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Last updated on August 28th, 2024 at 01:20 pm
Is driving in Malta easy? Should I plan a Malta road trip? These are some of the questions we get quite often and this is why we decided to publish this ultimate guide to driving in Malta.
In this article, we’re addressing all the concerns that may arise regarding driving in Malta, alongside details on how to rent a car in Malta and a suggested Malta road trip itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful island country.
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Is It Worth Hiring a Car in Malta?
Before going into detail about what driving in Malta is like and explaining why it’s worth renting a car in Malta, let’s clear something up right from the start.
There’s no reason to rent a car if you only plan to stay in Valletta and just want to see a couple more Malta attractions besides the capital. In this case, it’s best to rely on public transport to get around Valletta and book guided tours to visit other attractions.
But, even if you wish to venture beyond the limits of the Maltese capital, you may think that you don’t need to hire a car to explore Malta, given that the Maltese Islands are so small. But the truth is that you do need a car.
Consisting only of buses, public transportation in Malta is generally reliable and convenient if you only want to visit some of Malta’s main attractions but that’s as far as it can get you. Moreover, buses can get quite crowded. Therefore, the easiest and most comfortable way to get anywhere you want, including some of the best places in Malta, such as Dingli Cliffs or Ghar Lapsi, is by car.
A rental car will save you tons of valuable time waiting for the bus. Most importantly, you can spend as much – or as little – time as you want in a place, without having to rely on the bus schedule.
Whether you plan your own itinerary or follow our suggested Malta itinerary you’ll find further down in this article, renting a car in Malta is worth it as it allows you to visit gorgeous sandy beaches, nature wonders, ancient temples and less crowded places and enjoy them at your own pace.
How To Rent a Car in Malta
If you’ve already grabbed your credit card to hire a car for your Malta road trip, please refrain from finalising any bookings before you read our thorough guide to renting a car in Malta.
1. Make Sure You Have a Valid Driving Licence
First of all, before booking a rental car for your Malta road trip, you need to check that you hold a valid driver’s licence. All driving licences issued in the European Union are accepted. Any international driving permit issued outside the European Union is also accepted unless you plan to stay in Malta for more than twelve months. The minimum age to drive in Malta is 18.
2. Pick The Best Website To Rent a Car
Long gone are the days when you could just show up at a place and rent a car – or even a room – on the spot. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, make sure you book your rental car way in advance.
To find the best car for your travel needs, a good idea is to browse through a website that allows you to compare car rental companies before you book. The one we use is Discover Cars and we are very happy with their services so far.
3. Read The Car Rental Terms & Reviews Carefully
Before booking the rental car of your choice, double-check the reviews to pick one of the top-rated car rental companies. Only once did we skip this step and it was in Malta. Our experience wasn’t the greatest and we wish we had chosen a car rental company with better reviews.
Apart from reading the reviews carefully, remember not to be lured by the very low prices. They’re so low for a reason. The quality and services offered are equally low.
Another thing we learnt the hard way was that you may be asked to pay for a security deposit on the spot even if you’ve already paid online for full coverage. In that case, you need to use the same credit card as the one you used to make the booking. The card must be in the driver’s name and should have a high credit limit.
But, again, that was our experience and we are to blame for not reading the reviews and terms carefully. To avoid similar issues, our best advice is to read thoroughly the terms of each company before booking.
Other things to keep an eye on when booking a rental car are the fuel policy (we prefer the full-to-full one) and whether the additional driver requires an extra fee.
4. Choose The Right Type of Car
Before choosing between a compact car and an SUV, there are some things you should consider, such as Malta’s narrow roads. If you’re not used to those kinds of roads, opt for hiring a smaller car. However, an SUV might be best for your needs if you’re a larger group and you’re a confident driver, experienced in similar driving conditions.
5. Buy Full-Coverage Insurance
Don’t forget to buy full-coverage car insurance from Discover Cars. As its name suggests, this insurance type compensates you for damage or theft up to the amount stated in the terms. The additional cost will buy you the peace of mind you need when driving a rental car in a foreign country.
