The Maltese Islands may be small, but navigating this Mediterranean archipelago comes with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Valletta, heading to the beaches of Mellieħa, or island-hopping to Gozo and Comino, understanding your transport options will make your visit smoother and more enjoyable. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about transport in Malta.
Driving in Malta
What’s it Like Driving in Malta?
Malta is a nation of car lovers, and just like Malta has its own language, we also have our own way of driving, which includes actions that others may consider “illegal”, and plenty of swearing.
Choose to rent a car if you are tight on time and can’t wait for buses. The islands are small and it’s easy to get around. Keep in mind that parking can be difficult – if that will stress you out then choose a different method of transport in Malta.
Driving in Malta offers flexibility but comes with several challenges that tourists should be aware of:
Left-side driving: In Malta, we drive on the left side of the road, following the British system. If you’re not used to this, it can take some adjustment.
Road conditions: The road network in Malta has seen improvements in recent years, but you’ll still encounter narrow streets in villages and some bumpy roads. Construction is ongoing in many areas as part of infrastructure improvements.
Traffic congestion: Despite the island’s small size, traffic can be extremely heavy, especially during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM). The most congested areas include Marsa, Msida, and routes to/from Sliema and St. Julian’s.
Parking challenges: Finding parking can be difficult, especially in popular tourist areas and historic centers. Some town centres use a parking zone system with white (free) and blue (residents only) marked boxes.
Aggressive driving style: Local driving can seem aggressive to foreigners, with liberal use of horns and sometimes creative interpretation of traffic rules.
Car Rentals in Malta
If you decide to rent a car, many companies operate across the island:
- Major international brands: Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have offices at the airport and in some towns
- Local rental companies: Often offer more competitive rates (e.g., Percius, Sicilybycar (Malta), Mayjo)
Rental costs typically range from €25-60 per day depending on the season and vehicle size. Most require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held their license for at least one year.
Documentation: You’ll need a valid driving license. If you’re from a non-EU country, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Insurance: Always check the insurance coverage provided and consider taking full coverage due to the challenging driving conditions.
Scooters and Motorcycles
Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a practical alternative in Malta, particularly for solo travelers or couples. With the island’s compact size and traffic congestion, two-wheelers provide significant advantages: the ability to navigate through traffic jams, access narrow village streets that might be challenging for cars, and find parking almost anywhere with minimal hassle.
A 125cc scooter is powerful enough for Malta’s terrain while being manageable for riders with limited experience. Rental costs range from €25-35 per day for basic scooters to €45-70 daily for larger motorcycles, with discounts available for weekly rentals. Most companies provide helmets and basic insurance. Reputable rental providers include Whizascoot, ST Rentals, Moto Malta. Remember that an appropriate driving license is required – for EU citizens, your standard license with motorcycle entitlement is sufficient, while non-EU visitors should have an International Driving Permit with the relevant motorcycle category.
Public Transport in Malta
If you’re on a budget, buses are the best way to get around the islands. Malta has no underground transport system, and most Maltese drive their own cars, so traffic gets jam-packed at rush hours.
The bus system has become more reliable lately, however it does suffer from delays and missing buses. The Tallinja app has a good journey planner that should make your transit straightforward.
Keep in mind that popular routes get very very busy in summer, so you may have to stand up for the duration of your ride. Persons travelling with wheelchairs or prams are always accommodated with low-floor buses and specialised seating areas. The Maltese will give up their seat for a person who needs it.
Bus Network
The bus network, operated by Malta Public Transport, covers most of the island with over 80 routes.
Operating hours: Most routes operate from 5:30 AM until 11:00 PM, with night services (N routes) on weekends in popular nightlife areas.
Frequency: Services run every 10-30 minutes on main routes, but can be less frequent (up to 60 minutes) in rural areas or on Sundays.
Routes: The main bus terminal is located outside Valletta’s City Gate, with subsidiary hubs in Buġibba, Sliema, and the airport.
Ticketing Options
Single journey tickets: €2 in summer (June-October) and €1.50 in winter (November-May) if purchased on the bus. They’re valid for 2 hours.
Tallinja Card: Reloadable smart cards offer discounted rates (€0.75-1.50 per journey). Tourists can purchase the Explore Card:
- 7-day unlimited travel: €21
- 12 single journeys: €15
Where to buy: Tickets can be purchased directly from bus drivers, but Tallinja Cards are available from the airport, Valletta bus terminal, and some service points around the island.
Mobile app: The Tallinja app allows for journey planning and mobile ticketing.
Future Developments: Metro System
There are strong rumors that Malta will soon announce plans for its first metro system. This would represent the largest infrastructure project in Malta’s history, aiming to reduce congestion on the island’s roads.
The system is expected to be announced in late 2025, but construction would likely take decades to complete. Initial plans suggest routes connecting Valletta with major population centers like Sliema, St. Julian’s, and possibly the airport.
While this won’t impact tourists in the immediate future, it reflects Malta’s commitment to improving its transport infrastructure in the long term.
Taxis
Taxis provide a convenient but pricier option for transport in Malta. The landscape has evolved significantly with several ride-hailing services now available.
