Category: Malta Travel Guide

Quick pick guide for common scenarios

If you are cost focused and staying in Valletta or Sliema

Take the Airport Direct 4 (TD4) to Valletta or theAirport Direct 3 (TD3) toward Sliema and St Julian’s. Services typically run every 30–60 minutes. If you’ll ride often, consider a multi-day pass for value.

If you land late or have multiple bags

Prebook a taxi or ride-hail for a smooth exit. Night buses are limited, and queues can form at the taxi rank when several flights land together.

If you plan beach hopping or day trips across Malta and Gozo

Rent a car at the airport for maximum freedom. Avoid driving into Valletta’s core during active CVA hours to skip access charges.

Taking the bus from Malta Airport

Where to catch it and key routes

Airport bus bays sit just outside Arrivals, a short walk from the doors. The Airport Direct 4 (TD4) to Valletta, usually every 30 minutes, with a 20–30 minute journey depending on traffic. Other express routes link major hubs.

The Airport Direct 3 (TD3) connects the airport with Sliema and St Julian’s, while the Airport Direct 1 (TD1) reaches the Gozo ferry at Ċirkewwa.

Tickets passes and payment

Buy single fares at the airport kiosk or from machines by the bays. Contactless bank cards are widely accepted on board. Visitors who plan to use the bus all week often choose an unlimited travel pass. Confirm current options and prices on Malta Public Transport ticketing.

When the bus is a smart choice

It shines for solo travelers or couples with light luggage. Valletta, Sliema seafront, St Julian’s, and main resorts have frequent services and clear stops.

Watchouts on buses

Peak-hour crowding is common, especially toward Sliema and St Julian’s. Large suitcases fit in the luggage area, but space is finite. Night services are limited, and weekend evenings near entertainment zones can slow journeys. Always check routes and timetables before you travel.

Using taxis and ride hailing from Malta Airport

Where and how to book

The taxi rank is right outside Arrivals. You can queue on arrival, use the official taxi kiosk, or prebook with a local operator. Ride-hailing apps operate island-wide and are easy to book once you have data.

Typical times and what to expect

Airport to Valletta takes about 15–20 minutes in normal traffic. Sliema or St Julian’s usually takes 20–30 minutes. Prices vary by provider, time of day, and demand. Check the kiosk or app for a quoted fare before you ride.

When a driver beats the bus

Choose a driver for late arrivals, heavy luggage, tight schedules, or stays far from direct bus routes. Prebook in high season to cut wait times and lock in a vehicle size.

Practical tips

Ask for a receipt and confirm the drop-off address before departing. Confirm card acceptance if you are not carrying cash.

If you need a child seat, request it in advance and state age and weight. For groups of four to six, a prebooked van can be cost-effective per person.

Hiring a car at Malta Airport

Where to find the counters and who operates

Major car hire desks are inside the terminal. Collections are typically from Level 1 of the Park East parking area. You will find well-known international brands alongside experienced local companies. Follow airport signs for car rental pickup.

Requirements and insurance basics

Bring a valid driver’s license in English. If your license is not in Latin script, carry an International Driving Permit. A primary driver’s credit card and a security deposit are usually required. Understand CDW coverage, the excess, and how to reduce liability. Photograph the car at pickup and drop-off, including wheels and fuel level.

Driving realities in Malta

Malta drives on the left. Expect narrow village streets, speed cameras, and tight parking in historic centers. Allow extra time around St Julian’s and Sliema on weekend evenings and in peak season. Defensive driving and patience go a long way.

Valletta CVA and parking notes

Valletta operates Controlled Vehicular Access charges during core hours. Many visitors park outside the walls in designated car parks or use park-and-ride, then walk or bus in.

Mdina is largely car-free; use nearby parking and stroll the last stretch. Always check signage and active CVA hours before entering restricted zones.