6. Confirm The Pick-Up Location
Keep in mind that the car rental company will likely ask you to pick up the rental car from Malta Airport. While browsing through Discover Cars, you’ll notice that several companies will have someone meet you upon your arrival and then you’ll go to their office together. On the other hand, some companies will ask you to meet them at their offices.
In the second case, you will have to find the car rental centre on your own. The latter is located a few minutes walk from the terminal. We would recommend choosing a company with a meet-and-greet service as trying to find the car rental centre while dragging your luggage around can be quite stressful.
7. Check The Rental Car Before Driving
As soon as you’re handed your car key, check if the rental car is in good condition and take photos of any scratches before you leave to avoid being charged for any damages that were already there rather than caused by you.
Is Driving in Malta Easy?
There’s no one-word answer to that and this is why we decided to write this detailed guide to driving in Malta.
Before actually getting behind the wheel in Malta, we didn’t know what to expect. First of all, we weren’t at all sure if we’d get used to driving on the wrong (?) side of the road. Then there were all those horror stories about traffic jams and fast drivers we had heard from friends who had already driven in Malta.
Yet, as it turned out, driving in Malta wasn’t as hard as we thought it would be. As long as you keep a few things in mind, all listed below, we’re sure you’ll have a pleasant and safe driving experience in Malta.
Driving in Malta
Here are the answers to any questions you may have about driving in Malta.
Malta Driving: Left or Right?
As a former British colony, Malta has kept the UK driving rules. One of the most important driving rules in Malta is that driving is on the left-hand side of the road and the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car. We know that might sound scary if you’re used to driving on the right-hand side, like us, but trust us, it’s not as bad as it sounds.
Road Network
Malta boasts an extensive road network. The main road on Malta Island connects the north to the south.
One thing to keep in mind is that most Maltese roads are narrow. If you’re planning to explore remote areas via rural roads, these are even narrower. On the bright side, though, roads in Malta don’t have any significant inclination. Also, there aren’t any motorways or toll roads.
Another thing you should know about driving in Malta is the large number of roundabouts. There is a roundabout at almost every intersection, which is very convenient if you’re used to them. In case you’re not familiar with them, like us, remember that you always give way to vehicles that are already in the roundabout.
Overall, road conditions in Malta are very good, as the majority of roads are well-maintained. Furthermore, you rarely come across a dirt road, with the exception of very short dirt roads that lead to some beaches. Over cliffs and on dangerous turns, there are road safety barriers.
Traffic Jams
Although a small country, Malta is notorious for its traffic congestion. That’s because Malta is one of the most densely populated countries, which results in the ongoing increase of vehicles. Especially near Valletta and other urban areas, it’s not uncommon to get stuck in a traffic jam for quite a while.
We visited Malta in spring, which isn’t the high season, yet we had our fair share of traffic jams. We noticed that near Valletta, and generally in the south, traffic was heavier than in the north. Needless to say, traffic jams are more frequent during the rush hour and the peak season. All in all, try to avoid driving near Valletta, Sliema and St. Julians, especially in the summer months.
Maltese Drivers
If there’s one thing we couldn’t get used to while driving in Malta was the driver behaviour of the Maltese people, which felt chaotic, to say the least. A lot of unnecessary overtakes, no use of indicators and constant pushing when behind you, are frequent. Fast driving is a common occurrence, too. That said, as long as you drive defensively there is nothing to be afraid of.
Traffic Rules
Most traffic rules, such as the mandatory use of seat belts while driving and mobile phone use with a hands-free only, are the same that apply to all European countries. Road signs are similar to those in the UK where words are used more than symbols. For instance, the GIVE WAY sign is self-explanatory. Speed limits are also written, either on traffic signs or on the road.
Parking
Parking spaces in Malta are indicated by lines of four colours. White lines are for parking spaces that are available 24/7. Yellow spaces and double yellow lines mean that parking isn’t allowed there. Blue lines mean you can park there early in the morning and in the evening. Green lines indicate parking spaces reserved only for residents.
As might be expected, it’s extremely hard to park your car in Valletta. Therefore, it’s better to find a parking lot outside the city. Likewise, parking in Sliema and St. Julian’s isn’t easy as both seaside towns get crowded, especially during the high season. In any case, as we’ve already mentioned, if you plan to stick to Valletta and around, you’ll be better off without a car anyway.
