How to Plan a Trip to Malta - Malta Travel Guide
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta offers a captivating tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. This small archipelago boasts a rich heritage that unfolds across its ancient temples, medieval fortifications, and charming villages.
Malta is renowned for its historical significance, and is often referred to as an open-air museum due to its wealth of archaeological sites. From the intricate Megalithic Temples, older than the Egyptian pyramids, to the grandeur of Valletta's baroque architecture, and fortified medieval cities that preserve the legacy of the Knights of St. John, every corner of the island holds a chapter of its captivating past.
For travelers, Malta offers an extraordinary array of experiences that cater to a diverse range of interests. The crystalline waters surrounding the archipelago beckon adventurers for diving and snorkeling in captivating underwater landscapes. The allure of the Blue Grotto's brilliant blue waters and the idyllic beaches make this a haven for relaxation and exploration.
Beyond its natural beauty, the warmth of its people and the intricate mosaic of its cultural traditions add a unique flavor to every visit. From savoring local delicacies like pastizzi to partaking in lively village festas, travelers are invited to embrace the island's unique blend of past and present, creating unforgettable memories in this Mediterranean gem.
Table of contents
How to get to Malta
Best time to visit
How long to spend in Malta
Where to stay in Malta
What to do in Malta
Where to go on a first trip
Hotels and accommodation
Is Malta Expensive? Average travel costs
Paying for things and using credit cards
Transportation and how to get around in Malta
Malta itineraries - from 3 days to 1 week
How to get to Malta
Malta International Airport. Photo: Enrique Íñiguez Rodríguez, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unless you’re coming from Sicily, there’s only one way to reach Malta: by plane. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get here.
Airlines and international connections
Malta International Airport (MLA) is the only airport in Malta and is located near the town of Luqa, about 8 kilometres (5 miles) southwest of the capital city, Valletta. The airport is small and only has one terminal.
Despite our small airport, Malta is well-connected to various international destinations and there are both direct and connecting flights through many major European hubs.
A comprehensive list of cities with direct flights to Malta can be found here: https://www.maltaimmigration.com/direct-flights.php. Numerous airlines operate flights to Malta, including major carriers like Air Malta, as well as various international airlines.
Transportation from the Airport
Transport options from MLA airport to various destinations on the island include taxis, private transfers, public buses, and car rentals. Taxis are available outside the terminal and can take you to your destination directly.
Public buses are an affordable option, with routes connecting the airport to various towns and villages around the island. The “X” bus is responsible for all routes from the airport. You can see routes and timetables here.
Best time to visit Malta
Malta is a bit of a year-round destination, so the best time to visit is completely based on what your interests are and what you’d like to see and do while here.
Ultimately, this island has something to offer at any time of year, so when you should visit really depends on you and your travel style.
Visiting in summer
Malta is best known for its beaches, beach clubs, nightlife, sun, and fun. As such, if your primary reason for coming here is to hit the beaches, the best time to be in Malta is summer, from the end of June to the middle of August. This period sees consistently sunny days and regular temperatures of 85 degree Fahrenheit and above (often a fair deal above that!).
Of the summer months, August should be approached cautiously, as it is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures and humidity reaching uncomfortable levels, as well as periodic thunderstorms.
Throughout the rest of the summer, the island comes alive with a diverse mix of people and cultures blending together from all over the world. There are an abundance of summertime festival for beer, wine, food, and dance, and Malta’s beach clubs, such as Café del Mar and Paceville, are buzzing with energy and excitement.
However, the downside of visiting during the summer months is overcrowding, as popular spots like the Medieval city of Mdina and our easier-to-reach beaches become super packed. Malta's sandy beaches are small compared to others in Europe, and thousands of people flock to the same beaches, causing a serious lack of space.
Likewise, the Blue Lagoon on Comino becomes so packed that it becomes almost impossible to move.
Spring and autumn
For those who are less interested in the beach and would rather spend their time exploring the island’s long history and delving into its heritage, either spring or autumn (March to June and September to November) would be the best time to visit.
The main advantages of traveling in Malta during these seasons are cooler weather and much fewer crowds. If you want good weather but don’t relish the idea of being surrounded by hordes of people, spring and fall are excellent times to be in Malta.
