easy travel baby malta

Malta with a Toddler or Baby: Know Before You Go

• April 10, 2022
• 29 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, our family can receive a little extra spending cash for our next adventure, at no cost to you. Read my privacy policy and disclosure here.

Malta is kind of having a moment right now. With tourism growing at record rates for the small Mediterranean country, you’d think it would feel over-saturated, like so many booming tourism capitals that have lost their charm. On the contrary, even in the peak of high season, Malta felt traditional, authentic, and welcoming.

Situated in the central Mediterranean, halfway between Sicily and Northern Africa, this EU member nation enjoys a perfect climate and incredibly natural scenery.

With a history that dates back to 5900 BCE (and plenty of megalithic temples to prove it), there is no shortage of culture and history to experience. From the infamous Knights of St. John to the indispensable role Malta played in WWII, you will find fascinating stories all over this island.

If you’re planning to travel to Malta with a baby or a toddler, here are some things that we learned along the way that might help you!

Malta is an archipelago, but you will probably stay on… Malta.

Malta is a country that is made up of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. While all are accessible and have sights to see, most of the amenities that make for a good family vacation are on the main island of Malta.

On Malta island you can find busy cities, tons of beaches, historic sites, quieter towns, nightlife… everything you need. It is the cultural, business, and tourism capital of the country.

If you’d rather have a slow-paced, rural, fishing village experience, you might consider Gozo instead. It’s known for diving and it’s calm way of life, but you won’t find big cities with lots of attractions there. If that’s more up your alley, check out the best things to do on Gozo . You can find some awesome Malta nature on Gozo!

Comino is essentially uninhabited and only has one hotel – you might visit to go to the Blue Lagoon, but you probably won’t stay there.

You can get all over the island in an hour or two (depending on traffic).

Malta is really not that big. The main island, at it’s longest point, is less than 17 miles span (from northwest to southeast). However, there is a lot of traffic during the high season, when the population of the island doubles.

A trip that might take 20 minutes without traffic, from the towns in the south up to the beaches of the north, could take 90 minutes or more in the worst traffic. But really, if you plan your days well (and try to avoid rush hour), you truly can explore the whole island easily.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

HOW TO TRAVEL WITH A BABY: Everything You Need to Know

Check out these family-friendly beaches.

Malta is absolutely spoilt for beaches. There are gorgeous beaches on every corner of the island, and they’ve earned the ranking of the cleanest waters of any country in the EU. And with a climate that is sunny virtually the whole year round, you’re going to want to check out the beaches.

But not all of Malta’s beaches are created equal, especially when you are considering visiting Malta with a toddler or baby. You’ll want to find the beaches that are not rocky, and that have good facilities. The best of these tend to be toward the northern part of the island. Based on our experience (and my tons of research), here are a few that you should definitely consider:

• Paradise Bay : While this beach can get a little crowded, it is great for families because it’s sandy, shallow, crystal clear, and has decent facilities. It’s on the northern-most tip of Malta, right by the ferry to Gozo, so consider combining it with a day that you plan to visit the other islands! Paradise Bay is also known for great snorkeling.
• Mellieħa Bay : This is probably the most popular beach on Malta, and for good reason. It’s massive, surrounded by restaurants and a few hotels, easy to get to on public transportation, and has all the facilities you might hope for, including life guards. It has shallow, calm water, and you can rent an umbrella and happily stay for the day.
• Golden Bay : Located on the northwestern coast, Golden Bay is a little less built up than Mellieħa Bay, but still easily accessible and family-friendly. The setting is beautiful!

Wherever you end up going, pay attention to the flags, and stay out of the water if there are red flags up. Also know that it is not socially acceptable to enter nearby restaurants in swimwear (or bare-chested, for men).

Car seats are not required in taxis (so here’s what to do instead).

The Maltese, unfortunately, are just not that into car seats. While we were there, we saw multiple instances of kids climbing around in moving cars. One taxi driver told us that car seats are not required by law, so no one uses them. That’s actually not true – they are legally required in passenger vehicles (not taxis), but the fact that a lifelong citizen thought otherwise speaks to the culture around car seats.

Don’t expect any taxi at the airport to have a car seat available. However, many of the airport transfer services do offer car seats, and we found their prices to be comparable to that of the taxis.

Of course, when our transfer back to the airport showed up, he did not bring the car seat that we had paid €7 extra for, so we had to go without for that ride. At least there are no freeways on Malta, and the highest speed limit you’ll find is equivalent to about 50 mph, although most places it is much lower, around 22 mph. For me, this was still nerve-wracking.

TRANSPORTATION ON VACATION: Getting Around with a Baby or Toddler

Restaurants are pretty kid-friendly.

Is Malta child friendly? For sure. Every restaurant we went to was welcoming of our baby and toddler. This is certainly not the case in every European country we’ve visited. They had kids’ menus for the most part, and everywhere we ate had high chairs.

Malta feels like a very family-centric country, and we never got any looks (from waiters or other guests) when we walked in with our kids. Now, we’re not exactly going to the fanciest places in town when we bring the babies, but we did go to a couple of higher-end restaurants with no problem.

Maltese attitudes about breastfeeding are changing.

Malta has traditionally had very low rates of breastfeeding, and as a result the culture is not particularly friendly toward nursing. The health ministry has been pushing in recent years to improve breastfeeding rates, and it has been making a difference. They are also working from a policy perspective to raise community awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding to make it more accepted by the public, but societal views are always slow to change.

That being said, I did not encounter any issues with breastfeeding in Malta. I nursed discreetly, using my favorite nursing clothes for inconspicuous access, and turned away from anyone who might be in view. I did not use a cover, but nor I did not feed as freely as I do in most European countries. I try to honor the culture of breastfeeding anywhere I travel to, and I believe that simply being subtle is enough for Malta.

BREASTFEEDING WHILE TRAVELING: 12 Tips for Baby-Friendly Trips

The buses are easy to navigate, but don’t trust the schedule.

The bus system is pretty solid on Malta. We were able to get everywhere we wanted to go, in a timely fashion, and comfortably. We brought a stroller that folds up small , which made a big difference for the one very crowded rush-hour bus trip we took, but every other trip we were fine to just leave it open.

That said, the bus schedules are not particularly reliable. We used google to plot our trips, and found that the times given by google did not match those posted in the bus stop, and often neither was correct. But the buses come regularly enough that it really didn’t matter.

When you travel with kids to Malta, you should probably accept that things will happen at their own pace, anyway!

We did struggle one day with a a bunch of bus routes being shut down, because it was that neighborhood’s festival weekend (more on that next). There was no way for us to tell, and thankfully a local saw us waiting at a bus stop and told us that we’d need to walk to the next neighborhood over to catch a bus.

There are festivals pretty much every weekend.

Malta is made up of many villages and towns – often, they crowd so close to each other that a visitor can’t tell them apart, and it looks like one big city, but they are separate localities.

Every locality has a patron saint (or two).

And every patron saint has a festa dedicated to him or her sometime during the festa season.

That means that essentially, from May through September, there is a festival happening almost every weekend somewhere on the island. For a festival weekend, you can expect roads to be closed down, banners and flags everywhere, everyone to be in a celebratory mood, a processional march featuring the statue of the patron saint, and lots of fireworks.

It turns out, the Maltese take their fireworks very seriously, and are extremely skilled pyrotechnicians. The localities battle to try to out-do each other with their fireworks displays every year.

Out of sheer luck, we happened to be staying in St. Paul’s Bay during their festa . What a treat! Not only did we get to experience the most jovial nature of the town, but we also happened to be staying in a room with a stellar view of the fireworks! It is worth noting that the fireworks go off pretty much morning to midnight, but our kids got used to it quickly and it was well worth it to be able to enjoy the main fireworks display on Saturday night.

Renting a car? Watch out for speed cameras.

