Means of transport in Malta: how to get around the island?

The bus is the most economical means of public transport to travel within Malta. Maltese buses are also the only form of public transportation on the island, as there is no metro or tram in Malta.

Since October 2022, public transport (buses) has been free across the entire island of Malta, but note that this is only for residents. If you plan to stay for a longer period, 2 months or more, you will need to request the personalized bus card "Tallinja Card personalised" to benefit from free transportation. To apply, you simply need to prove a fixed address in Malta. The request can be made online or in person at one of the four sales offices. It usually takes about two weeks for the card to be issued and delivered to your home.

For short-term travelers or tourists, you can purchase a standard bus ticket from the driver. It costs €1.50 in the off-season, €2 during the summer, and €3 for the night bus. Whenever possible, try to have the exact change, as drivers do not always have money for €10 or €20 notes. However, all buses are now equipped with contactless payment. Weekly Explore Card passes are also available.

From the Malta International Airport, you can reach any city on the island, as Malta’s bus network covers every corner of the island. The stops are located right outside the airport, and you can purchase tickets directly from the bus driver or in the airport hall.

There are three main ride-hailing services in Malta: Bolt, Uber, and eCabs. If you do not plan to use public transport, always choose these services over traditional taxis, as the prices are lower and the comfort is higher.

Another major advantage is that the fare is fixed in advance by the apps, so there are no unpleasant surprises upon arrival. Payment is also handled automatically through the app.

The Estonian company Bolt is the most popular ride-hailing option in Malta and probably the most convenient way to travel quickly around the island. Bolt is still relatively unknown in France or Belgium compared to Uber, but in Malta, it has the largest fleet of drivers available day and night.

Simple, fast, and economical, Bolt works similarly to Uber: you use the app’s geolocation to find nearby drivers. Fares are noticeably cheaper than traditional taxis. The cost of a transfer between Luqa Airport and the Sliema/St. Julians area is generally around €15 to €20.

The well-known company Uber has arrived in Malta, adding fresh competition to the island’s transport sector. Uber has joined the Maltese market alongside established players such as Bolt and eCabs, thereby enhancing mobility options for both residents and tourists. However, Uber currently has a smaller fleet of drivers than its two competitors, making it harder to secure a ride with Uber—especially during peak hours or flight arrivals.

eCabs, recognizable by its black vehicles, is a private transport company in Malta and was historically the first of its kind on the island. It has been significantly impacted by the arrival of Bolt and Uber.

eCabs remains a solid option for booking transport in Malta: the app is user-friendly, and customer support is responsive. eCabs also offers vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility, cars that allow pets, and minivans—ideal for group travelers or large families.

Renting a car in Malta is undoubtedly the best solution to enjoy the greatest freedom and flexibility for exploring the archipelago. However, before hitting the Maltese roads, remember that driving is on the left in Malta (a legacy of its history as a British colony). Traffic can be quite dense, and the roads are not always in the best condition.

The cost of renting a car in Malta generally ranges from €70 to €150 per week. Many car rental companies operate at Malta Airport, including Europcar, Goldcar, First, Avis, FireFly, Hertz, and Sixt. Their counters are located under the Rental Car Desk sign. However, we recommend using Rentalcars to get the best deals and additional insurance coverage.

The hop-on hop-off buses in Malta, easily recognized by their bright colors and open-top decks, offer a convenient way to travel and discover the island.

These open-top double-decker buses run on routes designed to stop at the main tourist attractions of the archipelago. They let you hop on and off freely within a set period, allowing you to explore Malta’s key points of interest at your own pace.

Audio commentary is available in multiple languages, providing interesting information about Malta’s history, culture, and landmarks. These tours are practical for getting a general overview of the island, especially for travelers with limited time or those looking to see the main highlights quickly.

Traditional Maltese taxis, easily recognized by their white color, are mainly found in high-density areas: the airport, Paceville, Sliema Ferry, Buġibba Square, and near large hotels.

Of all the ways to get around Malta, this is the least recommended. They tend to be expensive and are not always the most welcoming. White taxis do not consistently use a meter, so be sure to agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any surprises upon arrival.

This should really be seen as a last-resort option, possibly worth using only if your hotel provides it for free.

Renting a self-service scooter in Malta is very easy. Whizascoot is the most popular local provider—a simple and convenient way to get around on two wheels.

The prices are quite affordable. Unlocking costs €0.50 per ride, then €0.24 per minute for riding and €0.15 per minute for parking. Another advantage is that these scooters are electric, helping to protect the environment and reduce the air pollution in Malta caused by transportation.