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National Aquarium Malta – Tickets & Visitor Guide | Malta Guide & Tickets - Malta Travel Guide & Tickets

Aquarium Malta

National Aquarium Malta – Tickets, Prices, Opening Hours & Visitor Guide Nazzjonali ta’ Malta


About the Malta National Aquarium


The Aquarium Building & Architecture


In the picture above you see the building that houses the national aquarium of Malta. This architecturally designed building is a gem to behold. The roof is like a stylized starfish supported by wooden trusses that extend outwards and provide shelter for the table of the restaurant. The entrance is on the side (street side).

The national aquarium of Malta opened on October 1, 2013 after approximately 2 years of construction. The Building of approximately 20,000 m² in a star shape with 52 tanks, partly underground.

You enter the gift shop, where you can buy national aquarium related gifts and also educational DVD and information. For schools daily lectures are held, also there are school programs in collaborations (Sharklab plastic reduction).

When designing the building, a restaurant, parking space and playground with kiosk were also added.

You will find a beautiful restaurant with sea view in the building. The restaurant is also a nice place to have a romantic meal outside with sea view and watch the sun slowly set. La Nave Bistro open from 09:30 for breakfast, lunch & dinner; Café del Mar in the afternoon.

The construction which contains approximately 20000 square meters was realized with the help of a financing from the European Union and the building was opened in 2013.

Visitor Guide

The Malta National Aquarium is one of the island's most popular attractions and an ideal activity for families, couples, and travelers who want to explore Malta even when the weather isn't so good. Located in Qawra (St. Paul's Bay), the aquarium offers a combination of education, relaxation, and impressive underwater worlds.

Why visit the National Aquarium in Malta


The National Aquarium Malta is one of the most popular marine life attractions on the island, offering visitors an engaging and educational experience in Qawra.

The National Aquarium Malta is a popular visitor attraction where guests can easily explore a wide variety of marine life, including diverse marine species and impressive underwater exhibits, making the aquarium a favourite family attraction in Malta.

A family-friendly attraction in Qawra

As a Malta-based travel writer living in Qawra, I experience the National Aquarium Malta almost daily. I have visited the aquarium multiple times and continue to be impressed by both the architecture and the underwater exhibits. The dedicated staff regularly expand the displays and introduce new themes, ensuring that repeat visitors always discover something new. From my own experience, simply watching the diverse marine life is reason enough to visit — it is a relaxing, educational, and memorable attraction for visitors of all ages.

What can you expect?

The aquarium takes you through various themed zones, including:
Mediterranean habitats with local fish species
Tropical seas with colorful fish
Shark tunnel – one of the highlights
Roman shipwreck as a backdrop
Everything is clearly laid out and easily accessible, including for strollers and wheelchairs.

Animals & Exhibits at Malta National Aquarium


250 species of fish that can be found all over the world are located in 53 different tanks, because fish that live in fresh water cannot live in salt water and also the habitat per animal is different, after all it is often warmer in the south than in the north. The main tank is 12 meters in diameter and filled with water, you walk between the hornfish, cat shark fish, octopuses, cat sharks, etc. There is also a terrarium with different tanks with reptiles such as chameleons, snakes, amphibians, exotic invertebrates.

Of course you are not allowed to feed the animals yourself, but the animals are fed by the caretakers throughout the afternoon.

The aquarium consists of five zones, namely:

Zone 1. You discover the west coast of Malta through a replica submarine surrounded with little windows. You come across all kinds of Mediterranean Sea creatures.
Zone 2. You imagine yourself in the Port of Valletta, which is decorated with murals. There you get acquainted with the sea creatures that are in the port.
Zone 3. You walk in the Indo Pacific Ocean and get acquainted with the sea creatures that live here.
Zone 4. You enter an ancient ghost shipwreck, where you will see ancient Roman remains and the anchor of the ship where Apostle Paul suffered a shipwreck. Here you will also find the larger Mediterranean fish species. You will also be introduced to various fish that are bred in Malta.
Zone 5. You will become acquainted with the animal species that are found around the iconic Azure Window, Blue Lagoon and the Xwejni salt pans.

A great and educational walk depends on your interests and takes on average between 60 and 90 minutes. Taking pictures is allowed but no flash.

Reptiles, Amphibians & Terrariums


You are now in the area where reptiles and amphibians live that can be found all over the world.

