Getting Around Malta Without a Car

Getting around Malta without a car is quite manageable, thanks to its relatively small size and a variety of transport options.

In this post, I am first going to share how I navigated Malta for seven days without hiring a car, and then I will share some of the other options for getting around too.

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Just starting to plan your trip to Malta? Take a look at this guide to cover the basics.

How I Navigated Malta Without a Car

I was really on the fence about hiring a car in Malta. I always enjoy the freedom a car can give us as we explore a new place, but I am also aware of the difficulties parking and navigating in locations that were built before cars.

As an Australian, we don’t tend to have narrow streets in tiny cities, so that is always a consideration for us.

Thankfully, the Maltese drive on the left, just like we do in Australia, so that wasn’t a concern here.

For us, driving on the opposite side no longer holds fear, but it was something to think about the first few times we drove on the “wrong” side.

I did a little research before our trip and discovered we could buy a weekly bus pass and that buses went to pretty much every corner of the island.

The bus passes also included getting to and from the airport, which is also a bonus.

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One of the things we considered when choosing where to stay was access to public transport. See the best areas to stay in Malta and find the one that suits you.

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Getting our Bus Pass

The bus pass I chose for our visit is the Explore Card. This gave us unlimited rides on public transport for seven days for €25 for an adult, and €7 for a child.

They are available in many places around Malta, but if you are arriving by plane, you can pick one up at the Sales and Information Point in the arrivals hall.

Alternatively, do as we did, and buy them from the ticket machines, again found all over. We saw at least half a dozen between getting off the plane and getting on our bus.

The process was simple and we could easily pay with our credit card.

The Explore Card was ready to go and we used it to immediately get on a bus towards our accommodation.

Navigating Around Malta

I almost exclusively use Google Maps to help me get around when I’m travelling and Malta was no different.

It did help me find routes and bus numbers, but I did find the times were sometimes a little less accurate.

I downloaded the Tallinja app, which also shows buses in real-time as they approach the stop, but I didn’t love using that either.

I think that perhaps the buses don’t exactly run to the times set, which is what was causing my issues.

Having said that, we never waited more than 10-15 minutes for a bus, and most times it was less than 5 minutes.

After taking a few rides and seeing the tiny streets these drivers navigate, I can only say I’m surprised they don’t run a whole lot more off schedule.

>> Need data? I used Airalo in Malta

Where we Went By Bus

While we did catch the ferry over to Valletta from Sliema once, mostly we caught the bus back and forth.

The ferry is not included with the Explore Card, and we discovered once over to Valletta, there is a hike up the hill to the city centre.

The bus takes a little longer, but it drops off right outside the city gates (near the Triton Fountain) making it a much easier walk into the city.

We also caught the bus to the nearby towns of Rabat (Mdina) and Marsaxlokk, to the Malta National Aquarium at St Paul’s Bay and to the Gozo Ferry Terminal.

Why I Recommend the Buses

If I was in Malta for only 3-4 days, then maybe you would be better off renting a car (and booking appropriate accommodation to facilitate parking), but with a week, it meant we had a little more time to get around.

I liked seeing the local neighbourhoods I probably would have otherwise missed, and liked not having to stress about parking or getting around.

I found it so easy to hop on and hop off with the Explore Card, knowing all the transport was paid for already.

More Ways to Get Around Malta

Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to explore Malta without needing to drive:
(I’ve included the buses to add a little more info)

Public Buses

• The Malta Public Transport Network is extensive, covering all major towns, cities, and tourist attractions. Buses are reliable, affordable, and run frequently, especially on popular routes.
• Tickets and Passes: You can buy single journey tickets from the driver (€2.50 for day services and €3 for night, use cash or card), opt for the Explore Card, or combine your public transport with other options with the Explore Flex Card.
• Routes and Timetables: The main hubs are in Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, with buses operating from early morning until around 11 pm. It’s a good idea to check the timetables on the Malta Public Transport website or use the Tallinja app for real-time updates.

Ferries

• Valletta to Sliema Ferry: This short and scenic ferry ride connects Valletta to Sliema and runs every 15–30 minutes. It’s a great way to avoid traffic while enjoying stunning views of the harbour. We took the ferry across when we went to see St John’s Co-Cathedral.
• Three Cities Ferry: Another option is the ferry service between Valletta and the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua), which offers a unique perspective of the Grand Harbour.
• Gozo Ferry: For trips to Gozo, take the ferry from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta to Mgarr in Gozo. The ferry runs frequently and offers both pedestrian and vehicle transport.

Water Taxis

• Traditional Maltese boats, known as dgħajsas, operate as water taxis in the Grand Harbour between Valletta, the Three Cities, and Sliema. These are a fun and scenic way to get around, offering a more personalised experience.

Bicycles and Electric Scooters

• Bike Rentals: Many places in Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s offer bike rentals. Cycling can be a great way to explore certain parts of Malta, particularly along coastal promenades. However, be cautious on busy roads as traffic can be challenging.
• E-Scooters: Electric scooters are also available for hire in key locations like Valletta and Sliema through apps such as Bolt or GoTo. They are convenient for short distances and navigating city centres.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps

• Traditional Taxis: White taxis are available at major spots like the airport, ferry terminals, and bus stations. However, they can be more expensive than other options.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Apps like Bolt and eCabs provide an easy and often cheaper alternative. You can book rides directly from your smartphone and track your driver’s arrival.

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

• These tourist buses cover all the major sites and offer a convenient way to explore at your own pace. There are two main routes: one covering the north of Malta (Sliema, Mdina, Golden Bay), and another covering the south (Valletta, Three Cities, Marsaxlokk).
• There is a third hop-on hop-off bus on the island of Gozo, with two loops there also.

Walking

• Malta is perfect for walking, especially in areas like Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities, where traffic is limited or streets are pedestrian-friendly. Strolling allows you to soak in the local atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and enjoy Malta’s beautiful weather.

Private Tours and Shuttle Services

• Private Tours: Many companies offer private or small group tours that provide transport to key sites and attractions.
• Shuttle Services: Some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services to popular destinations, beaches, and the airport.

Tips

• Plan Ahead: Check bus and ferry schedules, especially on weekends and public holidays, when services may be less frequent.
• Stay Central: If you base yourself in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s, you’ll have easy access to most public transport options.

We stayed in Il-Gżira, adjacent to Sliema, but slightly cheaper. Read my hotel review here.

With these options, you’ll find it easy and enjoyable to navigate Malta without a car!

Keep planning your Malta trip with these posts
7-Day Malta Itinerary
Food to Try in Malta
Best Time of Year to Go to Malta
Things to Know Before You Go to Malta