Getting around Malta is easier than it looks on a map.
The island is small, and you can reach most of the places visitors want to see without renting a car. But there is one important thing to understand:
Malta is small. Traffic isn’t.
A journey that looks short on the map can take much longer at busy times, especially around Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and the central part of the island.
So what’s the best way to get around Malta?
For most visitors, the answer is a combination of buses, ferries, walking and Bolt. A rental car can be useful too, but it isn’t automatically the easiest option.
This guide explains how Malta’s transport system works, what each option costs, and which combination makes the most sense for different types of trips.
Getting Around Malta at a Glance
| Transport | Best for | Main advantage | Main drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Most sightseeing | Affordable and extensive network | Traffic and delays |
| Ferry | Valletta, Sliema & Three Cities | Fast and scenic | Limited routes |
| Bolt | Short trips & evenings | Convenient door-to-door travel | More expensive than buses |
| Rental car | Remote beaches & flexible trips | Freedom | Traffic, parking and driving |
| Walking | Valletta & historic towns | Free and enjoyable | Heat, hills and distance |
| Taxi | Airport or planned transfers | Simple and direct | Usually more expensive |
Do You Need a Car in Malta?
For most visitors:
No.
You can have a very good Malta holiday without renting a car.
If you’re staying in Valletta, Sliema, the Three Cities or St Julian’s, you can combine buses, ferries, walking and Bolt for most of your trip.
A car becomes more useful if your plans involve remote beaches, rural areas, several stops in one day or places that are poorly connected by public transport.
And there’s another reason not to rent one automatically:
Parking.
Finding somewhere to leave a car can be much more annoying than getting there in the first place.
1. Buses – The Main Way to Get Around Malta
Malta’s public bus network covers the main tourist areas and connects Malta with Gozo.
For many visitors, the bus is all they need.
You can buy a ticket directly on the bus with cash, a contactless bank card or smartphone. Standard tickets are valid for two hours, allowing transfers during that period. Malta Public Transport also offers travel cards for visitors staying for several days.
How much do Malta buses cost?
The current published fares include:
- €2.50 for a summer day-route journey
- €2.00 for a winter day-route journey
- €3.00 for night routes and special services
- €3.00 for Tallinja Direct routes
- €3.50 for TD1
Standard tickets are valid for two hours.
Because fares and seasonal periods can change, check the official Malta Public Transport website shortly before your trip.
Is there a bus pass for tourists?
Yes.
The Explore Adult 7-Day card currently costs €25 and provides unlimited travel on day routes, night routes and selected special services. It does not cover Tallinja Direct routes.
There is also an Explore Flex option, including four or seven days of unlimited bus travel.
For occasional travellers, the 12 Single Day Journeys card costs €19 and can be shared between travellers.
How do you find the right bus?
The easiest option is to use the official tallinja app or Malta Public Transport’s journey planner.
The app is useful for checking:
- bus routes
- stops
- timetables
- journey options
- travel information
Don’t plan your day around a bus arriving at exactly the minute shown on the timetable, though.
Traffic can change everything.
2. The Biggest Malta Bus Tip: Allow Extra Time
Malta’s public transport is useful, but you need to be realistic about journey times.
The distance between two places may be short, while the actual journey takes considerably longer.
This is particularly noticeable during busy periods around the harbour and central Malta.
Malta International Airport itself warns that traffic can cause delays during peak periods, particularly around 07:00–09:00 and 16:30–18:30.
So if you have:
- a restaurant reservation,
- a ferry to catch,
- a boat trip,
- an airport departure,
- or a timed attraction,
leave yourself some breathing room.
On Malta, five extra minutes on Google Maps can easily turn into twenty in real life.
3. Ferries – One of Malta’s Best Transport Tricks
The ferry isn’t just something tourists use for the views.
It’s genuinely useful.
The most important harbour routes for visitors are:
- Valletta ↔ Sliema
- Valletta ↔ Three Cities
The current authorised adult fare is €1.50 one way or €2.80 return. Night fares are slightly higher.
Summer services currently run from early morning until midnight on Monday to Saturday, with a different Sunday/public holiday schedule. Timetables are subject to change.
Valletta to Sliema
If you’re staying in Sliema, the ferry is often the most pleasant way to reach Valletta.
Instead of sitting in traffic around the harbour, you cross the water and arrive directly in the city.
And the views are much better.
Valletta to the Three Cities
The ferry also connects Valletta with the Three Cities.
This is particularly useful if you’re visiting Birgu, Senglea or Cospicua.
If you’re staying in Kalkara, the harbour ferry can also be a useful part of your transport plan, although your exact accommodation location will determine which stop is most convenient.
4. Bolt – The Easy Option
Bolt is widely available in Malta and is particularly useful when public transport isn’t worth the hassle.
You can enter your destination in the app and see an upfront price estimate before ordering. Bolt also offers airport rides from Malta International Airport.
