TRAVEL GUIDE
Getting Around Malta
Buses, taxis, ferries and car hire — everything you need to explore Malta and Gozo
BUS DAY PASS
€2.50
AIRPORT TAXI
€20–25
GOZO FERRY
25 mins
VALLETTA
Walk only
GETTING AROUND MALTA
Malta's efficient Tallinja bus network offers extensive routes across the island, including a direct X2 service to the airport. A day pass costs just €2.50, providing excellent value for exploring at leisure. Modern buses are punctual and air-conditioned, making for a comfortable journey. Whether heading to historic sites or coastal towns, this affordable option is ideal for visitors keen to experience Malta's diverse landscapes without the hassle of driving.
Taxis & Rideshare
For convenience, taxis and rideshare services like eCabs are readily available. Airport taxis typically charge €15-25 to central Valletta. While reliable, pre-booking via the app is advisable, especially during peak hours. eCabs offer transparent pricing and professional drivers, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport. Always confirm the fare upfront and consider the app for hassle-free travel around Malta's compact terrain.
Car Hire
Hiring a car is highly recommended for exploring Gozo, though driving is on the left. Parking in Valletta is banned, so leave your vehicle at designated sites. Daily rates start from €25, with insurance essential. The freedom to discover hidden coves and rural villages makes the expense worthwhile. Note: narrow country lanes demand caution, but the rewards of spontaneous exploration are unparalleled.
Malta's compact size makes exploring by road, sea, or foot effortlessly rewarding.
The Gozo Ferry
The Gozo ferry departs from Cirkewwa terminal, a swift 25-minute crossing to the sister island. A return ticket costs €4.65, a bargain for the scenic journey. For those with vehicles, a car ferry option is available, allowing seamless exploration. The ferry runs frequently, making it easy to hop between islands. This essential link connects Malta to Gozo's tranquil charm and historic sites.
Getting Around Valletta
Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is entirely pedestrianised, inviting leisurely strolls through its baroque streets. Walking is the only way to fully appreciate its architectural wonders. To explore the neighbouring Three Cities, take a ferry from the Grand Harbour for just €2.50. This charming waterborne journey adds a delightful dimension to your urban exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions — Getting Around Malta
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Malta Airport to Valletta?
The X2 Airport Express bus runs directly from Malta International Airport to Valletta's City Gate bus terminus every 30 minutes, taking approximately 30 minutes and costing €2. Taxis from the official airport rank cost approximately €20–25 to Valletta. The airport is 8 kilometres south of Valletta — approximately 15 minutes by taxi outside peak hours.
Is there a bus from Malta Airport to Sliema and St Julian's?
The X2 bus connects the airport to Valletta, from where buses 12 and 13 continue to Sliema and St Julian's. The total journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes. Alternatively, the eCabs app provides reliable pre-booked taxis from the airport directly to Sliema or St Julian's for approximately €15–20, taking 20–25 minutes.
Should I hire a car in Malta?
A hire car is recommended for exploring Gozo thoroughly, where public transport is limited. For Malta itself, the bus network covers most tourist areas adequately. Driving is on the left in Malta. Parking in Valletta is banned for visitors — park at the Park and Ride outside City Gate. Car hire starts from approximately £25–40 per day from international companies at the airport.
How do I get to Gozo from Malta?
The Gozo Channel ferry runs from Ċirkewwa in northern Malta to Mġarr in Gozo every 45 minutes, taking 25 minutes. Return tickets cost €4.65 per adult. From Valletta, take bus 41 or 42 to Ċirkewwa, approximately one hour. Car ferries allow you to take hire cars across. Fast ferries also operate from Valletta during summer, taking 45 minutes.
Can I use a bus pass in Malta?
Yes — the Tallinja Card day pass costs €2.50 in summer (June–September) and allows unlimited bus travel across Malta for the day. Single journeys cost €2 in summer. The Tallinja App allows you to purchase tickets and plan routes. The bus network is extensive and covers all major tourist destinations, with newer air-conditioned vehicles on most routes.
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