Petrol Stations
Gas stations are easy to find in Malta. Some of them operate 24/7 and most are both manned and self-service stations. The most common fuel for rental cars is unleaded petrol. Car rental companies usually put a sticker on the car indicating the fuel you should fill up the car with.
Are Distances in Malta Long?
As one of the smallest countries in the world, Malta is the perfect destination for a road trip. The longest distance on Malta Island, the main island of Malta, is the one from Cirkewwa in the northwest to Marsaxlokk in the southeast. This drive takes about one hour. In Gozo, Malta’s second-largest island, distances are even shorter.
Our Suggested Malta Road Trip Itinerary in a Nutshell
How Many Days Do I Need a Car in Malta?
Excluding the days you’re going to spend in Valletta, you’ll need at least five days to explore the rest of Malta Island. If you plan to visit Gozo Island as well, you should add another three to four days.
8- to 11-Day Malta Road Trip Itinerary
Days 1, 2, 3: Valletta & Around
In Valletta, you won’t need a car as it’s easy to get around by bus. It will take you about two days to see the best attractions in Valletta. For more authentic vibes away from the crowds, spend half a day exploring the charming Three Cities. What’s more, Sliema and St. Julian’s near Valletta are two of Malta’s most vibrant areas with plenty of accommodation options, groceries, bars and restaurants.
Day 4: Marsaxlokk
On your fourth day, pick up your rental car and choose a place to stay outside Valletta. It’s time to start your Malta road trip.
Drive to the southeast to spend one day in Marsaxlokk, Malta’s traditional village with its colourful fishing boats. One of the best things to do in Marsaxlokk is to take a boat tour to St. Peter’s Pool for a refreshing swim in its crystal clear waters.
On the way to Marsaxlokk, you can also visit the Tarxien Temples complex and the Hypogeum.
Day 5: Mdina & Rabat
Also known as the Silent City, Mdina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. The medieval Citadel is one of the top sights in Mdina, while adjacent Rabat is famous for its catacombs.
Other places worth visiting by car around Mdina and Rabat are Mosta, where you can see one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, and Victoria Lines, a Victorian fortification complex.
Day 6: Malta’s South Coast
This day is dedicated to exploring the island’s southern coast. Start from the Blue Grotto, where you can go snorkelling during a boat trip, before visiting the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. Take a break at the small harbour of Ghar Lapsi, make a quick stop at a prehistoric site to admire the mysterious cart ruts and finish your day at Dingli Cliffs for the golden hour.
Day 7: Blue Lagoon (Comino Island)
As much as we want to avoid crowded and touristic places, the Blue Lagoon, on the small island of Comino, is a place not to be missed in Malta. While on a road trip, a great way to get to Comino is by ferry from Marfa in the north of Malta Island. Read our detailed guide about the best ways to get to the Blue Lagoon and the top things to do on Comino Island.
Once you get back from Comino in the late afternoon, it’s a great opportunity to explore the Marfa Peninsula by car. Some of the best attractions in Marfa are the Red Tower, the White Tower and the Coral Lagoon.
Day 8: Mellieha
Spend the last day of your Malta road trip in Mellieha, on the island’s northwest coast. Start with a hike along the Xemxija Heritage Trail, visit one of Malta’s largest World War II air-raid shelters in the town of Mellieha and enjoy an epic sunset at Golden Bay Beach or Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. If you’re travelling with kids, Popeye Village is only a five-minute drive from Mellieha.
Days 9, 10, 11: Gozo Island
Often overlooked or visited just for a day trip, Gozo was probably our favourite part of our entire Malta trip. Although much smaller than the main Malta island, Gozo has no shortage of natural wonders, raw landscapes, ancient history and stunning beaches. The Inland Sea, Ta’ Pinu Basilica and the sea salt pans are only a few of the best things to see in Gozo.
We hope that after reading this guide, most – if not all – of your concerns about driving in Malta are now gone. This small island country is filled with wonders and the best way to explore as many of them as possible without rushing is to plan your own Malta road trip.
WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina
EDITING: Maria