Even so, you’ll still find crowds at the island’s most famous sites such as Mdina, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Ggantija temples in Gozo. It’s just unavoidable.
Late winter/early spring
If you’re a hiker, enjoy exploring the countryside, and want a more rustic feel for your vacation, the end of winter and the beginning of spring would be the best time to visit.
While there are typically some storms in February, Malta’s winters are quite mild and there are still low levels of rainfall when compared with many other destinations (only about 470 mm of rainfall each year).
If your schedule is flexible, I’d suggest shooting for February to April, since Malta’s flora will be in full bloom during that period. There are some very well mapped out trails all over the island, which make for a lovely walking holiday.
How long to spend in Malta
A pretty easy mistake to make is looking at Malta’s small size and thinking it can all be covered in a single day. Whether you are a culture hunter looking to immerse yourself in local customs and traditions, you’re interested in Malta’s history, or even just simply want to enjoy a beach vacation and are looking to lounge in the sun for most of the day, one or two days is just not enough time.
Despite its size, Malta has a lot of offer and a lot to say.
3 days - the bare minimum
I would recommend a minimum of 3 days on the island, especially if you’re looking to enjoy the sun and nightlife. 3 days gives you enough time to check out a few beaches or hop on a boat trip during the day, and take in some of the many bars and clubs at night.
Keep an eye on events being posted on Facebook and other platforms, which promote a variety of summer raves, parties, and the like.
3 days would also be the minimum stay that I’d recommend for anyone interested in exploring the island’s culture and history. A 3-day itinerary can be organized in a way that will have you seamlessly traveling through Malta’s long history.
Starting with the Neolithic period, you can visit Ħaġar Qim and Ġgantija temples. For Medieval times, stop off at the ancient Capital of Mdina, and then delve into the history of the Knight’s of St. John. Following that, you’ll discover how Malta changed from colonial times up through today, while wandering the streets of Valetta and the harborside town of Birgu.
4-6 days - for a more comprehensive trip
For a more comprehensive experience, and for those who desire to extend their itinerary over a few additional days, I would recommend a visit lasting between 4 to 6 days. This timeframe lets you combine everything mentioned above (beaches, culture, and history), or to simply explore the island at a more leisurely pace.
With 4 to 6 days, you’ll have time to discover the lovely cities of Valletta, Mdina, and Birgu, make visits to artisanal markets in the Ta’ Qali crafts village, take a trip to the neighboring island of Gozo, and take advantage of the Malta’s outstanding sea and coastline at the Blue Grotto and Comino’s Blue Lagoon.
Where to stay in Malta - best bases
The right base in Malta will be entirely dictated by the type of holiday experience you’re looking for. Here’s what to consider, and a few options:
Mellieha, St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra - for beach lovers
If you’re looking to hit the beach, staying on the north side of Malta would be ideal. The towns of Mellieha, St. Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, and Qawra are your best bets in this area.
You’ll find a number of all-inclusive resorts in these areas, as well as hotels and apartments situated right by the beach or within close proximity.
St. Julian’s - for nightlife & partying
For those coming to Malta to party, I would strongly suggest staying in St. Julians. The town has a great concentration of bars and it’s also the home of Malta’s clubbing district, ‘Paceville’.
Alternatively, if you want to be near the action but not right in the middle of it, Sliema and Gzira are also good options.
Valletta (the capital), Sliema, Birgu, Senglea, and Bormla - for history & culture
If you’ve come to Malta to discover our history, culture, cuisine, etc., my recommendation would be to base yourself in the east-central part of the island, which would be the harbor area and some of the surrounding towns and villages.
The Grand Harbor cities and towns of Valletta (the capital), Birgu, Senglea, and Bormla, as well as Sliema, further down the coast, are all very well connected to both the north and south of the island and are also economic and social hubs.
Sliema and to an extent Valletta, would be more of a taste of ‘modern Malta’, whereas somewhere like Birgu, with its close, intimate streets paved with stone, will give you the feeling of having stepped back in time, into the 17th and 18th centuries.
What to do in Malta
As mentioned above, Malta has much more to offer than just beaches and the coast (which are indeed spectacular though). Inhabited since ancient times, and having been at the crossroads of many different civilizations over the centuries, Malta is a fascinating place to explore from a cultural, historical, and gastronomic perspective.
