How to Get Around Malta: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Last Updated: Aug 12, 2023
Reading Time: 12 minutes
By: Shaun

Malta is a country with a rich history and culture that span thousands of years. From ancient temples and fortresses to baroque churches and palaces, Malta offers a glimpse into the past with its stunning architecture and heritage. But Malta is not only about history. It also boasts beautiful beaches, charming villages, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine that will make your visit unforgettable.

If you are planning a trip to Malta, you might be wondering how to travel around this amazing island and explore its many attractions and activities. Well, you are in luck, because Malta has a variety of transport options to choose from, depending on your budget, preference, and convenience. Whether you want to take a bus, a taxi, a car, a ferry, a hop-on, hop-off bus or boat you will find a way to get around Malta that suits your needs.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to travel around Malta using different modes of transport. We will explain how each option works, how to use it, and the pros and cons of each one. We will also give you some tips and advice on how to make the most of your transport experience in Malta. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to plan your trip and enjoy your stay in Malta.

Buses

Buses in Malta | Image by HH58 on Wikimedia Commons

One of the most common and popular ways to travel around Malta is by bus. The bus system in Malta is operated by Malta Public Transport and covers most of the island with over 80 routes and 2,000 stops. The buses are cheap and operate regularly, running from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays, with a night service on weekends and public holidays.

To use the bus system in Malta, you can buy tickets from the driver or a ticket machine at major bus stops. The tickets are valid for two hours and cost €2.00 for Day services and €3.00 for Night Services, which can be identified as their route number starts with the letter N.

You can also use a Tallinja card, which is a smart card that allows you to pay for your bus fares electronically. You can buy a Tallinja card online or at any sales outlet and top it up with credit or choose a plan that suits your travel needs. A Tallinja card will give you cheaper fares and more convenience than buying tickets every time.

To check the routes and timetables of the buses in Malta and Gozo, you can visit the official website of Malta Public Transport or download the Tallinja app on your smartphone. You can also find information boards at bus stops or ask the driver or other passengers for assistance. However, you should always plan ahead for your bus journey, as buses can be affected by peak-hour traffic jams or the bus might pass by your stop and not stop as it would be full.

Here are some tips and advice on using buses in Malta:

Bring exact change when buying tickets from the driver, as they might not have enough coins to give you change.
Be aware of the different fares for the summer and winter seasons, as well as for night service and special routes.
Buses coming and going to the airport might be overcrowded and might not have enough space for your luggage. You might be better off getting a taxi to and from the airport.
Respect the etiquette and rules of the bus system, such as giving priority seats to elderly or disabled people, not eating or drinking on board, not playing loud music, and not talking loudly on your phone.
Use Google Maps or the Tallinja app for navigation and real-time updates on bus arrivals and departures.

Taxis

White Taxi at Wied iż-Żurrieq | Image by Frank Vincentz on Wikimedia Commons

Another way to travel around Malta is by taxi. There are various companies that offer taxi services 24/7 and operate in Malta together with licenced individuals. Taxis are convenient and comfortable, as they can take you to your destination quickly and directly without having to wait or change buses. However, taxis are also more expensive than buses, especially for long-distance trips or during peak hours.

To use taxis in Malta, you can hail one on the street, call or book one online, or use an app like Uber, eCabs, or Bolt. You can also find taxi stands at the airport, bus terminals, ferry terminals, and other popular locations. If you do not know before hand how much the ride will cost, make sure you agree on the fare before you start your journey, as some taxis might not have a metre or might charge extra fees.

Here are some tips and advice on using taxis in Malta:

Compare prices and reviews of different taxi companies and apps before you choose one, as they might vary depending on the quality, availability, and reliability of their service. The white taxis, which are run by licenced individuals, tend to be more expensive than those using apps like Bolt or Uber.
Avoid illegal or unlicensed taxis, which might not have insurance, safety standards, or fixed fares. Licenced taxis should have their number plates start with the letters TAXI, and the driver should have his licence visible inside the car.
Negotiate for long-distance trips or special services, such as airport transfers, sightseeing tours, or luggage assistance. You might be able to get a better deal or a fixed price if you ask in advance.
Be aware of surcharges and extra fees that some taxis might charge for night service, public holidays, waiting time, or tolls. You should ask for a breakdown of the fare before you pay.

Car Hire

Sunset in Gozo | Image by Michael Camilleri on Flickr

For the ultimate flexibility to travel around Malta, you should rent a car. The car rental system in Malta is offered by various local and international companies, such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar, or Goldcar. You can find car rental services at the Malta International Airport and other locations around the island. Car hire is flexible and convenient, as you can choose a suitable vehicle and package for your travel needs and drive to any destination you want. However, car hire also requires a valid driving licence and insurance, and you will have to deal with traffic and parking, which are notorious in certain areas of the islands.

Traffic rules and signs in Malta are similar to those in the UK, which also means that in Malta we drive on the left side of the road and the cars are right-hand drive.

Here are some tips and advice on using car hire in Malta:

Choose a small or compact car that is easy to manoeuvre and park in narrow streets and crowded areas.
Bring your own GPS device or use your smartphone for navigation, as some cars might not have a built-in GPS system or might charge extra for it. However, make sure you read the signs, as your GPS device or app might not be updated with the latest road changes.
Be prepared for traffic jams and delays, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons. You should also avoid driving in Valletta or other busy areas, as parking can be difficult and expensive.
Check the fuel policy of the car hire company before you book, as some might require you to return the car with a full tank or charge extra for refuelling.
Buy a comprehensive insurance package that covers any damage or theft to the car, as well as personal injury or liability. You should also check if your credit card or travel insurance offers any coverage for car hire.
Check the condition and fuel level of the car before you drive away, and report any damage or defects to the company before you start driving.

