Transportation & Convenience in Malta 2025

Navigating Malta can be straightforward if you know your options. From the extensive public bus network to ride-hailing apps like Bolt and eCabs, efficient ferry connections to Gozo and Comino, and flexible car or scooter rentals, this guide will help you move around Malta safely, comfortably, and on budget.

1. Public Buses: Malta’s Most Economical Mode

Malta’s public bus system covers the entire main island (Malta) and Gozo. In 2025, the Tallinja Card (contactless smartcard) is the primary payment method. Here’s what you need to know:

1.1 Tallinja Card & Fares

• Card Purchase: Buy a Tallinja Card at any bus terminal or select shops for €6 (card cost). Load credit to pay per ride or purchase day/week passes.
• Standard Fare: A single journey costs €2.50, valid for two hours with unlimited transfers.
• Day Pass: For €4.50, unlimited bus travel across the network for 24 hours.
• Weekly Pass: €21 for unlimited travel for seven consecutive days—ideal if you’ll be in Malta for a week or more.

1.2 Bus Routes & Key Destinations

• Valletta to Sliema & St. Julian’s: Buses 1, 4, 13, and X2 link Valletta with the Sliema Ferries and Paceville nightlife area.
• Valletta to Mdina: Route 51 takes you directly to Malta’s medieval “Silent City.”
• Mellieħa & Golden Bay: Route 41 connects Valletta with Mellieħa Bay and the northern beaches.
• Link to Gozo: Use Star Ferries or Virtu Ferries from Ċirkewwa (bus 222) to Mgarr Harbour on Gozo.

1.3 Tips for Bus Travel

• Arrive Early: Buses fill up quickly in summer, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Download the Tallinja App: Check live bus schedules, track arrivals, and top up your card instantly.
• Validate on Board: Tap your Tallinja Card on the reader when you board, not when you leave.
• Night Buses: Limited night routes operate on weekends—confirm schedules for late-night travel.

2. Ride-Hailing: Bolt & eCabs for Speed & Convenience

Ride-hailing apps have revolutionized local transport in Malta. Bolt and eCabs operate island-wide, offering door-to-door service at reasonable rates.

2.1 Bolt

• Coverage: Available throughout Malta and Gozo, 24/7 in urban areas like Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Mellieħa.
• Pricing: Base fare €2, plus €0.30 per kilometer—surge pricing applies during peak hours and events.
• Car Types: Economy (standard sedan), Comfort (premium vehicles), and XL (7-seater for groups).
• Payment Methods: Credit card, PayPal, or in-app credit—no cash required.

2.2 eCabs

• Local Taxi Network: eCabs integrates traditional taxi drivers—book via app or call center.
• Flat Rates & Estimations: Estimated fares displayed before booking; rates are regulated by Maltese authorities.
• Vehicle Options: Standard, Executive, and Minivan—useful for airport transfers or group travel.
• Payment: Cash, card on board, or pay via the app for a seamless experience.

2.3 Tips for Ride-Hailing

• Airport Transfers: Pre-book a ride to or from Malta International Airport to avoid waiting times.
• Event Days: During festas or major concerts, book rides at least an hour in advance to avoid surge pricing.
• Cancel Fees: Most apps impose a small fee if you cancel after 5 minutes—double-check pickup location before confirming.
• Shared Rides: Some Bolt services offer “Pool” (shared) rides at lower cost—great for budget travelers.

3. Ferry Connections: Malta, Gozo & Comino

Discover Malta’s harbors and waterways via regular ferry services. Ferries link Valletta, Sliema, Cospicua, Gozo, and Comino, often providing scenic alternatives to bus routes.

3.1 Valletta ↔ Sliema ↔ Cospicua Ferries

• Departures: Every 15–30 minutes, 6 AM to midnight (frequency varies by season).
• Fare: €2.00 one-way—valid for unlimited crossings within 2 hours when using the Tallinja Card.
• Duration: About 15 minutes between Valletta and Sliema; 25 minutes to Cospicua.

3.2 Ċirkewwa (Malta) ↔ Mgarr (Gozo) Ferries

• Operators: Virtu Ferries (Fast Ferry) and Gozo Channel Company (standard car/passenger ferry).
• Frequency: Departures every 45 minutes in summer; check timetables for winter schedules.
• Fare: €5.40 one-way for pedestrians; €15–€20 for cars (return tickets often discounted).
• Crossing Time: 25 minutes by Fast Ferry; 45 minutes by standard ferry.

3.3 Comino Access

• From Ċirkewwa: Seasonal small boats run hourly to Comino’s Blue Lagoon (June–September).
• Private Charters: Available year-round; ideal for flexible schedules and avoiding crowds.

3.4 Tips for Ferry Travel

• Arrive Early: During peak season, lines for Gozo ferries can be long—arrive 30 minutes in advance if traveling with a car.
• Book Fast Ferry Online: Virtu Ferries Fast Ferry seats sell out quickly in summer—reserve your seat in advance to guarantee entry.
• Check Return Times: Last ferries to Malta from Gozo run around midnight—plan your return accordingly.

4. Car & Scooter Rentals: Freedom to Explore

Renting a vehicle grants complete freedom to explore remote beaches, countryside roads, and hidden gems at your own pace. Major rental companies operate in Valletta, Sliema, and the airport.

4.1 Car Rental

• Requirements: Minimum age 21 (some agencies require 25), valid EU or international driving license.
• Insurance: Basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is included; consider Super CDW to reduce excess fees.
• Fuel Policy: Typically full-to-full; return with a full tank or pay a refueling charge.
• Parking: Free in blue-zone areas after 6 PM; watch for private lots in Valletta and Sliema (rates vary €1.50–€2.00/hour).

4.2 Scooter & Moped Rental

• Requirements: Minimum age 18, EU or international driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement (AM or higher).
• Ideal For: Solo travelers or couples—easy to park, navigate narrow roads, and access hidden coves.
• Insurance: Basic third-party cover included; inspect vehicles for scratches and dents before departure.
• Fuel: Most scooters run on unleaded gasoline; fill up at local service stations (€1.30–€1.45/liter).

4.3 Driving on the Left

• British System: Malta drives on the left—if you’re from a right-hand traffic country, take extra caution when navigating roundabouts and intersections.
• Narrow Roads: Rural and village roads can be tight—drive slowly, watch for sheep or goats, and use pull-off bays to let oncoming traffic pass.
• Seatbelts & Helmets: Mandatory for drivers and passengers on both cars and scooters. Fines are enforced by police checkpoints.

4.4 Tips for Rentals

• Book Early: During summer months, rental vehicles sell out quickly—reserve at least 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Inspect Thoroughly: Document any pre-existing damage with photos before driving off the lot.
• Local Traffic Patterns: Watch for frequent speed bumps (known locally as “sleeping policemen”) in towns—reduce speed to avoid damage.
• GPS & Maps: Use a local SIM card or offline map to navigate—road signage can be sparse in rural areas.

Conclusion

Whether you rely on the efficient public bus network, the convenience of Bolt or eCabs, the scenic ferry connections to Gozo and Comino, or the independence of a car or scooter rental, Malta offers a comprehensive range of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Use this guide to plan your travel, save money, and discover the best of Malta in 2025. Safe travels and enjoy the ride!