Any trip here should focus on some of those things in addition to the beaches.
Learn about our history and tour ancient cities and monuments
Explore Malta's rich history by visiting ancient temples like Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra
Marvel at the grandeur of the fortified city of Valletta
Delve into the medieval past of Mdina
Learn about the legacy of the Knights of St. John at St. John's Co-Cathedral and explore the historic Grand Master's Palace
Check out our Megalithic Temples, such as Ġgantija, a UNESCO World Heritage site older than the pyramids
Enjoy agriculture tours and food tastings
Visit local farms to witness traditional practices and sample fresh produce. I personally recommend Diar il-Bniet, which offers tours of their estate and multiple tastings of local food. The tour can also include a 3-course meal at their restaurant.
Try pastizzi (savory pastries), found everywhere on the island in smalls shops called “pastezzeria”.
Have fresh seafood, the best of which you’ll find in the Marsaxlokk fishing village
Sample local wines, found in restaurants everywhere, or at various wine estates. Meridiana is a great one that offers tours.
Don't miss out on olive oil tastings
Try the famous Maltese goat cheese, Ġbejniet
Visit the beaches and go on a boat trip
Embrace the coastline with leisurely beach days on Golden Bay or Għadira
Snorkel in hidden coves like St. Peter’s Pool, kayak in Għajn Tuffieħa, and engage in water sports like scuba-diving with pro instructors at PADI
Take boat trips to the captivating Blue Grotto and enjoy sailing charters to nearby islands, such as Comino and Gozo
Charter a private boat with Sailing Charters Malta, and just bask in the sun, swim in azure waters, and experience Malta's natural beauty from the sea
Do some hiking
Explore the Dingli Cliffs for panoramic views
Trek through scenic countryside in Buskett Gardens or the Girgenti Valley
Wander along coastal trails like the Gozotan trail of Xlendi Bay to Sanap Cliffs
Witness the picturesque landscapes of Gozo, including the remarkable Inland Sea at Dwejr
Experience our excellent nightlife
Enjoy a night out in Paceville, St. Julian's, known for its energetic atmosphere and bustling clubs.
Listen to live music on Valletta’s Merchant Street
Sip cocktails by the sea at Café del Mar
Dance the night away in the endless array of clubs. Havana Club and Bar Native are two fun choices.
Places to visit on a first trip
1 & 2. Mdina & Rabat
St. Paul Co-Cathedral in Mdina. Photo: Berthold Werner, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sitting in the heart of Malta, Mdina and Rabat are two must-visit destinations and they are justifiably listed on every “Top 5/6/7 things to do in Malta!” list. Walk through the charming streets of Rabat and observe the daily life of a typical Maltese town, as you approach the fortified walls of Mdina.
Partly a Medieval town, Mdina was later embellished with fantastic Baroque architecture in the 18th century, in part by the Knights of St. John. It is known as the Silent City, and its winding narrow streets and hushed surroundings will transport you back in time.
3. Valletta
Photo: Bellina 09, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mdina is the old capital city, while Valletta is the “new”. Established by the Knights of St. John, the city was developed in the late 1500s and was built to rival the greatest metropolitan cities in Europe at the time, such as Venice and Naples.
Today, it is the heart of Malta’s economic and social scene, with great bars, good shopping, and exceptional restaurants. A word to the wise though: nothing comes cheap in Valletta, so prepare to spend some money when visiting.
The city also provides a feast for architecture lovers, with magnificent facades such as the Auberge de Castille and several buildings along Republic street, the main road running through the centre of Valletta.
It’s a lively and boisterous city, and there are always events happening, like wine and music festivals, so be sure to keep an eye out!
4. Blue Grotto
Situated along the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is characterized by a series of sea caves carved into the dramatic limestone cliffs. The name "Blue Grotto" is aptly derived from the mesmerizing blue hues that illuminate the water within the caves, a result of sunlight filtering through the underwater passages.
To experience this phenomena, take one of the many boat tours on offer, which allow visitors to venture into the caves and witness the interplay of light and water firsthand.