Special program

10:30 am – Baby Sharks Talk
11:00 am – Mediterranean Section Talk & Feeding
12:00 pm – Jellyfish Talk
01:00 pm – Main tank Talk & Feeding
02:30 pm – Piranhas Talk & Feeding
03:15 pm – Reptiles Talk
04:00 pm – Main Tank Talk
05:00 pm – Big Fish Campaign Talk
What is there to do in the aqarium

FAQ and All Visitor Information with Details about the National Aquarium Malta

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Opening hours

Monday - Sunday
10:00 - 18:00

Last admission

17:15 – Advice: arrive at least 45 minutes before closing.

Ticket / admission fee

Adults (13+ yrs): € 16.90
Senior (60+ yrs): € 13.90
Children (4-12 yrs): € 10.90
Disability Card Holders: € 3.00 + € 1.00
Children up to 3 years: Free
Prices are indicative and may change. We recommend checking availability and booking tickets in advance.

Family & Annual Passes

Family ticket (2 parents + two children): No option available
Annual family fee €99 (max. 2 adults + 3 children); individual fee €45.

Guided Tours

Guided tour available for €45, please reserve in advance

* Prices are adjusted annually and may differ at the entrance of the attraction.

Where to Buy Tickets for Malta National Aquarium

Make it easy for yourself and order your tickets here. Click here to order your ticket for the National Aquarium Malta
Book your tickets in advance during weekends and school holidays to avoid queues.
A good way to order entrance tickets for the National Aquarium in Qawra, Malta. is online, as this saves you time and allows you to proceed straight away.

Travel with the hop on hop off bus

Enjoy the island of Malta; the bus stops directly in front of the National Aquarium. Click here to order hop-on hop-off bus tickets

How to Get There


Public transport:

Nearby is the bus stop called Ben, served by buses 45, 186, 212, 214, 221, 280, N11, and N20. The bus terminal, where buses 223 and Airport Direct 1 also stop, is a short walk away.

Taxi:

Book your transportation to the aquarium in advance. Click here to Book your transport
The most commonly used taxi companies are Bolt and Ecabs. You can order a taxi through an app.

By Car & Parking:

Underground and above-ground parking available for approx. 160 cars.

Location & Address of Malta National Aquarium

Click here to view the location and route
Triq it-Trunċiera, Qawra, San Pawlil-Bahar SPB1500 (recognizable by the white starfish dome).
Address and location can be found on our map in the main menu to open the map with markers.

Accessibility at Malta National Aquarium


Wheelchair & Mobility Access

Fully wheelchair accessible, lift available. Mobility scooters allowed (height restrictions apply). Wheelchair accessible toilets. Audio/video kit for hearing-impaired visitors. The are no wheelchairs available for rent.

Facilities for Visitors with Disabilities

Visual aids available. Aquarium is spread over one floor. Only assistance dogs are allowed.

Food, Drinks & Restaurants

The building houses La Nave Bistro with sea views opens at 9:30 a.m. for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Next to the building is the exclusieve Café del Mar is in the summer available; sea views. The aquarium is located on the boulevard, within walking distance there are kiosks, bars and restaurants.

Rules, Photography & Pets Policy

Photos without flash are allowed. No animals / pets are allowed

Latest news and official website of the attraction

Click here for the official National Aquarium Malta website

Your visit can be combined with fun activities for the whole family in Bugibba & Qawra / sightseeing:

A visit to The Malta Classic Car Collection is also recommended. A little further afield, Salina Park is highly recommended, with its nature park and many children's play equipment, the nature park with salt pans, and, of course, the bird park. This area, with all its attractions, is very educational and enough to fill a day trip. A little further afield is the Roman Path, where tranquility, history, and nature converge.

Children’s Playground & Family Activities

Right next to the aquarium you will find a playground. While you enjoy a drink or snack, the children can play safely next to the terrace area. within walking distance, there's a water playground with various water features.

conservation & education opportunities in Malta National Aquarium

There are daily lectures, school programs, and projects (Sharklab), these programs focused on awareness and plastic reduction. A guided excursion is also very educational.

Beach fun, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing

The aquarium is located right on the seafront, with a promenade in front of it. Along the promenade, which runs from Qwara, Bugibba, and St. Paul's Bay, you'll find numerous beautiful spots for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and more.

The Bugibba water park

The Bugibba Water Park is also within walking distance. A fun activity for the family for a full day in Bugibba and Qawra.

What else is there to do at the Malta National Aquarium?

For more information and nearby attractions, we refer you to our general information pages about the Municipality of St. Paul’s Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Comino Boat Tour Tickets & Blue Lagoon Cruises

Click a question to expand the answer.

What is included in a Comino boat tour?

