Malta National Aquarium Entrance Ticket

Sharks in Malta, but plan for a short stroll. The Malta National Aquarium sits in Saint Paul’s Bay, and the curved, starfish-shaped building makes the visit feel different right away. I love the walk-through tunnel where rays and sharks cruise close, and the curved shell layout helps you keep moving without getting lost.

I also really like the mix of Mediterranean fish plus reptiles, insects, amphibians, and even replicas of Maltese artefacts found in local waters. The only catch is it can feel smaller than you expect, so if you’re chasing a huge, world-class aquarium that takes a full day, you may finish sooner than planned and want more.

Key things I think you’ll notice

• Walk-through tunnel for close-up views of fish swimming overhead and around you
• 52 tanks (the team also describes about 50 tanks) with roughly 130 fish species and additional insects and reptiles
• Indo-pacific standouts in the main tank, including black-tip sharks and rays
• Starfish-shaped architecture plus an outdoor promenade with big views of St. Paul’s Islands
• Family-friendly extras including a children’s play area and a cool, air-conditioned indoor break
• Value check for the ticket price, since the experience can feel compact compared to bigger aquariums

Malta National Aquarium in Saint Paul’s Bay: quick first impressions

This is a straightforward aquarium ticket with a clear payoff: you get to see marine life from the Mediterranean and beyond, and you can explore at your own pace. The building is a curved structure shaped like a starfish, so it feels intentional, not like a generic “rooms and corridors” setup.

One reason this works well in Malta is the comfort factor. Reviews describe it as a welcome indoor escape when the weather feels hot, and the aquarium is set up so you can dip into exhibits without rushing. It’s also a self-guided visit, which is perfect when you want control over how long you linger at the tanks.

If you’re coming with kids, this is also the kind of place where you can let them burn a bit of energy outdoors. The promenade is landscaped, there’s a play area, and the whole area around Saint Paul’s Bay is easy to pair with a short stroll afterward.

Ticket price and timing: how long should you plan?

The entrance ticket costs $20.30 per person. Based on the typical visit window, plan on 45 minutes to about 1.5 hours. That range matters because the aquarium is compact, so you can absolutely do it quickly, but you’ll also want extra time if the glass tunnel is your favorite part.

A practical tip: if you’re traveling in busy periods, it helps to book ahead. This experience is commonly booked about 10 days in advance, which usually means slots get grabbed when families plan their days.

English is offered, and you’re not locked into a rigid tour format. So you can slow down for the main tank tunnel, then skim the smaller exhibits if you’re short on time.

Entering the starfish-shaped building and finding your flow fast

Once you’re inside, you’re looking at a circuit of tanks and exhibit zones spread across the aquarium floor. The starfish design helps because you don’t feel trapped in one long hallway, and you can choose your direction based on what you care about most.

The aquarium experience is built around you taking your time. There’s no pressure to “keep up” with a group, which is great if your focus is specific, like sharks and rays, or if you’re simply letting the kids browse at their speed.

Also, plan for photo expectations. Some visitors mention a photo is taken at the start, and that it’s an optional purchase later. If you prefer not to be prompted, you might want to ask where that fits into the entry process.

Finally, if you see a queue, don’t panic. An aquarium ticket is popular, but the building is set up so most people can get in and move through at a steady pace once they’re inside.

52 tanks, about 130 fish species, and your walk-through tunnel highlight

The headline is the aquarium’s collection size. The site describes 52 tanks, and the aquarium team also states it has about 50 tanks with approximately 130 fish species, plus around 25 species of insects and reptiles. That’s a solid mix, especially for a compact venue.

Where this gets really memorable is the main tank. It’s about 12 meters in diameter, and it includes a walk-through tunnel. This is the “stop everything and look up” moment. You’re not just peering through glass, you’re inside the viewpoint as fish swim around you.

If you like sea life photography, this is also one of your best chances because the tunnel gives you clear sightlines from more than one angle. It’s the kind of exhibit that turns even short visits into a lasting memory.

One small reality check: some visitors feel the overall setup is smaller than they expected. The tunnel can be a huge highlight, but the variety beyond the main showpiece may not satisfy people who want very large-scale aquariums with giant, ocean-sized displays.

Sharks, rays, eels, and the Indo-pacific main tank lineup

The main tank is where you’ll spend time if you’re a shark and ray fan. You can see black-tip sharks, horn sharks, zebra sharks, eels, and rays in the Indo-pacific section.

What I like about this lineup for planning purposes is that it hits multiple “hooks.” If you’re traveling with mixed ages, you’ll likely have at least one creature that grabs each person’s attention. Sharks are obvious, but rays and eels are great too because the movement looks different, and kids often stay longer when they’re watching steady, gliding motion.

The tunnel is also useful for “second sightings.” Even if you pass through once, you might naturally loop back when you realize you missed a particular fish. That kind of repetition matters because this aquarium’s strengths are best experienced slowly.

If you’re hoping for specific animals you’ve seen at larger aquariums elsewhere, keep your expectations realistic. This place focuses on a smart set of species, but it isn’t trying to be an all-animals theme park.

Mediterranean fish, Maltese waters artefact replicas, plus reptiles and bugs

After the main tank, the aquarium broadens out. You’ll find fish from the Mediterranean and also species from other regions. That blend is good because it helps you connect the attraction to Malta rather than making everything feel imported and detached.

A unique touch here is the presence of replicas of historical artefacts found in Maltese waters. Even if you only glance at these displays, they give you a sense of place. This isn’t just “see animals,” it’s also “see local connection.”