I would use Bolt when:
- you’re travelling with luggage,
- you’re travelling with children,
- you’re going somewhere poorly connected by bus,
- it’s late at night,
- you’re tired after a long day,
- or you’re travelling as a small group and can split the cost.
Bolt prices depend on distance, vehicle type and current conditions, so there isn’t much value in quoting a fixed „average price“.
Check the app. That’s the real price for your journey.
5. Malta Airport: How Do You Get to Your Accommodation?
Your first transport decision comes immediately after landing.
You have several options.
Public bus
Malta Public Transport operates several routes from the airport, including X routes and Tallinja Direct services. The bus stop is just outside the terminal, and tickets can also be purchased at the airport or onboard.
This is usually the cheapest option.
Bolt
Bolt operates at Malta International Airport and provides the pickup location through the app.
For couples or small groups with luggage, this can be a convenient compromise between a bus and a traditional taxi.
Taxi
Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the airport, with prepaid fixed-rate tickets available from the taxi booth in the Welcomers‘ Hall.
Airport shuttle
Malta Airport also lists an official shared hotel shuttle service serving destinations including Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s, Qawra, Buġibba and St Paul’s Bay.
My advice: if you’re arriving late or have several bags, pay for the convenience. After a flight, saving a few euros isn’t always worth an extra journey with luggage.
6. Walking – Don’t Underestimate It
Some parts of Malta are much better experienced on foot.
Valletta is the obvious example.
Many of the main sights are close together, and walking lets you discover small streets, cafés, churches and viewpoints that you might otherwise miss.
The Three Cities are another excellent area for walking.
So are parts of Mdina, Rabat and the waterfront towns.
The only problem is the weather.
A walking route that looks easy on a map can feel very different under the Mediterranean summer sun.
Walk early, take breaks and carry water.
7. Rental Cars – When They Actually Make Sense
A rental car is useful when you want freedom rather than convenience.
I’d consider one if you want to:
- explore remote beaches,
- visit several rural villages in one day,
- reach hiking locations away from major bus routes,
- explore the south and west independently,
- or spend a lot of time on Gozo.
A car can also be useful for families who prefer not to organise every journey around public transport.
But don’t rent one simply because you’re visiting an island.
If you’re spending three days in Valletta, a car can easily become an expensive piece of metal sitting in a car park.
8. Driving in Malta: What You Should Know
Malta drives on the left-hand side.
If you’re coming from a country where people drive on the right, give yourself some time to get used to it.
You should also expect:
- narrow streets in older areas,
- busy urban roads,
- limited parking,
- roundabouts,
- traffic congestion,
- and occasional roads that feel much tighter than they look on a map.
The biggest issue for many visitors isn’t actually driving.
It’s parking.
If your accommodation doesn’t have parking, check where you can leave the car before booking it.
9. Can You Use a Car for Valletta?
Technically, yes.
But if you’re staying in Valletta, you probably don’t need one.
The city is compact and much of it is pedestrian-friendly. Parking can also be inconvenient.
I’d rather walk around Valletta and use public transport, ferry or Bolt for the parts of the island outside the city.
10. What About Gozo?
Getting to Gozo is straightforward.
The main Gozo Channel ferry connects Ċirkewwa in northern Malta with Mġarr in Gozo. The crossing takes approximately 25 minutes and operates daily.
You can take the ferry as a foot passenger or bring a car.
Once you’re on Gozo, you can use buses, taxis, organised tours or a rental car.
Should you take a car to Gozo?
If you’re visiting for one day and mainly want to see a few famous places, you don’t necessarily need one.
If you’re staying several days and want to explore beaches, villages and quieter parts of the island, a car becomes much more useful.
11. Typical Malta Journeys: What Should You Use?
Airport → Valletta
Bus, Bolt or taxi
Public transport is the budget option. Bolt or taxi is easier with luggage.
Valletta → Sliema
Ferry
Usually the option I’d choose simply because it avoids going around the harbour by road.
Valletta → Three Cities
Ferry
Especially if you’re visiting Birgu or Senglea.
Valletta → Mdina
Bus or Bolt
The bus is cheaper; Bolt saves time and gives you more flexibility.
Valletta → Marsaxlokk
Bus or Bolt
If you’re travelling as a group, compare the Bolt price before deciding.
Malta → Gozo
Gozo Channel ferry
Take your car if you’re bringing one; otherwise travel as a foot passenger and use buses, taxis or a tour on Gozo.
Kalkara → Valletta
Ferry, bus or Bolt
The best option depends on exactly where you’re staying and the time of day. The ferry is particularly attractive when the timetable works for you.
12. What Transport Should You Use for Different Holidays?
First trip to Malta
Bus + ferry + occasional Bolt
You probably don’t need a car.