5. Hagar Qim
Photo: Hamelin de Guettelet, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Hagar Qim temples, dating back over 5,000 years, are some of the world's oldest free-standing religious structures. These limestone blocks are carved and arranged, representing a remarkable feat of construction from before modern machinery. The temples align with astronomical phenomena, and sunlight illuminates specific areas during solstices.
These temples offer insights into Malta's prehistoric inhabitants' religious and architectural practices, and showcase Malta's rich archaeological heritage. A trip here is a chance for modern visitors to connect with a distant past and admire the craftsmanship of an ancient civilization.
6. Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk village, nestled along Malta's southeastern coast, exudes a charming and picturesque ambiance. Known for its fishing traditions and colorful boats, Marsaxlokk is a quintessential Mediterranean fishing village that showcases the authentic essence of Maltese culture.
On Sundays, the village comes alive with the renowned Marsaxlokk Fish Market, a great spectacle where fishermen showcase their daily catch. Fresh seafood of all kinds is displayed in a lively and aromatic setting, drawing locals and tourists alike. This is the perfect place to sample and purchase some of the freshest fish you’ll find anywhere.
7. Golden Bay
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Common. Cropped from original
Golden Bay, located on Malta's northwest coast, is a paradise with golden sands, azure waters, and natural beauty. The sandy beach offers sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports for both leisurely and adventurous visitors.
The crystal-clear waters also make it an ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling, and other aquatic activities. The bay's gentle gradient and calm waters mean that the beach is very suitable for families and individuals of all ages to enjoy the ocean safely.
8. Gozo
Photo: 自由馴鹿 (ZiYouXunLu), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gozo, the smaller but equally captivating sister island of Malta, is a hidden gem in the heart of the Mediterranean. Renowned for its tranquil ambiance, lush landscapes, and rich history, Gozo offers a distinct and enchanting escape from the modern world. As you step onto Gozo's shores, you're greeted by a sense of serenity and authenticity (yes, more so than on Malta).
The island's pace of life is leisurely, and it invites visitors to unwind and immerse themselves slowly in its natural beauty. The countryside here is characterized by rolling hills, fertile valleys, and terraced landscapes that have been cultivated for centuries.
Gozo’s coastline is dotted with small coves, picturesque beaches, and hidden swimming spots. Ramla Bay, known for its reddish-gold sands, is a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking relaxation by the sea.
Gozo is steeped in history and culture, and hosts lots of historic sites and charming villages. The Citadel, a fortified city perched atop a hill in the capital city of Victoria (Rabat), offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Gozo's past.
Quaint villages like Xaghra, Gharb, and Qala exude traditional charm, with lovely town squares, old churches, and narrow winding streets.
Hotels and accommodation in Malta
Luxury 5-star hotels
The Phoenicia Malta, Grand Hotel Excelsior located in Valletta, The Hilton – found in St. Julians, as well as the Kempinski Hotel, and Ta’ Ċenċ in Gozo.
Boutique hotels
These are small, stylish hotels that are typically found in city centers and urban areas. In Malta, these hotels are housed in old buildings and palazzos, and they often have a great ambiance.
The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux and Palazzo Bifora are both found in Mdina, Malta’s medieval city. Casa Ellul and Domus Zamitello are both fine examples of unique boutique hotels found in Valletta.
All-inclusive resorts
Riviera Hotel and Spa, Seabank Resort and Spa, and the Dolmen Hotel are three resorts to consider. In general, all-inclusives are typically located in the north of the island, within close proximity to some of our best beaches.
Budget hotels
Low-cost hotels are dotted all over the island, and are essentially all 3-stars or lower. Several can be found in the northern towns of Bugibba, Qawra, and St. Paul’s Bay, as well as in Sliema and St. Julians.
Short-let apartments
For apartment rentals, you’ll find options on several real estate websites such as https://www.quicklets.com.mt/short-let-malta, https://www.simonmamo.com, https://remax-malta.com/letting/holiday-rentals-in-malta, and Airbnb.
Hostels
Although not a very popular type of accommodation in Malta, there are still a few hostels here, which may be convenient if you’re on a tight budget. These include Inhawi Hostel, Hostel Malti, and the unique Two Pillows Boutique Hostel.