Gozo and the ferry

Most rentals can be taken on the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa. Confirm this with your rental company. Ferries run frequently and are vehicle-friendly. Payment for vehicles is  taken on the return trip to Malta. Summer weekends get busy, so arrive early.

When renting makes the most sense

It’s ideal for families with car seats and beach gear, photographers chasing sunsets at Dingli Cliffs, and travelers planning multi-stop days. It also suits quiet bays like Riviera and inland sites off the main bus corridors.

Late nights luggage and family travel realities

Late arrivals

Night buses are limited and run less frequently. Taxis and ride-hails operate late, but queues can spike when several flights arrive together. Prebook a transfer for peace of mind after midnight.

Luggage and accessibility

Buses allow suitcases, but space can fill quickly. Taxis and ride-hails are simplest with multiple large bags or mobility needs. Request a larger vehicle or wheelchair-accessible service when booking.

Kids and seats

Reserve child seats with taxis or rental firms in advance and provide age and weight. Bringing your own ensures fit and cleanliness, especially for infants.

Why a rental car suits many Malta itineraries

Flexibility that matches the islands

Malta’s best days mix a few stops. You might pair harbor views with a swim, then a clifftop sunset. A car lets you pivot with weather and crowds, reach remote beaches, and string together Mdina, Marsaxlokk, and the Three Cities in one day. It also simplifies a Gozo day trip with kids or gear.

Clear caveats to consider

Avoid driving into Valletta’s core during CVA hours. Expect scarce parking in historic towns and slower traffic on weekend nights near entertainment zones. If your trip is city-based with short hops, taxis and buses may be simpler. Always designate a sober driver for tastings and long lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Airport Direct 4 (TD4)the best way to Valletta right after I land?

The Airport Direct 4 (TD4) is the cheapest and straightforward choice, usually every 30 minutes and about 20–30 minutes to Valletta. If you are jet-lagged, carrying heavy bags, or arriving late, a taxi or ride-hail is quicker door to door.

2. Do airport taxis have fixed prices or should I use an app?

You can use the taxi rank, the official kiosk, or a ride-hailing app. Prices vary by provider, time, and traffic. Check the app or kiosk for a fare estimate before you commit, and confirm card payment if needed.

3. Can I bring big luggage on Malta buses from the airport?

Yes. Suitcases are allowed, and most buses have a luggage area near the front. Buses can be crowded at peak times, so keep bags clear of aisles. Consider a taxi if traveling with multiple large cases or after a long flight.

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

Yes, but confirm with your rental company. Ferries run frequently and accept vehicles. Payment is  taken on the return trip to Malta. Summer weekends are busy, so arrive early.

5. Where should I park for Valletta or Mdina with a rental car?

For Valletta, use car parks outside the city walls or the park-and-ride and avoid entering during CVA hours. Mdina is largely pedestrian; use nearby designated parking and walk the final stretch.

Whatever you choose—bus, driver, or car hire—plan the first leg before you land. That small step saves time, avoids queues, and sets an easy tone for your Malta trip.

We’re local and happy to help. Book your Malta car rental or plan your route with us.

Summer in Malta is peak travel season. The island fills with cruise passengers, festivalgoers, and holidaymakers — and demand for taxis skyrockets. Many visitors are surprised when rides that seemed affordable in winter suddenly cost double in July or August.

That raises a fair question: is renting a car actually cheaper than relying on taxis during Malta’s busiest months? The short answer is that it often is — especially if you plan to explore beyond Valletta or take more than one trip per day. Let’s look at why.

Taxi Fares in Malta During Peak Season

Malta’s taxi and ride-hailing services (Bolt, Uber, eCabs) offer door-to-door convenience. They’re popular with tourists because they eliminate the stress of parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. But when demand surges in summer, so do the prices.

• A daytime trip from Ċirkewwa ferry terminal to Marsaxlokk can cost around €36–€45.
• A shorter route, like Dingli to Valletta, still comes in around €15.
• Even a quick ride from Attard to Malta International Airport averages €10–€15.

