening: Relax at Villa Rundle Gardens

Wind down your day at the Villa Rundle Gardens in nearby Victoria. Just a 10-minute drive from Xewkija, this is a great spot for kids to play and adults to relax amidst lush greenery and tranquil ponds.

This itinerary blends cultural marvels, natural wonders, and relaxing family time, perfect for a memorable visit to Xewkija and its surroundings.

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

Palazzo Parisio

Why Visit?

Welcome to the splendid Palazzo Parisio, a hidden gem in the heart of Naxxar, Malta, perfect for a family outing full of history, elegance, and beautiful gardens. Here’s your guide to a delightful visit:

Morning Arrival

Start your day early to make the most of the cooler morning hours. Palazzo Parisio is easily accessible by car or bus. If you"re driving, take the Regional Road and follow the signs to Naxar. For public transport, buses frequently run from Valletta to Naxxar. Once you arrive, the Baroque grandeur of the Palazzo awaits.

Explore the Palazzo

Step into the lavish interior of Palazzo Parisio around 9:30 AM. Each room is a masterpiece of baroque art, with intricate frescoes and luxurious furnishings. The highlight for the kids will likely be the grand ballroom with its shimmering mirrors and gilded decorations—perfect for imagining themselves as princes and princesses. Don’t miss the intricate family crests and historical portraits that tell tales of the Palazzo’s past.

Garden Wonders

By mid-morning, venture out to the gardens. These formal landscapes are a mix of Italian and French styles and are meticulously maintained. The children will love exploring the ornamental paths, and you might enjoy a peaceful break by the fountains and ornate sculptures.

Lunch at Luna Restaurant

Around noon, head to Luna, the Palazzo’s own restaurant overlooking the gardens. They offer a delightful menu suitable for all ages, with dishes prepared using fresh local ingredients.

Souvenir Shopping

Before you leave, stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs like artisan crafts and exclusive Palazzo Parisio merchandise, a perfect memento of your visit.

Departure

Plan to wrap up your visit by 2 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the beautiful sights and intriguing history you"ve absorbed at Palazzo Parisio.

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

Ggantija Temples

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey with your family to the Ggantija Temples on the scenic island of Gozo, Malta. A UNESCO World Heritage site, these temples are more than 5,600 years old, making them older than the pyramids of Egypt!

Getting There

Start your adventure by taking a ferry from Cirkewwa on the main island of Malta to Mgarr on Gozo. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and takes about 25 minutes. Upon arriving in Gozo, you can opt for a short bus ride or a taxi directly to the temples located near the village of Xaghra.

Touring the Temples

Upon arrival, start your tour at the visitor center where you can watch an informative short film introducing the historical context and architectural significance of the temples. The film is engaging for both adults and children, providing a great foundation for understanding the site before exploring.

Step outside and enter the temple complex, consisting of two main temples. As you wander through these ancient structures, marvel at the massive limestone blocks, some weighing over fifty tons. Imagine the incredible effort and ingenuity required by the Neolithic people to construct these temples without modern tools or technology.

Interactive Family-Friendly Activities

Engage with the interactive exhibits where children can try their hand at building a miniature temple or drawing motifs similar to those found on the temple stones. These activities not only entertain but also educate young minds about archaeological practices and ancient art forms.

Wrap-Up Your Visit

Conclude your visit by relaxing in the nearby gardens or enjoying a picnic while discussing the intriguing mysteries still surrounding the Ggantija Temples, such as the purpose of their construction and the life of their builders.

This trip to the Ggantija Temples will be an unforgettable experience, blending education with adventure, making it perfect for a family outing!

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

Malta Classic Car Collection

Why Visit?

Morning: Visit to the Malta Classic Car Collection

Start your family day out at the Malta Classic Car Collection, located in Qawra, a vibrant hub in the northern region of Malta. This museum, a gem for automobile enthusiasts and families alike, is easily accessible by car or public transport. If you"re using public transport, buses such as the X3, 31, and 45, make stops nearby.

Itinerary Highlights

- Arrival and Exploration (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)

Upon arriving, start your tour by marveling at the impressive array of beautifully restored classic cars, motorcycles, and memorabilia, which span from the early 20th century to the 1970s. Each vehicle has a story board detailing its history and restoration process, making it an educational journey into the automotive past. Engage the kids with fun facts about how cars evolved over decades and quiz them about different car models and their functions.

- Interactive Session (11:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Participate in the interactive sessions usually held for families. These can include quizzes or scavenger hunts that challenge kids to find specific cars or symbols throughout the museum, making the learning process fun and engaging.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at one of the local eateries within walking distance of the museum. Options vary from cafes offering light snacks to restaurants serving full meals, catering to all dietary needs.

Afternoon: Relax at Qawra Coast (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Qawra coast. The coastal line is perfect for a relaxing stroll or to let the kids play around. The area is well-equipped with benches and play areas, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a morning of learning and exploration.

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of educational content and leisure, perfect for a family day out exploring the cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Malta.

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