Is Malta expensive? Average travel costs
Hotels
Hotels can cost anywhere from €35 to €400 per night depending on your preferences. During the peak tourist season, which is typically during the summer months of June to August, prices tend to be higher due to increased demand. On the other hand, you might find slightly lower rates during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
Meals
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant will likely cost between €15 and €30 per person. You can expect a bill of €30 to include a starter, a plate of pasta, a beverage, and maybe a dessert. A bottle of wine and something from the meat section of the menu raise that price, however.
Gourmet restaurants in Malta cost between €50 and €150 per person. A quick note regarding water – our tap water is safe to drink, but most of the locals do not enjoy the taste, so ordering tap water at a restaurant is very rarely done.
Alcohol
This will greatly vary according to the type of establishment from where you purchase alcohol. Typically a pint of beer costs upwards of €3, and a shot of basic spirit with a soft drink mixer will cost €3.50 or more.
More specialized drinks like cocktails or craft beer can cost €7 and up. A glass of house wine in a restaurant might range from €3 to €5.
Bottles of wine for purchase at supermarkets or wine shops start from around €5 for budget options and go up to €20 or more for higher-quality wines. The legal age for buying and drinking alcohol in Malta is 17.
Car rental
Rental prices vary based on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the rental company. Additional costs to consider include fuel, insurance upgrades, and potential charges for late returns or damages.
For a 6-day trip, something like a mini sedan, such as a Citroen C1 or similar, can cost somewhere in the region of $50 total (approx. $8 per day). A compact sedan with automatic transmission may cost around $75 (approx. $12.5 per day). A midsize SUV such as the Peugeot 3008 can cost up to $175 (approx. $29 per day).
Taxi rides
There are several taxi companies and ride-sharing apps in Malta, so prices will fluctuate according to your preference of company and time of day that you’re traveling (prices rise during peak hours and at night).
That being said, a taxi ride from Malta International Airport to the capital city of Valletta should cost around €15 to €25. A taxi from the airport to popular tourist areas like St. Julian's or Sliema could range from €20 to €35. Short trips within a city will start from around €10, depending on the distance.
Public Transport
For public buses, a single journey within a specific zone (e.g., Valletta to Sliema) costs €2.00. The unlimited 7-day Explore Card costs €21 for adults and €15 for children.
The fast ferry to Gozo costs €7.50 for a one-way ticket, or €9.50 for a return if you book online. The ferry leaves from Valletta and typically takes 45 minutes to arrive at the port of Mgarr in Gozo. Passengers cannot travel with their vehicles.
However, if you would like to go to Gozo with your rental car, you can do so with the Gozo Channel ferry, which leaves from Cirkewwa (north of the island). The standard car and driver fare is €15.70, and then €4.65 is the passenger fare.
Entrance fees
Entrance fees typically cost between €5 and €15 per person, with some exceptions such as the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum which costs €35 per person. The waiting list is also quite long for this site, as well as other popular attractions like St. John’s co-Cathedral.
So, I would recommend booking your tickets in advance in order to avoid any disappointment, unless you’ve reserved a guided tour which includes entrance tickets.
Guided tours
Big group tours (40+ people) will likely cost upward of €30 per person, with a slight price increase for a Gozo tour. Group walking tours in cities like Valletta or Mdina might start from around €10 to €20 per person for a basic tour.
For private tours, the cost will of course depend on where you’re going, what’s included, and how many people you’re traveling with. But here are some rough estimates:
A full-day tour of Valletta, Mdina, Birgu can cost around €400, and a Valletta and Mdina half-day tour should cost somewhere around €275. A ‘themed’ short walking tour (2 hours duration) will usually be approximately €150.
Paying for things and using credit cards
Using a credit card
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Malta, but it’s still advisable to carry some cash, as many smaller local stores may have a minimum spend policy or a complete ‘no card’ policy. More ‘off-the-beaten-path’ places will often prefer cash as well.
ATMs are widely available throughout Malta with several local international banks operating on the islands, such as Bank of Valletta, APS Bank, HSBC, BNF, and Credit Europe Bank.
Tipping
It is customary to tip in a restaurant if you feel the service has been adequate. There aren’t any set rules for the amount to tip but as an example, on a €50 bill, you might tip around €4.
It is not customary to tip in bars or cafes.
