Category: Car Rental Guides

If this is your first time renting a car in Malta, welcome — and buckle up. Driving here is both a little chaotic and a lot of fun. You’ll get to explore quiet chapels, remote coves, and hilltop villages that buses just don’t reach.

Below is a practical checklist from a local’s perspective, with the essentials you’ll want to know before picking up your rental keys.

Quick Fit Guide: Do You Even Need a Car?

Rent a car if:

• You’ve got kids, strollers, beach umbrellas, and more gear than two arms can carry.
• You’re planning to squeeze Mdina, Blue Grotto, and Golden Bay into a single day.
• You want golden-hour photos at Dingli Cliffs or a midnight swim at Għajn Tuffieħa.

Skip the car if:

• You’re sticking to Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s where buses and ferries are plenty.
• You’re nervous about left-side driving and hair-thin village lanes.
• It’s a wine-tasting day or long Sunday lunch — better to let someone else do the driving.

👉 Truth is, in most cases a car makes life easier. But for short city stays, you can manage fine without.

Documents You’ll Need at the Counter

• Driver’s license: Full, physical license. EU is fine. Non-EU visitors: bring your original plus an International Driving Permit if your license isn’t in Roman letters.
• Age & experience: Most companies rent to 21–75 with 1–2 years’ driving experience. Under-25s and over-65s often pay extra or can’t rent higher-class cars.
• Passport & booking voucher (print or digital).
• Credit card in the lead driver’s name: Needed for the deposit. Debit cards are tricky — many companies refuse them.
• Extra drivers: They need to be there with their licenses.

Insurance & Deposit — Don’t Skip This

• CDW & Theft Cover: Lowers your liability but still leaves an “excess” (usually €1,200–1,500, more for SUVs).
• Exclusions: Tires, glass, roof, and underbody often not included unless you buy extra cover.
• Deposit: expect a pre-auth for the excess + fuel. Use a credit card with enough limit.
• Options:
  • Stick with the standard excess.
  • Pay for the rental company’s full protection.
  • Use third-party excess insurance (cheaper, but you’ll need to claim later).

Top tip: Photograph the car inside and out before driving away — timestamped. Saves you headaches later.

What Your Rental Will Really Cost

Beyond the daily rate:

• VAT
• Young/senior driver surcharge
• Extra driver fees
• Child seats or GPS units
• Airport or out-of-hours pickup fees
• Ferry surcharge if taking the car to Gozo (always double-check policy)

Fuel in Malta rentals usually runs on a full-to-full policy. That means you collect the car with a full tank and you’re expected to bring it back the same way. It’s a simple system, but don’t skip the refill before drop-off — otherwise the rental company will happily top it up for you at premium rates.

Another thing visitors often miss is Valletta’s CVA zone (Controlled Vehicle Access). If you drive into the city during restricted hours, you’ll automatically get charged. On top of that, your rental company will add an administration fee for processing the fine. The easy fix is to park outside the walls — Floriana or the Park & Ride are convenient and much cheaper than paying CVA charges.

Pickup & Return at Malta International Airport

• Pickup: Most desks are in Arrivals; some use a shuttle. Allow 15–40 minutes in summer evenings. Take photos of everything (yes, even the wheels and roof).
• Return: Refuel at the last station before the airport (there’s one at Luqa close by). Clear trash, snap photos again, and get written sign-off on fuel & condition. Build in 20 minutes buffer for queues.

Driving in Malta — Staying Calm & Legal

• Left-side driving — the first turn out of the airport always feels weird, then you get used to it.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h open roads. Speed cameras are unforgiving.
• Seatbelts: required for all.
• Kids: proper child restraints by age/size.
• Phones: no handhelds.
• Traffic: avoid Msida, St. Julian’s, and Sliema rush hours if you value your sanity.

Driving in Malta comes with its quirks. Some village lanes get so narrow you’ll wonder if they’re even meant for cars. The best approach is to keep calm, hold a steady line, and let others pass when the space allows. Locals are used to it, so there’s no need to panic — just take your time.

