Some places in Malta feel made for kids. This one mixes tanks, tunnel views, and hands-on learning inside a starfish-shaped shell.

I especially like the walk-through tunnel in the main tank, where you get a close view without needing to be a scuba diver. I also enjoy how the aquarium’s 51 display tanks are paired with clear, habitat-style information that helps you make sense of what you’re seeing.

One catch: it can get noisy and crowded, and the visit can feel short if you’re expecting a huge mega-aquarium experience.

Key things to know before you go

• Starfish-shaped shell entrance: It’s an easy landmark to find and it sets the tone fast.
• 51 tanks and 250+ species: Enough variety to keep kids busy without making it exhausting.
• Main-tank walk-through tunnel: This is the headline moment for most people.
• Malta historical landmark themed exhibits: The tanks tie into Malta’s setting, not generic sea-life walls.
• Conservation and threat messaging: You’ll learn what endangers local habitats and why it matters.
• Scheduled talks and feedings: Plan your route so you don’t miss the staff moments.

St Paul’s Bay starfish-shell: getting oriented fast

The Malta National Aquarium sits in St Paul’s Bay, and the building is hard to miss. You start right at the aquarium entrance, inside that distinctive starfish-shaped shell, which makes it feel like an attraction even before you see your first tank.

This is the kind of place where a little structure helps. You don’t need a formal guided tour, but you do benefit from a simple plan: pick up your bearings, do the tunnel route first, then move into the themed exhibits and learning areas.

Walk-through tunnel and 51 tanks: how to pace your route

The headline experience is the walk-through tunnel in the main tank. You get a view from inside the aquarium’s “underwater world” rather than standing only at the edge. It’s especially satisfying if you’ve seen marine exhibits that feel like distant observation—this one feels more like you’re in the scene.

After the tunnel, the aquarium keeps moving through tank-by-tank habitats. There are 51 display tanks on display, covering marine life native to the Mediterranean and beyond. I recommend you treat it like a route, not a race: do the highlights first, then circle back if you want more reading time at the end.

A practical heads-up from real visiting patterns: most people plan about 1–2 hours, but the time depends on how much you read and whether you pause for scheduled moments.

Malta landmark themed displays: why it makes the tanks more memorable

What makes this aquarium feel more connected to Malta is how the exhibits are themed around Malta’s historical landmarks. Instead of seeing “random fish in glass,” you see tank themes that are trying to match the story of place and habitat.

That matters because it turns aquarium facts into context. You’re more likely to remember what you saw—like which species belongs in which kind of environment—when the presentation has a clear direction.

If you’re visiting with children, this theme-by-theme approach also reduces decision fatigue. Kids don’t have to guess where to look next; the exhibits guide the flow.

Marine life variety: what you’ll actually notice in the tanks

The aquarium highlights over 250 species, and the mix is broad enough to keep different ages interested. You’ll find marine life from freshwater and saltwater, plus animals beyond fish—like jellyfish, reptiles, amphibians, and even insects.

What I like about this selection is that it’s not only “pretty fish.” It’s the variety that helps you slow down and look longer. Even if you’re not a lifelong marine nerd, it’s easier to spot differences when the aquarium includes multiple animal types.

You can also expect some tanks to feel like they’re recreating natural underwater environments. The aquarium approach isn’t just size—it’s setup and habitat feel.

Conservation lessons: what threatens marine habitats locally

Beyond the animals, the aquarium leans into marine conservation. You’ll learn about the greatest threats to local habitats and see how human activity affects the underwater world.

This is one of the best reasons to go even if you’ve visited other aquariums. Many places show sea life but skip the “why.” Here, the mission is clearly tied to environmental awareness and responsibility, so the visit leaves you with something practical to talk about afterward.

Talks, feedings, and interactive moments: how to time your visit

This is a self-guided entry ticket, but it’s not a “do nothing but walk” experience. There are scheduled staff talks and feeding moments that can add energy to your visit.

You might catch examples like piranha feeding and shark feeding during the day. There are also references to other themed talk moments, including something mentioned by name—like Casper—so it’s smart to check what’s happening when you arrive.

