bus travel on malta

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Malta’s public bus system can get pretty overwhelming for anyone not used to it. With over 125 routes, frequently changing schedules, and non-stop traffic, finding your way round the island isn’t always simple.

In light of that, here’s everything you need to know about wading your way through the chaos, from someone who uses public transport every day.

Tallinja Buses:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tallinja (@tallinja_mpt)

First of all, there’s only one bus company operating public transport here in Malta – ‘Malta Public Transport’. Every other bus you may see is privately owned.

Malta’s public transport system can get you pretty much anywhere you want to go in Malta and Gozo, except for the extremely secluded beaches or landmarks.

There’s no public transport system in place in Comino, meaning that you can only get around the island on foot.  

Collectively, Malta and Gozo are home to a total of 125 bus routes, so figuring out which route/s you have to take to get to you desired destination can get pretty tricky.

In light of that, I’d suggest heading to Google Maps, selecting your location and your desired destination. This will let you know exactly which bus routes you should take to get from point A to point B – having said that, do not rely on the bus times that Google Maps gives out.

The times that this platform gives out are based on the timetables in place, having said that, Malta’s buses often run late, making these times pretty unreliable.

Instead, head to the App Store or Play Store on your phone and download the ‘tallinja’ app, which gives you real-time information about how far your bus is from getting to your stop.

All you need to do is select the bus stop you’re going to be waiting at – just make sure you choose the right one!

If you follow this complicated yet effective technique, you’ll rid yourself of a lot of waiting at what usually are unsheltered bus stops.

If you ever get confused, just head straight to the Valletta bus terminus – Malta’s main bus terminus. Every locality around the islands has a bus which starts or ends at this terminus.

At this terminus, tens of buses leave every hour, so you’re bound to come across a couple heading towards your desired destination. The same rules apply to the Victoria bus terminus in Gozo.

Something else you should keep in mind is that most buses don’t operate all day and usually stop at around 10 or 11pm before restarting the following morning.

There are four night routes: N11, N13, N212, N301, but even these stop operating pretty early on into the night. If you’re out too late, your best bet to get back home is to order a cab.

How to get to and from the airport:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malta International Airport (@maltairport)

You’ve just landed at the Malta International Airport and now what?

There are a total of six bus routes that take you from the airport to the rest of Malta: the X1, X1A, X1B X2, X3, X4. Basically, whenever you see an X followed by a number on a bus just know it’s either going to or from the airport.

How to get to and from the Cirkewwa Harbour:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AngelinaJ (@angelinaj_travel)

When it comes to getting to and from the Cirkewwa Harbour to cross over to sister island of Gozo, you have to catch any of the following buses: X1, 222, 221, 41, 42 or 101.

These all stop exactly under the stairs leading up to the ferry terminal so it should be pretty easy to get there.

How to get to and from Mgarr, Gozo Harbour: 

To get to the Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, your best bet would be to catch any of the following buses: 301, 303, 323 or 322.

These are the same buses you need to catch to get to central areas of Gozo as well. The bus stop is right in front of the entrance of the ferry terminal.

Prices and payment:

Payment is pretty easy, you can either buy a ticket from the driver that costs €1.50 during the winter season and €2 during the summer season. You can get on as many buses as you want with this ticket within the span of two hours.

If you want to save money, which I’m guessing you do, you can buy an unlimited ‘Seven Day Explore’ card. This card gets you unlimited travel for seven days for the price of €21. For children up to 10 years this only costs €15 instead.

For the full list of locations you can buy the card from, click here. ( https://www.publictransport.com.mt/en/where-to-buy-travel-card ).

  @tallinja_mpt /Instagram, @tallinja_mpt /Instagram,  @maltairport /Instagram, @angelinaj_travel /Instagram, James Stringer /Flickr, @tallinja_mpt /Instagram

15th August 2022

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A Guide to Travel in Malta by Bus

Travel by bus I hear you scream?! Yes I had exactly the same thoughts when multiple recommend to me that getting the bus in Malta would be far less money and more efficient when we visited in July.  I haven’t been on a bus in years, and the last time I spend extended periods of time on a bus was when I couldn’t drive and wanted to go and see my friends every weekend. However, after doing lots and lots of research I decided we wouldn’t hire a car in Malta (it’s expensive, at around £30-£40 a day) and instead give this famous bus network a go! And I was surprisingly delighted…

Pretty much everywhere in Malta can be reached by bus – honestly it’s true. After the legendary yellow buses were retired in 2011, a fleet of modern vehicles run by British company Arriva were introduced to connect every single town, village and hamlet within the island.

HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS

From 2016 onwards prices have stayed the same – a single ticket which is valid for two hours costs €2 (can be bought from the driver with cash) and night buses (N) and express lines (TD) cost €3 for a single journey, and are also valid for two hours. You can also buy 12-Journey Cards for €15, which can be used by more than one person, or a 7-Day Explore Card for €21. You can buy these from kiosks – you can find them at Valletta and Bugibba bus stations, Malta Airport, Sliema Ferries, Mater Dei Hospital, and the the Victoria bus station in Gozo. In hindsight we would have opted for the 7-Day Explore Card as we potentially used the bus enough to warrant a saving, but if you are only going on a few journeys I wouldn’t bother. They aren’t dirt cheap but they are compared to taxis and hire cars.

HOW OFTEN ARE THEY

Be prepared to wait like the locals do. Arm yourself with some patience and trust that the bus is coming, or it may have been early but there will be another one soon. We got quite frustrated on our first day when we couldn’t work out where we were going or what bus to get on, but as the days passed we worked it out and it was super simple.

Don’t expect buses to run every 5-10 minutes – more like every half an hour, or once an hour sometimes. Oh and the buses also stop frequently, and often take loopy, twisting roads – getting around takes time. The journey is worth the wait!

Remember, Malta is the second highest densely populated country in Europe with nearly half a million people in only 315 squa

Generally speaking, the smaller the number, the quicker, more frequent and more reliable the bus will be. Lines starting with ‘X’ or ‘TD’ are ‘express’ – even though, in Maltese terms, that is relative too. Two-digit routes usually run every 15 mins or so, and three-digit routes run every half-hour or every hour.

re kilometers. In peak hour (7-9 in the morning, and 5-7 in the afternoon) expect traffic, especially between Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and St George Bay. And you may not be able to sit down either… so be prepared for that.

Like I said above, you can pretty much go anywhere on the island by bus – you may just need to change bus routes a few times. Below is a recent bus route map which I’d recommend printing out and taking with you on your trip.

To see up-to-date, full bus timetables and route maps, check online at  www.publictransport.com.mt . The website also has a handy online journey planner. If you’re staying in Malta for an extended period, download Malta Public Transport’s Tallinja app, which provides real-time information about bus arrivals and departures.

There are six different express services running between the airport and various parts of the island, including St Julian’s, Sliema and Ċirkewwa. The X4 runs between Valletta and the airport, and takes just over 20 minutes. For Sliema and St Julian’s, catch the X3 from the airport.

Most buses run from around 5.30am to 11pm, and frequency varies depending on the popularity of the route. In towns and villages the bus terminus is usually found on or near the parish church square.

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JAMES DAVIS

A great pity that the legendary yellow buses were retired as they had loads of character. The new Arriva buses may be more reliable and efficient but they are all the same. the old buses had religious icons hanging all over the interior with crosses, pictures and models of the Virgin Mary. The paintwork was peeling and the cushioned seats suspect! I missed them when I went back there recently after thirty years.

Such a shame!!! xx

Abbi Johnson

Thanks so much for this Sophie! I am currently planning my trip to Malta for next month, and have been trying to decide between car hire and bus, but I think I am going with buses now!

Ah I am glad its been useful theres a whole series be sure to check it out!!!

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Home » Home » Transport and getting around

Getting around in Malta and Gozo: Public transport, taxis and more

One of the major advantages of Malta’s small size is that getting around is easy, and you won’t need much travel time to explore the country. You can access a modern, relatively cheap and reliable public transportation system of route buses, high-quality taxi services and other types of transport in Malta.