As for alcohol, the rules are strict and police do carry out roadside checks, especially on weekends. It’s safest to stay well under the limit. If you’ve planned a long, wine-fuelled lunch or a late night out, leave the car behind and enjoy without worry.

Parking in Historic Towns

• Valletta: Don’t drive inside during CVA hours. Park in Floriana or use Park & Ride. Cheaper, less stress.
• Mdina & Rabat: Residents-only inside Mdina. Park outside and enjoy the 5-minute walk in.
• Beaches: Golden Bay, Mellieħa, etc. fill by 9 a.m. on weekends. Either go early or late. Never block farm tracks or private drives — locals hate it.

Gozo and Comino by Car

Most people want to hop over to Gozo at least once, and taking your rental is usually allowed — but always check your agreement first. The ferry leaves from Ċirkewwa, no booking needed, you just roll up in line with everyone else. You actually pay on the way back, which always surprises first-timers.

Summer mornings can mean long queues, so either head out early or wait until later in the afternoon when things thin out. Once in Gozo, expect narrower roads and plenty of farm vehicles. It’s not a race — just take it slow, enjoy the views, and remember patience is part of the island rhythm.

Comino, by the way, is boat-only — you’ll leave your rental behind and hop a ferry.

When a Taxi or Driver Makes More Sense

Sometimes it’s smarter to skip the car. If you’re planning a long winery lunch, a night out in Paceville, or moving a large group from one side of the island to the other, a driver saves a lot of hassle.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps work fine, but surge pricing after concerts or late flights is real. And don’t expect car seats unless you book ahead. For hopping between main towns, Malta’s bus network is cheap and reliable, though slow for beach days.

Late-Night Arrivals

Flights landing after 10 p.m. can be tricky. Some rental desks close, some charge an “out of hours” fee, and a few run shuttles with lockboxes for keys. Always get the after-hours plan in writing.

If you’re arriving at midnight with kids and luggage, it might be kinder to yourselves to grab a hotel near the airport and pick the car up the next morning. Taxis run late, but queues can stretch if three flights land at once.

Wrapping It Up

Renting a car in Malta isn’t complicated once you know what to expect. The roads may be narrow, the parking a bit creative, but the freedom to explore hidden bays, sleepy villages, and late-night sunsets on your own schedule makes it worth it.

At Car Rentals Malta, we’re locals who know the quirks of driving here — from which car parks fill first to which ferry lanes move fastest. Our job is to make the rental process smooth so you can focus on your holiday, not the paperwork.

👉 Ready to see what’s available? Check our cars here and start planning your trip with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What age do I need to be to rent a car in Malta?

Most rental companies set the minimum at 21 with at least one year of driving experience. Drivers under 25 or over 70 may face extra fees or restrictions.

2. Do I need an International Driving Permit in Malta?

If your license is in Roman letters (English, German, French, etc.), your standard license is fine. If not, carry an IDP alongside your original license.

3. How much deposit should I expect to leave?

Usually between €1,200–€1,500, depending on the car type. Higher for SUVs and automatics. This is held on your credit card.

4. Can I take my rental car to Gozo or Comino?

Yes, cars are usually allowed on the Gozo ferry. Comino is boat-only, so you’ll leave your rental behind. Always confirm with your rental company first.

5. What happens if my flight is delayed or I arrive late at night?

Check your booking for “out of hours” rules. Some companies use key lockboxes or charge a late fee. Worst case, take a taxi to your hotel and collect the car the next morning.

6. What kind of car should I book for Malta’s roads?

Compact cars are easiest for tight village lanes and parking. Families or groups often go for small SUVs for luggage and beach gear. Avoid oversized vehicles — parking is limited.

7. Where can I park in Valletta or Mdina without stress?

For Valletta, use Floriana car parks or Park & Ride instead of driving into the CVA zone. For Mdina, park outside the gates or in Rabat and walk in.