Three-day city break
Walking + ferry + Bolt
If you’re staying in Valletta or nearby, keep things simple.
One week exploring Malta
Bus + ferry + Bolt
Then consider renting a car for one or two specific days if your itinerary requires it.
Beach holiday
Bus + Bolt
A car becomes more useful if you want to visit lots of smaller or remote beaches.
Family holiday
This depends on your children’s ages and your itinerary.
A rental car can be convenient, but Bolt can also save you the hassle of parking.
Exploring remote places
Rental car
This is where having your own vehicle starts to make a real difference.
Staying around the Grand Harbour
Ferry + bus + walking + Bolt
This combination works particularly well around Valletta, the Three Cities and Kalkara.
13. Can You Explore Malta Without a Car?
Absolutely.
And for many visitors, I’d actually recommend trying it.
A combination of:
bus + ferry + Bolt + walking
can take you surprisingly far.
The easiest bases for a car-free holiday include:
- Valletta
- Sliema
- St Julian’s
- The Three Cities
- Kalkara
From these areas, you can organise many day trips without worrying about parking.
14. What Apps Should You Download?
A few apps can make your Malta trip much easier.
tallinja
Useful for Malta Public Transport routes, timetables and journey planning.
Bolt
Useful for quick rides, evenings, airport transfers and places that are awkward by bus.
Google Maps
Useful for getting an overall idea of distances and walking routes.
But don’t blindly trust estimated driving times during busy periods.
15. My Own Malta Transport Strategy
If I were visiting Malta for a week, I wouldn’t rent a car for the entire trip.
I’d stay somewhere well connected and use:
walking + buses + ferries + Bolt.
Then, if I wanted to explore somewhere remote, I’d consider renting a car for a day rather than paying for one for the whole week.
That gives you the best of both worlds.
You don’t have to worry about parking every day, but you still have the freedom to explore when public transport becomes inconvenient.
And around the Grand Harbour, I’d definitely use the ferries whenever possible.
They’re practical, inexpensive and far more enjoyable than sitting in traffic.
Malta Transport Tips That Will Save You Time
Don’t trust the map distance alone
A few kilometres can take much longer than expected when traffic is heavy.
Don’t plan everything back-to-back
Give yourself some flexibility between buses, ferries and reservations.
Check the return journey before leaving
Especially if you’re travelling somewhere outside the main tourist areas.
Use ferries whenever they make sense
Crossing the harbour by boat can be faster and much more enjoyable than going around by road.
Don’t automatically rent a car
First work out how many days you actually need it.
Keep some flexibility
Transport schedules can change, and traffic is unpredictable.
Download the apps before you arrive
Having tallinja and Bolt ready on your phone saves time when you’re standing at a bus stop wondering what to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around Malta?
For most visitors, a combination of buses, ferries, walking and occasional Bolt rides is the easiest solution.
Is public transport good in Malta?
The bus network covers most of the island and is inexpensive compared with taxis or rental cars. The main disadvantage is that traffic can make journeys slower and less predictable.
Is it worth renting a car in Malta?
It depends on your itinerary. A car is useful for remote areas and flexible road trips, but unnecessary for many city-based holidays.
Is Bolt available in Malta?
Yes. Bolt operates in Malta, including airport rides, and shows an upfront price estimate before you request a journey.
How much is the ferry from Valletta to Sliema?
The currently published adult fare is €1.50 one way or €2.80 return. Night fares are slightly higher. Check the official timetable before travelling because schedules can change.
Can I visit Malta without a car?
Yes. Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s, the Three Cities and other well-connected areas are particularly suitable for car-free holidays.
Is Malta easy to drive around?
It is manageable, but traffic, narrow streets and parking can make driving more stressful than visitors expect.
How do I get from Malta Airport to my accommodation?
You can use public transport, Bolt, a taxi or an airport shuttle. The best option depends on your destination, arrival time and luggage.
Is there public transport from Malta Airport?
Yes. Malta Public Transport operates several routes from the airport, including X routes and Tallinja Direct services.
How long does the ferry to Gozo take?
The Gozo Channel crossing between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr takes approximately 25 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Getting around Malta doesn’t have to be complicated.
The trick is not trying to find one perfect form of transport.
Use the bus when it makes sense.
Take the ferry across the harbour.
Walk around Valletta, Birgu and other compact historic areas.
Use Bolt when convenience matters.
And rent a car when you actually need the freedom.
For most visitors, that combination is easier than trying to do everything by car.
And if you’re staying around Valletta, the Three Cities or Kalkara, don’t underestimate how useful the harbour ferries can be.
They aren’t just a way of getting from A to B.
Sometimes, the journey across the water is one of the nicest parts of the day.
If you’re looking for a quieter base close to Valletta and the Three Cities, you can also take a look at Front Row Malta in Kalkara, a small guesthouse right by the Grand Harbour.
Schreibe einen Kommentar