We did not rent a car, but this tip came straight from our taxi driver. There are speed cameras all over Malta, mostly when you exit from tunnels. The locals know where they are, and are adept at slowing down just in time. In fact, my husband was the one who brought this up, because he asked why everyone was suddenly braking even though there was no traffic ahead!

If you do rent a car, it’s best to just stay in the left (slow) lane and stick to the speed limit. If you can’t do that, then at least be aware of what everyone else is doing and slow down when they do! The speeding ticket will cost you €150.

The Maltese drive on the left side of the road, have no toll roads, and their gas stations have attendants. And while I wouldn’t call the driving relaxed by any means, it’s nowhere near the level of challenge of driving in Italy.

BABY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: The Only 21 Things to Bring

Check out the best things to do in Malta with toddlers

If your baby is a little older and you are looking for where to go in Malta with a toddler, check out our post that focuses more on what activities to actually do when you visit Malta with toddler: Top Ten with a Toddler: Malta . If you have a young baby, it doesn’t matter as much. But with a toddler, you’ll want to split some of your time to toddler-friendly activities, like the waterpark and aquarium!

Everyone speaks English. But the Maltese language is pretty cool too!

Malta has a fascinating history, ruled in different eras by the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Spaniards, French, British, and others! As a result, the culture – and the language – is a blend of many influences.

When I first heard Maltese spoken, I thought it was Italian, because I hadn’t stopped to wonder if Malta had it’s own language. But then I picked up Arabic sounds and words (Arabic being the language I studied in college), so we asked a local about it. We learned that Maltese is primarily a perfect blend of Italian and Arabic, and it is a truly beautiful language to listen to!

However, you will not need to learn Maltese to get by in Malta. English is the second official language of the island, and according to Wikipedia, 88% of Maltese people speak it. In our experience, everyone we spoke to did. And it was fluent and clear – we never struggled with communication at all.

Take the kids to Littlefinger’s Brothel (and many other filming locations).

With it’s varied natural scenery and unique blend of architectural styles, Malta is a popular location for filmmakers. Just a few of the many movies filmed here are Troy, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Da Vinci Code, Gladiator, and 1980’s Popeye (in fact, the village film set from Popeye is still maintained to this day, and has become a popular amusement park!).

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might know that some very important scenes from the first season were filmed on Malta. The epic Gate of Mdina is featured as the site where Ned and Catelyn Stark say their goodbyes, and should be visited whether or not you follow the show.

You can find scenery from the Red Keep, much of King’s Landing, Daenerys’ life before the Dothraki, and of course Littlefinger’s Brothel and the square outside of it where Ned Stark fought Jaime Lannister.

However, don’t get your hopes up for seeing the epic scenery where Daenerys married Khal Drogo, which falls under the next category….

You might not get to see the sites you planned this trip for.

Let’s be real. When you look for the most iconic sites to see in Malta, the same few pop up over and over again. And you might not get to see either of them.

I really hope that I’m not the bearer of bad news here, and that you already know that you can’t visit the Azure Window. This 92-ft. natural limestone arch, featured in several films and every postcard of Malta ever, collapsed into the sea in March of 2017. The collapse was inevitable and more or less anticipated, but tragic none-the-less to lose such an iconic symbol of the country.

The other place you might be dreaming about is the Blue Lagoon. (You and every other tourist.) This small, perfectly photogenic bay with it’s azure waters sums up everything about the landscape of Malta. But it’s on Comino, meaning you’ll need to take a ferry or a boat day-trip (the more popular option) to get there. And while that’s definitely not a deal-breaker, the crowds might be, if you are visiting Malta with baby.

You’ll need to go early (ideally on a weekday) on the ferry to have any hope of getting a spot on the beach, and bring your own food and drinks, as it is a haul to the only hotel on the island if you want to buy food beyond what the beach kiosk sells. If you take a boat day-trip, you can usually buy food on your boat, but they will not take you to the beach – instead, they drop anchor and you swim directly out from the boat. Not ideal with a baby.

There are also sometimes jellyfish in the Blue Lagoon. Locals will be able to tell you if that is the case, but you won’t know ahead of time.

If you’re set on taking your little one to the Blue Lagoon, consider going during the off-season. This practical guide to visiting Malta in winter has lots of great tips if you go that route!

For us, we decided not to make the trek to the Blue Lagoon. It’s just not amongst the best things to do in Malta with a baby. If we visit Malta with a baby or toddler again in the future, I would love to find childcare and spend an adults-only day at the Lagoon!

And that’s it! I hope you’re planning a family trip to Malta right now, because it is amazing. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or any further suggestions for everyone else!

Photos are mine except for these: Azure Window by foursummers on Pixabay, Blue Lagoon by Mike Nahlii on Unsplash. Used with permission.

to pin for later:

Originally published October 2019. Updated April 2022.

EXCLUSIVELY FOCUSED ON TRAVEL WITH BABIES AND TODDLERS.

I’m Dani.

I want to help you prepare to have the best trip ever, because of – not in spite of – bringing the baby. read more

RECENT POSTS.

Baby Sun Hats: Choosing the Best Sun Protection for Your Toddler or Baby

How to Travel Carry On Only with a Baby and Toddler

Mexico City with a Baby or Toddler: Know Before You Go

These Are the Best Baby Sunglasses Ever

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?

LET’S CONNECT.

You may also like:

Top Ten with a Toddler: Malta!

Best Family-Friendly Airbnbs in Valletta

Best Family-Friendly Airbnbs in Mdina, Malta

Malta Water Park: A Review of Splash and Fun

29 thoughts on “malta with a toddler or baby: know before you go”.

Fantastic advise. I got a three year old daughter and done Italy but didnt do those when she was a very young baby. However she loved it. Not I got another child due in January and we have already planned a trip to Italy (again) but we are also hoping to return to Malta next year so this is a very good guide for me. Its hard to make the transcition from backpacker to family traveler! 🙂

I feel you, Danik! We were also backpackers before we had kids, and struggled with whether we would be able to make the switch. However, we find that our travels really aren’t THAT different now, just a little slower paced. Italy with babies is wonderful, too!!

Such great advice! Traveling with a child can be difficult and I think this really makes the unmanageable, much more manageable!

When I go to France every year, I always try and include a European destination, usually a city, to get some variety. Malta looks really great for a getaway. I would love to spend some time exploring the beaches and historic buildings. It’s especially good that the island can be covered in a couple of hours. Coming from Australia, distance is always an important factor!

I definitely think you should add Malta to your list! You truly can see so much in a short time, or extend it to a long, relaxing vacation.

I learned so much from reading your post, Dani! I had no idea that Malta had three different islands, and despite being a total language nerd, I didn’t know that the island had it’s own language. I loved visiting Italy after learning Spanish and Portuguese and being able to pick up words here and there, so I’m sure it would be equally fun to try and see if I could find any cognates in Malta. I love your advice about not necessarily being able to see the most famous sites; I ran into the same thing in Greece but you just can’t let that ruin a trip. It looks like you saw a bunch of amazing places, and I’m so jealous! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you, Kevin! I also had NO IDEA that Maltese was a language, and such a beautiful one at that!

While I’m long past having a baby or toddler to travel with, two things really jumped out at me about your experience in this beautiful island nation. First, I’d be soooooo chapped if I paid for a car seat and the driver didn’t bring it. Second, I think I’d really struggle with people judging my while breastfeeding. It was already hard enough here in the US way back when my kiddos were small. What a beautiful place!

Yes, those were definitely the negative parts of the trip. To be fair, I found it about on par with breastfeeding in the US – which is to say, so much worse than breastfeeding in most of the world! Looking forward to those attitudes evolving over time.

Malta has been on my list of places to visit as I am a huge GOT fan. I didn’t realize the scene where Jamie and Ned fought was here! Great info about the transport to Blue Lagoon and how it’s super crowded. I’ll probably skip that since I am not keen on crowds. I did hear about the famous Azure Window collapsing. So sad to see such an iconic landmark be gone forever 🙁

There are so many other GOT sites that we didn’t get to see, too. But that was a fun one!