In other words, There are good (and inexpensive) ways of getting around Malta and Gozo on your holiday.

In this guide, I’ll show you all the different types of transport and a little info on hiring a car and driving in Malta .

Save big on sightseeing with iSeeMalta , with hop-on/hop-off buses and boats, combo tickets for museums and the ferry to the Blue Lagoon!

Getting Around in Malta using public transport

The only types of public transport in Malta nowadays are 1) a system of route buses and 2) ferries in key parts of Malta. There’s no underground or metro, and although a railway service once existed (late 19th/early 20th century), all that remains are old train station buildings.

The bus routes, operated by Malta Public Transport, can get you anywhere you want to go in Malta and Gozo between 5:30 a.m. and 11 p.m. A night service runs on Friday and Saturday nights and public holidays.

Getting around Malta by bus might not be the fastest way if you’ve planned your trip around an itinerary , but other than walking or cycling it is surely the most economical. So, if you have a little patience and are not in a hurry, consider using this service.

The Maltese bus network is made of 120+ routes and over 1900 bus stops connecting the most important destinations on the island, including the Malta International Airport , the Valletta cruise liner terminal and the Gozo ferry terminals at Ċirkewwa and Valletta (from where you can catch a ferry to Malta’s sister island of Gozo ).

Buses are fairly efficient, with some occasional hiccups, serving the major tourist areas and places of interest . The main bus terminus is located just outside of Malta’s capital city, Valletta . Other major bus nodes are located at the airport, Buġibba , at Ċirkewwa (Gozo ferry) and Gozo’s largest town of Victoria, with several low-floor buses serving each of them.

You can find ferries in a few key places, most notably:

• Between Valletta and Sliema
• Between Valletta and The Three Cities
• Between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo
• Between Valletta and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo.

More on those public transport routes further below: Ferries in Malta and Gozo .

Using public transport: Tips and handy resources

You can plan your bus trips using the website of Malta Public Transport . Just specify your point of departure and the destination you have in mind, and you get all route options available to you.

TIP: The journey planner of Malta Public Transport works most of the time, but you get better results by looking up the bus stop names through Google Maps and entering departure/arrival points instead of place names or tourist sites.

Other handy resources:

• Download a bus route map here (Malta Public Transport website)
• For Android phones from the Google Play Store
• For iPhone from iTunes

The app makes it easy to plan trips and get real-time info on routes when you’re on the go.

Looking for tours and excursions in Malta and Gozo?

Get my recommendations on the best day trips, boat trips, excursions and activities and book in advance!

Bus tickets and prices

How much do bus tickets cost.

During the day, a bus ticket costs €2.50, and the night rate is €3.00 , all year round.

Multi-day tickets

If you’re planning to stay for 7 or more days, know that the Malta public transport chip card, locally referred to as the ‘ Tallinja card’, offers cheaper fares than single tickets. Three Tallinja card offerings are most suited for visiting travellers:

• Explore card at €21 (adult) or €15 (child) – offering unlimited bus travel for 7 days
• Explore Flex card starting at €6 (for a 24-hour long illimited use of the bus services, or €15 for 4 days) and offering four different packages including illimited bus travel on all bus route options plus sightseeing options. For example, the Explore Plus package (at €69) includes 7 days of unlimited bus travel + a return trip from Valletta to Gozo on the Gozo Highspeed ferry + 1-day hop-on/hop-off bus tour (open top buses) + a harbour cruise.
• 12-Day Journey Card card at €15 – offers reduced fares for 12 journeys (or 6 trips using Night routes or Tallinja Direct routes, whose names respectively start with N and TD).

Tip: A personalised Tallinja card is the best option if you are staying longer in Malta (more than one month), as this travel card gives you access to public bus services for free.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can pay for single-ticket rides very easily with contactless payment on board the bus using a VISA credit or debit card. (Other credit card brands are currently not accepted for this method). Multi-day tickets and passes still need to be purchased from ticket booths or machines.

You can buy bus tickets and passes the traditional way:

• In the arrivals hall at Malta International Airport (8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. daily)
• At the Valletta bus terminal (6 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. daily)
• At the Victoria (Gozo) bus terminal (Mon-Sat 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., Sun: closed)
• Directly from the bus driver on all buses. Do make sure to offer exact/small changes – it’s not unusual for bus drivers to get upset when offering a 10-Euro note or higher amount for a single ticket.
• From card dispensing machines (available 24/7) listed here .
• From local retail shops and stationers (bus cards only, not single tickets).

Unfortunately, they’re not for sale online yet. The easiest is planning what type of ticket/card suits you best and buying one at the airport from the sales office (if your flight arrives within opening hours), at the card dispensing machine located in the Arrivals hall or when you get on the bus (for single tickets only).

Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

Malta & Gozo guide book Valletta : An Insider’s Guide to Malta’s Capital

Take the hassle out of planning your trip to Malta and be an informed traveller!

The old Malta bus – Did you know?

Up until mid-2011, local bus routes were serviced by renovated, brightly coloured Maltese buses originally built as far back as the 1950s. Malta’s bus services underwent a major overhaul in recent years, which means the older buses, which tourists and some locals much loved, vanished from the street sight.

Although no doubt the new bus fleet provides a more comfortable ride and causes significantly less pollution on Maltese roads, the old Maltese bus was an icon of the country. You’ll find a few of these buses providing tourist tours in places like Sliema, and a few of them were exported to the UK as well.

Ferries in Malta and Gozo

Being surrounded by the sea, you don’t need to depend on just land-based transportation options. In fact, as traffic congestion has significantly increased over the years in Malta, sometimes ferries are a far better alternative.

These are the ferry services that can really make your life easier when you go sightseeing around the Maltese islands:

• Gozo Channel ferries are the most popular ferry service and form the main link between Malta and Gozo. A trip takes around 20-25 minutes, and you can take a car on board.
• You can also get a fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo using the Gozo Highspeed ferry service. Trips take under 45 minutes, but only foot passengers can be transported, so you’ll need a way to get around once you land in Gozo.
• Hop-on / Hop-off ferries operated by iSeeMalta provide a lot of flexibility for sightseeing, with stops at Sliema ferries, Buġibba, Comino (Blue Lagoon) and Gozo at a low price. ( You can buy tickets online here )
• Valletta Ferry Services offers two Valletta ferry services. The Sliema ferry takes you across Marsamxett Harbour to/from Valletta (making for a great connection with boat trip providers and the iSeeMalta ferry mentioned above, located at Sliema ferries), while the other takes you to the Three Cities (across Grand Harbour). Cheap, fast and convenient.

Water taxis

Speaking of the Three Cities, at Birgu waterfront, you can also hop on a water taxi. They’re often gondola-styled little boats.

Getting around in Malta with a water taxi is a faster way to travel between the cities around the Grand Harbour. It is also a nice and peaceful way to experience the historic harbour than by bus. Water taxis are also a fun way of getting around, especially when travelling with children.

A trip that takes around 10 minutes – apart from being quick, it is also cheap at €2.00 one way. Boats leave any time between around 8 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. in winter and 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 p.m. in summer. They depart from Lascaris (Valletta), next to the regular Three Cities ferry departure point and Birgu Waterfront gate (Porte de la Victoire).

How to get to and get around in Gozo

Malta Public Transport operates 16 bus routes in Gozo. But first, you need to get to the Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal, from where you can catch a 20-minute ride across the water on the Gozo Channel ferry that operates daily between Ċirkewwa in Malta and Mġarr in Gozo. Alternatively, you can catch the high-speed ferry to Gozo from Valletta.

The following bus route options can take you to Ċirkewwa from various towns and villages across the island: 41, 42, 101, 221, 222, X1, X1A and X300.