8. Are child seats available with rentals?

Yes, but always reserve in advance. Confirm ISOFIX availability if you need it.

9. Is fuel included in the rental price?

No — most rentals in Malta operate on a full-to-full policy. Pick up full, return full. Refill at Luqa before dropping off at the airport to avoid charges.

10. Is it hard to drive in Malta as a tourist?

It takes a day to adjust to left-side driving and narrow roads, but most visitors manage fine. Just avoid peak rush hours around Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Msida.

Landing in Malta, you’re instantly hit with choices: buses, taxis, private drivers, or your own set of wheels. Each option works for certain trips. But if you really want to move at your own pace—slipping away to a hidden cove, tackling multi-stop days without watching the clock, or hopping on the Gozo ferry without fuss—a rental car usually makes life easier.

This guide isn’t here to sell you something. It’s here to help you read between the lines of rental terms, understand what’s fair, and decide if a car really fits your trip.

The Fine Print, Decoded

Here’s where most travelers trip up—the small text you skim when booking.

1. Driver age and licences

Most companies want you to be at least 21, sometimes 25. If you’re under 25, expect a surcharge. You’ll also need a licence held for one to two years. Non-EU licences are generally fine, but if yours isn’t in Latin script, carry an International Driving Permit just in case.

2. Manual vs. automatic

Manual cars are everywhere. Automatics exist but cost more and sell out quickly, especially in summer. If you can only drive automatic, book early.

3. Fuel types

Petrol is the default, diesel less so in small cars. Either way, island-wide fuel prices will shape your budget more than long distances—Malta is tiny.

4. Mileage and Gozo

Unlimited mileage is standard. Cross-border rules don’t apply here, but check the contract if you plan to ferry the car to Gozo—some categories require prior approval.

5. Fuel policies

The fairest deal is “full-to-full”—return the car with the same amount you received. Pre-pay fuel offers rarely pay off, because daily drives aren’t long.

6. Deposits and cards

A credit card in the main driver’s name is usually required. Debit cards face restrictions. And yes, the deposit hold can be chunky if you decline premium cover. Take photos of the car (wheels, fuel gauge, dashboard) before driving off.

7. Insurance basics

By law, you get third-party liability. Most rentals include Collision Damage Waiver with an excess. If you want peace of mind, you can pay extra for “Super Cover” that reduces liability—but it often excludes things like tires, glass, and the undercarriage. If you’re planning to use your credit card’s insurance, confirm in writing that it covers Malta.

8. Extra drivers

Every driver must be listed on the contract. Forgetting to add a second driver can void insurance if there’s an accident. Expect a small daily fee per extra driver.

9. Young and senior driver rules

Under-25 surcharges are common, but some companies also apply checks or restrictions for drivers over 70–75. Worth double-checking before booking if you’re traveling with grandparents.

10. Breakdown and roadside cover

Most rentals include basic roadside help, but not all cover things like lost keys, flat tires, or misfueling. Check what’s included so you’re not caught off guard.

11. Cleaning and smoking policies

Returning a car dirty (sand, mud, or food mess) can lead to cleaning fees. Same with smoking inside—most rentals have strict no-smoking rules.

The Costs Nobody Mentions Up Front

That tempting “€20 a day” price tag? It’s only the beginning.

On top of the base rate, you might face charges for additional drivers, young driver surcharges, or late-night pickup if your flight lands after hours.

Parking in busy areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian’s can also add up. Extras such as child seats or GPS come with a fee. And if you plan to take your rental onto the Gozo ferry, remember there’s a separate vehicle fare in addition to your passenger ticket.

Budgeting for these in advance saves you from the classic “but it said €20!” frustration.

Airport Pickup Without the Stress

Arriving late? Not every desk stays open all night. Some offer a meet-and-greet service for a fee, but only if you’ve arranged it beforehand. Desks are inside Arrivals, and the cars sit across the street in a signed car park.