And it’s not only fish. The exhibits also include reptiles, insects, and amphibians. One review specifically called out enjoying the reptile section, and that matches what you’d expect from an aquarium that aims to appeal beyond ocean creatures.

You’ll also find educational themes. Some visitors mention information around sustainability and topics like ocean protection and reducing garbage. These are the kinds of messages that land well with families, especially when kids are old enough to ask questions.

The glass tunnel, humidity, and practical comfort tips

The tunnel and surrounding underwater-viewing spaces can feel warmer or more humid than the open areas, and one review noted it could feel muggy underground, especially for people wearing face masks. If you’re heat-sensitive, plan your time with that in mind.

A practical strategy: start with the main tank tunnel early in your visit. You’ll catch the area at a calmer pace, and you can always decide to circle back to quieter zones afterward.

Another comfort tip: wear shoes you can walk in comfortably. You’ll be moving between multiple zones, and the promenade outside is an easy add-on once you’ve cooled off inside.

Cleanliness is also mentioned positively by visitors, and that matters because aquariums are full of bright, reflective surfaces where you notice mess fast. So it’s reassuring when the layout stays well kept.

Promenade time, St Paul’s Islands views, and the kids’ play area

One of the best “two-for-one” parts of this visit is what happens outside. The aquarium sits next to a landscaped promenade, with sweeping views of St. Paul’s Islands. That turns your aquarium ticket into a half-day plan, not just an indoor stop.

The promenade isn’t only scenery. There’s also a children’s play area, which is clutch if you want to keep the energy level reasonable. Even if your kids aren’t zoo people, they can often handle a short indoor browse followed by outdoor play.

This pairing also helps with the “small aquarium” concern. If you feel the indoor part moves quickly, the outdoor area gives you an easy buffer to round out your time. And since the views are right there, you don’t need to invent a second activity.

Food, photos, and the staff experience you’ll likely feel

Food outlets are available on site, so you don’t have to leave the area if everyone’s hungry. That said, opinions on the on-site restaurant are mixed. Some visitors describe it positively, while one review called out a rude experience with the manager. If you care a lot about service quality, I’d treat the restaurant as convenient backup, not the whole plan.

Photos are another potential extra. People mention being photographed at the start and then offered the option to purchase at the end. If you want to skip that, ask before you start so you’re not surprised later.

The staff is frequently praised for enthusiasm and helpfulness, and some visitors highlight the educational side. One review specifically mentions a behind-the-scenes tour and names a guide, Chris, who left a strong impression. If that option is offered during your visit and you’re into the behind-the-scenes angle, it can be the kind of add-on that turns a simple ticket into something more special.

Getting there from Mellieha and using public transport

The aquarium is in the Saint Paul’s Bay area, and you make your own way there from Mellieha. The good news is it’s near public transportation, so you’re not locked into a private car.

That matters because with a ticket like this, the real decision is timing, not logistics. If you’re already in the area, it’s easy to fit into your day. If you’re relying on buses, you’ll want to build in a little cushion for waiting times.

Parking is also mentioned as included, with parking fees included in the ticket info. Still, one review suggests there can be extra parking costs depending on what you choose, so it’s worth checking signage and the payment setup at the garage when you arrive. Don’t assume every parking option is automatically covered.

Who should book, and who might want a different aquarium

This is a great fit if you want:

• A family-friendly aquarium with a play area and a manageable visit length
• A strong main-tank experience with sharks, rays, and the walk-through tunnel
• A mix of Mediterranean fish plus other regions, and non-fish exhibits like reptiles and insects

It may be less ideal if:

• You expect the largest, most varied aquarium on the island. Some visitors say it feels small and a bit limited compared to bigger places.
• You want a “wow every five minutes” experience. The tunnel is a big highlight, but the rest of the exhibits are spread out and vary in intensity.
• Mobility support is a major concern. One review flagged that it may not be disable-friendly, so if you have specific access needs, I’d check the layout on arrival and be ready to take the route that works best for you.

Still, for most people doing a half-day in Malta, it’s a practical, enjoyable stop. It’s also one of those activities that works in heat because you get an indoor escape plus outdoor views right after.

Should you book the Malta National Aquarium ticket?

Yes, if you’re visiting Saint Paul’s Bay with kids, or you want a well-priced aquarium that focuses on the classic hits: sharks, rays, and a real walk-through tunnel. The ticket cost is reasonable for the time you get, and the starfish-shaped layout plus promenade views make it feel like more than just “stand and look.”

I’d think twice if you’re comparing it to huge international aquariums and you need endless variety and giant displays. In that case, you may leave wanting more, even if you enjoyed the tunnel and staff.

My practical call: book it if you want a comfortable, family-friendly aquarium that’s easy to fit into your day. If you’re the type who likes massive displays and long visits, plan an extra activity nearby so your overall day still feels full.

FAQ

Where is the Malta National Aquarium?

The aquarium visit is in the Saint Paul’s Bay area, with the experience based in Mellieha, Malta.

How much is the entrance ticket?

The price is $20.30 per person.

How long does the visit take?

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

What’s included with my ticket?

Your admission ticket is included, along with the children’s play area and parking fees.

What is not included?

Food and drinks are not included, and there is no hotel pickup and drop-off.

Is the experience offered in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

Is there a walk-through tunnel?

Yes. The main tank includes a walk-through tunnel that lets you see the fish closer as they swim around you.

Can children visit without an adult?

No. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is it near public transportation?

Yes. It’s listed as near public transportation.

What are the opening hours?

Monday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, during 11/10/2025 to 07/31/2026.