The Gozo Channel runs a ferry boat service to Gozo daily, usually with trips every 45 minutes. Foot passengers (adults) are charged €4.65 for a round-trip ticket, while the charge to carry over a car and driver is €15.70 at the time of writing. Payment for tickets is made in Gozo (on your way back to Malta) before boarding the ferry.

Once you make the crossing, you can go to the Vapur bus stop and hop back on a bus from Mġarr harbour in Gozo and ride to other villages in Gozo ( route map here ). When using the bus service in Gozo, you can travel using the same bus cards and tickets used in Malta.

Although it’s definitely the cheapest mode of transport to go around in Gozo, the bus service itself gets mixed reviews for efficiency and punctuality. If you have the budget and want to stay in Gozo, I’d recommend hiring a car instead . It’s pretty easy and safe to drive anywhere in Gozo with a car rental.

Get more info on this topic here: How to catch the Malta to Gozo Ferry .

Getting to Gozo from the airport

If you’re looking to travel to Gozo directly from the airport, these are your options:

• The X1 bus route (operated by Malta Public Transport) can take you to the Gozo ferry next to the Ċirkewwa bus stop for €2.50 per person.
• Taxis and transfers can take you right up to Ċirkewwa
• You can rent a car from the airport and take it up to Gozo. The ferry boats carry cars and trucks between Malta and Gozo.

Get more info on this topic here: How to get from Malta Airport to Gozo .

Taxis in Malta

Several private companies run efficient (but not very cheap) taxi services in Malta. You can book different types of vehicles depending on the number of people travelling – for example; most companies offer both standard cars for up to 4 persons and mini-vans for larger groups.

Where do you grab a cab?

You’ll find taxi stands just outside the Malta Airport, at City Gate in Valletta and outside the cruise liner terminal, in Sliema and St. Julian’s area, at major bus stations and in the vicinity of popular hotels and tourist resorts.

Most private operators can be reached for a quick pickup as well, apart from the regular taxi stands.

What does a taxi ride typically cost?

• White taxis – which operate the official Malta taxi service – charge fares calculated according to the destination using a fare meter.
• Other private companies that use black or blue cars have different rates. For example, a trip from Malta Airport to Sliema or St. Julian’s in a standard car would cost around €30.

Some of the private taxi operators in Malta:

• cab – Book through their website. Usually lowest-priced.
• John’s Garage – Contact number: +356 2298 2298

Taxis in Valletta (minicabs)

A service of electric minicabs run in Malta’s capital city of Valletta, charging a flat fare of €5 for three people. Like taxis, these minicabs can be hired out either by hailing them as they go by or at Electric Mini Cab Stands in Valletta. One can also book a minicab by calling +356 7741 4177.

Airport transfers

Malta International Airport , located near the villages of Luqa and Gudja, lies less than 10 km away from the capital, Valletta. Getting to your hotel from the airport is easy as you can choose from a number of options:

• Arrange for a Malta airport transfer via private taxi or shared shuttle bus. By far the easiest option. (Recommendations: Any.cab and Welcome Pickups )
• Hail a cab yourself from the stand full of taxis waiting outside the arrivals lounge. Reliable but a more expensive option.
• Hop onto a route bus (run by Malta Public Transport), which gets you pretty much anywhere at a low cost. Routes X1, X1A, X2, X3, X4, and 119 have limited bus stops and operate to and from the Airport from different localities to different destinations.
• Rent a car from the numerous operators represented there.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Malta is a good option when you want to uncover all the secrets the island has to offer. You might, for example, want to visit hidden, more secluded beaches like the ones I mention in my Top 10 Best Beaches in Malta article.

You can find representatives of car rental companies at the Malta International Airport, but shopping around for the best rates isn’t a bad idea.

A few key points to consider when hiring a car in Malta:

• Driving is on the left
• Road signs are in English and Maltese
• International driving licences are legal in Malta
• Heavy traffic on the roads around Valletta, Sliema and St Julian’s, especially during rush hour (early morning, late afternoon/early evening).

Renting a Motorbike

Motorcycle enthusiasts can share their two-wheeled love on the Maltese roads quite easily as several companies offer motorbike rentals. All you need is to be 18+ or 21+ years old (depending on the vehicle type)  and in possession of a valid driving licence, and you can be on a bike in no time. Motorcycles offer two benefits over cars – traffic is no concern, and neither is a lack of parking spots.

These are 3 popular sites from where you can hire a motorbike in Malta, although there are many more options:

• AHS Malta – Contact number: +356 2134 0149
• ST Rentals Malta – Contact numbers: +356 2720 4687 / +356 9991 1176
• AM Rentals Malta – Contact numbers: +356 2099 4723 / +356 7733 3322

Driving Your Own Vehicle in Malta

If you’re exploring Europe with your own car, you can easily travel from Sicily to Malta by ferry. The same considerations mentioned apply when hiring a car when you’re using your vehicle in Malta. However, you might want to take note of the following companies that offer roadside assistance and breakdown services:

• RMF – Contact numbers: +356 2124 2222 (Malta) and +356 2155 8844 (Gozo)
• MET – Contact numbers: +356 2122 7676 or +356 2122 7979
• MTC – Contact numbers: +356 2143 3333 or +356 7943 3333

Here are a few tips for driving your own car in Malta:

• Vehicles with foreign registration can remain in Malta for six months in any given year without applying for a permit.
• The Malta national speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas and between 70 and 80 km/h in extra-urban areas. Speed cameras are placed in several main arteries, although none measure average speed on a trajectory.
• Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory.
• Accidents must be reported to the nearest police station. For insurance purposes, you shouldn’t move your vehicle before the police arrive.
• The acceptable limit of blood alcohol content for drivers in Malta is 0.08%.

Check out another article with more tips, facts and FAQs on driving in Malta .

Other modes of transport in Malta and Gozo

Cycling and e-bikes.

Despite being environmentally friendly, cycling isn’t the safest mode of transport, particularly on the busier main island of Malta, because there are no proper bicycle lanes on the roads. Also, traffic can be heavy in the centre of Malta (much less so in Gozo), Maltese drivers drive fast, and the uneven land formations and intense summer heat add tough challenges for cyclists.

If you’re staying in Gozo, where roads are still a lot quieter, and you’re up for a good cardio workout, it’s a good option to explore this particular island on two wheels.

You can rent bicycles from:

• Be Green Malta in Qawra – contact number: +356 7703 0304
• Gozo Adventures – contact number: +356 9999 4592
• Eco Sports in Buġibba – contact number: +356 9947 1627.

Alternatively, you can also find e-bike stations from Malta Public Transport, where you can rent bikes on the go (in both Malta and Gozo). This service is called Tallinja Bike , and they’ve got a good number of docking stations in the more central parts of Malta and Gozo. Fees are reasonable, starting at €3.00 for the first 30 minutes.

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Hello Edward, Many thanks for your invaluable advice on visiting Malta this November. It has made it easier to plan trips- visits and eating out.

Happy to hear that Veronica. Thank you for the feedback and have a great trip!

Thanks for all the very important information.

Hi! I have a question regarding public transportation. What is difference between routes marked ‘X’, like X1, X2 and all other?

Hi Ruta, Happy New Year! The X routes are the ones that provide service to and from the airport. Those routes will get you to/from the airport and the most popular locations around Malta at a modest fee.

Dear Edward Thank you so much for all this valuable information, it is going to make my trip this october much easier! I’m going to malta for 5 days (mit october) and I wanted to know if I’d need two days to explore gozo? we are staying in sliema and we’d love to visit comino and gozo itself, should we go early to gozo ferries and first go to comino and later on that day visit gozo or is this way to much to see in one day? We have been struggeling with the thought of or going by bus everywhere or hiring a car, which do you recommend?

Best regards, Lore

Hi Lore. Tough question! If you’re only in Malta for 5 days I’d spend one day in Gozo. If the weather’s decent (which it isn’t right now) you could take a boat trip from Sliema that combines both Gozo and the Blue Lagoon at Comino.