Transportation & how to get around in Malta
Renting a car and driving in Malta
If you don’t mind driving, renting a car is always my recommendation for how to get around on the island. Having your own car will mean that you can easily explore the entire island at your own pace, and will never have to worry about bus timetables, expensive taxis, or inconvenient routes.
Numerous international and local car rental companies operate in Malta. You’ll find all the well-known international companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt, along with several local providers.
Before getting into the details, here’s the most important thing to know about driving in Malta: we drive on the left, like in the UK!
Rental requirements & what to expect
To rent a car in Malta, you typically need to be at least 21 years old, but the age requirements may vary depending on the company. For instance, Hertz requires a minimum of 25 years of age, but they’ll still allow rentals to anyone 21+ as long as you have a driver’s license and pay a “young driver” surcharge of around €11 per day.
For all non-European Union visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, even if the rental companies don’t require it. The IDP translates your national license into a number of languages and is a widely accepted (and often required) way to validate your driver’s license when traveling interntionally.
All sorts of car options are available, from compact options to larger family vehicles and SUVs, and both manual and automatic transmissions are easy to find.
Basic insurance coverage is usually included in the rental price, but additional options like collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection are offered for extra protection. Many credit cards offer their own insurance as long as you make the booking with that card. Regardless, it's essential to understand the coverage terms before making a decision.
Most companies also provide the rental vehicle with a full tank of fuel, and you're expected to return it with a full tank as well. Fuel stations are easily accessible throughout Malta.
Driving in Malta
No matter where you are, driving in a new country can be stressful. However, having a car often equates to a better trip, and that is certainly the case in Malta, so this is a stress worth enduring.
So, if you’re planning to rent a car here, it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect. Let’s jump in:
If you’re coming from a country that drives on the right-hand side of the road, here’s the first thing to know: we drive on the left here, like in the UK. If this isn’t something you’re used to, prepare for a hectic first ten minutes!
When driving here, general tip is to always keep the pavement, curb, or sidewalk on the side of the passenger. This means the pavement should be on the left (passenger side) and the road lines on the right (driver side). This is usually quite helpful.
Road conditions: the Maltese government has been working to improve road and infrastructure standards on the islands, and we have quite good-quality roads in high-traffic areas.
However, on less-traveled or more out of the way roads, you should be prepared for lots of potholes and very narrow lanes. You will almost certainly be shocked at the tiny size of some of our “two-way” roads in the smaller towns and villages. In these areas, it’s crucial to drive slowly and give way safely, especially in the countryside, where roads become narrower and less car-friendly.
Get ready for a few tight squeezes!
Roundabouts: Malta does not typically have intersections, as our urban planners have opted for roundabouts instead. These are no different than those that you would find anywhere else in the world, but there’s one major catch: we drive on the left here (like in the UK), so you need to be very, very mindful of which direction you take the roundabout.
When turning towards a roundabout, always give way to traffic coming from the right.
Driving style
Maltese drivers are known for their unpredictable driving style, especially during rush hours from 8:00 to 10:00 AM and 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Traffic can be hectic, leading to impatience, shortcuts, and drivers forgetting their indicators.
To ensure a (relatively) smooth driving experience, you should always use turn signals, drive according to speed limits (80 km/h on open roads and 50 km/h in built-up areas), drive in the left lane (only using the right lane for overtaking), and be decisive in their directions.
Navigation systems like Google maps are quite helpful, but intersecting roads where you may be turning are often hard to see until the very last second, meaning you’ll probably go past them a lot of the time.
Maltese roads lack highways or motorways, making it easier to make wrong turns or miss them. If you make a wrong turn or miss one, always just continue on, as you can double back on yourself and try again in no time.
Traffic limited areas
Traffic is limited into Valletta, the capital city, via the CVA (Controlled Vehicular Access) system. Vehicles that want to enter the city centre of Valletta have to pay at certain times, with the cost being dependent on the length of time in the zone.
However, electric vehicles can enter the city centre for free, and there is no charge for vehicles accessing the zone after 14:00 on weekdays and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays.
Since the city can be somewhat challenging to navigate anyway and parking in Valletta is VERY limited, I suggest heading to Floriana, the town outside the walls of Valletta and parking there, either in a free spot or in a paid public car park. Some car parks are well regulated and you will be able to pay by card, but quite a few are controlled by a car park attendant, who is a government licensed employee, and in this case payment is done in cash.
