Malta's generally mild climate makes it possible for you and your young ones to enjoy a range of outdoor activities to suit everybody's tastes, all year round. Malta's sandy beaches, such as those of Mellieha, Golden Sands and Armier in Malta, and Ramla l-­Hamra in Gozo, are a natural favourite with children of all ages, where one can also hire pedallos and canoes, or even go on boat rides. The rocky bays, coves and inlets around the islands enable the older ones to explore the marvels of snorkelling. It is generally advisable that visiting families swim in areas where they see other local bathers swimming, as these would normally be aware of the presence of any underwater currents, the occasional jellyfish etc. Having said that, Maltese waters are among the cleanest and safest in the Mediterranean. So put on your sun protection cream and enjoy!

Explore the island's countryside and discover stunning landscapes on walking or cycling expeditions. Don't miss a visit to Dingli Cliffs in Malta and Dwejra in Gozo, with its Azure Window and Inland Sea, which are probably the islands' two most impressive natural wonders. Malta and Gozo are also an outdoor museum in themselves, and children will undoubtedly enjoy exploring the narrow winding streets of the ancient capital, Mdina, as well as the hilltop Citadel in Gozo, both having breathtaking views from their battlements.

A number of attractions bring the Maltese islands' chequered history to life. These include the Malta Experience Audiovisual Show and the Great Siege attraction in Valletta, as well as the Mdina Dungeons. Historical military re-enactments are also great crowd-pullers. Victorian military re-enactments are held during weekends in Fort Rinella. The Fort also houses the world's largest cannon, the awe-inspiring 100-ton gun. Another family favourite are the re-enactments dating back to the time of the Knights of Malta and the Napoleonic period, held on specific Sundays at Fort St. Elmo. The Limestone Heritage attraction, on the other hand, provides a unique insight into the way Maltese stone has shaped life on these islands. A visit to the Ta' Qali Crafts Village, where children are sometimes invited to experience craft-making first hand, should aIso form part of any visiting family's itinerary.

Close contact with animals is something no kid can resist. The LWS Animal Park   Marsascala is home to more than 20 animal species and there is often the unique opportunity to actually feed the animals. The Mediterraneo Marine Park, situated at White Rocks, on the other hand, allows both children and adults to understand and appreciate the animal world and its inhabitants through fun activities. Meanwhile, at the recently opened Aquamarine Centre, Fort San Lucian, in Marsaxlokk, the children will get a close-up view of some rare specimen of marine life.

Popeye Village, the film set of the 1980 musical production starring Robin Williams and located in Mellieha, is a popular destination for families for its mixture of animation shows, a range of pools for children and its hosting the Santa's Toy town attraction. The renowned global toy-maker Playmobil has also set a state-of-the-art fun park, located at Hal Far, packed with themed activities which encourage children to be creative and explore life experiences. And for some water-base  fun for all the family, visit the Splash & FUI Park at White Rocks, which boasts the highest (and longest water chutes in this part of the Mediterranean! There is also a dinosaur theme park which ensures great fun for all the kids and even the young at heart.

A range of options are available for families as far as dining out is concerned. The great majority of restaurants welcome children and the variety of cuisines means that there is something to suit everybody's taste. Pizza and pasta houses are particular favourites with families, however, many visitors find out that it is well worth giving traditional Maltese fare a try! And if your young ones miss their fast-food favourites, the major chains are well represented here as well.