Malta has been on my radar for a few years now, but I’ve been so busy that I haven’t had time to do any research. I loved reading your post, and while I won’t be traveling with a kid, it has a ton of great tips. Good to know about the speed cameras. I’d definitely like to see some GOT sites, but also explore the lesser-known parts of the country.

Yes, and that’s the great thing about Malta – you can do it all in a relatively short amount of time! 🙂

That’s interesting, a festival almost every weekend! I really enjoy watching and photographing fireworks. Looks like an additional fun thing to do in Malta, aside from enjoying the beautiful beaches. Your babies are too cute! I can feel how happy they are while in Malta. 🙂

Aww, thank you! They really had such a blast.

I had no idea that “Maltese” was a thing!! It sounds like a fascinating language. And a festival every weekend for such a small island is quite impressive haha. it looks like such a beautiful place and it’s definitely on my list. While I don’t have any kids, there were still lots of great pieces of advice I can use whenever I get to Malta!

Did you find it hard to get around Valletta with a buggy? We booked with our 1.5 year old but many blogs say it’s very hard to navigate with a buggy.

Hi Ciara! No, not really. We did a 2 hour walking tour of Valletta, as well as spending other time there on our own, and it was never a problem. There are very steep hills, and some stairs (but the stairs can be avoided). That being said, I would not want to tackle Valletta with a big/heavy stroller. We use the UPPAbaby Minu , and it is a breeze because its so light, and if we needed to go into a restaurant, we would just fold it down. I hope that helps!

Hi Dani Your blog on Malta is very informative. I am planning to visit Malta soon. Which hotels did you stay in?

Hi Parnika, thank you!! We stayed in an AirBnB, actually. This is the exact place we stayed in , up in St. Pauls’ Bay. I love the St. Paul’s Bay area for families to stay in – we found it very easy to get to the cities like Valletta and Mdina, but nice to stay outside of the busy areas.

Hi Dani Sorry the link is not working. Please can you send it again?

This keeps happening for me with AirBnB links… sorry! This should work: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/16887418 If that is still not working, try searching on google: “Airbnb Coral – top floor flat with breathtaking seaviews” and that should get you to the right spot.

Great post! How did it work about baby meals? Did you cook by yourself in the AirBnB? Did you try restaurants for soup and something like that? It’s the only topic that still worrying me, the baby diet. Thank you for the help

Thank you! We did a combination of those things. We stopped by a little corner market just after arriving to buy things like yogurt, bread, fruit, etc. So we didn’t really end up cooking much, but we had easy food for the baby at the AirBnB. Then we would also just feed her whatever we were eating at restaurants.

Which part of Valletta would you recommend staying in with a baby and toddler? We’re not planning on renting a car.

Valletta is really quite walkable, so anywhere you stay within the city, you will be able to get to all the sites without too much trouble. If you are planning to get out to the rest of Malta quite a bit, I would say plan for minimal walking to get out of the city. If you follow a straight line from the Triton fountain, try to stay within a few streets of that line. It gets steep as you get closer to the water on either side, and that is a pain with two little ones. There are also lots of restaurants along that pathway, and I always recommend staying very close to a lot of food options, when a toddler is involved! The downside is that you’ll miss out on staying somewhere with an awesome water view. But I would rather have a centralized home base if you’re planning to be out and about, especially because the hills are quite intense in Valletta – if you stay by the water, you will ALWAYS have to tackle a hill to get to the main restaurant area.

Hi Dani, I wanted to visit other country but hubby wants to visit somewhere warm and he mentioned Malta. I was actually less convinced about it but your post succeded change my mind! How many days totally did you visit Malta? Btw very brilliant idea writing blogs focusing on travelling with baby and toddler!👍👍 TIA Kind regards, Santi

Hi Santi! I am so glad to hear that you’re more open to Malta – it was such a blast! We were there for one week. I think it is enough time to get a good feel for the island, but I would have been happy with 2 weeks to dive a little deeper. Have a great trip!

Very useful information! Thanks a lot! Which is the best place to stay in Malta with twin toddlers? I mean a place to stroll around with no stress, find something to eat etc

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Copyright Diapers in Paradise © 2023. All rights reserved.

Take the family to Malta: Tips on how to travel with a baby and toddler in tow.

“Do you want to come to Malta for our wedding?” Words written by my friends Kim & Clint, whom I met while hiking in Greece about five years ago. We sure said yes, like why not? What a magical experience to look forward to! And after all, a first trip on a plane after the pandemic, let alone a week in Malta with a three-year-old child and a three-month-old baby should be quite fun … right!?

Preparing for our trip: Packing lists and such.

We have actually started planning our trip to Malta based on our friends’ wedding date in June 2022 half a year in advance. By the way, you can book flights even with an unborn baby (including travel insurance and more; read here about how exactly we did it ).

We also booked our accommodation in Malta a few months in advance based on the advice of our friends. The only thing left to do was to get on the plane and see what would happen. Nobody tells you exactly how this toddler-baby combo works out high up above the clouds. Or do they? 😀

Well, we could already show a little experience of flying with a baby, as we spent a month in Portugal and Spain with baby Liam (right before the pandemic). You can check out our useful packing list here : Travel buggy, carrier for the baby, nappies + baby wipes for the first few days, toys for the big brother … we quickly remembered everything that needed to go in our luggage.

Speaking of luggage: As globetrotters, we are fans of large travel backpacks instead of wheeled suitcases – why? Especially with little kids, it’s important for us to travel “hands-free”, carrying our luggage on our backs or hips for short distances instead.

Preparing for our trip back home …

… and this is what preparation looked like for us: Two large backpacks with luggage for mum + baby, dad + toddler, a small backpack for the road, baby carriers for both parents and the travel buggy that folds and fits into hand luggage on the plane for both kids (either sleeping or sitting). Easy, right?!

Just another part of preparation: Getting this cute beach towel for wearing around Malta …

… while ideally, baby naps in the stroller on the beach (jackpot!).

Tips on getting on a plane with baby + toddler

Have you ever been on a plane with young children? There are countless tips on the internet on how to make air travel with a baby and toddler easier for everybody  – I have written a few of them myself . Frequent flyer Jenny, who publishes about her kids’ travel experiences on Nunu-Reist.at, has many more tips indeed: I can absolutely recommend her blog at this point.

Experience has taught us to first make sure that we look after ourselves as parents . Do we carry enough to drink (especially when breastfeeding)? Do we have all (boarding) passes at hand, maybe also digitally like via Apple Wallet? The baby carrier for helping baby sleep while walking up and down the plane aisle? Is the travel buggy suitable for hand luggage, so that it can be taken on the plane (and with the child sitting in it right up to the plane door)? Do we have something to nibble on? And so on.

Here are a few pictures to illustrate what we mean.

On the plane, you get a small belt for baby used during take-off and landing. My tip is: Better strap such small babies to their mothers so you can quickly breastfeed (and soothe) them if necessary…!

Our two kids slept lots during both plane trips (from Vienna to Malta and back): Flying with the little ones can also be a relaxing business, now who would have thought! 🙂

The early bird catches the plane: Heading back from Malta at 5.00 in the morning with all our luggage and kids in tow.

Tips on accommodation and food in Malta with baby + toddler

As far as local accommodation in Malta is concerned, we experienced two different types of accommodation : a family room with breakfast at the family-run B&B 116 Townhouse in Rabat in the interior of Malta, and half board accommodation at Paradise Bay Resort with a private sandy beach near the car ferry to Gozo Island.

Both types had their charm, and we can really recommend combining different styles of accommodation on your trip. Dorianne, the owner of the B&B in Rabat, really took care of us and gave us lots of personal tips for travelling with young children in Malta (she has three herself). With half-board in the big hotel, we really just went on holiday relax mode – equally appealing in our case, I must say!