Take a moment before you drive off: check for scratches in good light, photograph the dashboard and fuel gauge, and set your GPS before rolling out. Malta’s roads can get confusing right out of the airport, and speed cameras don’t give warnings. On return, fill up near the airport and leave extra time for inspection.

Why Renting a Car Is Often the Smart Choice

Yes, Malta is small. You can get around by bus if you’re patient. But here’s the truth: if you want to explore beyond the main tourist belt, a car gives you freedom.

Families don’t have to juggle naps or stroller space on buses. Adventurers can tick off multiple sights in a single day—Blue Grotto in the morning, Dingli Cliffs for lunch, Mdina in the afternoon, and a swim at Golden Bay by sunset.

Gozo is another story. Buses run, but if you want to make the most of a single day, nothing beats rolling off the ferry in your own car. On the flip side, parking in Valletta or nightlife zones can be frustrating. The easy solution? Use your rental for daytime exploring, then swap to taxis or park-and-ride in the evenings.

For most travelers, the rental car ends up being the time-saver and stress-reducer you didn’t know you needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I pick up a rental car after a late-night flight?

Yes, but not always. Some desks shut overnight. Others will meet you for a fee if you arrange it in advance. Always give your flight number so they know when you’re actually landing.

2. How do the Valletta CVA charges work?

Drive into Valletta’s controlled zone during the day and you’ll be billed later. Rental companies pass the fee on with an admin charge. Easiest workaround: park at Floriana Park & Ride or visit outside charging hours.

3. Do I need to bring a child seat?

You don’t have to. Rental companies provide them for a fee if you book ahead. But if you’re staying longer, bringing your own is usually more comfortable.

4. What if my accommodation doesn’t have parking near Sliema or St Julian’s?

You’ll need to use multi-storey or pay-and-display car parks. Another option: park once during the day and take taxis at night. If daily driving is part of your plan, try to book accommodation with dedicated parking—it’s worth it.

5. Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

If your licence is in English or another Latin script, usually no. If not, or if your rental company insists, bring one. Always confirm before you book.

Final Thought

Renting a car in Malta isn’t about covering long distances—it’s about making the most of short ones without waiting around for buses or juggling taxi fares. If you’re happy sticking to Valletta and the main resort areas, you’ll survive without.

But if you want the freedom to chase sunsets, uncover remote coves, or get to Gozo on your own schedule, having a car in Malta is the way to go.

Check available options early, compare rates, and book your Malta car rental before you arrive to lock in the best deal and avoid last-minute stress.

Malta isn’t exactly the kind of place where you hop on a bus and forget about it. Sure, public transport exists, and it’s fine for straight-line trips, but the island is full of winding lanes, hidden beaches, and tiny villages where timetables won’t get you very far. That’s why most visitors end up renting a car.

The only real question is: do you go for an automatic or a manual?

It might sound like a small detail, but trust me, when you’re navigating roundabouts the size of a dinner plate or inching through Valletta traffic on a Friday morning, the gearbox in your rental can make all the difference between “smooth sailing” and “why did I do this to myself?”

The Quick Answer

If you normally drive an automatic and this is your first time driving on the left, go for an automatic. It will take the edge off and let you focus on traffic, road signs, and not clipping a mirror on a stone wall. They’re also easier if you’re traveling with kids, luggage, or arriving late and tired.

If you’re comfortable with manuals, especially with shifting on the left, and you’re watching your budget, a manual will do the job. They’re more common in Malta, usually cheaper, and plentiful even if you book last-minute in peak season.

What It’s Really Like to Drive Here

Let’s be honest: Maltese roads are not the wide boulevards of Los Angeles. Streets in villages can feel like alleyways, and parking in Valletta or Mdina is an exercise in patience.

Roundabouts are everywhere, and while speeds are low, usually 35–50 km/h in towns and up to 80 km/h on open roads, the flow of traffic is busy and sometimes unpredictable.

Morning traffic into Valletta and evening traffic around Sliema and St Julian’s are the biggest bottlenecks. Outside those zones, driving is calmer, though you’ll still need to keep an eye out for scooters and buses that take their time.