Ferries

Gozo Ferry | Image by HH58 on Wikimedia Commons

Another option to travel around Malta is by ferry. The ferries in Malta connect the main islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, as well as other destinations like Valletta, Sliema, and The Three Cities. Ferries are cheap and scenic, as they allow you to enjoy the views of the sea and the coast and to explore different parts of the island. However, ferries are also dependent on weather conditions, which might affect their schedule and availability.

To use ferries in Malta, you can buy tickets from the terminal or online, depending on the operator and the route. You should check the schedules and departure points of the ferries online or at the terminal, as they might vary depending on the season and the demand. You can board the ferry with your luggage or vehicle (if going to using the ferry from Ċirkewwa), and some offer some facilities on board, such as a café or some shops. Some ferries also offer guided tours or cruises of various attractions and landmarks around the island.

Here are some tips and advice on using ferries in Malta:

Book in advance for popular routes or peak seasons, such as the ferry between Malta and Gozo or the ferry between Valletta and Sliema. You might get a better price or a guaranteed seat if you book online or at a sales outlet.
Arrive early to secure a seat or a spot for your vehicle, especially if you are travelling with a large group or during busy hours. You might have to wait for the next ferry if the one you want is full or has no space for your vehicle.
Avoid sea sickness or motion sickness by choosing a seat near the front or the middle of the ferry, where the motion is less noticeable. You can also take some medication or use some natural remedies, such as ginger, peppermint, or acupressure.
Be aware of the safety regulations and procedures on board the ferry, such as wearing a life jacket, listening to the announcements, following the instructions of the crew, and staying away from restricted areas. You should also check the weather forecast before you travel and be prepared for any changes or cancellations.

Some useful links

Hop-on Hop-off Buses and Boats

Wied Iz-Zurrieq | Image by Andy Miccone on Flickr

If you want to see the best of Malta in a fun and informative way, you might consider taking a hop-on, hop-off bus or boat. The hop-on, hop-off buses and boats in Malta are operated by various companies, such as City Sightseeing or Supreme Cruises. They offer guided tours of various attractions and landmarks in Malta, such as Valletta, Mdina, Marsaxlokk, Blue Grotto, Blue Lagoon, or Gozo. They allow you to hop on and off at any stop you like within a certain period of time, usually 24 or 48 hours. They also include audio commentary and headphones, which provide you with interesting facts and stories about the places you visit. Hop-on, hop-off buses and boats are fun and informative, but they are also more expensive than regular buses or ferries, and they might not cover all the areas or attractions you want to see.

To use hop-on, hop-off buses and boats in Malta, you can buy tickets from the operator or online, depending on the availability and price of the tours. You can also find ticket booths or agents at various locations around the island. You should choose a suitable route and duration for your tour, depending on your interests and time. You can hop on and off at any stop you like, as long as you show your ticket to the driver or the crew. You can also listen to the audio commentary or explore the places on your own. Some hop-on, hop-off buses and boats also offer discounts or vouchers for some attractions or services, which you can use with your ticket.

Here are some tips and advice on using hop-on, hop-off buses and boats in Malta:

Compare prices and features of different operators before you choose one, as they might vary depending on the quality, availability, and reliability of their service.
Check the routes and timetables of the hop-on, hop-off buses and boats online or at the stops, as they might change depending on the season and the demand. You should also check the weather forecast before you book, as some tours might be cancelled or delayed due to bad weather conditions.
Plan your itinerary according to your interests and time, as you might not be able to see everything in one day or on one tour. You should also prioritise the places you want to see first, as some stops might be more crowded or popular than others.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you might have to walk a lot between stops or attractions. You should also bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, as some tours might not have any facilities or stops along the way.
Enjoy your tour and share your experience with others. You can take photos or videos of the places you visit, write reviews or feedback for the operator, or recommend the tour to your friends or family.

Conclusion

Marsaxlokk | Image by JanneG from Pixabay

Malta is a great place to visit, with many attractions and activities that will make your trip memorable. However, to make the most of your trip, you need to know how to travel around this beautiful island using different modes of transportation. In this article, we have provided you with a comprehensive guide on how to travel around Malta using buses, taxis, car hire, ferries, hop-on, hop-off buses, and boats. We have explained how each option works, how to use it, and the pros and cons of each one. We have also given you some tips and advice on how to make the most of your transport experience in Malta.

We hope that this article has helped you plan your trip and enjoy your stay in Malta. Whether you prefer to travel by bus, taxi, car, ferry, hop-on, hop-off bus, or boat, Malta has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this amazing island in the Mediterranean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel around Malta?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on your budget and preferences. We suggest you use a combination of buses and car rentals, where you use buses on some days to visit places like Valletta and rent a car on others to visit areas like Gozo and the south or west of Malta.

Do I need a driving license to drive in Malta?

Yes, you need a valid driving license to drive in Malta. If you have a driving license from an EU country, you can use it without any problems. If you have a driving license from a non-EU country, you can use it for up to 12 months from your date of entry into Malta, as long as it is written in English or accompanied by an official translation.

How can I get from Malta to Gozo?

The easiest way to get from Malta to Gozo is by ferry either from the North of the island in Cirkewwa which takes about 25 minutes or using the fast ferry service from Valleta which takes about 45 minutes.