As for transport: Buses aren’t very efficient and with just 5 days it’d be a shame to spend a lot of time travelling. However, Sliema is probably the worst place for car rental. Apart from traffic congestion, unless your accommodation includes private parking you won’t be happy trying to find a spot. I’d highly recommend travelling over water as much as you can, so taking a ferry to Valletta (super easy from the Ferries side of Sliema) or taking a few boat trips , as mentioned.

Hi, i am planning a visit to Malta in October, is this a good time to visit. Will the tourist attractions still be operating or do they start closing at that time (boat trips, beach bars etc)

Hi Richard, some operators will start closing up shop for summer later in the month, so I’d recommend going in early October if you can.

Hi, would you recommend the bus tour or Jeep tour in Malta? Is the jeep ride very uncomfortable?

Hi Jo, I’m not a huge fan of either, although the Jeep safari tour can be enjoyable if you’re not necessarily after seeing all the tourist sites. You will be going offroad though, so it’s not going to be super comfortable. I have more info here: Best Malta tours and excursions .

Hello, We are staying at Comino Island mid May – which cab company is the best/most economical to book from Malta airport to the ferry and back a week later? Would prefer not to share a shuttle. Many thanks Coleen

Hi Coleen, I’ve never been disappointed by eCabs but if you’re looking for the most economical option, Taxify (the local Uber flavour) gets good reviews and will cost a little less.

I will travel to Malta and Gozo with my family in mid of September.We will spend 3 days in Gozo and then 4 days in Malta. We would like to visit Comino too, what is the easiest and cheap possibility to do it? The ferry between Gozo and Malta has a stop there? Best regards, Andi

Hi Andi, unfortunately no, the Gozo ferry doesn’t stop at Comino. You’ll have to take a separate (smaller) ferry to get there. The two options are: 1) From Mġarr harbour in Gozo or 2) from Marfa (small bay in the far North of Malta). You can also get day trips by boat from popular tourist places like Sliema, St. Julian’s and Buġibba/St. Paul’s Bay but they’ll be a little more expensive. I’d probably go for option 1 and spend a morning in Comino at the Blue Lagoon. Go early to avoid the crowds though (as it’ll still be a highly popular destination).

I am planning to take the Hop on hop off tour for Malta. Do you prefer the same for Gozo or a jeep safari? p.s. I have a 1.5 year old toddler.

Hi Maryam, with a 1.5y toddler I don’t think a jeep safari will be a comfortable option, so between those two options it’d be the hop on/hop off I’d recommend.

This Is such a valuable guide. My second time visiting Malta and I wish I had looked this site up before. Thank you!

Thanks for the feedback Gary, glad you like it! 🙂

Hi Edward, Is there a Bus timetable available online? We are staying in Bugibba for only 3 days in May on a reconnaissance mission to Malta for the family and want to get round as much as possible. Best regards, Jim

Are there bike hire shops and is Malta good for cycling? Thanks, Jess

Hi Jess, yes, you can rent bicycles in Malta but I would only recommend cycling in Gozo. Most roads in Malta are a little too crazy to cycle safely, although it’s not uncommon for people to do so anyway. Have a look at EcoBikes Malta – Buġibba . There’s also a bike sharing option: Nextbike .

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Malta by Public Transport: How to Get Around Malta By Bus

Who said you need a car to explore Malta? This guide will show you how to get around Malta by public transport. All for an accident and hassle-free trip!

First of all, if you’re thinking of going to Malta , you’re on to some great holidays. I can completely validate your intentions.

While hanging out near the crystal azure waters is surely rewarding during the hot summer days, Malta is primarily an island of contrasts. It’s filled with an enriched tradition arising from its tangled and rewarding history.

The question is: how to get around this fascinating island?

Malta by public transport or car?

Dirty little secret. Even though I have gone on several road trips in the past in Croatia and Portugal , I can’t drive. I have a driving license, but the driving experience of a sweet potato.

It would have to be some other person traveling with me driving in Malta . But in the end we decided not to rely exclusively on the large network of  buses in Malta .

Obviously, a car can take you to the remote places much easily without any waiting time. A bus will be slower.

However we weren’t in a rush and after reading a ton of travellers complaining about how horrendous was to drive in Malta – poor driving standards and horrible signage were the hot topics – I began to feel uncomfortable with the idea.

And then we came across with this maltese saying:

In the UK they drive on the left. In the US they drive on the right. In Malta we drive on the shade.

Yeaaaahh, how about no? Bus turned out to be a great value-for-money option to get around Malta : cheap, safe and a much more local experience.

Malta by public transport: Getting around by bus

Getting around by bus is straight-forward. It’s usually safe and hassle-free and the island is very well connected. There are roughly 80 routes on the Maltese islands, operating daily between 5:30 and 23:00hrs.

Google Maps was useful to know the routes and even the bus schedule, but you can use the official journey planner . Frequency is generally pretty good on major routes.

In the major routes (e.g. Mellieha – Sliema ) the buses are modern with comfortable seats. However in smaller ones, my favorites, you’ll most likely get a bumpy ride in a mini-van throughout the middle of nowhere. This russian roulette of comfort just added to the experience!

We visited Blue Lagoon, Ghadira Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha, Mdina, Marsaxlokk and Valletta pretty easily, just by using bus.

Malta Bus Ticket Prices

Back in 2014, a 7-day public bus ticket costed only 6,50 euros (!). Prices have changed significantly since then though. The below are the ticket prices from 2016.

• Single ticket (paid to the driver, valid for 2 hours) : 2 euros

Night routes (prefixed N) and express routes (prefixed TD) are more expensive.

• 12-Journey Card (available at a kiosk) : 15 euros

Has to be bought in advance and it can be used by more than one person for the same journey.

• 7-Day Explore Card (available at a kiosk) : 21 euros

Valid in both Malta and Gozo. Express and night buses have no extra cost.

Kiosks are located at Valletta and Bugibba bus stations, Malta International Airport, Sliema Ferries, Mater Dei Hospital, and the the Victoria bus station in Gozo . Some hotels are also starting to sell bus tickets.

Malta Itinerary – Where to go in the island

Malta sits south of Sicilia , right in the heart of the Mediterranean. The main towns are Mellieha , Valletta and Mosta .

To try to see the most of Malta we divided our stay between 2 places. First, a few days in the relaxing and beachy north of Malta , in  Mellieha . Then a few more days in lively urban Sliema in the south.

This was a great option as it allowed to complete our list of places we wanted to see much more efficiently. Find below details of the main bus connections between the main sights in Malta .

The Northern Malta

When you rely on public transportation in Malta , you need to choose smartly where to base yourself to minimize any more time wasted. Make a list of places you want to see on the map and choose a well-located hub to stay.

In the first part of our trip, we stayed in Mellieha . It is very laid-back pace, the ideal place to rest without the hype of tourist crowds. You can enjoy little big things like seeing the stars at night or watching the sunsets while still swimming at the beach.

Still, the best thing about Mellieha is that gives you easy access to several sandy beaches such as Ghadira Bay , Paradise Bay or Armier Bay .

There are also diving spots like Popeye Village (where the original 1980 movie was filmed). Make sure you go to  Ghajn Tuffieha as well. The beach itself is quieter, there are free boat rides to the coast nearby and I was delighted with the views around the bay.

Mellieha is also a short bus trip away from the  Cirkewwa Terminal , where the ferries to Gozo and Comino islands depart.

You can read about my excitement on the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Together with Zlatni Rat beach in Croatia , easily the most amazing water I’ve swimmed on.

While we were based on Mellieha we also explored  Mdina, located in the heart of the island and dating back 4,000 years(!). It is now nicknamed  Silent City and you immediately know why.

Walking its narrow streets and monochromatic alleyways provides a relaxing atmosphere. Very few cars are allowed and there are several silence signs scattered by the city. It makes you dive back into time right after you cross the city walls.

The Phoenicians knew what they were doing when they founded and fortified Mdina . It benefits from being the island’s highest point, far away from the sea which is perfect to ensure protection from the enemies.

