Means of transport in Malta, how to get around the island?
The bus, the most economical way to get around Malta
The bus is the most economical means of transportation to move around the island. Maltese buses are also the only mode of public transport on the island of Malta; there is neither a metro nor a tram in Malta.
Since October 2022, public transportation (buses) has been free throughout the island of Malta, but beware, only for residents. If you plan to stay for a long period, 2 months or more, you will need to apply for the personalized “Tallinja Card personalized” bus card to benefit from free transportation. To apply, you just need to be able to provide a fixed address in Malta. The application can be made online or in person at one of the five sales offices. The card is usually issued within 2 weeks.
For short-term travelers or tourists, you can buy a standard bus ticket from the driver. This costs €1.5 off-season, €2 during the summer, and €3 for the night bus. Try to have the exact change as drivers may not always have change for €10 or €20 bills. However, all buses are now equipped with contactless payment. Weekly Explore Cards are also available.
From the Malta International Airport, you can reach any city, as the bus network in Malta serves all corners of the island. Stops are located outside the airport, and tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or in the airport terminal.
Transport vehicles with driver with an app, the fastest way to get around Malta
In the archipelago, there are three options for booking a Transport vehicles with driver with an app (VTC): Bolt, Uber, and eCabs. If you don’t plan on using public transportation, prefer using an app over a taxi, as prices will be lower and comfort superior.
Another significant advantage is that trip prices are set in advance by the applications, so there are no surprises upon arrival with the drivers. The fare is also automatically settled via the application.
Bolt
The Estonian transport company Bolt is the most popular chauffeur-driven transport solution in Malta and probably the most convenient for getting around the island quickly. Bolt is less known in France or Belgium compared to Uber, but in Malta, it’s the company with the largest fleet of drivers available day and night.
Simple, fast, and economical, Bolt works similar to Uber with an application that allows you to geolocate yourself and find nearby available drivers. The fares are significantly cheaper than a taxi. The cost of transfer between Luqa Airport and the cities of Sliema/St Julians generally ranges from €15 to €20.
Uber
The famous company Uber, the well-known ride-sharing platform, has made its entry into Malta, bringing new competition to the transportation sector on the island. Since its launch, Uber has joined the Maltese market, adding to established players such as Bolt and eCabs, enriching the mobility experience for residents and tourists alike.
eCabs
eCabs, recognizable by their fleet of black vehicles, is a private transport company in Malta. It is the historical VTC company in Malta, now heavily impacted by the arrival of Bolt and Uber.
eCabs remains a good solution for booking transportation in Malta, the application is convenient, and the support platform is responsive. eCabs also offers vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility, cars allowing pets, or even minivans, ideal for group travelers or large families.
Car Rental, the most liberating mode of transportation
Renting a car in Malta is undoubtedly the solution that offers the most freedom and flexibility to explore the archipelago. However, before embarking on Maltese roads, note that driving is on the left in Malta (a legacy of its former British colony status), traffic can be quite dense, and the roads are not always in the best condition.
Renting a car in Malta generally costs between €70 and €150 per week. Many car rental companies are available at Malta Airport: Europcar, Goldcar, First, Avis, FireFly, Hertz, Sixt, etc. The company counters are located in the airport under the indication Rental Car Desk. However, we advise you to go through Rentalcars to benefit from the best rental deals and an additional rental guarantee.
Renting an Electric Scooter: The Most Convenient Way for Short Trips
Renting a self-service scooter in Malta is very easy. Whizascoot is the most popular Maltese service. A simple and convenient solution for getting around on two wheels.
Affordable prices: the unlocking price is €0.50 per trip, the ride price is €0.24 per minute, and the “parking” price is €0.15. Another positive point is that the scooters are electric, a small gesture for the environment and to combat pollution in Malta related to transportation.
Traditional Taxis in Malta (White Taxis), the Last Resort Option
Traditional taxis in Malta, easily recognizable by their “white” color, are mainly available in high-density areas: airport, Paceville district, Sliema Ferry, Buġibba Square, and near major hotels.
Of all the transportation options in Malta, this is the least recommended. They are both expensive and not necessarily the most pleasant with customers. White taxis do not always use a meter, so you should ensure the fare in advance before getting on board, or you risk having a bad surprise upon arrival.
This is a last resort solution or to be used only if your hotel offers this service for free.
Tourist Buses, the Transportation and Discovery Option in Malta
The tourist buses in Malta, easily recognizable by their all-red attire, offer a convenient way to get around and discover the island. These open-top double-decker buses operate on routes designed to pass through the main sites and tourist attractions of the archipelago. They offer the opportunity to hop on and off at will during a specified period.
Commentaries are also available in multiple languages and provide interesting information about Malta’s history, culture, and sights. These tours are convenient for getting a general overview of the island, especially for travelers with limited time or those who want to quickly discover the main points of interest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation in Malta (FAQ)
Is there a metro or tram in Malta?
There are currently no metro or tram lines in the Maltese archipelago.
Can you ride a bike in Malta?
It is possible to ride a bike in Malta, but cycling is nevertheless a little-used and not highly recommended means of transportation. Traffic in Malta is dense, cars drive fast, and there are very few bike lanes. Cycling in Malta is therefore quite dangerous. Bike rental shops are also not very popular on the island, making bike rental difficult. It is therefore preferable to use Malta’s public transportation or walk for the more active individuals.
Your arrival in Malta is near, so you are surely wondering which means of transportation to prioritize once on the island? Fortunately, there are many solutions for your travels. The island being small, 27 km in its greatest length, it will be very easy for you to move from one point to another on the archipelago.