Malta is a compact island nation, but don’t let its size fool you. Deciding whether to rent a car or rely on buses, taxis, and tours can shape your entire trip.
Some visitors love the freedom of exploring hidden bays and historic villages on their own schedule. Others find driving on the left side of the road and battling Valletta’s parking enough to skip the rental counter altogether.
So, do you really need a car in Malta? The answer is: it depends on your plans, pace, and priorities. Let’s break down the key points.
Getting Around Malta Without a Car
It’s technically possible to explore Malta without driving, but it does come with trade-offs. The island’s bus network connects most towns, villages, and beaches, and weekly passes are inexpensive. Ferries between Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities offer a scenic option for short trips, and ride-hailing apps like eCabs and Bolt can help fill the gaps when buses run late or less frequently.
That said, these alternatives aren’t always practical. Buses can be slow, crowded, and unpredictable in peak season, often zig-zagging through multiple towns before reaching your stop. Taxis and ride-hailing are convenient, but costs add up quickly if you’re taking several trips per day. And while Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s are walkable hubs, limiting yourself to these areas means missing Malta’s best beaches, historic villages, and hidden coves.
For many visitors, skipping a rental works only if you’re content with a narrower itinerary. If your goal is to see the island at your own pace, a car is the smarter choice.
Why Renting a Car in Malta Can Be Worth It
For travelers who want to see more than the main tourist trail, renting a car is a game-changer. With a car, you set your own pace and avoid waiting in the heat for connections.
A rental opens up access to places like:
- Dingli Cliffs for dramatic coastal views.
- Marsaxlokk fishing village and surroundings.
- Mellieħa Bay and Golden Bay for beach days.
- Mdina and Rabat for history without the bus crowds.
Families, groups, and anyone on a tight itinerary often find a car the most efficient way to explore. And if you’re planning a trip to Gozo, a rental makes the ferry crossing smoother and lets you see more of the island in less time.
Challenges of Driving in Malta
Of course, renting isn’t without drawbacks. Malta drives on the left-hand side, which can be stressful for visitors used to the opposite. Narrow village streets and frequent roundabouts take getting used to, and summer traffic can be heavy near popular resorts.
Parking is another factor. Valletta and Mdina restrict vehicle access, and public car parks fill up quickly. In busy towns, finding a spot often requires patience. If you’re only staying in one of the main hubs and plan to visit a handful of attractions, relying on buses and taxis may be easier than navigating traffic yourself.
When a Car Rental in Malta Makes the Most Sense
Whether you need a car really depends on your trip style:
- Exploring Gozo – Bus service on Malta’s sister island is limited, so a rental is the easiest way to see multiple villages, beaches, and viewpoints in one day.
- Family Travel – Parents with kids often prefer the flexibility of driving, especially for carrying beach gear or moving between attractions without long waits.
- Short Stays – If you only have a few days and want to cover more than Valletta and Mdina, a rental helps you maximize sightseeing.
- Rural Adventures – For hidden coves, countryside drives, and remote temples, buses don’t always get you there. A car does.
What Other Tourists Say
Not sure who to believe? Here’s what real visitors share on travel forums:
- “If you’re in Gozo, renting a car is worth it. But in Malta’s main towns, parking can be a nightmare.”
- “The buses work, but they can be slow and packed in summer. With a car, we saw twice as much in a day.”
- “Driving on the left was strange at first, but after a couple of hours we got used to it. Definitely glad we rented.”
These mixed experiences highlight the truth: your comfort level with driving, and where you plan to stay, should guide your choice.
Tips for Renting a Car in Malta
If you decide to book, keep these tips in mind:
- Automatic vs Manual – Manual cars are cheaper, but automatics are easier if you’re not used to left-hand driving.
- Parking Hacks – Use park-and-ride lots near Valletta and Mdina, then explore on foot.
- Book Early in Summer – July and August rentals sell out fast; prices rise the closer you get.
- Check Insurance Carefully – Look beyond CDW and consider full coverage for peace of mind.
- Size Matters – Smaller cars are best for Malta’s narrow streets and tight parking.
Do You Need a Car in Malta?
For most tourists, renting a car in Malta is worth it if you want freedom, flexibility, and access to Gozo or rural spots. If you’re only planning to stay in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s and don’t mind slower travel, buses and ferries will work.
In the end, it depends on your style: explorers, families, and road trip lovers will get more out of a rental. City hoppers and tour-goers may not need one.
For most tourists, renting a car in Malta is worth it if you want freedom, flexibility, and access to Gozo or rural spots. If you’re only planning to stay in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s and don’t mind slower travel, buses and ferries will work.
👉 Ready to explore Malta on your own schedule? As locals who know the market, the roads, and the travel quirks inside out, we can help you choose the right vehicle for your trip. Compare our economy, SUV, and luxury car rentals in Malta, or simply reach out with any questions — we’re here to guide you.
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