These fares don’t look too bad individually — until you add them up. A couple of daily rides for a week can easily push your transport spend past €200–€300, especially when prices climb at night, during festivals, or when cruise ships dock.

Locals have noticed it too. Over the past few summers, residents have reported higher average fares and longer waiting times due to a shortage of drivers. That means travelers not only pay more but sometimes wait longer than expected.

For single trips or quick hops, taxis remain useful. But for visitors planning multiple excursions — to beaches, historic towns, or Gozo — the costs escalate quickly. That’s where car rentals start to make more sense.

Car Rental Prices in Malta During Peak Season

Unlike taxi fares, car rental prices in Malta stay relatively stable — even in summer. Rates do rise slightly with demand, but they remain affordable compared to other Mediterranean destinations. On average:

• Economy cars: €15–€25 per day, €100–€150 per week
• SUVs and family cars: €30–€45 per day
• Luxury vehicles: €80+ per day

Fuel adds a modest cost (usually €1.40–€1.80 per liter), but with Malta’s short driving distances, a full week’s worth of exploring often uses less than €40 in petrol.

Even if you factor in insurance and parking, a rental usually works out cheaper than taking multiple taxis each day — and you gain complete flexibility.

Real-World Cost Comparisons

To make it clear, let’s compare a few scenarios:

Couple visiting Malta for 3 days in July

• Taxis: 2–3 rides per day, €15–€25 each → €90–€225 total
• Car Rental: €20/day x 3 + fuel (€20) → ~€80 total

Family of four visiting for a week

• Taxis: 3–4 rides per day, €20–€30 each → €420–€840 total
• Car Rental: €150/week + €40 fuel → ~€190 total

In both cases, taxis are only cheaper if you take one or two short rides in central areas. But for families, groups, or anyone who wants to see more than Valletta and Sliema, renting quickly becomes the better deal.

Hidden Costs and Trade-Offs

It’s not just about money — it’s about convenience. Taxis can leave you waiting during high-demand times, while a rental puts you in control. On the flip side, rentals require navigating traffic and finding parking, which can be tricky in Valletta and Mdina.

For most tourists, the real “hidden cost” of relying on taxis isn’t just surge pricing — it’s missed opportunities. Without your own car, reaching hidden beaches, countryside villages, or Gozo’s less-traveled corners becomes difficult or time-consuming.

Local Advice: When Renting Wins

As locals, we’ve seen both sides. Taxis are fine for a single night out or a quick transfer, but during Malta’s busy season, renting is almost always the smarter choice if you:

• Plan to explore more than one destination per day
• Are traveling with family or in a group
• Want to visit Gozo or rural areas without long bus rides
• Value flexibility and time as much as saving money

Final Thoughts

So, is a rental car cheaper than taxis during Malta’s peak season? In most cases, yes. Unless your trip is short and limited to central areas, renting gives you more value, comfort, and freedom — often for less than you’d spend on taxis.

👉 Compare economy, SUV, and luxury car rentals in Malta, or reach out with your questions. As locals, we know the market and can help you choose the right option for your trip.

When planning a trip to Malta, one of the first questions visitors ask is: what’s the best way to get around, and how much will it cost? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Malta is small, but transport costs can add up quickly depending on your choices.

From budget-friendly buses to quick taxis and flexible car rentals, each option has pros, cons, and price points. Let’s break it down with real numbers so you can budget smarter and choose the transport that fits your trip.

Explore Malta’s transportation choices and compare costs in one place.

Bus Travel in Malta: Affordable & Extensive

Malta’s bus network (Tal-Linja) is the cheapest way to get around, and it covers almost every town, village, and beach. A single daytime fare is €2.50 (Summer), valid for up to two hours, while night services cost €3. This makes buses a good option for short hops, especially if you’re based in central areas like Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s.

For longer stays, multi-use cards bring the cost down further:

• 12-Journey Tallinja Card: €19, and the journeys can be shared among travelers.
• 7-Day Explore Flex Card: €25 for unlimited travel within a week.