The view west towards sunset (and the island of Gozo), from our balcony at Paradise Bay Resort in Malta.

Here, we also enjoyed great food such as this seafood salad.

Check out “Maltese tapas” (specialities) such as this food board at Casteletti restaurant in Rabat.

Of course, my ideal recommendation goes for trying out as much seafood as you can, here at “The Cliffs” near Dingli Cliffs in Western Malta.

Getting around with baby + toddler in Malta: Sightseeing on the fast lane!

Well. Despite the different sleeping and eating rhythms of our small children, we were naturally still tempted to see at least a little bit of Malta. The cab app “Cool Malta” helped a lot: It offered to book private rides for the four of us from anywhere to anywhere for just a few euros, in just a few minutes (in Malta, everything is no more than an hour apart – that is how small the island really is).

We visited the capital Valletta , the fishing village Marsaxlokk , the coastal landscape Dingli Cliffs , Malta National Aquarium and, of course, Rabat and Mdina with its famous cathedral , visible from afar. Malta has a church or chapel on almost every corner. It was in one of them, St Matthews Chapel in Qrendi, that our friends got married. What an experience: Wedding day in Malta!

Bringt it on: Malta currently sees dozens of weddings each weekend …

… and that’s the wonderful wedding couple, our friends Kim & Clint! Don’t they look beautiful!

Travelling around Malta: Either with baby in the sling …

… pushing the older one around in the stroller …

… we didn’t really mind exactly how it worked out, as long as it did (here, by the Dingli Cliffs walk next to the sea).

This taxi app helped us a lot in getting around comfortably …

… whereas Mdina was accessible by foot from our first accommodation …

… we were even allowed inside the main cathedral with Liam still sitting in the stroller!

Valletta, the capital city, is always worth the visit …

… especially the so-called Upper Barraka Gardens as part of the city’s mighty defensive walls …

… it’s from here where you can take really nice pictures, such as this one with Valletta port in the back!

Families, and those in love with sea creatures, will love visiting Malta National Aquarium …

… right next to it, you can spend the rest of the day at “Café del Mar”, suitable for visiting with young children.

Last but not least, we can recommend visiting the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, if only for spending the evening at one of its great seafood restaurants.

Concluding thoughts on our first trip with baby + toddler

Well, my dear. What can I say: Looking back, we would absolutely do it again. It’s exciting to be able to pass on the passion to travel to your kids from an early age on after all. Although, I have to say that it can also be very exhausting to be on the road with such small children. Their different eating and sleeping rhythms (even Liam still naps up to three hours during the day …!) easily mess up any travel plans for the day, so going with the flow was more than once the motto …!

So we were not unhappy about spending some days basically “doing nothing” in Paradise Bay Resort, even though I’m not a fan of big hotels like these. Anyway – the honest conclusion is YES, do it – travel with your kids, take agenda, pressure and expectations out of everything and just take every situation as it is – best with a little sea breeze on top, because this makes everything in life a little better.

When both kids nap, I get time to read about the fascinating history of Malta!

Bye bye Malta …

… we’ll be sure to come back at some stage, making even more memories with our friends here!

And you, have you already been to Malta? If so, how did you like it?

You may also like

#wearecatalonia: a dashing visit of barcelona’s “via lliure”..., travel talks about aotearoa new zealand part ii:..., belgrade or: the story of an up &....

HI! I would like to ask, what about car seat for kids in the private rides? How did you do?

Hello Vanessa, Sorry for my late reply to your question. We each held a kid of our own during each ride, so certainly not ideal, but for the few short rides we took, it was OK by us. Does that answer your question? I hope you’ll have a great time in Malta with your family, too!

Great Article.

Can you order taxis through the “Cool Malta” app with Toddler car seats?

Dear David, Thank you for your feedback. I am glad you enjoyed reading it! As for your question, I am not sure you can. I most certainly didn’t find the option at the time, but that may have changed in the meantime. Please go check out the app in its latest version ahead of your own trip. I wish you good luck and happy times with your family!

Cheers, Elena

Join the discussion Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• How to Plan Your Trip
• El Salvador
• United States
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• South Korea
• United Kingdom
• Tahiti and Moorea
• South Africa
• Work With Me

The Perfect Malta Itinerary: 3 Days in Malta With Kids

For a small island, Malta packs in attractions. This small collection of islands is crammed with an almost unfair amount of history and culture – unfair on its neighbors, that is. For visitors, this historic island nation is a gem amid the waves.

Unlike much of the Mediterranean, travel in Malta is free from long train or bus rides, endless lines and other problems common to more spread out countries .

Instead, Malta is extremely compact. Most major attractions are easily reachable from the capital, Valletta . Meanwhile, the city itself is easy to navigate thanks to its simple grid format, not to mention the hospitality of locals.

As a former British colony, most Maltese are comfortable speaking English , making travel even easier.

Is Malta Child Friendly?

Parents will likewise find Malta toddler friendly for the most part. With the exception of some archaeological sites, kids are no problem . Older children in particular will enjoy many of Malta’s attractions just as much (if not more) than parents; what kid doesn’t like castles and shining armor?

Moreover, most of the island nation is surprisingly stroller friendly , while its rare to find a restaurant that won’t offer options suitable for little ones. The only one issue is that it can be hard to find baby gear .

Malta is, after all, a small place, so make sure you bring everything you and your kids will need. Should you need a stroller or something special I recommend you head to The First Years baby shop in Mosta . It is hear that we found the replacement for the stroller the airline broke on our way to the island (surprisingly Valletta has very little to offer).

What to See in Malta

Malta’s chief attractions are historic sites , many linked to the Order of St. John. The island nation also boasts some of Europe’s most important prehistoric archaeological sites and is also home to some great natural attractions .

There are a few beaches too, but I don't consider them to be a highlight.

Take some time to meander, try out local food and drinks, and slowly sample what this Mediterranean island has to offer.

Make sure you get lost along Valetta's narrow and old yet fascinating streets is a must.

St John’s Co-Cathedral

Often considered Malta’s most iconic site, St John’s Co-Cathedral is also widely viewed as one of Europe’s best preserved Baroque churches . Constructed between 1572 and 1577 by the Order of St. John, the co-cathedral was originally quite an austere affair.

It was only in the mid 17 th Century that Baroque artists got their hands on the initially aesthetic building. With the blessing of the Order, they totally overhauled St. John’s, turning it into one of the era’s most enduring celebrations of art and culture.

The cherry on top is the presence of two masterpieces by Baroque superstar Caravaggio. The more famous of the pair, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist , is an emotive ode to the saint’s martyrdom (pictures not allowed!).

The interior of the Cathedral is surprisingly spectacular when compared with the dull outer architecture.

The co-cathedral can be easily reached by public transport. It’s just a few minutes by foot from the bus terminus near City Gate, making it a pretty straight forward trip from virtually anywhere in Valletta.

Grand Master's Palace

Ever wanted to live the life of a crusader? If so, then don’t miss the Grand Master's Palace . After the Ottomans booted the Order of St. John from their stronghold on Rhodes, this palace became the abode of the order’s grand master.

As you’ll see, the knights weren’t exactly roughing it here. The interior is dripping with incredible art and some of the most lavish décor anywhere in the Mediterranean.

This imposing building isn’t just a pretty face; the armory is packed with Renaissance era war gear. Gawk at the knights’ shining armor, noble-looking swords and clunky old firearms.

The highlights are the suits of armor belonging to grand masters . Also, don’t miss the Turkish weapons, captured during the legendary 1565 siege of Malta. If you’re having a Malta vacation with kids, then this place is pretty much mandatory.

The beach at Buggibba

The palace is located on St. George's Square, and currently serves as the presidential offices. Public tours are available, with the armory now functioning as a museum.

Fort Rinella

The 19 th Century Fort Rinella is a must-see for anyone with even a vague interest in military history . After all, Rinella represents a major milestone in early-modern military technology.