Mdina was the capital of Malta until 1530, when the Knights of Malta decided to move it to Vittoriosa , one of the three fortified cities across the Grand Harbour in the capital Valetta.

Where to stay in Northern Malta

Mellieha is your best bet. A little town but next to the main beaches and very well-connected. This is my top place for accommodation:

Or you can start with my shortlist of the top-rated places to stay in Malta, with WiFi included .

The Southern Malta

From the south part of Malta’s exploration, we were based in Sliema in an hotel near-to-awful. No air-conditioning, no wifi, no friendliness, no nothing. One of my biggest fails in online booking accommodation’s history! I’ll not mention names, but make sure you avoid Alborada Apart Hotel !

Moving on. Sliema ,  along with St. Julian’s next door, is the center of the world for both the Maltese and tourists. It’s got the majority of the hotels, the shopping centers, the restaurants, the nightlife and even a place to swim with a very nice view of  Valetta .

Actually, from Sliema you can have the best views from the capital and I can confirm La Valletta is definitely a charm from any angle.

The promenade between Sliema and St. Julians also has some of the best restaurants in the whole island. We decided not to risk tourist traps and went for the inner streets and found one amazingly good. It’s called Trakis and it has the most popular maltese dish, rabbit cooked in garlic and wine, as well as other delicious dishes.

In addition, being only a 10-minute ferry trip away from Valetta , Sliema  also gives you access to the largest bus terminal in the island. It was from there that we hop on the bus 81 to visit  Marsaxlokk .

Marsaxlokk is the main fishing harbour in Malta and it’s base for 70% of the island’s fishing fleet. It is the best place to see the Luzzus , the traditional Maltese fishing boats which all have the mythical eye of Osiris painted on their prows. It is quite a scenery to see such a colorful bay! However, the smell of fish can be quite intense sometimes…

St. Peter’s Pool was nearby so we decided to ask what was the best way to get there. And a nice man offered himself to take us there and picked us up later in the afternoon for a small fee. Next thing we knew we were sitting on the back of a dark van. What it appeared a kidnap situation was still better than a 30-min walk under the hot blazing sun.

Like in the entire island, the sea at St. Peter’s natural pools has an amazing mix of azure and green colors, offering both a swimming bliss and a perfect snorkel opportunity. We did both quite enthusiastically.

It is a bit of a remote place, not so easy to find and there are no facilities of any kind. As a result, there weren’t nearly as many people as in other beaches in Malta .

I adventured myself jumping into the waters from several meters up. Actually it was only 4. But hey as I’m terribly afraid of heights, for me it seemed at least 10!

St. Peter’s Pool is a real treat for people looking for a special spot out of the busy areas. You can experience the beautiful Mediterranean without laying on one of its thousands of tourist-crowded beaches. This is what makes this island unique, I think. And it left me wondering how many more places like this Malta has to offer.

Where to stay in Southern Malta

Malta by public transport: tips.

• Make sure you know the routes and bus schedules of the places you’re going. Use Google Maps or the official Malta Public Transport website.
• Choose wisely the towns you’re staying in. They should be well-connected and close to the sights you want to see. Mellieha (north), Sliema and Valetta (south) are the best options.
• Don’t expect luxury. A bus might very well be a tiny uncomfortable van.

Malta Travel Information

How to get there.

Even though there are ferry boats available, you’ll want to get to Malta by air. Malta Luqa airport is well connected to several european countries, specially Italy, Spain and the U.K.

Where to stay

Valletta or Mellieha are some interesting places to stay in the island. Avoid St Julians or Sliema unless you’re in Malta just for the booze.

I’ve pre-selected the best hotels in Malta island for you to start your search. These are well-located, with WiFi and with good-to-excellent reviews, can’t go wrong!

Do not miss

Mdina , the Silent City. The Blue Lagoon , despite the crowds and some jellyfish. And the views from the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barakka Gardens .

What to eat

Pastizzi . These palm-size layers of crispy pastry filled with either ricotta cheese (the best ones) or pea (funny taste) are cheap street food and a very tasty snack!

Useful Malta websites

• Malta Public Transport : official website of tourism transportation in Malta
• Malta By Bus : independent website with up-to-date information about buses in the island
• Visit Malta : official tourism board of Malta

Did you visit Malta by public transport? What were your best experiences there?

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Visit Malta by Bus

The majority of people on vacation in Malta discover the Maltese archipelago by bus. This saves you the stress of driving on the left side of the road, gives you time to enjoy the scenery and is a very economical way to get around Malta. Visiting Malta by bus is convenient, but there are things you need to know before you start, so we give you some tips on how to make the best use of Maltese public transport .

1. Bus routes in Malta

More than 80 bus lines serve Malta : you can go almost everywhere from 1,50€ or 2€ depending on the season between 5H30 and 23H . In order to prepare your stay, Visiter Malta advises you to download the routes of the different bus lines with their frequencies, timetables and connections between them: study them beforehand and you will save a lot of time when you are on vacation in the Maltese archipelago.

Understanding the bus routes in Malta

Link to find the schedules according to the routes. Link to calculate a route: plan your route .

– Lines numbered with 1 or 2 digits (e.g. line 1- 12 -91) run from Valletta, the capital of Malta, to the main cities.

– The 3-digit lines (e.g. 120 – 203-225) are very interesting, because they are transverse and save on travel time. Thus Paola, where the Tarxian Temples are located, is only 40 minutes away from San Julian’s with the 120 bus and more than twice that if you go through Valletta!

– The X and TD Lines serve Malta’s international airport, but pass through most of Malta’s cities: these buses stop less often because people are not familiar with their routes, yet it is more comfortable to sit in a Bus X2 than to stand in a Bus 12 between San Julian’s and Gzira

Tip : several visits in the same geographical area of Malta allow you to make stops and split a long trip.

The bus application in Malta: Tallinja

Essential if you plan to take the bus, download the TALLINJA application to know the real timetable. By positioning your stop on the map, click on “My Next Bus” to see in real time how long it will take for the buses to arrive at your stop! Top, because geolocated in real time and efficient. All the locals have it and only use it!

Link APPLE STORE (iOS) and GOOGLE PLAY link (Android)

2. Before taking the bus in Malta

Bus stations

Each bus station is easily recognizable: a sign with the numbers of the lines of the stop, the direction and the schedule. In some stations, an illuminated display shows you the waiting time for the upcoming buses. – The bus is in sight: wave to the driver and check that the number and the city name indicated (front and side lights) correspond to your destination before getting on.

When waiting for the bus

– The bus does not stop despite your sign: this means that the bus is already at its maximum passenger capacity, so you will have to wait for the next one.

– The bus is behind schedule: this is unfortunately often the case! Either because there are works or a collision: the traffic in Malta can be slowed down very quickly and suddenly you see 4 buses arriving at a few seconds intervals!

Tip: plan on a longer timing than indicated on the signs.

3. On board the Maltese buses

– If you already have your ticket, show it to the driver by saying “Hello or Good morning” (he will appreciate it!); If you have to buy it on board, always bring some change because a 10€ bill will often be refused and you will stay at the bus stop!

– Try to sit at the back of the bus: elevated seats offer a better view and you’re more likely to get the whole ride in comfort. In Malta, it is customary to systematically give way to older people. Reserved seats are indicated for people with reduced mobility and parents with small children (strollers also travel).

– The announcement of the upcoming bus station is audible and displayed on screen: just press the “stop” button to get off at the next stop. Tip: The air conditioning of the buses is sometimes strong in summer, beware of the cold!

Good to know to visit Malta by bus:

The driving of Maltese bus drivers is rather sporty: they have to deal with motorists who turn without blinking and sometimes park a bit haphazardly …. So if you have to travel standing up, always anticipate a possible sudden braking!

The vast majority of drivers are courteous and helpful, but at certain times of the day there can be some irritation ….

The bus fleet and the network are continuously being modernized. Most buses will have air conditioning, very comfortable seats, surveillance cameras and rear exit.

