Is it easy to drive in Malta? The short answer is yes—if you know what to expect and plan a little before you set off. Malta is one of the easiest countries in Europe to explore by car.
The island is small enough that you can cross it in about an hour, the roads are safe, and signs are in English. Still, like any new destination, there are quirks you should understand so your experience is stress-free from the moment you pick up your rental.
Driving in Malta – The Basics
The first thing visitors need to know is that cars in Malta drive on the left-hand side of the road, a legacy from the country’s years under British rule. Most rental cars are right-hand drive to suit this system, which feels natural if you are used to driving in the UK or Australia. Left-hand drive cars are legal too, but they’re less common and can feel awkward if you’re not used to Malta’s narrow streets.
Despite its compact size, Malta offers a variety of driving experiences. Busy urban centers like Valletta and Sliema are full of traffic and tight parking spots, while coastal roads reward you with incredible views.
If it’s your first time driving abroad, it can help to have a passenger beside you to assist with directions, lane checks, and navigating roundabouts. But overall, getting around by car is straightforward, especially compared with larger European cities.
Road Conditions in Malta
Malta’s main roads are well maintained, connecting the airport, major towns, and popular beaches. These routes are smooth and easy to navigate, with clear signage and consistent speed limits.
Once you venture beyond these main arteries, however, conditions change. Rural roads can be narrow and uneven, and in some areas you may come across potholes that demand slower driving.
If you plan to explore Gozo, Malta’s sister island, be prepared for less consistent road quality. The main routes are fine, but smaller roads in the countryside often require extra care.
Driving slowly and keeping an eye out for sharp edges or uneven patches is the safest approach, especially since a careless bump into a pothole could lead to a puncture.
That said, most visitors find driving in Malta safe and manageable. As long as you pay attention on rural stretches and stay patient in busy towns, you’ll have no trouble covering the island comfortably.
Traffic in Malta – What to Expect
Traffic in Malta is usually manageable, but timing matters. During rush hour—between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. and again from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.— roads can become congested, especially around Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian’s. Outside of these windows, driving is far smoother and even relaxing.
Because Malta is a compact island, you won’t be stuck for hours like in larger cities, but you may find yourself creeping along for an extra 20–30 minutes if you travel during peak times.
Locals can also be a little impatient behind the wheel. Road rage is rare, but you may notice drivers leaning on the horn or squeezing past in narrow streets. Staying calm and letting faster drivers pass is the best approach.
Safety and Rules of the Road
Overall, Malta is a very safe place to drive. The speed limits are moderate—50-60 km/h in towns and villages, 80 km/h on open roads—and most drivers respect them. Road signs are clear and written in English, so visitors don’t face the language barrier that can make driving difficult elsewhere.
Roundabouts are common, and the rule is simple: give way to the traffic already inside. Parking can be a challenge in busy towns, but there are plenty of car parks and paid parking zones available if you plan ahead.
Scooters and pedestrians also share the road in tourist areas, so keep a watchful eye when driving through city centers.
Tips for Driving in Malta as a Visitor
If you’re not used to driving on the left-hand side, the adjustment may feel strange at first, but most visitors adapt quickly. Here are a few small tips that make a big difference:
- Have a passenger help with navigation or spotting turns if it’s your first time abroad.
- Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and directions.
- Choose a smaller economy car if you’ll be staying in Valletta, Sliema, or other areas with tight roads and limited parking.
- If exploring Gozo or the countryside, drive slowly and be mindful of potholes.
- Avoid rush hour if you can, and plan your sightseeing for early mornings or late afternoons.
These small considerations help make driving in Malta smooth, safe, and even enjoyable.
Final Verdict – Is It Easy to Drive in Malta?
Yes—driving in Malta is easy once you know what to expect. The island’s compact size, English signage, and relatively safe roads mean that getting around by car is far more convenient than relying on buses or taxis.
While traffic can be heavy during peak hours and rural roads sometimes need extra care, these challenges are minor compared to the flexibility a car gives you.
If you’re on holiday or want to explore beyond the main tourist areas, renting a car is one of the best decisions you can make in Malta. It allows you to set your own schedule, discover hidden beaches, visit historic towns, and see more of the island at your own pace.
Feel free to contact us if you’re unsure about anything related to renting a car for your trip—we’re always happy to help.
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