This was the world’s first mechanized fort, and it brought early industrial power to bear on a terrifying level. The centerpiece of the fort is the jaw-dropping, 100-ton Armstrong gun.

View of Valetta from the fort

Fortification walk

Despite its ingenuity, Rinella was just one node in a larger defensive network, which protected generations of Maltese over the centuries.

To get a feel for just how impregnable the island was, take a walk along Valletta’s old walls . The walk is circular, and can be started from pretty much anywhere in the city. The City Gate is as good of a place as any to start.

Visit at sunrise or sunset for a real visual treat. If you’re looking for things to do in Malta with toddlers, this one is a reasonable choice.

While getting up on the wall can be a pain with a pram, once you’re up there it’s smooth sailing.

Malta at War Museum

Despite all Malta’s defenses, the island was hard hit during World War II . Incessant areal bombardment took a brutal toll on the Maltese, who spent much of the war taking shelter in bunkers.

At the Malta at War Museum, visitors can experience one of these bunkers for themselves.

Join a tour through the hand-cut tunnels, and quiver in the dark as you remember what it would have been like to be down their in the darkness during the war.

Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum

The 5000-year-old Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum is, without doubt, a mandatory pitstop for any visitor to Malta. This was once a necropolis for a prehistoric Maltese society.

Likely produced by the same society that produced Gozo’s prehistoric sites, Hal-Saflieni probably once held as many as 7000 bodies, which were buried here over the course of a millennium. 

Unfortunately, children under the age of six aren’t permitted to enter .

However, that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this truly awe-inspiring site. Consider taking turns with your partner if possible, and make sure you don’t miss this one.

The streets of Malta are stroller friendly, as there are very few with cobble stones. There are quite a few hills though.

Ghar Dalam Cave & Museum

Ghar Dalam means “cave of darkness,” and yes, it gets dark. This cave system’s lowest levels are estimated to be around 500,000 years old . Among the scientific community, the caves are legendary for their massive haul of prehistoric fossils, including of dwarf elephants.

National Museum of Archaeology

If you’re not tired of history yet, then you might want to have a peek at Malta’s National Museum of Archaeology. The highlight of the museum is the collection of prehistoric stone tools, some of which are more than 7000 years old.

Another impressive exhibit is that of a collection of Phoenician artifacts, including some pretty stylish Bronze Age amulets.

Mdina & Mellieha

With its rich history, Valletta may seem immortal, but it hasn’t been around forever. Mdina was Malta’s first capital, and is today an adorable Renaissance-style village .

Explore the windy streets, and check out the mansions of the Maltese nobility. Mdina is a fairly good place in Malta for families, with the streets being easily navigable and the town itself having a nice, laid back vibe.

The heart of the village is the lively Bastion Square , which is especially enjoyable in the early evenings. This is when the tour groups have usually made their departures, and the village exhales as the twilight rolls in.

View of Mellieha during the day from our hotel

Mellieha , in the North part of the Island, is mostly famous for its nearby beach and for it being the closest city to the ferry terminal that takes travelers to Gozo. You'll have a great time at the beach even if you're visiting Malta in winter .

There are some WWII tunnels to explore as well as the Parish Church to visit, though other than that it's an easy going town with restaurants, shops, and the beach.

We were in Mellieha during Malta's national holiday. This was the view we were treated from the balcony our apartment had at Pergola Hotel.

Where to Stay in Malta with Kids

There's no lack of hotels in Malta, as the countries economy relies heavily in tourism. And while the island is quite small and can easily be tamed finding a good family friendly hotel may be tricky.

Depending on what you want to do you'll have to decide if you want to stay close to the ocean, or inland . I recommend you look for one with good views and close to the ocean, and if the temperature is pleasant during your visit your kids will appreciate any beach time you give them. 

Liza and Teo looking at the ocean from our room.at Salini Resort

During our visit we stayed in two different hotels: an apartment at the Pergola Hotel in Mellieha (read my full Pergola Hotel review ) and Salini Resort (read the Salini Resort review ).

Check rates of Salini Resort - Check rates of Pergola Hotel in Malta

The small island of Comino is barely a speck of dry land lost in the Mediterranean. Situated between its larger siblings, Malta’s main island and Gozo, the unassuming Comino is widely considered one of Europe’s best snorkeling spots.

It’s also very popular among divers and windsurfers, who come for the glistening azure waters and remote beauty.

Best of all, Comino is completely free of cars . In fact, apart from one lone hotel, the island is uninhabited. That doesn’t mean you’ll be alone, though.

During peak season, the scenic Blue Lagoon gets packed with day trippers from the main island. Indeed, a day trip from Valletta is the best way to see this small island.

Visiting Gozo with a Baby

Malta’s second largest island, Gozo is significantly more laid back than Valletta. Largely rural, it’s the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the real Malta, where rolling hills are dotted with medieval churches and prehistoric sites.

Getting around is very easy if you use a Hop On/ Hop off bus like we did, and if you choose instead to rent a car make sure you get here with your own baby car seat as they are difficult to come by.

According to legend, the island was home to the nymph Calypso, who fell in love with Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey. In Homer’s epic, Calypso held Odysseus captive for years on Gozo.

Of course, Odysseus hardly would have had much to complain about. Gozo is the quintessential idyllic Mediterranean hamlet, and immediately puts visitors at ease with its charm.

The ferry between malta and Gozo lasts about an hour and is quite comfortable. It can get very windy though!

Xewkija Church in Gozo

Exploring Gozo with toddler in tow can have its occasional challenges, such as the occasional stroller-crunching hill.

The lack of crowds does help, though. We took a City Sightseeing Hop On/ Hop Off bus tour that took us around the island on a single day and it's the best thing we could have done .

It kept things simple and we didn't have to worry about a car. The bus will pick you up as close as possible to your hotel and you'll be taken to the harbor where you'll cross to Gozo on a ferry (ferry ticket not included, but you may want to check prices and schedule )

Entering the Citadella in Gozo

Gozo’s most well-known attraction is the Azure Window , an unusual cliff with a 28-meter-tall natural arch. It’s a great spot for a selfie, though go early to avoid crowds. Another unmissable attraction is the Ta' Kola Windmill .

The structure itself dates back to the 18 th Century, with the interior being decorated in period adornings. So if you’ve ever wanted to see what it was like to live as a peasant farmer during the age of gunpowder, then this is your chance.

On the other hand, if this doesn’t quench your thirst for some history, then why not go back further in time – much, much further. The Ggantija temples are a complex of prehistoric religious sites on Gozo.

They’re arguably among the most important megalithic temples anywhere in the Mediterranean, and even predate the pyramids of Egypt.

View of Victoria from the CIttadella in Gozo, with Liza and Teo at the bottom right. As you see you can get pretty much anywhere with a stroller.

After visiting Ggantija, you might also want to check out the Zaghra Stone Circle. Built somewhere around 3000 to 2400 BC, this site was originally a funeral complex, and today remains Europe’s only stone-enclosed underground temple.

There are a few beaches in Gozo where to hang out, and while none of them can be compared with beaches in the Caribbean or the Pacific they usually have some charm of their own .

Take Xlendi, for example. This little down at the very bottom of a winding road sits in a little bay surrounded by high cliffs. It's a good place where to have lunch right by the ocean (prices are not cheap) and spend some time walking along the boardwalk .

Liza and To posing for a picture in Xlendi, Gozo. The sea was somewhat rough, and the usually crystal clear water was not as spectacular. Still, a nice stop.

If you need some fresh air after visiting Zaghra, consider hitting up the Citadel in Victoria. Usually referred to by locals simply as “ Cittadella ”, this mass of late medieval military might recently underwent a major renovation.