If your group includes kids, aim for a rhythm: do the tunnel early, then build in time to join a talk or feeding. That way the excitement doesn’t all happen at the start.

Inside the extra experiences: submarine-style ride and pressure chamber

The aquarium experience can include a few extra attractions inside the site. Some visitors mention a small submarine-style ride that simulates a crash descent to the bottom of the ocean vibe. Others also mention a short pressure chamber experience lasting a couple of minutes, which seems designed as a fun add-on rather than a long commitment.

These kinds of moments are great because they break up the “reading plus staring at tanks” routine. They also give kids something to anticipate while you move between exhibits.

I’d treat these as bonus stops. Your core value is still the tanks, the tunnel, and the learning sections.

Food and souvenirs on site: where the day finishes nicely

You don’t have to plan your whole outing around finding food off-site. There’s a cafe/restaurant on site, and there’s also a gift shop.

This matters in real-life terms: if you have hungry kids (or you’re just human), it’s easier to keep the day smooth. People also mention small shopping treats like magnets and themed souvenirs, plus photo options in the area.

One small practical note: if you do get a photo print, expect it to cost extra. A visitor mentioned a price point of around 7 euros for a printed photo, so don’t assume photos are included.

Price and value: does $20 make sense?

At $20 per person, this ticket is best viewed as a solid family admission—especially if your group likes educational exhibits. The aquarium isn’t trying to be the biggest aquarium on earth. What it does well is make the experience manageable, informative, and genuinely fun.

If you’re the type who reads every sign, you’ll probably feel like you got your money’s worth. If you tend to skim and move fast, you may feel the time is a bit short for the price. That timing mismatch is the main reason you’ll hear mixed opinions on value.

Where the ticket shines:

• Kids-friendly pacing (tunnel plus plenty to look at without a marathon)
• On-site learning tied to Malta and conservation
• Frequent points of interest like talks and animal-focused moments

Practical tips for a smooth visit in St Paul’s Bay

A few things can make or break your visit day—especially if you’re going with children or anyone sensitive to noise. The aquarium can be loud and busy, particularly around times when families gather or when a talk starts. If you want a calmer viewing experience, consider arriving when it’s less packed and giving yourself buffer time.

Also, follow basic photo and behavior rules. Flash photography isn’t allowed, and pets, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted. It sounds obvious, but it’s worth noting because those rules affect what you’ll see and how comfortable you’ll feel inside.

For people who use wheelchairs, this venue is wheelchair accessible, which makes it easier to plan a straightforward route without special arrangements.

Who should book this Malta National Aquarium ticket

Book this if you want:

• A family-friendly outing with a clear highlight moment (the tunnel)
• A mix of marine life plus education and conservation context
• A visit that doesn’t require advanced planning or a strict schedule

You might skip it (or adjust expectations) if:

• You’re chasing the biggest variety of tanks only by sheer size
• You dislike noise and crowds and prefer quiet attractions
• You expect a guided tour as part of the ticket price (this entry ticket does not include a tour)

If you do want a guided angle, there’s mention of behind-the-scenes/backstage touring options for an extra cost. That could be a good upgrade if your group loves learning and prefers a structured walkthrough.

Should you book the Malta National Aquarium entry ticket?

Yes—if your idea of a great Malta day is a relaxed, self-paced indoor attraction with a standout visual moment. The walk-through tunnel, the 51 tanks, and the Malta-themed presentation make it feel more than just a holding of fish in glass.

I’d especially recommend it for families and for anyone who likes learning while they look. Just go in with realistic timing (plan about 1–2 hours, longer if you read a lot), and don’t schedule a “must-see everything” day right after. This is better as your main indoor stop.

FAQ

How much is the Malta National Aquarium entry ticket?

The price is $20 per person.

How long is the ticket valid?

The ticket is valid for 180 days.

Where does the experience start?

You start at the Malta National Aquarium.

What is included with the entry ticket?

The entry ticket includes admission to the Malta National Aquarium.

Is a guided tour included?

No. A tour is not included with this entry ticket.

Are flash photos allowed?

No. Flash photography is not allowed.

Are pets allowed inside?

No. Pets are not allowed.

Can you take alcohol inside?

No. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.