Ride-Hailing Services
Several ride-hailing apps now operate in Malta:
Bolt: The most widely used service with good coverage across Malta and competitive rates.
eCabs: A local company with its own app and reliable service.
Uber: Launched operations in Malta in 2024, providing another option for visitors.
These services typically offer more transparent pricing than traditional taxis, with the convenience of tracking your ride and automatic payment. Prices are usually 10-20% lower than white taxis.
Traditional White Taxis
The traditional white taxis can be found at designated taxi stands in major towns and at the airport. These vehicles operate on a meter system, but it’s advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey, as they have a reputation for being more expensive.
A typical airport to Valletta trip costs around €15-20, while longer journeys like the airport to St. Julian’s might cost €25-30.
Pro tip: During peak tourist season or bad weather, wait times for all taxi services can be long. It’s advisable to book in advance when possible, especially for airport transfers or trips to ferry terminals.
Boat Transport in Malta
As an island nation, Malta offers various sea transport options:
Harbour Ferries
Valletta-Three Cities ferry: Connects Valletta to Birgu, offering spectacular views of the Grand Harbour. Costs €2.80 per adult for a return journey, operating every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Sliema-Valletta ferry: A quick alternative to buses between these popular areas. Costs €2.80 per adult for a return journey, with departures every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
Tickets can be purchased at kiosks near the ferry terminals or online through the Valletta Ferry Services website.
Tourist Boat Trips
Numerous operators offer harbour cruises and trips to the Blue Lagoon in Comino:
- Departing from Sliema, Buġibba, and St. Paul’s Bay
- Costs range from €20-35 per person
- Most include stops for swimming and basic refreshments
Popular providers include Captain Morgan Cruises and Luzzu Cruises.
Malta-Gozo Fast Ferry
The fast ferry service between Valletta’s Grand Harbour and Mġarr in Gozo provides a quick alternative to the traditional Ċirkewwa route:
- Journey time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Cost: €7.50 one-way
- Frequency: Generally every 1-2 hours during peak season
- Online booking available through Gozo Fast Ferry
This service is particularly useful for those staying in Valletta, saving the lengthy bus journey to the northern ferry terminal. Occasionally the ferry will not operate due to bad weather, so check their socials to be sure.
Transport in Gozo
Malta’s sister island has its own transport ecosystem.
Bus Network
Gozo has a smaller but efficient bus network operated by the same company as Malta:
- All routes radiate from the main bus terminal in Victoria (the capital)
- Services are less frequent than on the main island (typically hourly)
- The same ticketing system applies as in Malta
Gozo-Malta Ferry
The main connection between the islands remains the ferry between Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mġarr (Gozo):
- Journey time: 25 minutes
- Cost: €4.65 for foot passengers (return journey), vehicles charged separately
- Frequency: Every 45 minutes
- No booking required for foot passengers
More information and timetables are available on the Gozo Channel website.
Car and Scooter Rentals
Renting a vehicle on Gozo gives much more flexibility to explore the island’s rural charm:
- Several rental agencies operate in Victoria and Mġarr
- Daily car rental rates start from €30
- Scooters and quad bikes are popular alternatives, starting from €25 per day
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
For tourists, the sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus (CitySightseeing Gozo) offers a convenient way to visit major attractions, with commentary in multiple languages. A day ticket costs approximately €20.
Bicycle Transport in Malta
Some people would say don’t bother with a bike in Malta. This is because the islands aren’t exactly bike-friendly, and the hilly topography makes bike transport quite a challenge. Despite this, biking around can be enjoyable, just make sure to wear a helmet and beware of motorists (who don’t always treat cyclists with respect).
Cycling as Transport in Malta
Malta’s compact size makes cycling theoretically ideal, but several factors make it challenging:
- Cycling infrastructure is still pretty basic and limited in coverage
- Heavy traffic and narrow roads
- Hilly terrain in many areas
- Hot summer temperatures
The government has begun implementing a National Cycling Strategy, with new cycling lanes appearing in some areas, particularly around St. Julian’s and parts of Sliema.
Bicycle Rentals
Several companies offer bicycle rentals across the island:
- Standard bikes: €10-15 per day
- E-bikes: €25-35 per day (highly recommended given the hills)
- Mountain bikes: €20-25 per day
Popular rental companies include:
Malta’s transport system offers various options for visitors, each with its advantages. While driving provides flexibility, public transport continues to improve and is often the most practical option for most visitors. The potential metro system represents Malta’s ambition to modernize its infrastructure, though this remains a future prospect.
For the best experience:
- Use buses for most city-to-city travel
- Consider taxis/ride-hailing for night journeys or when carrying luggage
- Don’t miss the opportunity to travel by sea, especially to Gozo and Comino
With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Malta efficiently, making the most of your time on these beautiful Mediterranean islands.
Of course we’re convinced that the best place to stay in Malta is at TinyMalta Birkirkara. That’s because it’s right in the middle of the island. We’ve got a bus stop right outside that can take you directly to Valletta or the north of the island, and just a quick connection from everywhere else. If you prefer to rent a car, we have plenty of street parking all around. We also have a secure garage for storage in case you choose to rent a bike.