While some visitors say the renovation greatly improved the Cittadella’s accessibility and appeal, others argue it’s lost some of its charm. Either way, it has some great views of Victoria below . Walk the old walls, and soak up the Mediterranean views. Or, head over to the Cittadella’s main church, the Cathedral of the Assumption.

Legend has it the cathedral was built on the site of a Roman temple, which was later converted to a Christian church, before being destroyed in the 9 th Century Aghlabid invasion.

Since then, the cathedral has survived the centuries with only a few scars, including those inflicted during the chaotic 1693 Sicily earthquake. Also, don’t miss the amazing grain silos . These gaping silos are almost like a caving expedition within the cathedral.

Further down, there’s a tunnel to a collection of 20 th Century fortifications, including World War II era bunkers overlooking coastal batteries.

Typical Food in Malta

Typical Malta food

Traditional Maltese dishes are influenced by Mediterranean, North Africa and British cuisines for the most.  Pasta, fish, rabbit and bread in different forms and recipes are the staple ingredients.

Take Bragioli ,  slices of beef wrapped around minced beef and herbs, pastizzi , the national dish, are flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas and can be eaten at any time of the day or night.

Meat eaters will love Fenkata , the famous Maltese rabbit stew with delicate and soft meat and an accompanying sauce with spices, tomato and wine, and Lampuki ,  pan fried local fish with a thick sauce with capers, tinned tomatoes and onions.

Make sure you give your kids some Kinnie , the famous Maltese soft drink brewed from bitter oranges and extracts of wormwood

Few countries are as easy and convenient to visit with a baby as the island nation of Malta is. While Malta is the hub of all things history, partying and resort style accommodations , Gozo is where you'll want to go to get away from the crowds and explore a less crowded island ; and I do recommend you visit both.

While the island is small enough to visit from Valletta, you may want to switch hotels just to get a different vibe of the island, and if you have the time spend a a few days in Gozo too.

As for baby gear, you'll find pretty much everything you need regarding food and clothes, but larger gear (strollers, car seats, etc) are much more difficult to come by , so come prepared.

The Island has a mild climate so visiting during shoulder season is your best bet , as there will be less people and hotels will be cheaper.

Plan Your Malta Trip

Accommodation in malta.

Boo​​king.com has over 500 hotels in Malta including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Don’t forget Airbnb for your home rental stays.

Flights to Malta

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees). Download the Skyscanner App . It’s an all in one flights, hotel and car hire search engine app and makes it easier for you to find the best travel deals!

Rental Cars in Malta

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Malta airport.

RV Rentals Malta:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Malta road trip. Find your RV rentals for Malta here. 

Tours in Malta

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Malta including tickets to the popular Malta attractions.

You may also like

Traveling with bitcoin, top 10 must-visit destinations for college students during 2024 spring break, leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Name * * * * * * * *

Email * * * * * * * *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Pingback: The 15 Best Things To Do in Malta - Art of Scuba Diving
• Pingback: Quick Malta Travel Guide: What to Do in Malta, Where to Stay & More - Our Escape Clause

Subscribe to our newsletter now!

Air Malta ceased flight operations on March 30th, 2024

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated employees for their unwavering commitment and hard work over our

50 year tenure.

We also express our gratitude to all our loyal customers, travel partners, and collaborators for their support throughout the years. 

Since the first Boeing 720B touched down on Maltese soil on March 29th, 1974, ahead of our inaugural flight on 1st April 1974, until our final flight on March 30th, 2024, Air Malta has proudly represented Malta on the global stage. 

Moving forward, KM Malta Airlines will serve as the new national airline for the Maltese Islands. 

Customer Care

For any outstanding queries, kindly contact us by email on [email protected] or through our Customer Contact Centre on +356 21 662 211.

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday from 08:00 to 20:00 

Saturday - Sunday from 08:00 to 18:00

Please do not send any Credit Card or CVV information by email as this goes against PCI-DSS compliance.  Air Malta assumes no liability for receiving emails that do not conform to this requirement. 

Copyright © 2024  Air Malta Plc. All rights reserved.

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyse website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Malta with a Baby: Not a Baby-Friendly Destination

I feel like people either love or hate Malta so I’ve been wanting to visit Malta for a long time.

Is Malta Baby Friendly?

Before Malta, I traveled to various places with a baby , often those considered baby-unfriendly. Malta was my first trip solo with a baby at 4 months and I expected a great trip. Especially after reading that Malta is a great family destination.

The truth is… it was not baby friendly at all! Malta still remains one of the least baby-friendly destinations I’ve ever visited , but it can be done.

Every place I stayed or visited people seemed to think I’m insane about traveling with a baby and often appeared annoyed (and I must say my first son was the calmest baby on earth at this age, he never cried or fussed at all). I never felt welcomed at all.

I’m yet to find ONE restaurant in entire Malta that had a high chair or changing table. In fact, the infamous photo of changing my son in the sink is from Valetta, but in most places I had to put my changing mat on the floor to change him (bathrooms were too small for the stroller). This is obviously just the character of the island but it didn’t make it easy.

For me personally, it wasn’t an issue as my kids don’t need much, but these things can be a big no-no to many families.

I don’t freak out often, but my biggest issue with traveling to Malta with a baby was that in various situations it was pretty unsafe – like the fact that various areas have no sidewalks and I had to walk with my stroller on the road along with various crazy drivers to get to the store.

What to Do in Malta with a Baby

I expected gorgeous beaches on every corner of the island, but instead all we saw were rocky, overcrowded, and cement-like beaches all over Malta and Gozo.

As you probably know Azure Window is no more as this natural limestone arch, featured in several films and every postcard of Malta ever, collapsed into the sea in March of 2017.

The Blue Lagoon in Coming requires a boat tour which with a baby was next to impossible to do, and even if we did it was way too crowded to swim comfortably.

When I visited the famous Paradise Bay in Malta it was so crowded I couldn’t even find a tiny spot to sit, so we had to leave.

Gozo in particular proved to be difficult with a baby, because even in a carrier the majestic spots were mostly rocky and not easily passable.

Valleta had flatter streets and things were happening, but unless you wanted to stick to a few main streets everywhere else was stairs so

The most fun we had was actually in Mdina. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might know that some very important scenes from the first season were filmed in Malta. 

Mdina was stroller friendly, not crowded, easy to get to and people seemed more welcoming than in Valetta or St Julians.

Traveling to Malta with a Baby: Basics

Car seats in malta.

The laws on child car seats in Malta are less rigid than in some other nations in Europe. Children under the age of 3 cannot travel as front or rear seat passengers unless using a suitable restraint system, so basically – if they’re 3 years and older they can legally use a seatbelt only.

I saw multiple instances of kids climbing around in moving cars so they basically don’t care. Don’t expect any taxi at the airport to have a car seat available even if you order one (speaking from experience). I was forced to take one at some point and not even the driver was wearing a seatbelt.

In reality, nobody really cared that we haven’t brought a car seat to Malta as I wasn’t planning on renting a car. In fact, locals were encouraging me to take a taxi or arranged transport over public buses.

Strollers in Malta

A stroller might be your worst nightmare in Malta, especially in places like Valetta. I mostly ended up carrying my stroller up and down the stairs nonstop and the streets have lots of holes. It was the next level bad i f you compare with Italy .

The streets are narrow and hard to navigate with a stroller. This even applies to the pedestrian zone, which is a bit better but still pretty uneven when it comes to the terrain.

Baby Products and Diapers in Malta

I was on a short trip so didn’t need much, but I actually ran out of diapers and visited a big store in St Julians. The store was fully stocked with various items like wipes and diapers of many brands.

There was a wide range of baby food was available along with formula. I spotted at least 5 brands, so you don’t need to worry about that. There are lots of Hipp Organic which are considered the best baby food.

For formula-fed babies, the quality of the water in Malta is generally quite good and I was advised it’s fine to just boil tap water.

Bringing Babies to Restaurants in Malta

Most restaurants weren’t accommodating at all, even though I didn’t need a high chair or special treatment. I just needed to put the stroller somewhere outside.

