🐾 Traveling to Malta with Pets
Pet-Friendly Malta
Malta is welcoming to pets, particularly dogs, with many beaches, walks, and outdoor areas allowing leashed animals. As an EU member, pet travel follows standard European regulations, and several hotels and restaurants accommodate well-behaved pets, making it a suitable Mediterranean destination for pet owners.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Maltese embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
No federal ban on breeds, but some areas may restrict certain dogs.
Breeds like Pit Bull Terriers may require special permits and muzzle/leash mandates.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Maltese authorities.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Malta on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Valletta & Sliema): Many 3-5 star hotels welcome pets for €10-25/night, offering dog beds, bowls, and nearby promenades. Chains like Hilton and Marriott are reliably pet-friendly.
- Beach Resorts & Villas (Gozo & Comino): Coastal accommodations often welcome pets at no extra charge, with direct beach access. Perfect for relaxed holidays with dogs in sunny surroundings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, especially in rural areas. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to roam and relax.
- Farmstays (Agritourism): Rural farms in Gozo welcome pets and often have resident animals. Ideal for families with children and pets seeking authentic rural experiences.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Several Maltese campsites are pet-friendly, with designated dog areas and nearby trails. Sites near Golden Bay are especially popular with pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Corinthia Palace offer VIP pet services including gourmet pet menus, grooming, and walking services for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Coastal Walking Trails
Malta's cliffs and paths are dog heaven with pet-friendly trails in Dingli Cliffs and Gozo.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check trail rules at nature reserve entrances.
Beaches & Bays
Many Maltese beaches like Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay have designated dog swimming areas.
Blue Lagoon on Comino offers pet-friendly sections; check local signage for restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Valletta's Upper Barrakka Gardens and Sliema promenade welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés commonly allow pets at tables.
Mdina's old town permits dogs on leash; most outdoor terraces welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Maltese café culture extends to pets; water bowls outside are standard in cities.
Many Valletta coffee houses allow dogs inside; ask staff before entering with pets.
City Walking Tours
Most outdoor walking tours in Valletta and Mdina welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Historic centers are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums and churches with pets.
Ferries & Boat Trips
Many Maltese ferries to Gozo allow dogs in carriers or leashed; fees typically €5-10.
Check with operators; some require advance booking for pets during peak seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Public Transport): Small dogs (carrier-sized) travel free; larger dogs need tickets (€2) and must be muzzled or in carriers. Dogs allowed on all buses except during peak hours.
- Ferries (Gozo Channel): Pets allowed on foot passenger ferries free if leashed; car ferries charge €5-10. Avoid peak commute times.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Bolt and Uber rides may require pet-friendly vehicle selection.
- Rental Cars: Many agencies allow pets with advance notice and cleaning fee (€30-80). Consider SUVs for larger dogs and island trips.
- Flights to Malta: Check airline pet policies; Air Malta and Ryanair allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Lufthansa, KLM, and Air France accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for €50-100 each way. Larger dogs travel in hold with veterinary health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour emergency clinics in Valletta (Paws for Thought) and Sliema provide urgent care.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range €50-200 for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops like Petzone across Malta stock food, medicine, and pet accessories.
Maltese pharmacies carry basic pet medications; bring prescriptions for specialized drugs.
Grooming & Day Care
Major areas offer pet grooming salons and daycare for €20-50 per session or day.
Book ahead in tourist areas during peak seasons; many hotels recommend local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Rover and local services operate in Malta for pet-sitting during day trips or overnight stays.
Hotels may also offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted local services.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, public parks, and protected nature zones. Coastal paths may allow off-leash if under voice control away from wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Some areas require muzzles on certain breeds or large dogs on public transport. Carry a muzzle even if not always enforced.
- Waste Disposal: Poop bags and disposal bins are common; failure to clean up results in fines (€50-500). Always carry waste bags on walks.
- Beach & Water Rules: Check beach signage for dog-allowed sections; some beaches ban pets during peak summer hours (10am-6pm). Respect swimmers' space.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome at outdoor tables; ask before bringing indoors. Dogs should remain quiet and seated on floor, not chairs or tables.
- Nature Reserves: Some trails restrict dogs during bird nesting season (April-July). Always leash pets near wildlife and stay on marked paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Malta
Malta for Families
Malta is a family paradise with safe beaches, interactive historical sites, boat adventures, and welcoming culture. From ancient temples to crystal-clear waters, kids are engaged and parents relaxed. Public facilities cater to families with stroller access, changing rooms, and children's menus everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Popeye Village (Mellieħa)
Theme park and film set with rides, shows, and beach access for all ages.
Tickets €15-18 adults, €12-14 kids; open year-round with seasonal water activities.
Malta National Aquarium (Qawra)
Marine life exhibits with sharks, turtles, and interactive touch pools in coastal grounds.
Tickets €15 adults, €10 kids; combine with nearby beaches for full-day family outing.
Mdina Old Town (Mdina)
Medieval walled city with cathedrals, audio tours, and panoramic views kids love.
Free entry to streets; family-friendly museums inside with child exhibits.
Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Temples (Qrendi)
Ancient stone temples with interactive exhibits and hands-on archaeology experiences.