Bus prices in Malta

If you wish to travel by bus in Malta, there are several possibilities:

An individual bus ticket will cost you 2 € per day and 3 € per night. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver on all buses. You will be able to pay with cash or contactless payment on most buses.

A fine of 50 euros will be imposed on passengers caught without a transport card or cash ticket. The tickets allow travel to any destination within two hours, including bus changes.

Free bus in Malta

Since 2022, all holders of a valid personalized Tallinja card can travel free of charge on all Maltese public transport buses operating day, night and special services excluding TD lines and ferries. Passengers will have to validate their personalized Tallinja card on the ticket machine located next to the bus driver every time they board the bus.

A personalized Tallinja card costs 15€ + 8€ international delivery to your home. It will usually be sent to you within about 10 days. Do the math to see if it’s worth it to you. It should be said that this card is interesting for a stay in Malta of at least 10 to 15 days. To apply for your personalized Tallinja map, click here . Otherwise, it is better to buy another more specific map listed below.

Bus passes in Malta

The “Explore Card” : unlimited bus for 21 euros for 7 days. This card is valid for travel on day, night and special services; it is not valid on Tallinja Direct (routes beginning with TD). Very good if you stay a week.

The “flex card” : You buy it with credit on it (minimum 6 €) and you can recharge it from the Tallinja application. The card allows you to have discounted rates on different means of transportation, public bus transportation, Valletta ferry services, and many others. You can buy the card for 6 €, which will be your credit to use immediately. When you purchase this card, you can immediately use your Flex Card credit for travel. This way, you won’t need to use cash on the bus.

The “12 Single Day Journeys ” card. This card is perfect for those who take the bus from time to time. This card can be shared with several people so if you are a family that wants to go to the beach for a day, it will do the trick!

The reduced rate card: It is dedicated to all seniors over 60 years old and to people with reduced mobility who hold a European disability card. 2 hours of transportation cost 0,25 €. Free of charge from 0,50 € spent during the day or from 2 € during the week. (excluding TD and night buses) People over 75 years old with a Tallinja card do not pay for public transport.

Where to buy bus passes and tickets:

For single or return tickets: nothing could be simpler, because it happens in the bus with the driver.

Weekly and monthly cards can be purchased from authorized dealers. These are newspaper sellers usually displaying the TALLINJA logo. Find the list of sales points here . Alternatively, if you’re really thinking ahead, you can buy EXPLORE cards online and have them delivered to your hotel upon arrival. Click on the link here to learn more .

No, there are no special rates for foreign seniors. They will have to take an adult ticket.

There are no child-friendly bus fares, but there may be discounts on Explore cards for children under 10.

• July 13, 2023

Alex | Editor of My Little Malta Passionate about Malta for many years. I love writing articles of the best recommendations for trips and visits to these wonderful islands.

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

Your arrival in Malta is near, so you are surely wondering which means of transportation to prioritize once on the island? Fortunately, there are many solutions for your travels. The island being small, 27 km in its greatest length, it will be very easy for you to move from one point to another on the archipelago.

The bus, the most economical way to get around Malta

The bus is the most economical means of transportation to move around the island. Maltese buses are also the only mode of public transport on the island of Malta; there is neither a metro nor a tram in Malta.

Since October 2022, public transportation (buses) has been free throughout the island of Malta, but beware, only for residents . If you plan to stay for a long period, 2 months or more, you will need to apply for the personalized “ Tallinja Card personalized ” bus card to benefit from free transportation. To apply, you just need to be able to provide a fixed address in Malta. The application can be made online or in person at one of the five sales offices . The card is usually issued within 2 weeks.

For short-term travelers or tourists, you can buy a standard bus ticket from the driver. This costs €1.5 off-season, €2 during the summer, and €3 for the night bus. Try to have the exact change as drivers may not always have change for €10 or €20 bills. However, all buses are now equipped with contactless payment. Weekly Explore Cards are also available.

From the Malta International Airport , you can reach any city, as the bus network in Malta serves all corners of the island. Stops are located outside the airport, and tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or in the airport terminal.

Transport vehicles with driver with an app, the fastest way to get around Malta

In the archipelago, there are three options for booking a Transport vehicles with driver with an app (VTC): Bolt, Uber, and eCabs . If you don’t plan on using public transportation, prefer using an app over a taxi, as prices will be lower and comfort superior.

Another significant advantage is that trip prices are set in advance by the applications, so there are no surprises upon arrival with the drivers. The fare is also automatically settled via the application.

The Estonian transport company Bolt is the most popular chauffeur-driven transport solution in Malta and probably the most convenient for getting around the island quickly. Bolt is less known in France or Belgium compared to Uber, but in Malta, it’s the company with the largest fleet of drivers available day and night.

Simple, fast, and economical, Bolt works similar to Uber with an application that allows you to geolocate yourself and find nearby available drivers. The fares are significantly cheaper than a taxi. The cost of transfer between Luqa Airport and the cities of Sliema/St Julians generally ranges from €15 to €20.

The renowned company Uber has entered the Maltese market, bringing new competition to the transportation sector on the island. Uber has joined the Maltese market, adding to established players such as Bolt and eCabs, thus enhancing the mobility experience for residents and tourists. However, Uber currently has a fleet of drivers that is still significantly smaller than its two competitors. Therefore, it is more difficult to secure a ride with Uber, especially during peak hours or airport arrivals.

eCabs , recognizable by their fleet of black vehicles, is a private transport company in Malta. It is the historical VTC company in Malta, now heavily impacted by the arrival of Bolt and Uber.

eCabs remains a good solution for booking transportation in Malta, the application is convenient, and the support platform is responsive. eCabs also offers vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility , cars allowing pets , or even minivans , ideal for group travelers or large families.

Car Rental, the most liberating mode of transportation

Renting a car in Malta is undoubtedly the solution that offers the most freedom and flexibility to explore the archipelago. However, before embarking on Maltese roads, note that driving is on the left in Malta (a legacy of its former British colony status), traffic can be quite dense, and the roads are not always in the best condition.

Renting a car in Malta generally costs between €70 and €150 per week. Many car rental companies are available at Malta Airport: Europcar, Goldcar, First, Avis, FireFly, Hertz, Sixt, etc. The company counters are located in the airport under the indication Rental Car Desk . However, we advise you to go through Rentalcars to benefit from the best rental deals and an additional rental guarantee.

Renting an Electric Scooter: The Most Convenient Way for Short Trips

Renting a self-service scooter in Malta is very easy. Whizascoot is the most popular Maltese service. A simple and convenient solution for getting around on two wheels.

Affordable prices: the unlocking price is €0.50 per trip, the ride price is €0.24 per minute, and the “parking” price is €0.15. Another positive point is that the scooters are electric, a small gesture for the environment and to combat pollution in Malta related to transportation.

Traditional Taxis in Malta (White Taxis), the Last Resort Option

Traditional taxis in Malta, easily recognizable by their “white” color, are mainly available in high-density areas: airport, Paceville district, Sliema Ferry, Buġibba Square, and near major hotels.

Of all the transportation options in Malta, this is the least recommended. They are both expensive and not necessarily the most pleasant with customers. White taxis do not always use a meter, so you should ensure the fare in advance before getting on board, or you risk having a bad surprise upon arrival.

This is a last resort solution or to be used only if your hotel offers this service for free.

Tourist Buses, the Transportation and Discovery Option in Malta

The tourist buses in Malta , easily recognizable by their all-red attire, offer a convenient way to get around and discover the island. These open-top double-decker buses operate on routes designed to pass through the main sites and tourist attractions of the archipelago . They offer the opportunity to hop on and off at will during a specified period.

Commentaries are also available in multiple languages and provide interesting information about Malta’s history, culture, and sights. These tours are convenient for getting a general overview of the island, especially for travelers with limited time or those who want to quickly discover the main points of interest.

Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation in Malta (FAQ)

Is there a metro or tram in malta.