I asked for a bit of hot water to warm up my formula and the waitress team appeared all confused and started pointing at me to everyone else. Similar situations occurred every single day, so I began to think that this is the weird norm.

I found Maltese being pretty unfriendly towards babies. Nobody ever let us use a seat on a public bus. On the plane, I was seated next to a Maltese man who decided to complain loudly that he doesn’t want to sit next to a baby (and my son was fast asleep the entire flight, didn’t even move!).

Public Transportation with Babies in Malta

Malta has a decent system of public transport. In theory, many buses are fully accessible for buggies and are air-conditioned and there is also a special area allocated for pregnant women and parents holding young children. I’m saying in theory as in reality it’s different.

Buses get so packed in the spring and summer that they won’t even stop at multiple stops because they’re so overpacked. I had bus drivers stopping for me as they felt bad I’m standing at the bus stop for what felt like forever (30+ minutes) and telling me I can get in up front with nothing to hold onto and holding onto the stroller with my baby for dear life.

That said, rent a car. Traveling around Malta by car is the easiest way to experience it all.

Do you have any questions about traveling to Malta with a baby?

Share this:

Notify me of new posts by email.

• whatsapp phone email

Need some help with your order or would simply like to understand a bit more on how we can help, get in touch now, We’d love to hear from you. 

Jen & Morgan

Easy Travel Baby

Sacred Heart Avenue

[email protected]

Other ways to get in touch

+356 9917 7213 – Jen

Don’t Be Shy.

• Rental Terms & Conditions
• Car Seat Saftey
• How It Works
• Get In Touch

• + 356 21 802 383
• [email protected]
• Subscribe Newsletter

• Pregnancy & Birth
• Sports Activities
• General Advice

Babysitters

Discover all about Babysitters in Malta

Apex Community Care Ltd

Address: 4, St. Philip Building, Triq Sciortino Locality: Zebbug, Tel: 2141 0049 / 2146 8880 Mob: 7978 7980 Web: www.apex.com.mt Email: [email protected] Providing daily, nightly or long term babysitting services in the comfort of your home.

Beesmart Childcare Centre

Address: Triq il-Palazz L-Aħmar Locality: Santa Venera Mob: 9942 4702 Web: www.beesmart.com.mt Email: [email protected] Nursery, babysitting, birthday parties, holiday clubs 0-3yrs. Kinder One and Kinder Two 3-5yrs.

Call A Nanny

Charlene bonello, childminders by willingness, easy travel baby, hey presto childcare, kids in company, little elephants, little thinkers childcare centre.

Address: 129, Triq il-Htajriet, Locality: Mosta Tel: 9961 5633 Mob: 7928 8452 Email: [email protected] Childcare center, Babysitting services and Kids Parties.

Magic Kingdom Childcare and Development Centre

Address: Triq Garcin Locality: Msida Tel: 2133 6366 Web: www.apexchildcarecentres.com.mt Email: [email protected] Opens Mon- Fri from 6:30am- 6:30pm. Offering childcare services for children from 3 months- 3 years.

Mypoppins & Co   

Address: 6, L-Iskultur, Qormi Mob: 7947 4723 Web: www.ozocare.com.mt Email: [email protected] Nanny and babysitting services for all ages at events, hotels and homes.

Sticky Fingers

Address: 'De Rohan' Flat 1, Triq l-Imgħażel Locality: Żebbuġ Tel: 2744 4270 Mob: 7904 6122 Email: [email protected] Babysitting for all ages.

The Caring Hand Ltd

Address: Triq it-Tiben c/w Triq il-Faxxina Locality: Swieqi Mob: 9970 3992 Email: [email protected] Babysitting 24/7 in your own home with qualified childcarers.

Get listed for FREE in the directory!

Subscribe to free newsletter.

Free delivery on all online orders over €50 (excluding nursery furniture)

Suavinex NEW Wonder

New arrivals.

Beaba Sunglasses Delight 9-24M

Childhome Mommy Club Signature Canvas Off White

Beaba Easy Relax Baby Bouncer Lichen

Béaba Zen Connect

Childhome Evowood Natural/Rust

Beaba Oslo Mineral Grey

Noukies Popsie Cot Bumper

Noukies Tiga, Stegi & Ops Cot Veloudoux Bumper Off-White

Suavinex Wonder Silicone Clip

Suavinex 6-18m Soother Wonder 2pk

Suavinex 0-6m Soother Wonder

Suavinex Mommy & Baby Cologne Gift Set

Suavinex After-bite Roll-on

Suavinex Citronella Spray Mosquito Repellent

Suavinex Aqua Wipes 60

Suavinex My First Face Cream SPF30

Miniland Set of 12 Pots Valencia

Miniland Thermibag Double Valencia

Miniland Electric Nail Trimmer

Miniland Mini Steamy

Luma Step Stool Desert Taupe

Babymoov B.Love XXL Pregnancy Pillow Grey

Cosatto Zoomi 2 iSize Old Mac Donald

Cosatto Noodle 0+ Unicorn Garden

• Mattress Toppers
• Sheets & Bedding
• Sleep Products
• Cleaning & Laundry
• Heating & Cooling
• Home Office
• Kitchen & Dining
• Storage & Organization
• Wine & Bar
• Accessories
• Handbags & Purses
• Lingerie & Sleepwear
• Outdoor & Fitness Apparel
• Kids Clothes & Accessories
• Pregnancy & Postpartum
• Toys & Books
• Apparel & Accessories
• Camping & Hiking
• Fishing & Hunting
• Tennis & Racket Sports
• Tools & Tech
• Training & Recovery
• Water Sports
• Winter Sports
• Personal Products
• Wellness & Self Care
• Computers, Tablets & Accessories
• Online Tools
• Smart Home Devices
• Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories
• Hotels & Lodging
• Travel Products
• Father's Day
• Mother's Day
• Valentine's Day
• Amazon Prime Day
• Beauty & Grooming
• Tech & Electronics
• Travel Deals
• Mattress & Sleep

The Best Straw Cup For Babies, According To Experts

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Like bottles and pacis, finding the best straw cup for babies can take a lot of trial and error. Some children prefer a weighted straw cup so they can sip at any angle, while others may like the ease of sucking out of a valveless straw, though parents may not like the cleanup. Generally speaking, a great straw cup is easy to hold, drink from and clean, plus durable enough to withstand being thrown or dropped frequently. Ideally, it’s leak-proof too.

The best straw cups for babies are easy to hold, durable and ideally leak-proof.

“Babies can typically start using a straw between 6 to 12 months of age,” says Michelle Mintz, an early development expert and licensed speech-language therapist. “Introducing a straw helps aid proper muscle development and coordination necessary for speech.” While the right straw cup may vary for each baby and parent, Mintz tells us the key is introducing the straw early to optimize muscle development and speech capabilities. From soft and safe silicone options to leak-proof and easy-to-clean cups parents love, we’ve rounded up the best straw cup for babies in every category.

• Best Straw Cup For Babies Overall: Ezpz Silicone Mini Cup + Straw Training System
• Best Budget Straw Cup For Babies: Honey Bear Straw Cup (4-Pack)
• Best Silicone Straw Cup For Babies: Olababy Silicone Training Cup
• Best Leak-Proof Straw Cup For Babies: Grosmimi No Spill Magic Sippy Cup
• Best Weighted Straw Cup For Babies: B.box Sippy Cup With Fliptop Straw
• Best Straw Cup For Transitioning From A Bottle: Munchkin C’est Silicone! Open Training Cup
• Best Travel Straw Cup For Babies: Grosmimi Stainless Steel Straw Cup With Flip Top
• Best Convertible Straw Cup For Babies: The Everything Sippy

Best Straw Cup For Babies Overall

A mini cup with major developmental benefits, ezpz silicone mini cup + straw training system.