The Feel of Each Option

Automatics take the mental load off. No juggling gears on hills, no second-guessing when traffic stops suddenly, no fighting with a clutch in roundabouts. That calmness can be worth the higher daily rate, especially if you’re new to left-side driving.

Manuals, on the other hand, are everywhere. If you like the control of shifting yourself—or you just don’t mind it—they work perfectly fine here.

Many locals drive manual every day, and the cars are usually small and easy to handle. For a confident driver, the extra savings can cover an extra nice dinner or a ferry trip to Gozo.

What About Costs?

Typical rental prices range between €18 and €40 per day depending on the season and the size of the car.

Automatics often cost a little more—sometimes a lot more in July and August when demand peaks. Booking early really matters if you want an automatic, because fleets are smaller and they sell out first.

Insurance is usually included at a basic level (Collision Damage Waiver), but expect an excess held on your credit card. Parking is tight in a lot of places, so if the idea of scratches stresses you out, you can pay extra to reduce that excess.

Fuel policies are typically “full to full,” and most petrol stations are self-service, though not all accept cards, so keep some cash handy.

Filter car rentals by automatic or manual to see exact price differences in Malta>>

When Automatics Really Shine

Think about the moments that feel hardest: getting off a late-night flight and facing roundabouts in the dark, crawling through traffic in Sliema, or navigating Mellieħa’s steep streets with beach bags, umbrellas, and tired kids in the back. In those situations, having an automatic is simply easier.

When Manuals Fit Better

If your trip is more about long runs across the island, away from peak-hour chaos, and you’re used to driving stick, a manual makes perfect sense.

You’ll save some money, have more car models to choose from, and avoid the stress of “did I book early enough to get an automatic?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it hard to drive on the left in Malta if I usually drive on the right?

It takes a little adjustment, but it’s manageable. An automatic helps you focus on traffic flow and positioning instead of juggling gears. If you’re unsure, start driving in daylight and stick to main roads until you feel comfortable.

2. Can I pick up a rental late at night at Malta International Airport?

Yes. Most rental desks stay open to cover incoming flights, but not all of them. Add your flight number when booking, and double-check the pickup instructions. If you’re landing in the middle of the night, it may be easier to grab a transfer and collect your car the next morning.

3. What should families know about child seats and luggage?

Reserve seats in advance—don’t assume they’ll be available at the desk. Small hatchbacks fill up quickly once you add strollers and beach bags, so if you’re a family of four, consider a slightly larger hatch or compact SUV. Automatics can be helpful when you’re managing naps, snacks, and directions all at once.

4. Can I take my rental car on the Gozo ferry?

Usually yes. Most companies allow it, but always check your rental agreement. The ferry is straightforward: drive on, park where staff direct you, set the handbrake, and enjoy the short crossing. You pay when coming back from Gozo, not on the way over.

5. How do CVA fees and parking rules work in Valletta and Mdina?

Valletta charges vehicles for time spent in the central zone during business hours. The stress-free option is to use park-and-ride or one of the big car parks just outside the walls. Mdina is almost traffic-free, so you’ll need to park outside and walk in.

Why Renting a Car Often Makes Sense in Malta

Buses here are reliable and cheap, and taxis or ride-hailing apps work fine for evenings out. But if you want to see more than one or two spots in a day—say Blue Grotto in the morning, Hagar Qim in the afternoon, and Golden Bay for sunset—you’ll quickly appreciate having your own wheels.

A rental car also unlocks the smaller beaches, cliff walks, and countryside restaurants that aren’t on main bus routes. Day trips to Gozo feel more relaxed too, because you set your own pace instead of waiting for connections.

That said, mix and match if it helps. Use your car for day trips and park outside busy zones. Switch to taxis or buses for nightlife in Valletta or St Julian’s. It’s not about choosing one mode of transport for everything—it’s about using the right one at the right time.

Ready to explore Malta your way? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, we’ve got you covered. Book your car today and start your trip stress-free.