Some links in this guide are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Getting Around & Where to Stay
Updated March 2025Route Planner
Malta Public Transport
Malta's bus network operated by Malta Public Transport. Buses are the main form of public transit across the island.
Airport Transfers
ℹ️ Prices are approximate and may vary — confirm exact fares when booking.
Public Transport
Tickets
Malta: single bus ticket EUR 1.50 (winter) / EUR 2 (summer), 7-day Explore card EUR 21. Valletta-Sliema ferry EUR 1.50.
Tallinja Card — tourist transport card for unlimited rides and discounts.
Learn moreTaxis & Rideshare
Bolt
app~EUR 5-15 across Malta
Most popular rideshare app in Malta. Widely available and affordable.
Visit websiteeCabs
app~EUR 8-20 across Malta
Malta's largest taxi service. Book via app, web, or phone. Fixed prices quoted upfront.
Visit websiteUber
rideshare~EUR 6-18 across Malta
Available across Malta. Good alternative to traditional taxis.
Visit websiteWhite Taxis
traditional~EUR 2 start + EUR 1.40/km
Official metered white taxis. Available at stands and the airport.
Visit websiteIntercity Travel
Malta Bus Network
Malta Public Transport
All routes radiate from Valletta Bus Terminus. Change in Valletta for most cross-island trips.
Book ticketsGozo Channel Ferry
Gozo Channel
Ċirkewwa (Malta) to Mġarr (Gozo). Runs every 45 min, crossing takes 25 min. Pay on return only.
Book ticketsHop-on Hop-off Bus
Malta Sightseeing
Tourist buses covering north and south routes. Useful for hitting major attractions without rental car.
Book ticketsCar Rental
Various
Useful for flexibility but traffic is heavy. Drive on the left. Parking is challenging in Valletta.
Book ticketsWhere to Stay
Links below may be affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices as of 2025 — check current rates before booking.
Two Pillows Boutique Hostel
budgetSliema
Near Sliema waterfront, modern facilities and terrace
Book on Booking.comHotel Castille
mid-rangeValletta
Historic building in Valletta, rooftop with Grand Harbour views
Book on Booking.comMarco Polo Hostel
budgetSt Julian's
Near Paceville nightlife, close to St George's Bay beach
Book on Booking.comThe Saint John
mid-rangeValletta
Boutique hotel in a converted 16th-century palazzo, central Valletta
Book on Booking.comInhawi Boutique Hostel
budgetSt Julian's
Quiet residential area, pool and garden, near Spinola Bay
Book on Booking.comUseful Apps
Transport
Maps & Navigation
Translation
Google Translate
Maltese-English translation. Most Maltese speak excellent English, but useful for Maltese menus.
DownloadFood & Dining
Wolt
Food delivery across Malta. Order from local restaurants in Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian's.
DownloadGetting Around Malta
Malta is a small island (27km long) but traffic can be surprisingly heavy. The bus network radiates from the Valletta Bus Terminus, meaning most cross-island journeys require a change there. Buses are the most affordable way to get around but can be slow in rush hour. Bolt and eCabs are popular for quicker door-to-door trips. The Valletta-Sliema ferry is a pleasant shortcut across the harbour.
Visiting Gozo
The Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa takes 25 minutes and runs frequently throughout the day. You only pay on the return journey (EUR 4.65 for pedestrians). Gozo is smaller and quieter than Malta with beautiful countryside, the Ġgantija Temples, and excellent diving. Rent a car or use Gozo’s hop-on hop-off bus to explore the island in a day trip.
Tips
- Malta uses euros and cards are accepted at most businesses, though carry cash for village shops and market stalls
- English is an official language alongside Maltese, so communication is straightforward
- Sunscreen and water are essential — Malta gets very hot in summer with little shade outside towns
- The Tallinja Explore card (EUR 21/7 days) offers unlimited bus travel and is great value
- Driving is on the left (British legacy) and roads can be narrow and poorly signed outside main routes