On paper, buses are unbeatable for price. But there are trade-offs: routes can be slow, packed in summer, and sometimes unreliable.

A trip that looks like 20 minutes on the map can stretch to an hour with multiple stops and heavy traffic. If you only need transport a couple of times per day, buses are fine. But for travelers on a tight schedule, waiting around can eat into your sightseeing time.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Quick but Costly

For door-to-door service, taxis and ride-hailing apps like eCabs and Bolt are widely available. They’re faster than buses, especially at night or when heading to places not well connected by public transport.

But the convenience comes at a price:

• Short city rides typically range €10–€15.
• Trips across the island, such as Valletta to Mellieħa, can cost €30–€40 one way.
• Fares often increase at night or during peak demand.

Taxis make sense if you’re only planning a couple of rides during your stay, or if you’re traveling in a group and can split the fare. For solo travelers or those moving around daily, however, the costs stack up quickly — often more than renting a car for the same period.

Car Rental Costs in Malta: Freedom with Fair Prices

Despite what many travelers assume, Malta is one of the cheapest places in Europe to rent a car. Prices vary depending on the season and vehicle type, but here’s a realistic range:

• Economy cars: €12–€25 per day, or €70–€150 per week
• SUVs & larger vehicles: €30–€45 per day, or €200–€300 per week
• Luxury & premium options: €80–€100+ per day

Rates tend to be lowest in winter and shoulder seasons, while July and August see the highest demand and prices. Booking early is the best way to secure a fair rate.

Keep in mind that insurance and deposits can add to upfront costs. Many travelers choose full coverage (SCDW/FDW) for peace of mind, especially if they’re not used to left-hand driving or Malta’s narrow village streets.

The key advantage of renting? Flexibility. With a car, you can fit multiple stops into a day, reach places buses don’t, and avoid paying taxi fares each time you move.

Real Travel Scenarios: 3-Day & 7-Day Cost Comparisons

To put it all together, here’s how the numbers play out in practice:

3-Day Stay for Two People

• Bus Only: €25 for a 7-day card each → €50 total (but slower, less flexible)
• Taxis/Ride-Hailing: 2–3 rides per day at €15–€20 → €90–€180 total
• Car Rental: €20/day + fuel (~€20) → ~€80 total (shared cost makes it even cheaper per person)

7-Day Stay for Two People

• Bus Only: €25 each for a weekly card → €50 total
• Taxis/Ride-Hailing: 2–3 rides per day at €15–€20 → €210–€350 total
• Car Rental: €150 weekly + fuel (~€50) → ~€200 total

👉 Notice how over a week, a rental often costs the same or less as taxis — but gives you far more freedom.

Which Option Offers the Best Value?

• Bus: Best for budget travelers staying in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s who don’t mind slower trips.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Convenient for occasional trips, groups who can split fares, or late-night rides.
• Car Rental: The sweet spot for families, couples, or anyone wanting to explore Gozo, beaches, and countryside without time limits.

In most cases, renting a car balances cost and convenience better than relying on buses or taxis — especially for trips longer than a couple of days.

Local Tips to Save on Transport in Malta

• Book rentals early in summer to avoid last-minute price spikes.
• Choose smaller cars — they’re cheaper, easier to park, and perfectly suited for Malta’s roads.
• Use park-and-ride facilities near Valletta and Mdina to skip parking stress.
• Mix and match: some visitors take buses for city days, then rent a car for day trips.

Travel Smarter with Local Advice

So, how much does it really cost to get around Malta? Public transport is cheap, taxis are handy but pricey, and car rentals strike the best balance of value and flexibility.

👉 As locals, we know the roads, the parking spots, and the quirks of the island. If you’re planning a trip, compare economy, SUV, and luxury car rentals in Malta, or contact us directly with your questions. We’ll help you find the right option for your itinerary.