There are currently no metro or tram lines in the Maltese archipelago.

Can you ride a bike in Malta?

It is possible to ride a bike in Malta, but cycling is nevertheless a little-used and not highly recommended means of transportation. Traffic in Malta is dense, cars drive fast, and there are very few bike lanes. Cycling in Malta is therefore quite dangerous. Bike rental shops are also not very popular on the island, making bike rental difficult. It is therefore preferable to use Malta’s public transportation or walk for the more active individuals.

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Which Malta Bus Ticket is Right For You

Travelling between locations can sometimes be a hassle depending on which country you visit. Luckily, the small islands of Malta are easy to get to with their public transport. Malta’s bus service is the most convenient and cheapest way to get around the country – here are some of the options to suit the way you like to travel.

There are five ticket options to use the Malta bus: purchasing a single ticket or taking advantage of any of the four bus cards available to visitors. Each has its own advantages so I’ll break them down. I recommend watching my video explaining all the options below and then reading below for additional details.

Single Bus Ticket

The most common, universal way of using the bus is simply buying a ticket from A to B. No matter how far you go, the price per ticket stays the same, great if you’re going to the other side of the island. Buses are relatively cheap compared to other European countries so you’re transport budget doesn’t need to be big. Currently, non-summer prices for a ticket are €1.50, €2 in peak summer time. There are frequent night services that run from most from places such as Tas-Sliema, Valletta, Bugibba and Mellieña. These are ‘NXX’ buses and cost €3 throughout the whole year.

There are no other type of bus tickets, just the single trip ticket priced for adults, concessions, students and children. So why get the single bus ticket? Well, the good part is you get unlimited bus use within 2 hours. Each ticket has a QR code and validity time so you know exactly when it’s valid until. Whether you’re making an interchange or city hopping, you can cover distance with this one price. This includes buses to and from the airport . You can buy these at the airport desk, but it’s easy enough to purchase straight from the driver. If you plan to make infrequent trips to different places in Malta, then this works well.

Routes & Timetables

The explorer bus card will likely be the most popular option for those wanting to visit far and wide, travelling plenty during the day and into the night. The explorer bus card gives you unlimited bus rides in Malta, including Gozo island. It’s valid for 7 days and can be purchased for €21 or €15 for a child . Jump on any bus including Night services with a tap of the Explorer card. You can purchase one from any customer information desk at any bus terminal, payable either by card or cash. You can also purchase them from certain retailers, the full list of each town listed here for you. It’s valid from the first time you use it on the bus, though I’d recommend buying it on the day you plan to travel since it’s readily available. Availability is from when you activate it on your first trip.

Read: What’s in my Luggage? Malta Edition

Explorer plus.

The explorer plus card holds all the benefits of the Explorer card (unlimited bus travel including Gozo and night services), but includes a few admissions that may be appealing to you. It’s a flat €39 per person but includes 2 ferry rides in Valletta and either one admission for the hop-on, hop-off bus tour (usually €20 if I can recollect) or a boat trip to Comino. If you’re interested in doing any of these, then the Explorer Plus card is better value for money as tickets for any of these are more expensive.

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You can only choose either the boat trip to Comino or the bus tour, along with the ferry trips in Valletta and not all three, so bear that in mind. For children, you may want to see if buying an Explorer card with separate admission tickets are cheaper. This can be bought in any bus terminal sales and information office.

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12 single day journey.

All of those are great, but if you’re planning to go as a group, it can still get pricey. An alternative you can consider are the 12 Single Day Journey cards. Essentially, you’ll get 12 single tickets on this card, consuming one ticket for each trip you take. It works the same as a normal single ticket, but you tap the card on the machine like the other options. You’ll see how many you have left on the machine after you tap, but it’s simple enough.

Most likely the 2 hour time limit also applies, but I’m not sure as I never used it again within the 2 hours in my group of 3. It may recognise it if you tap again, but double check with the driver. So why get the 12 single day card if it follows the same principles as a normal ticket? The good thing is that you can share this card with your group, using up the tickets on this one card instead of needing to manage separate tickets. You’ll save the time getting on and off as one person can just tap for everyone.  You’ll also save €3 (the pass costs €15) compared to buying 12 single tickets separately. This is great if there are a few of you and you don’t plan on travelling often.

Example : if you’re a group of 2, this covers round-trips to 6 destinations (12÷2=6). If you’re a group of 3, this covers 4 destinations (12÷3=4) and so forth. It’s convenient and saves a little money. If you use up all the tickets, you can simply buy another one. The card is valid for 12 months from the first time of use, though bear in mind night services use up 2 tickets, as they cost €3 each way.

You can buy a personalised tallinja card here if you’re planning to stay longer, both for visitors and Maltese residents. This cuts admission prices significantly so check if this works better for you. There are a few admin hurdles to get through but offers good benefits for the long-term, including free travel aged 14-20 years old in 2019. See the travel scheme information and conditions .

Malta Bus Tickets

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Fares and Tickets

To travel on buses in Malta and Gozo you can either:

• Use cash or contactless cards to buy fixed price single tickets from the driver (this is the most expensive option, and the only ticket available from the driver).
• Save money by buying a 12 Single Journeys Card from an MPT kiosk, dispensing machine or other outlet.
• Buy a 7-day Explore Card for unlimited bus travel, except on the limited stop TD routes.
• Buy a 7-day ExplorePlus Meep Card which includes the TD routes and some tourist extras.
• Use a stored-value non-personalised Explore Flex card giving discounts on bus fares and the local Valletta ferries.
• Apply online for a personalised tallinja card, which gives free travel on most buses (aimed at local residents but may also benefit regular or long-term visitors).

These options are all explained below:

Two-hour single tickets from driver

The only ticket available from the bus driver is the two-hour single ticket which costs €2.00. However, Tallinja Direct routes (prefixed TD , also route X300) are faster limited-stop services which have a single fare of €3.00. On Night buses (routes prefixed by N ) the single fare is also €3.00.

Contactless Visa, Mastercard and Maestro credit or debit cards (also smartphones and smartwatches) can be used to pay for tickets, whilst those using cash must pay with the exact fare as no change is given. There are no discounts for children except that children travel free up to their fourth birthday.

Passengers may change buses within the two hour period to get to their destination as part of a one-way journey. Scan the ticket on the reader when boarding the second bus. The ticket does not allow you to make a return trip, even if wholly within the two hour period. Of course, penalty fares are payable if you travel without a valid ticket.

Card for 12 single two-hour tickets

This card gives 12 single tickets for €15, making €1.25 per journey. It has to be purchased in advance (see below for outlets) in the form of a non-personalised tallinja card and the passenger swipes the card on the card reader on entering the bus. It can only be used by one person (note that the rules have changed - you can no longer swipe it twice if there are two of you).

On TD (Tallinja Direct) services (including X300) and on Night buses (routes prefixed by N ) you have to pay double (€2.50), so two journeys will be taken off the card. The card is valid for six months from first use.

Explore Card (7 days)

The Explore Card gives seven days of unlimited bus travel on all routes in Malta and Gozo except the limited stop TD (Tallinja Direct) routes and the Tallinja On Demand (formerly TD Plus) prebookable minibuses. It costs €21 (children aged 4-10 pay €15). You buy it in advance (see below for outlets) and swipe the card on each bus journey. It is valid for seven days (actually 168 hours) from the time the card is first validated on the bus. It is not transferable to other people.

ExplorePlus Meep Card (7 days with extras)

The ExplorePlus Meep Card also gives unlimited bus travel for seven days (168 hours from first validation), but unlike the regular Explore Card it is also valid on the limited stop TD (Tallinja Direct) routes, also the Tallinja On Demand prebookable minibuses, plus there are additional sightseeing options as listed below. It costs €39; there is no child reduction.