Pediatric speech-language pathologists and founders of Wee Talkers , Carly Tulloch and Katie Sterbenz, both recommend this popular (and pretty) silicone straw starter cup from Ezpz. “Open cups should come before straw cups,” notes Tulloch, who likes to introduce straw cups after babies are successful taking tiny sips from an open one. This modern mini cup and straw training system, developed by a feeding specialist and a speech-language pathologist, allows parents to do just that.

The lid and straw can be removed to practice drinking from an open cup at home, and then once babies get the hang of sipping and swallowing, the lid can be added back on for on the go. It’s durable, dishwasher-safe and is made from 100% silicone that’s free of BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalate and latex. It’s also the perfect size for tiny hands to hold and pick up, with a weighted bottom to help prevent tipping. If you’re stressed about spills, however, it’s worth noting this cup isn’t exactly leak-proof, even with the lid and straw on.

Best Budget Straw Cup For Babies

A highly-rated squeezable straw cup for less than $4, honey bear straw cup (4-pack).

This budget-friendly cup comes highly recommended by feeding therapists and parents alike, who praise how easy it is to teach your baby to independently drink from a straw since it works by gently squeezing the liquid to the top of the straw for baby to sip. In fact, many reviewers report this cup worked instantly and their little ones quickly got the hang of straw drinking.

This affordable set comes with four easy-to-hold Honey Bear Cups and eight thick, flexible straws so you have an extra set on hand for when baby chews too hard or you inevitably lose one. It also comes with a straw cleaner to get straws squeaky clean. “My 9-month-old took to these on day one and figured out how to drink from a straw because of them,” writes one verified Amazon reviewer. “They are cute, easy to clean and are squeezable to help baby drink.”

Best Silicone Straw Cup For Babies

A soft, see-through silicone cup that's super easy to use, olababy silicone training cup.

Tulloch and Sterbenz suggested this popular soft silicone straw cup, which has over 3,000 5-star reviews and comes in the cutest pastel colors. It’s made of high purity grade silicone and is free of harmful chemicals like BPA, PVC, lead and phthalates. Designed by pediatric feeding experts, it features a wide, weighted based for extra stability and to help minimize spillage, as well as a non-slip surface so little ones as young as 6 months can easily grasp it. It’s clear too, which is great for babes who want to know what’s inside and for parents to see at a glance how much their child has drank. Use it as mini open cup, or with the lid and straw once they’re ready.

While it’s not spill-proof, the straw can’t be pulled out and one reviewer calls it “a pretty solid cup even if it drops.” 

Best Leak-Proof Straw Cup For Babies

A splurge-worthy cup that rarely leaks and grows with them, grosmimi no spill magic sippy cup.

True to it’s name, this premium straw sippy cup is seriously spill-proof, whether your baby slings it across the table, drops it from the high chair or flips it upside down. Instead of a valve, it uses a cross-cut straw to eliminate leakage without the resistance so sucking liquid up isn’t a challenge. It’s made of extra durable medical-grade plastic that’s BPA and phthalate free, and is microwave and top rack dishwasher-safe. It comes with a soft silicone straw that can be used two ways: without the tube (like a spout cup) when lying down or with the tube for sitting and standing.

“We love this cup,” writes one reviewer. “It came recommended by my son’s feeding/speech therapist. It’s easier to suck with this straw, it truly doesn’t spill, it’s way easier to clean and the handle rotates so it’s easier to rotate the cup to get to the water.”

Best Weighted Straw Cup For Babies

Sip from any angle with this bestselling baby cup, b.box sippy cup with fliptop straw.

A weighted straw cup “ensures the baby can drink from any angle, which is great for development,” says Warsh. It can also lead to less frustration for parents and babies who are used to tipping back their bottles to drink or simply want to get every last drop.

The bestselling B.box receives high marks for overall ease of use and cleaning, with easy-grip handles to encourage even more independence and a steel weighted straw that moves with the liquid. Flip the lid closed to help prevent leaks in between drinks. There is a valve in the straw to minimize spills when the cup drops, which may not be ideal for young babies just learning to drink, but parents of notorious cup throwers (it’s me, hi) certainly appreciate it.

Best Straw Cup For Transitioning From A Bottle

Learning to use a straw is easy with this cute convertible cup, munchkin c’est silicone open training cup.

This tiny 4-ounce straw training cup makes the transition from bottle to cup a little easier for—and on—everyone. A thoughtful, 2-in-1 design allows it convert from an open cup to a lidded straw cup in an instant. Made of soft, food-grade silicone, it’s easy to grip, gentle on gums and the gently-weighted base provides stability on the table or high chair to help prevent accidents, though spills will undoubtedly happen.

“Love this cup for transitioning from a bottle,” writes one verified Amazon purchaser. “It took two attempts and she was using this straw cup. I also love that it’s a great open cup for baby to practice with too. It’s small so you can start with just a little liquid for those guaranteed spills when teaching to use a cup.” 

Best Travel Straw Cup For Babies

This insulated cup is ultra stylish and won't leak everywhere, grosmimi stainless steel straw cup with flip top.

I love this chic stainless steel straw cup, which makes going anywhere with my very active and spill-prone 1-year-old way easier. It’s vacuum insulated to keep liquids hot or cold for up to 6 hours, and like the Grosmimi cup highlighted above, features a cross cut straw to keep leaks from happening—I can confidently confirm this cup doesn’t leak after many months of abuse too.

The flip top is perhaps the best feature, as parents can simply close it to lock and throw in the diaper bag for stress-free travel, while toddlers can easily push to unlock it when they’re old enough to grab a drink on their own. It comes in several adorable and modern designs too, including bears, cherries and olives.

Best Convertible Straw Cup For Babies

This colorful cup can be used for sipping and snacking, the everything sippy.

I have the silicone Everything Sippy cup for my now-toddler, and to say I’m obsessed would be an understatement. This vibrant, versatile cup still looks brand new after a year of use, and the colors are so fun and inviting for babies and parents alike.

It can be used as a sippy cup, a straw cup, an open cup or even a snack cup with the purchase of The Everything Snack Lid . The top lid also reverses as a weighted suction base so parents can stress less about mess and focus more on letting their little one learn to sip out of a straw. The suction lid can be flipped back to a flat base as your child grows, or used to store the straw in transport so it doesn’t get gross in your diaper bag. The options truly are endless, and the quality is unparalleled. I also like that the straw has a middle stopper so it can’t be yanked out by baby.

How To Get Taylor Swift Tickets In 2024

The 7 best hammocks to elevate your outdoor living space, why trust forbes vetted.

Our commerce writers and editors have a wealth of experience reviewing and testing baby essentials, from the best high chairs to the best baby bottles. We’re committed to sourcing the best products for safely and effectively feeding children, while still keeping in mind parental convenience, as many of us are parents ourselves. The author of this article is a mom of three, professional journalist and seasoned commerce parenting writer who has tested a ton of baby straw cups over the years with her own kids.

For every best list, we always consult experts to ensure we’re choosing developmentally-appropriate products, as well as to find out their favorites. In this case, we spoke with Michelle Mintz , M.S., CCC-SLP, an early development expert and licensed speech-language therapist; and pediatric speech-language pathologists and founders of Wee Talkers , Carly Tulloch and Katie Sterbenz.

How We Chose The Best Straw Cup For Babies

I chose the best straw cups for babies based on personal experience, real parent reviews and input from all of my experts, which include a pediatrician and three speech language pathologists. I considered factors like ease of use, cleaning, durability, safety and developmental appropriateness to narrow down my top contenders.

I also tried to account for convenience for parents, including a couple spill and leak-proof cups, without sacrificing on what’s best for baby. Every cup included on this list has rave reviews and comes highly recommended by experts or parents of little ones.

More Baby And Kids Recommendations

• Best Bottle Warmers
• Best Kids Water Bottles
• Best Bottle Sterilizers
• Best Baby Bottles

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions