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Malta National Aquarium

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Malta National Aquarium (Malta)

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The Malta National Aquarium, located in Qawra, opened its doors in 2013 and spans an impressive area of approximately 20,000 square meters on the island's northeast coast. The architecturally striking building is shaped like a stylized starfish and houses a total of 41 tanks showcasing a vast array of marine life from the Mediterranean and tropical oceans. A central highlight is the 12-meter long walk-through glass tunnel that passes through the main tank, allowing visitors to observe sharks, rays, and schools of fish from a unique underwater perspective. The facility places a strong focus on nature conservation and education regarding the delicate marine ecosystems of the Maltese archipelago. Visitors can explore thematic zones that recreate local underwater landmarks, such as the wreck of HMS Stubborn and the waters surrounding St. Paul's Islands. The project was developed with support from the European Regional Development Fund and has since become one of Malta's premier educational and tourist destinations.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Malta National Aquarium is a modern aquarium that can be fully visited, with large tanks and thematic exhibits. Visitors can walk through underwater tunnels and explore the Mediterranean and tropical underwater world.
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Typical hours
The aquarium is typically open daily from late morning to evening, with extended hours during the summer months. It is advisable to check the current times on the official website as they vary seasonally.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the aquarium for personal use, but flash is prohibited near the tanks to avoid disturbing the animals. Tripod and drone shots require special permission from the aquarium management.
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Time needed
An average visit lasts about one and a half to two hours to comfortably view all exhibits. Families with children often spend extra time at the interactive stations and the touch pool.
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Combine with
Combine the aquarium visit with a stroll along the nearby Bugibba promenade or the Malta National Aquarium Park. The beaches of St. Paul’s Bay are also a short drive away.
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Getting there
The aquarium is located in Qawra, easily accessible by car via the coastal road; ample paid parking is available. Public buses from Valletta and other towns run regularly to the Qawra stop.
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Insider tip
Visit the aquarium early in the morning when visitor numbers are low, especially on weekends. Plan around feeding times - the shows at the large tanks are a highlight for children.

Geography

Coordinates
35.95200, 14.40700

Facts

  • Opened in 2013
  • Starfish-shaped building
  • 41 thematic display tanks
  • 12-meter long underwater tunnel
  • 20,000 square meter site
  • Focus on Mediterranean species

Explore nearby

Notable places around

BuġibbaBuġibba<1 km · EExplore →
Bird Park MaltaBird Park Malta2 km · SExplore →
Mistra BayMistra Bay2 km · WExplore →
Wardija HighlandWardija Highland3 km · SWExplore →
Victoria LinesVictoria Lines4 km · SExplore →
Vincent's Eco FarmVincent's Eco Farm4 km · SWExplore →
MellieħaMellieħa4 km · WExplore →
Il-Qortin RidgeIl-Qortin Ridge4 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Malta National Aquarium (10)

Hornblower Cruises

Boat trips along the Maltese coast, often with sightseeing stops.

Super Auto Crash

Bumper car ride, suitable for children and adults.

Bathing pools

Ruins of former bathing pools, now derelict.

Wignacourt Tower🗼 tower

Tower built in the 17th century as part of coastal fortifications.

Buġibba Water Park

Water park with slides and pools, family entertainment.

Bajja tal-Għażżelin

Beach on Malta's north coast, quiet and less frequented.

Palazzo Pescatore🏰 castle

Palace in Malta, once used as a residence.

Saint Francis of Assisi Church

Church of St Francis of Assisi in Qawra, Malta.

Amazonia Beach

Beach with sand and pebbles, located near hotels.

Wardija Battery

19th-century fortification, part of the coastal defense system.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What animals can you see at the aquarium?
Sharks, rays, seahorses, and many local Mediterranean fish species.
Is there a glass tunnel?
Yes, the main tank features a walk-through tunnel where sharks and rays swim over your head.
Is the aquarium stroller accessible?
Yes, the entire facility is fully accessible with ramps and elevators for strollers.
Is there a playground?
Yes, right outside the entrance, there is a large, nautically-themed public playground.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the aquarium tanks.
Malta National Aquarium: where is it located?
Malta National Aquarium is located in Malta.
Malta National Aquarium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hornblower Cruises, Super Auto Crash, Bathing pools.
Malta National Aquarium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Malta National Aquarium: why is it worth visiting?
The Malta National Aquarium, located in Qawra, opened its doors in 2013 and spans an impressive area of approximately 20,000 square meters on the island's northeast coast.
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Nature

🗺️
Mistra Bay
A sheltered bay near St.
Ta&#39; Ċinċ Hill — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Ta' Ċinċ Hill
A hill near Birkirkara that functions as part of the interior topography.
Victoria Lines Fault — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
Golden Bay — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Golden Bay
One of Malta's most popular sandy beaches.
Coral Lagoon (Malta) — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Coral Lagoon (Malta)
A large sea cave with a collapsed roof, forming a hidden lagoon.

More places

City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
An easy way for families to explore Malta's main attractions on an open-top bus.
Three Cities Ferry Service — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Three Cities Ferry Service
A ferry service connecting Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea).
Il-Għallies Plateau — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Il-Għallies Plateau
A plateau north of Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.
Bugibba Water Park — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Bugibba Water Park
A smaller, free water park on the Bugibba promenade, ideal for younger children.
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Bugibba Jetty for Boat Trips
A major departure point for tourist boats to Comino and Gozo.
Kennedy Grove — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Kennedy Grove
A park area with a small playground, ideal for a picnic.
Bird Park Malta — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
Bird Park Malta
A park housing a variety of birds from around the world, as well as other animals.
BirdPark Malta for Kids — Malta National Aquarium (Malta)
BirdPark Malta for Kids
A park where children can see and feed birds and other animals.