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Begin with the local Mediterranean tanks near the start of the route. This is where you’ll see species linked to Malta’s coastal waters, including sea bream, sea bass, grouper, mullet, amberjack, and scorpionfish.
Contents
Book Malta National Aquarium tickets
Where and when to go
How do you get to Malta National Aquarium?
Malta National Aquarium is in Qawra, on the St. Paul’s Bay seafront in northern Malta. It’s easy to pair with Buġibba, Qawra Point, Popeye Village, or a hop-on hop-off bus day.
Triq it-Trunċiera, Qawra, San Pawl il-Baħar SPB 1500, Malta
→ Open in Google Maps: Malta National Aquarium
Bus: Get off near Qawra / Buġibba and walk to the seafront aquarium.
Car: Drive to St. Paul’s Bay / Qawra. A free parking lot is adjacent to the aquarium, with ticket validation available on entry.
Taxi / rideshare: Drop-off at Malta National Aquarium, Triq it-Trunċiera — easiest for families or hot summer afternoons.
Hop-on hop-off bus: A practical option if you’re combining the aquarium with other Malta sightseeing stops.
Which entrance should you use?
There’s one main visitor entrance at the aquarium building, so you don’t need to plan around multiple gates. Head to the front desk with your mobile or printed ticket.
Located on Triq it-Trunċiera, by the Qawra seafront. Expect the quickest entry with skip-the-line tickets during weekends, school holidays, and summer afternoons.
When is Malta National Aquarium open?
Monday–Sunday: 10am–8pm
Last entry: 7:30pm
When is it busiest? Summer afternoons, weekends, school holidays, and cruise-heavy days tend to bring more families and tour groups.
When should you actually go? Weekday mornings are the easiest window, especially if you’re visiting with children. You’ll get more space around the underwater tunnel, larger tanks, and interactive areas before the afternoon crowd builds.
How do you get around Malta National Aquarium?
Aquarium layout
Malta National Aquarium is a compact, mostly one-way indoor attraction, so it is easy to explore without a detailed map. The route works best if you follow the exhibit flow in order instead of rushing straight to the underwater tunnel.
Entrance and first exhibits → ticket scan, orientation, smaller tanks, and themed marine displays → 15–20 min.
Main aquarium route → Mediterranean and tropical marine zones, reef tanks, jellyfish, rays, and larger fish displays → 35–45 min.
Underwater tunnel and main tank → sharks, rays, and the most photo-friendly part of the visit → 15–25 min.
Reptile and final zones → reptiles, amphibians, final displays, shop, and café exit area → 20–30 min.
Suggested route: Follow the marked path from the entrance through the smaller themed tanks first, then save the underwater tunnel and main tank for the middle of your visit. Most visitors head quickly toward the sharks, but the earlier zones make the larger displays more interesting.
Maps and navigation tools
Map: Basic on-site orientation is enough for most visitors → check the entrance area or front desk if you want a quick overview before starting.
Signage: The route is straightforward and family-friendly, with clear exhibit labels and directional signs.
Audio guide / app: You do not need a separate audio guide to navigate the aquarium; the visit is designed to work as a self-guided walk-through.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t rush the first tanks just to reach the underwater tunnel. Go slowly early on, then leave extra time at the main tank where children usually want to stop, watch, and take photos.
Where are the must-see species inside Malta National Aquarium?
Start with Malta’s western shoreline
Facilities and accessibility
What facilities are available?
Is Malta National Aquarium accessible?
Visiting with children
- Ticketing and assistance services: The aquarium provides ticketing and assistance through dedicated personnel to facilitate smooth entry and address any queries visitors may have.
- On-site first-aid support: For emergencies, a first-aid box is available on-site to ensure prompt assistance if needed.
- Educational programs and workshops: Educational programs, workshops, and guided tours are offered to enhance understanding and appreciation of marine life.
- Interactive children's play area: Children can engage in interactive play at the nautical-themed play area, designed to entertain and educate young visitors.
- Restrooms: Restrooms and nappy-changing facilities are conveniently provided for the comfort and convenience of families with young children.
- Internet services: Certain attractions within the aquarium offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing visitors to stay connected while exploring the exhibits.
- The aquarium is accessible to wheelchair users, with accessible restrooms also available.
- Accessible parking spaces with yellow badges are provided for visitors with mobility needs.
- Service animals are permitted inside the aquarium to assist visitors.
- The aquarium offers listening devices and braille/tactile support for visitors with sensory impairments.
- Designated seating areas are available for visitors with disabilities, both indoors and outdoors.
- The ticketing desk is equipped with a lowered section for wheelchair users and facilitates lip reading.
- Audio fire alarms are installed to provide an alternate emergency route with ramps for impaired visitors.
- Support services are provided for visitors who may feel overwhelmed by loud sounds and music at the aquarium.
The Malta National Aquarium is a strong choice for families because it is compact, indoors, and easy to explore without committing to a full-day plan. Kids usually enjoy the underwater tunnel, shark and ray tanks, jellyfish displays, and reptile areas, while parents will appreciate the manageable 1.5–2 hour visit length. Arrive in the morning for fewer crowds, keep extra time for snack or photo stops, and consider pairing your visit with Popeye Village or a hop-on hop-off bus combo if you want a fuller family day out.