Perfect for educational days; tickets €10 adults, €5 kids with multilingual guides.
Gozo Discovery Train (Gozo)
Scenic train tour with stops at citadels, beaches, and salt pans.
Tickets €10 adults, €5 kids; enchanting experience with gardens and views.
Adventure Parks (Buskett Gardens)
Tree-top adventures, zip lines, and nature trails across Maltese gardens.
Family-friendly activities with safety gear provided; suitable for kids 4+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Malta on Viator. From boat trips to historical adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Valletta & Sliema): Hotels like Hilton and InterContinental offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for €100-180/night. Amenities include cribs, high chairs, and kids' pools.
- Beach Resorts (Gozo): All-inclusive resorts with childcare, kids' clubs, and family suites. Properties like San Lawrenz Chapel cater exclusively to families with entertainment programs.
- Farm Holidays (Bauernhof): Rural farms across Malta welcome families with animal interactions, fresh produce, and outdoor play. Prices €50-100/night with breakfast included.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering rentals ideal for families with kitchens and washing machines. Space for kids to play and flexibility for meal times.
- Youth Hostels (Jugendherberge): Budget-friendly family rooms in hostels like those in St. Julian's for €60-90/night. Simple but clean with kitchen access.
- Historic Hotels: Stay in converted palaces like Palazzo Parisio for fairytale family experience. Kids love ancient architecture and surrounding gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Valletta with Kids
Upper Barrakka Gardens, Fort St. Elmo, puppet theaters, and harbor cruises.
Boat rides and ice cream at traditional gelaterias make Valletta magical for children.
Sliema & St. Julian's with Kids
Promenade walks, Spinola Bay playgrounds, splash parks, and Mirabell Gardens.
Child-friendly boat tours and rocky beach explorations keep families entertained.
Gozo with Kids
Ġgantija Temples zoo exhibits, Ramla Bay beach, crystal museum, and cave explorations.
Gozo Channel ferry to island playgrounds with azure waters and family picnics.
Northern Beaches (Mellieħa)
Mellieħa Bay swimming, Popeye Village tours with slides.
Boat rides and easy coastal trails suitable for young children with scenic picnic spots.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 travel free; ages 5-10 get 50% discount with parent. Family day passes available with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Valletta and Sliema offer family day passes (2 adults + kids) for €13-17. Buses are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (€5-10/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 14 or 150cm. Small cars offer space for family gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Maltese cities are highly stroller-accessible with ramps, elevators, and smooth pavements. Most attractions provide stroller parking.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Nearly all restaurants offer children's options with pasta, pizza, or fries for €5-10. High chairs and coloring books commonly provided.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional Maltese eateries welcome families with outdoor seating and casual atmosphere. Valletta's markets have diverse food stalls.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Lidl and Pavi stock baby food, diapers, and organic options. Markets offer fresh produce for apartment cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Maltese pastizzerias offer savory pastries and gelato; perfect for keeping kids energized between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in shopping centers, museums, and bus terminals with changing tables and nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Farmacia): Stock baby formula, diapers, and children's medications. Staff speak English and assist with product recommendations.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels in cities arrange English-speaking babysitters for €15-20/hour. Book through concierge or local services online.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in all major areas; emergency care at hospitals with pediatric departments. EHIC covers EU citizens.
♿ Accessibility in Malta
Accessible Travel
Malta improves in accessibility with modern infrastructure, wheelchair-friendly transport, and inclusive attractions. Cities prioritize universal access, and tourism boards provide detailed accessibility information for planning barrier-free trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Public buses offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps. Book assistance 24 hours ahead; staff help with boarding at major stops.
- City Transport: Valletta's buses and ferries are wheelchair-accessible with elevators and low-floor vehicles. Audio announcements aid visually impaired travelers.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis with wheelchair ramps available in cities; book via phone or apps like Bolt. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Malta International Airport provides full accessibility with assistance services, accessible toilets, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: National Museum of Archaeology and Valletta museums offer wheelchair access, tactile exhibits, and audio guides. Elevators and ramps throughout.
- Historic Sites: Mdina has partial access; Gozo's citadel largely accessible though some cobblestones may challenge wheelchairs.
- Nature & Beaches: Beaches like Golden Bay provide accessible paths and viewpoints; some resorts offer beach wheelchairs.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) and autumn (Sept-Oct) for mild weather and beaches; summer for swimming.
Shoulder seasons offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices; avoid peak July-August heat.
Budget Tips
Family attractions often offer combo tickets; Explore Malta Pass includes transport and site discounts.
Picnics on beaches and self-catering apartments save money while accommodating picky eaters.
Language
Maltese and English official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and with all generations.
Learn basic phrases; Maltese appreciate effort and are patient with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Light clothing for Mediterranean climate, comfortable shoes for walking, and sun protection year-round.
Pet owners: bring favorite food (in case unavailable), leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
Tallinja app for buses, Google Maps for navigation, and Rover for pet care services.
Visit Malta app provides real-time attraction updates and family itineraries.
Health & Safety
Malta is very safe; tap water drinkable everywhere. Pharmacies (Farmacia) provide medical advice.
Emergency: dial 112 for police, fire, or medical. EHIC covers EU citizens for healthcare.