Valletta also has a coloured parking box system, so for your information: white parking spaces – for everyone, all the time; green parking spaces – only for Valletta residents, all the time; Blue parking spaces – reserved for residents from 18:00-06:00, available to the public outside of these house.
In other localities you will typically just find a number of white spaces, meaning feel free to park here, or yellow spaces which means that this would be a reserved spot. In certain localities like St. Julians parking spots come with a timer, meaning you can only park somewhere for, say, 120 minutes. So keep an eye out for these signs.
If you are staying in a hotel, you are typically allowed to park in the hotel’s allotted parking zone without any additional charge.
In the case of Mdina, no vehicle has access at any time of day, except for residents of the city.
Traveling by bus
If you don’t want to rent a car, the public bus network is quite comprehensive, and you’ll be able to get around most of the island by bus. Buses trips are reasonably efficient and there are routes all throughout Malta, with connections in all major hubs, destinations, and places of interest.
The bus can definitely be a budget-friendly option, as the fare for a one-way daytime ticket is €2, while it rises to €3 in the evening. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver when you board the bus.
Another option is to purchase the “7-day Explore Card”, which allows for unlimited bus trips, giving you the freedom to hop on or off the buses at anytime and explore the island at your own pace. The card costs €21 for adults and €15 for children, and can be purchased from a number of retailers listed here.
For real-time bus information, I suggest downloading the tallinja app from Google Play for Android or the App Store for IOS.
Taking taxis and ride share apps
Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands, especially in busy areas like airports, ferry terminals, and popular tourist spots. You can also book taxis by phone or through your hotel reception.
Taxis in Malta are generally metered, and the rates are set by the government. The fare structure includes a base rate plus distance traveled and waiting time. Always make sure the meter is turned on when you start your journey.
Taxis accept both cash and card payments. However, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for shorter rides.
Licensed taxis in Malta are easily identifiable by their white color and the TAXI sign on the roof. The drivers should have proper identification and documentation.
I would personally recommend using alternative options such as ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Uber, as the official “white cabs”, as they are known locally, tend to be more expensive and of a lower quality. They are typically avoided by locals.
3 popular ride-hailing options in Malta are Bolt, eCabs, and Uber. Uber was made available here Malta in 2023. As it stands, Bolt and eCabs offer the option to book a cab in advance as well as hailing one on the spot, while Uber does not yet allow you to book a ride in advance. Uber also doesn’t currently hallow for customers to pay in cash, while Bolt and eCabs both permit this.
All 3 companies provide the option to book a minivan and seat up to 8 people, and Bolt even offers an electric compact vehicle – a 3-wheeler that takes a maximum of one person per ride.
Malta itineraries - from 3 to 7 days
3-day Malta highlights itinerary
Day 1: Valletta and Three Cities
Day 2: Blue Grotto, Hagar Qim Temples, Marsaxlokk, Rabat & Mdina
Day 3: Gozo
4-day Malta itinerary
Day 1: Valletta and Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, Bormla)
Day 2: Mdina, Mosta Dome, Rabat, San Anton Gardens and Ta’ Qali Crafts Village
Day 3: Hagar Qim Temple, Blue Grotto, Tarxien, Ghar Dalam, and Marsaxlokk
Day: 4: Gozo
5-day Malta itinerary - cities, coastal beauty, and history
Day 1: Valletta and Three Cities
Day 2: Blue Grotto, Hagar Qim, Marsaxlokk (Half day)
Day 3: Comino and Blue lagoon
Day 4: Mdina, Mosta Dome, Rabat, San Anton Gardens and Ta’ Qali Crafts Village
Day 5: Gozo
7-day Malta comprehensive itinerary
Day 1: Valletta and Three Cities
Day 2: Blue Grotto, Hagar Qim, Marsaxlokk (Half day)
Day 3: Nature hike – Buskett, Girgenti valley, Siġġiewi
Day 4: Comino and Blue lagoon
Day 5: Mdina, Mosta Dome, Rabat, San Anton Gardens and Ta’ Qali Crafts Village
Day 6: Gozo
Day 7: Mellieħa, Għajn Tuffieħa, and Golden Bay