Rules and restrictions
What you need to know before you go
- Standard Malta National Aquarium tickets are easiest to use as a short, flexible visit, but combo tickets work better when planned around the second attraction’s location and opening hours.
- Arrive with your mobile or printed ticket ready, especially during summer weekends and school holidays when entry can be slower.
- Small day bags are easiest here, because the route moves through indoor galleries, viewing areas, and family-friendly spaces where bulky luggage can feel inconvenient.
- Plan to follow the aquarium route in one go. It is compact enough for a single continuous visit, and backtracking can make the experience feel more crowded.
Not allowed
🚫 Do not tap on tanks or disturb the animals.
🚫 Outside food and drink are best saved for before or after your visit.
🚬 Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside the aquarium.
🐾 Pets should be left at home unless you are visiting with a service animal.
🖐️ Do not touch exhibits, barriers, or animal enclosures unless clearly marked as interactive.
Photography
Photography is generally fine for personal use, especially around the underwater tunnel and larger tanks. Keep flash off near aquariums, avoid blocking narrow viewing areas, and be mindful of children and other visitors in crowded sections. Tripods and large filming setups are not practical inside the aquarium.
Good to know
- The underwater tunnel gets the busiest, so pause there before large groups arrive behind you.
- Feeding times and animal activity can vary, so check the schedule on arrival if you want to plan your route around a specific tank.
- The aquarium is fully indoors, making it a useful backup for hot afternoons, rainy days, or family downtime during a Malta trip.
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Malta National Aquarium
What are the operating hours for the Malta National Aquarium?
The Malta National Aquarium is open from 10 AM to 6 PM throughout the week. Entry to the museum closes at 5:30 PM.
How much time does it take to visit the Malta National Aquarium?
The duration of a visit to the National Aquarium in Malta can vary depending on personal interests. Plan to spend at least 2 hours, which will give you ample time to explore all the zones inside.
How do I book tickets to visit the Malta National Aquarium?
Tickets to visit the Malta National Aquarium can be booked online or bought at the ticket counter on the ground floor. It is highly recommended to use the online booking system. Online booking allows you to secure your entry in advance, avoiding long queues and ensuring a hassle-free experience.
How much does it cost to visit the Malta National Aquarium?
A standard ticket to the aquarium is €15.90.
Is Malta National Aquarium worth visiting?
Absolutely! With its stunning array of marine life, interactive exhibits, educational programs, and emphasis on conservation, the Malta National Aquarium offers a great experience that's both entertaining and enriching for visitors of all ages.
How long should I spend at Malta National Aquarium?
You'll want to allocate around 2-3 hours to fully explore the Malta National Aquarium, immersing yourself in its diverse exhibits, interactive displays and educational activities.
Where is the Malta National Aquarium located?
The Malta National Aquarium is situated in Qawra, a coastal town in the northern part of Malta, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and easy access for visitors to enjoy its marine wonders.
How can I optimize my visit to the Malta National Aquarium for a more personal and less crowded experience?
To optimize your visit to the Malta National Aquarium for a more personal and less crowded experience, consider arriving early in the morning, preferably on weekdays, and utilizing the quieter periods during weekdays outside peak tourist seasons, allowing you to leisurely explore the exhibits, engage with staff, and enjoy the aquatic wonders with fewer crowds.
Can I visit the Malta National Aquarium with kids?
Of course! The Malta National Aquarium is perfect for families with kids, offering interactive exhibits, educational programs, and child-friendly activities, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Do I need to book tickets for children?
Yes, it's advisable to book tickets for children in advance to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
Are prams allowed in the Malta National Aquarium?
Yes, prams are typically allowed in the Malta National Aquarium, making it convenient for families with young children to navigate the exhibits comfortably.
What are the available amenities and assistance available for visitors with disabilities?
The Malta National Aquarium strives to be inclusive and accessible to all visitors, offering amenities such as wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms, as well as assistance for visitors with disabilities, including trained staff who can provide guidance, accessible parking spaces, and special arrangements for those with specific needs upon request, ensuring an enjoyable and accommodating experience for all visitors.
What should I wear when visiting the Malta National Aquarium?
When visiting the Malta National Aquarium, it's best to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and standing for an extended period, as well as considering layers for potential changes in temperature within the indoor facility, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring the exhibits.
Do visitors at the Malta National Aquarium get access to Wi-Fi?
Yes, visitors to the Malta National Aquarium typically have access to Wi-Fi, allowing them to stay connected and share their experiences online while exploring the fascinating marine exhibits and enjoying the facilities.
Are dogs allowed inside the Malta National Aquarium?
No, dogs are generally not allowed inside the Malta National Aquarium, except for service animals assisting visitors with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for all visitors and the marine life housed within the facility.
Can I bring my food and drink to the Malta National Aquarium?
While outside food and drink are typically not allowed inside the Malta National Aquarium to maintain cleanliness and prevent potential harm to the marine life, the facility often provides designated areas for visitors to enjoy refreshments purchased on-site, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Are there shops at the Malta National Aquarium?
Yes, there is a gift shop called the Reef gift shop at the Malta National Aquarium where visitors can browse and purchase souvenirs, gifts, and marine-themed merchandise, allowing them to take home a memorable memento of their visit to the aquarium.