The sightseeing extras are as follows:

• Two one-way trips on the ferries operated by Valletta Ferry Services (Sliema - Valletta and/or the Three Cities route between Valletta and Cospicua).
• A full-day's travel on the hop-on, hop-off open top buses operated by CitySightseeing Malta visiting Malta's landmarks (excludes Gozo), OR one round trip to Comino by boat, operated by Captain Morgan Cruises (in Winter this is the Best of Gozo and Comino trip) OR a harbour cruise on Captain Morgan Cruises.
• Two free trips on Tallinja Bike, the electric bike-sharing service in Valletta and surrounding areas.
• A discount of €2 on Malta 5D shows (shows are every 30 minutes 1000-1630 on Mon-Sat at 7 Old Bakery Street, 5 mins walk from Valletta Bus Station).

If you are not interested in the sightseeing extras but just want bus travel you could of course buy the regular Explore Card and pay individual fares when you use TD services (€3 per journey), but if you intend to make more than five trips on TD services during the seven days then the ExplorePlus Meep Card is better value.

Explore Flex Card

The Explore Flex card is a stored value non-personalised card giving discounts on bus fares and the local ferries operated by Valletta Ferry Services. It can be linked to the Tallinja app, allowing you to check your credit and top up your card. Initial cost is €6, which is your credit to use immediately. The link above lists the fares you pay compared to normal fares.

Where to buy

You can buy the 12 Single Journeys Card and Explore cards from Malta Public Transport kiosks and card dispensing machines . Kiosks are located at Valletta bus station, Malta International Airport, and the Gozo bus terminus at Victoria bus station. They are also available from various other outlets which includes shops, lotto offices, and some hotels.

Tallinja Cards

From 1st October 2022, holders of a personalised tallinja card travel free on all daytime and night buses, apart from TD routes. The card can only be applied for online. For new cards there is a €15 registration fee plus €2.87 postage within Malta. Allow two weeks for delivery. Non-residents can apply for a card giving a foreign address; there is a €8 postage charge to addresses outside Malta. Have a scan of your passport and a passport-sized photo ready before applying online.

Tallinja cards are stored-value cards and credit will be required on the card to use it for TD routes, Tallinja On Demand services, and the local ferry services. You can also use your credit to pay for trips operated by Vintage Bus City Tours.

Passengers must tap in with their card when entering the bus, using the card reader. Personalised Tallinja cards have a photo and can only be used by the registered user. Whilst primarily aimed at residents, frequent or long-term visitors would obviously benefit from obtaining a card.

Tallinja is a personalised stored-value card which basically allows the named cardholder to make each single journey (within two hours) for €0.75, or €2.50 for a night journey and €1.50 for a journey on Tallinja Direct services. A child version (ages 4 to 10) is available giving a single fare of €0.25. For new cards there is a €15 registration fee, and a minimum top-up amount of €20 (€10 for child cards).

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Bus tours and coach touring in the Maltese Islands are great ways to travel across the country whilst seeing the beautiful surroundings. You just have to sit back and watch the beautiful landscapes roll past.

City Sightseeing Malta

This hop on – hop off service offers tours with stops at the most important tourist attractions and visitor sites. Options include the North Tour, South Tour and Tour of Gozo. All tours have a detailed multilingual audio commentary.

For more information click here  or phone on 356 23467777.

Malta Bus Coop

Malta Bus Coop offers a selection of tours every week on their traditional buses exploring different parts of Malta. For instance, they offer Agricultural Tours, Historical Tours, Malta by Night Tours and Southern Tours, among others. 

Click here for more information about the tours, or phone on 356  21573900 / 356  79005559 / 356  79550059. 

Malta Sightseeing

Malta Sightseeing gives you the opportunity to visit the most popular sights and attractions in Malta & Gozo using Open Top Double Decker Buses. You can explore the route of your choice using the Hop On Hop Off Option. They offer four tours, namely, The South Tour, The North Tour, The Gozo Sightseeing Tour and The Malta by Night Tour. All tours have a detailed audio commentary in 16 languages.

You can find more information about the tours and more by visiting this website  or by phoning on 356 21694967 / 356 21677197 / 356 21696154

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travelling to malta later on in the year for six weeks [retired this year] will be using buses, which is the best tallinga card to buy to cover this long

3 replies to this topic

You have sufficient time to apply for a personalised card:

https://www.publictransport.com.mt/en/tallinja-card

Apply for a personalised Tallinja card which gives free bus travel and certain ferries.

You’ve missed the discount offer that was available earlier in the year - I don’t know if they will repeat that.

They take about 6 weeks or so to arrive at a UK address and you have to provide passport details and a passport type photo online - you can take that yourself with a smartphone etc.

thanks to you both

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Due to a technical fault, erroneous top ups were effected on some Tallinja Cards. This means that credit was added to some Tallinja Card accounts without the card holder actually paying. These erroneous top ups are being reversed. In order to view your transaction history and check whether this has affected your Tallinja Card, please click on the link below and enter your customer number and the last four digits found on the barcode on your Tallinja Card.

Free Travel

Free Travel Scheme with effect from 1 October 2022

With effect from 1 October 2022, holders of a personalised Tallinja Card can travel for free on Day Routes, Night Routes and Special Services. Tallinja Direct (TD) Routes are not free and a fare will apply depending on the card used.  The update will be happening automatically, however passengers are required to tap their personalised Tallinja Card on the ticketing machine every time they board the bus.

Passengers who board the bus without a Tallinja Card will be obliged to pay for a ticket in cash or contactless payment upon boarding. Official Malta Public Transport Inspectors will be carrying out random inspections to verify patrons have either tapped their Tallinja Card or are in possession of cash tickets. A €50 fine will apply to any passengers caught without a travel card or cash ticket.

While no credit is required for travel on Day Routes, Night Routes or Special Service journeys, passengers will still need credit on their personalised Tallinja Card in order to travel on Tallinja Direct or Tallinja On Demand trips. Credit on the Tallinja Card can also be used to benefit from discounted rates on other mobility services, such as Tallinja Bike and Valletta Ferry Services. Customers who would like to receive a refund for their credit can apply online through the Malta Public Transport website as from 1st November 2022. An administration fee will be applied per refund application.

To apply for a Tallinja card, one would need to register online and provide an identification document such as an Identify Card or passport, as well as personal contact details such as telephone number and e-mail address. Personalised Tallinja Cards are not transferable to other passengers and a €50 fine will apply to any passengers caught using a personalised Tallinja Card issued in someone else’s name.

Please click here to view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Free Travel Scheme in effect up to 30 September 2022

The Government Free Travel Scheme in effect up to 30 September 2002, applies to 14 – 20-year-olds, Student Tallinja Cardholders who are over 20 years old, and Concession Tallinja Cardholders who are holders of an EU Disability Card with the "MT"mark or the Special ID Card issued by the CRPD or are over 70 years old. These are initiatives launched by the Government of Malta and are included in the Government’s budget measures for 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Through this Scheme, the following will benefit from free travel on the public transport service offered by Malta Public Transport up to 30 September 2022.

1. Those who turn 14 shall enjoy free travel on public transport as of their 14 th  birthday.

2. Those who are already 14, up to 19 years old will enjoy free travel on public transport for all of 2021.

3. Those who are already 20 on 1 January 2021 shall benefit from free travel on public transport, up to the day before they turn 21.

4. The customer will no longer be eligible for the Scheme once the total spend of the individual customer reaches €312 in the case of Student card holders and Adult card holders eligible for the scheme, and €105 in the case of those Concession Tallinja Card holders eligible for this scheme, or a customer who turns 21 in 2021 unless in possession of a Student Tallinja Card.

5. Those who turn 70 shall enjoy free travel on public transport as of their 70 th  birthday.

6. Those who are already 70 years old or older will enjoy free travel on public transport for all of 2021.

7. Any single individual may not benefit from more than €312 in credit refunds in the case of Student card holders and Adult card holders eligible for the scheme, and €105 in the case of those Concession Tallinja Card holders eligible for this scheme.

8. The €10 registration fee paid by customers who in 2021 applied for a Tallinja Card for the first time, will not be refunded.