Transport in Malta How to get around Malta?

Your arrival in Malta is nearing, so you’re probably wondering what type of transport you should use once you’re on the island. Don’t worry, there are plenty of options, and the island is very small, 27km at its longest point, so it should be fairly easy to get from one point to another in the archipelago.

Bus in Airport transport in Malta

Getting around Malta by bus

The bus is the most economical means of transportation for getting around the island. Maltese buses are also the only mode of public transportation on the island of Malta, with no metro or tramway available.

Since October 2022, public transportation (buses) has been free throughout the island of Malta, but please note that this is only for residents. If you plan to stay for an extended period, 2 months or more, you’ll need to apply for the personalized bus card “Tallinja Card personalised” to benefit from free transportation. To apply, you simply need to provide proof of a fixed address in Malta. The application can be done online or in person at one of the five sales offices. The card usually takes around 2 weeks to be issued.

For short-term travelers or tourists, you can purchase 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 fare whenever possible, as drivers might not always have change for €10 or €20 bills. Weekly cards like the Explore Card are also available.

From the Malta International Airport, you can connect to any city. The bus network in Malta serves all corners of the island. The stops are located outside the airport, and transport tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or in the airport hall.

Malta Tallinnja bus card

Uber in Malta

Uber, the well-known carpooling platform, made its entry into Malta, bringing about a revolution in the transportation sector on the island. Since its launch, the Maltese have enthusiastically embraced this service, appreciating the convenience and efficiency it offers.

Uber has entered the Maltese market, joining established players such as Bolt and eCabs, enriching the mobility experience for residents and tourists alike.

The variety of fare options and regular promotions offered by these services ensures that users can always find an option that fits their budget. One of the major advantages is transparency: users can see the estimated cost of their ride in advance, choose from various types of vehicles, and read driver reviews.

eCabs, The Taxi Option in Malta (Kabbee)

eCabs recognisable by its fleet of black vehicles, is a transport company privately owned in Malta. eCabs is the ideal solution if you need to book transport in Malta. Whether it is a pre-booking or a last minute booking, eCabs is the ideal solution.

Using the eCabs application is a guarantee of professional, punctual drivers and comfortable cars. eCabs also offers vehicles suitable for people with reduced mobility, pet-friendly cars and vans for groups or large families.

eCabs transport offers both the security of advance booking and last minute booking.

Available drivers between Sliema and Malta Airport (eCabs)
Price for a trip from St Julian's to Malta Airport with eCabs

Bolt, another app to book your taxi

The Bolt is a very popular transport in Malta and probably the fastest way to get around the island. It is particularly preferable if you are travelling in a group.The Bolt is little known in other countries, but in the absence of Uber, it is the perfect taxi solution.

Simple, fast and economical, Bolt works with an application that geolocates you and proposes drivers who are nearby and immediately available. Fares are significantly cheaper than a traditional taxi. The cost of a transfer between Luqa airport and the cities of Sliema/St Julians is usually around 13 euros.

Another advantage of Bolt is that the price of the trip is pre-defined by the application, so there are no unpleasant surprises on arrival.

Bolt also offers an electric scooter rental service. This is a self-service service and is available in Malta’s main cities (Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, etc.) You simply scan the scooter’s code with the same app and you’re ready to go.

Drivers available between St Julian's airport and Malta airport (Bolt)
Fare from St Julian's to Malta airport with Bolt

Car rental, to explore the archipelago freely

Renting a car in Malta is certainly the solution that offers the most freedom and flexibility to explore the archipelago. Here are a few things you should know before setting out on Malta’s roads.

  • In Malta, cars drive on the left side of the road, so the steering wheel is placed on the right side of the car.
  • Traffic is quite heavy on the island.
  • Maltese drivers drive fast
  • The island is dusty, especially during the summer months, so cleaning of the exterior bodywork should be anticipated.

Renting a car in Malta usually costs between 70 and 150 € per week. Many car rental companies are present at Malta airport: Europcar, Goldcar, First, Avis, FireFly, Hertz, Sixt, etc. The companies’ counters are located in the airport under the sign Rental Car Desk. We advise you to use Rentalcars to get the best rental deals and an additional rental guarantee.

Weekly rental prices for small cars in Malta
Prices for weekly medium car rental in Malta

WhizaScoot, the self-service scooter rental in Malta

Renting self-service scooters in Malta has never been easier. WhizaScoot is a new service available and is becoming increasingly popular. A simple and convenient solution for travelling on two wheels.

The Whizascoot app allows you to share scooters in Malta and Gozo. Just register on the app, take a photo of your driving licence and within minutes you can have access to scooters in the surrounding area.

The price is affordable, with a parking fee of 15 cents and a usage fee of 21 cents. Another plus point is that the scooters are electric, a small gesture in favour of the environment and pollution in Malta.

The White Taxis of Malta

Malta’s famous “white” taxis are mainly available in high-density areas: airport, Paceville district, Sliema ferry, Buġibba square, etc. Of all the transport in Malta, this is the least recommended. They are very expensive and not necessarily the most customer-friendly. White taxis also do not use a meter, so always fix the fare before getting into a taxi.

Frequently Asked Questions – Transport in Malta(FAQ)

Is there a metro or tramway in Malta?

There are currently no metro or tram lines in the Maltese archipelago.

How to get a Uber Malta discount code?

When you sign up for the first time for the Uber transport service, you can use the code MALTADVICE to get 10 euros for free.

How to get a eCab Malta discount code?

When you first sign up for eCabs transport service, you can use the code MALTADVICE to get 5 euros for free.

Is it possible to get around Malta by bicycle?

It is possible to travel by bicycle in Malta, however, cycling is not recommended as a means of transport. Traffic in Malta is heavy, cars drive fast and there are no bicycle lanes. Cycling in Malta is therefore very dangerous. Bicycle rental companies are also not very popular on the island, which makes it difficult to rent bicycles. As a result, it is preferable to use Malta’s public transport or walk for the more active.