St Paul’s Bay: Malta National Aquarium Entry Ticket

If you’re considering a visit to Malta and want to include a family-friendly, educational stop, the Malta National Aquarium might be on your radar. This attraction offers a glimpse into the underwater world with its 51 tanks and over 250 species, making it a solid choice for those curious about marine life. We’ve gathered reviews and details to help you figure out if it’s worth your time and money.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how interactive and informative it is—especially with the walk-through tunnel in the main tank, which gives visitors a feeling of being right in the middle of the ocean. Plus, the way exhibits are themed after Malta’s landmarks adds a local touch that makes the visit feel unique. On the downside, some might find the place a bit smaller or quicker than expected, but overall, it’s a good value for the price.

This tour is well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone interested in a gentle, educational outing. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find plenty to keep them engaged. But even adults who enjoy marine environments will appreciate the variety of species and the chance to learn more about conservation efforts.

Key Points

• Affordable entry at $19 per person with flexible validity.
• Well-designed exhibits recreate natural habitats and feature Malta’s iconic landmarks.
• Walk-through tunnel offers an immersive experience in the main tank.
• Educational focus on marine conservation and threats to habitats.
• Variety of marine life, including jellyfish, reptiles, frogs, and insects.
• Convenient location in St Paul’s Bay, with a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Malta National Aquarium

When we think of aquariums, we often picture colorful fish and mesmerizing jellyfish. Malta’s National Aquarium does an admirable job of offering just that while adding some educational value and a bit of local flavor. The entry ticket, priced at $19, is quite reasonable for what you get — especially considering the variety of species and interactive elements.

The Entrance and Location

The aquarium is housed inside an eye-catching, starfish-shaped building, which already hints at the marine theme. Located in St Paul’s Bay, it’s easy to access via bus or taxi, making it a convenient stop if you’re exploring the area. The location itself is a lovely spot, with views that make the whole trip more pleasant.

First Impressions and Layout

Once inside, you’re greeted by a series of themed exhibits that recreate Malta’s marine scenes along with international species. The design is straightforward, making it easy to navigate, which is especially helpful if you’re visiting with kids or in a group. According to reviews, the flow of the exhibits usually works well, with plenty of opportunities for close-up viewing.

The Highlight: Walk-Through Tunnel

The main attraction—the walk-through tunnel—is where the magic really happens. We loved how it allows visitors to stand beneath a massive tank, surrounded by schools of fish and perhaps even a shark or two if you’re lucky. It’s a fun experience that adds a sense of adventure and immersion, especially for kids.

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Exhibits and Species

The aquarium showcases marine life native to the Mediterranean and beyond. You can expect to see fish, jellyfish, reptiles, frogs, and insects. The detailed habitats are designed to mimic natural environments, which helps visitors appreciate the diversity of marine ecosystems.

One review notes, “Very welcoming, calm and lovely fishes… great place to take the kids to have fun,” emphasizing its family-friendly appeal. Another pointed out that the aquarium offers a “wide selection of aquatic life” and friendly staff, making the experience more enjoyable.

Educational Aspects and Conservation

Beyond just looking at pretty fish, the aquarium makes efforts to educate visitors on marine conservation. You’ll learn about the threats facing local habitats and what we can do to help. Interactive talks, although not detailed in every review, seem to be a highlight when available, and many visitors appreciated the staff’s helpfulness and knowledge.

The Gift Shop and Cafe

For those wanting a break or souvenirs, there’s a gift shop and a cafe. The shop offers various items, including the popular photo prints and bracelets, which reviewers say are reasonably priced at around 7 euros. The cafe gets mixed reviews; some found the food and drinks to be a nice addition, while others felt the facilities could be improved — notably, the toilets.

Duration and Overall Experience

Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the tanks and exhibits. Some reviews mention that the visit can feel a bit short or small, especially if you’re expecting a larger facility. One reviewer pointed out, “Much smaller than expected, didn’t take as long as for the cost,” but still found it worthwhile for the price.

Who Will Love This?

The Malta National Aquarium is ideal for families with kids, given its interactive exhibits and safe environment. It’s also good for travelers who want a relaxed, educational activity that’s easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Marine enthusiasts or those interested in conservation will appreciate the focus on environmental awareness.

It’s not the place for those seeking a large, extensive aquarium experience or a full-day adventure. If you’re pressed for time, this visit offers a pleasant, manageable glimpse into marine life without overwhelming you.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Book your ticket in advance online for convenience. The ticket is valid for 180 days, giving you flexibility with your schedule.
• Plan for around 2-3 hours depending on your pace and interest level.
• The walk-through tunnel is a must-see, so try to visit during less crowded times if you want the full experience.
• The facility is wheelchair accessible, and staff are generally helpful.
• Remember, flash photography, pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed inside.
• Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions or beaches to make it part of a relaxing day.

The Bottom Line

In our view, the Malta National Aquarium offers a thoughtful, family-friendly experience at a fair price. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors who want a quick yet engaging peek into marine life, with a nice mix of education and entertainment. While it might not satisfy those craving a massive, sprawling aquarium, it compensates with its themed exhibits and interactive elements.

The reviews highlight that the staff are friendly and helpful, and many visitors leave feeling they’ve learned something valuable about marine conservation. It’s a safe, enjoyable outing that complements a day exploring St Paul’s Bay or Malta’s coastal scenery.

If you’re passing through Malta and have a few hours to spare, this aquarium is worth considering — especially if you’re traveling with children or just want a gentle, informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket to the Malta National Aquarium expensive?
At $19 per person, the price is quite reasonable given the number of tanks and species. It offers good value for a couple of hours of entertainment and education.

How long do most visitors spend here?
Most reviews suggest around 2 to 3 hours, depending on how thoroughly you want to explore the exhibits. It’s a manageable visit that won’t feel rushed.

Can I see marine life from Malta specifically?
Yes, the aquarium features marine life native to the Mediterranean, along with species from elsewhere, providing a diverse look at ocean creatures.

Is the facility accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely, the aquarium is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy the exhibits.

Are there guided talks or educational programs?
While not explicitly detailed in every review, some visitors note that the staff explain exhibits well, and there are talks about marine conservation when available.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention it’s a great place for kids to have fun and learn about marine life in a safe environment.

What should I bring or prepare?
Comfortable shoes, a camera (but no flash photography), and possibly some water if you plan to stay a few hours. Check the weather if you’re combining it with outdoor activities.

Is there a cafe or place to buy food?
Yes, there is a cafe, and the gift shop offers souvenirs. Keep in mind that some visitors found the toilet facilities to be limited.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
Yes, but booking online in advance is recommended for convenience, and the ticket is valid for 180 days, so you can choose the best time for your visit.

Would you recommend this experience?
Yes, for a relaxed, educational outing that’s especially suitable for families or marine enthusiasts. Keep expectations reasonable about size, but overall, it offers a charming, insightful visit.

If you’re after a fun, approachable way to explore marine life while in Malta, the National Aquarium is a solid pick. It’s not the largest or most elaborate, but it’s clean, friendly, and packed with interesting creatures. Plus, the focus on conservation adds an extra layer of meaning to your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: