The aquarium is divided into six distinct areas, including a reptiles and amphibians area (which also houses invertebrates such as tarantulas and stick insects). The other five areas include displays inspired by the Roman times, the Valletta Harbour, and tropical oceans.
You can book admission ahead of time or buy tickets in person, and the aquarium is included in the Premium Pass and the Malta Multi-Pass. Many Malta island tours also include a stop at the aquarium.
The Malta National Aquarium is a must-visit for families and anyone interested in marine life.
Discounted admission is offered to seniors (60 and over) and children ages 4–12. Kids 3 and under visit free.
You can get snacks and meals at La Nave Bistro, located inside the aquarium complex.
The aquarium is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. The entire attraction is on one floor, and an elevator is at the entrance.
The aquarium is located in St. Paul’s Bay in northern Malta, and parking is free for visitors (just remember to validate your parking ticket on arrival). It's about 30 minutes drive from Valletta or about 45 minutes by public transportation. If you're coming by bus, take line 45 to the Ben stop, a 5-minute walk from the aquarium, or line TD13 to Arzell, around a 10-minute walk away.
The Malta Aquarium is open daily throughout the year. Weekends are considerably busier than weekdays, and Sundays get more crowded than Saturdays. Come right at opening or later in the day for the fewest crowds, but arrive at least half an hour before closing if you want to be let in.
If you're looking for fun activities for kids in Malta, consider visiting the Splash & Fun Water Park in nearby Naxxar. This seasonal water park features fun activities geared toward kids, from toddler-friendly splash areas to a lazy river, while older kids and adults won’t want to miss the wave pool or some of the park's more thrilling near-vertical slides.