Most Comino boat tours include a scenic cruise, swimming stops (usually the Blue Lagoon), and time to relax on board. Many tours also pass sea caves and the Crystal Lagoon. Inclusions vary per operator, so always check the ticket details.

Do Comino boat tours stop at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, nearly all daytime Comino cruises include a stop at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and relaxation. Evening cruises may focus more on coastal views instead.

How long does a Comino & Blue Lagoon boat tour last?

Most standard day cruises last between 6 and 7.5 hours. Shorter options (around 3–4 hours) are also available if you prefer a quicker visit.

Where do Comino boat tours depart from?

Popular departure points include Sliema, Bugibba (St Paul’s Bay), Marfa Bay, and Cirkewwa. The exact boarding location is always listed on the ticket page.

What is the best boat tour to Comino?

The best tour depends on what you want: sightseeing and swimming, the cheapest option, a party atmosphere, or full privacy. You can compare all options here or check the best prices & deals page.

Are Comino boat tours suitable for families?

Yes, most standard Comino cruises are family-friendly. Boats often have shaded seating, toilets, and easy water access. Party boats are usually adults-only.

Do I need a permit or access ticket for the Blue Lagoon?

In peak season, visitors who go ashore may need a free Comino access registration with a time slot. This applies regardless of whether you arrive by tour boat, ferry, or private boat.

Can I visit sea caves during a Comino cruise?

Many boat tours pass sea caves around Comino. Larger boats may view caves from outside, while some tours offer optional speedboat trips for closer access.

What facilities are available on Comino tour boats?

Facilities vary but often include toilets, shaded seating, freshwater showers, sun decks, and swimming ladders. Some boats also have waterslides or snorkelling equipment.

What should I bring on a Comino boat trip?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, water, and cash or a card for on-board purchases. A light cover-up is useful after swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If sea conditions are unsafe, routes may change or tours may be cancelled by the operator. In such cases, you are usually offered an alternative date or refund.

Is a Comino boat tour worth it?

Yes—boat tours are one of the easiest and most scenic ways to experience Comino, combining swimming, sightseeing, and access to places not reachable by land.

What is the cheapest way to visit Comino?

The cheapest option is usually a return ferry ticket to Comino. It’s ideal if you want to explore independently without a full cruise.

What is the difference between a ferry and a boat tour?

A ferry takes you directly to Comino and back, while a boat tour includes sightseeing, caves, and multiple swimming stops. Tours offer a more complete experience.

Are food and drinks included on Comino boat tours?

Some tours include food and drinks, while others sell them on board. Check each ticket carefully, especially if this is important to you.

Can I stay on the boat instead of going ashore at the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, many visitors choose to stay on board during the Blue Lagoon stop, especially during busy periods. In that case, the access registration may not be required.

What is the best time of day to visit the Blue Lagoon?

Early morning and late afternoon are usually less crowded. Midday is the busiest, especially in summer.

Is Comino crowded in summer?

Yes, Comino—especially the Blue Lagoon—can be very busy in peak season. Boat tours help spread out the experience by including multiple stops.

Are there party boats to Comino?

Yes, there are dedicated party boat cruises with music, drinks, and an adult-only atmosphere.

Can I book a private boat to Comino?

Yes, private boat tours to Comino are available and are ideal for groups who want flexibility and privacy.

Is swimming safe around Comino?

Yes, swimming is generally safe, but always follow crew instructions and be aware of currents, especially near rocky areas.

Can non-swimmers enjoy a Comino boat tour?

Absolutely. You can relax on board, enjoy the views, and skip swimming stops if you prefer.

Are Comino boat tours wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility depends on the boat design. Large cruise boats may be easier to access than speedboats, but always check with the operator in advance.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Policies vary by operator. Some allow small personal items, while others prefer you purchase on board.

Do Comino tours include Gozo?

Some itineraries include a short stop in Gozo, while others focus entirely on Comino and its lagoons.

Is snorkelling equipment provided?

Some boats provide snorkelling gear, sometimes with a refundable deposit. You can also bring your own.

How far in advance should I book?

In high season, it’s best to book at least a few days ahead to secure your preferred date and departure point.

Can I cancel or reschedule my Comino boat tour?

Cancellation and rescheduling policies depend on the ticket provider. Always check the conditions before booking.

Is Comino suitable for a half-day trip?

Yes. Shorter cruises and ferries make Comino a good half-day destination if you’re short on time.

Which Comino ticket option is best for me?

If you want the lowest price, choose ferry tickets. For sightseeing and swimming, book a cruise. For flexibility, go private. To compare options, see best prices & deals.

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