Renting a Car in Malta, Everything You Need to Know

The public transport network in the Maltese archipelago is quite comprehensive and efficient. Buses are frequent and serve every corner of the island. Additionally, many taxis are available through mobile applications. So, why consider renting a car in Malta?

The first obvious reason is the freedom it offers. Having your own means of transportation allows you to plan your schedule as you wish and explore the island without depending on others or bus schedules.

The second advantage is the ease of getting around the island. Some places on the island, such as the Dingli Cliffs, certain Maltese beaches like Gnejna Bay, or the Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim megalithic temples, are difficult to reach by public transport. You would need multiple bus changes and a lot of time to cover short distances. In these cases, using a car is often the best option, if not the only one.

Finally, in terms of comfort, the bus network in Malta is often very crowded and does not always guarantee punctuality, especially during peak hours and the high summer tourist season. Buses are often overcrowded, and drivers sometimes refuse passengers, which could force you to wait for the next bus. On the other hand, while taxi or rideshare services (e.g., Uber, Bolt, eCabs) offer a comfortable solution, frequent trips could turn out to be very expensive.

Renting a car is a comfortable way to explore the island during your stay in Malta. There are two options available for renting a vehicle in Malta.

In general, renting a car in Malta is quite affordable, especially when compared to other European destinations. The cost varies depending on several factors, such as the vehicle model and rental duration, as well as the seasonality and how far in advance the booking is made.

For a rental, you can expect to pay around 10 to 15 euros per day for a small city car and up to 50 to 60 euros per day for a larger vehicle. To get the best deal, it’s advisable to book your car as early as possible.

The roads in Malta are well-maintained on the main routes, but keep in mind that some rural areas outside the cities can be more chaotic. Additionally, roads are not always well-lit, especially on the outskirts of major cities.

Places like Valletta and Mdina often have narrow and ancient streets that are not designed for car traffic. Therefore, access by car is restricted or limited in these areas and is only allowed for residents and authorized services in certain zones.

For getting around, use Google Maps as it works very well on the archipelago. So, make sure you have access to the internet on your mobile device. If your current mobile provider doesn’t offer coverage in Malta, consider buying a SIM card with internet data upon your arrival. One minor inconvenience, Google Maps doesn’t always integrate construction works (very common on the island), so you might regularly encounter blocked streets.

In Malta, we recommend renting a small car as many roads, especially in old towns and rural areas, are quite narrow. A compact car will also make it easier for you to find parking, especially in busy urban areas.

Road accidents are common in Malta. In case of an accident or emergency during your stay, including road accidents, dial the universal emergency number, 112. If you are involved in a road accident that does not require urgent medical care, it is important to contact the Local Enforcement System Agency (LESA) at the local number: +356 2132 0202. The collision unit will be responsible for drafting the accident report, which is crucial for processing insurance claims for car rental companies.

Always prioritize safety and notify your car rental company as soon as possible. They will guide you through their procedures and resolve any insurance issues. Remember to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved and take photos of the accident scene for insurance documentation. Keep your rental agreement and insurance papers handy while driving.

It is possible to travel to visit Gozo with your rental car, as most rental companies allow it. You will need to take the ferry at Ċirkewwa for the crossing. The ferry price is 15.70 euros, including both the car and the driver. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

Gozo offers a variety of attractions, landscapes, and discoveries that are more easily explorable by car. Just make sure to check with your rental provider their policy regarding ferry trips to Gozo to ensure there are no restrictions or additional conditions, especially regarding coverage in case of on-site issues.