Road Trips in Malta

There are a number of top highlights that each traveller choosing Malta as their holiday destination should visit. You can start with Mdina that is also referred to as the Silent City. In the past this place was the country’s capital. Today, you can admire its unique architecture and a plethora of entertainment venues.

Valletta, the country’s current capital, will welcome you with one of the most scenic harbours in this part of Europe. Don’t forget to visit such attractions as Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, the imposing Grand Master’s Palace, the beautiful Upper Barracca Gardens, and the Museum of Archaeology.

If you are into stunning panoramas, never-ending water fun, and top-notch tourist infrastructure, travel to the Island of Gozo. Here, you’ll be surrounded by laid-back ambiance, seaside resorts, like Marsalforn, and brilliant landmarks, like the Ggantija Temples dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Rabat is all about great dining venues and unique edifices. Stroll around its scenic Mdina, admire Casa Bernard, and marvel at the Roman Villa. You can also consider a visit to the Parish Church of Saint Paul, erected in the 17th century.

A true paradise for lovers of water fun is Blue Lagoon which can be found on the Island of Comino. This natural swimming pool lures thousands of tourists on an annual basis. It offers an inconspicuous beach that will bring you much pleasure during your holidays in Malta.

Suggested Road Trips in Malta:

• Around the Island: The road that circles the island is a popular and scenic route that takes you past the main towns and villages of Malta. Starting from Valletta, the route passes through historic towns such as Mdina and Sliema, and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea along the way.

• Gozo Island: Gozo is the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago and offers a more laid-back and rural experience compared to Malta. The route to Gozo takes you across a scenic bridge and onto the island, where you can explore historic towns, idyllic beaches, and rugged landscapes.

• Southern Malta: The southern coast of Malta offers a range of interesting sights and attractions, including historic towns such as Birgu and Marsaxlokk, as well as stunning natural landmarks like the Blue Grotto and Dingli Cliffs. The route offers breathtaking views of the sea and coastline and is a must-see for any visitor to Malta.

In conclusion, a road trip in Malta offers a variety of routes that take you past historic towns, stunning landscapes, and interesting cultural attractions. The island's compact size makes it easy to explore by road, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. Whether you choose to drive around the island, visit Gozo, or explore the southern coast, a road trip in Malta is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Malta follows left-hand traffic so if this is a new environment for you, you can always try your hand at driving in less frequented places. If you opt for a rental car, there’s a wide choice of car rental companies in all major cities and at international airports. 

Speed limits depend on the road type as well as driver's experience. For most passenger vehicles these are 50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h in rural areas. In Malta, police officers are also very sensitive to drinking and driving. The allowed blood alcohol level is 0.08%. That’s why you might come across frequent road checks that involve breathalyser tests. It’s also forbidden to use any speed camera detecting devices. Driving around Malta with such a device may result in a ticket.

The minimum driving age is 18; however, at some car hire companies you can be asked to be as old as 23. If you have little driving experience, you’ll be also asked to pay an additional fee or purchase more expensive insurance packages.

On the spot fines aren’t a common phenomenon in Malta. You’re most likely to be given a ticket for your traffic offences with an indication where to pay it.

In case of a road check, you'll be asked to show such documents as driver’s licence, passport, and insurance documents. Also, a Green Card is recommended for moving around Malta.

Malta doesn’t offer any toll roads. The only additional cost that you have to incur while sightseeing around the country is the congestion charge that is supposed to be paid upon entering Valletta.

Here are some things to be aware of when taking a road trip in Malta:

• Traffic: Malta has a high volume of traffic, particularly during peak tourist season. This can lead to congestion and delays, especially in urban areas.

• Narrow roads: Many roads in Malta are narrow and winding, with limited visibility around corners. Be prepared for tight spaces and take extra caution when driving.

• Parking: Parking can be difficult to find in some areas, particularly in popular tourist spots. It's important to plan ahead and be prepared to walk or use public transport to reach your destination.

• Roundabouts: Malta has many roundabouts, which can be confusing for drivers who are not familiar with them. Be sure to follow the signs and give way to traffic already in the roundabout.

• Signage: Road signage in Malta can be inconsistent and sometimes difficult to understand. It's important to bring a map or GPS device to help navigate unfamiliar roads.

• Driving on the left: Like the UK, Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road. This can take some adjustment for drivers who are used to driving on the right-hand side.

• Speed limits: Speed limits in Malta are generally lower than in other European countries, with a maximum of 80 km/h on highways and 50 km/h in urban areas.

• Motorcycles and bicycles: Malta has many motorcyclists and cyclists on the roads, especially during the summer months. Be aware of their presence and give them plenty of room when passing.

In conclusion, a road trip in Malta requires extra caution due to the narrow roads, high traffic, roundabouts, and parking challenges. However, with the right preparation and awareness of local driving customs, a road trip in Malta can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in Malta is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, with fewer crowds and lower prices than during the peak summer months. The temperatures are typically around 20-25°C, making it perfect for exploring the island. Additionally, the springtime is ideal for viewing the island's flowers in bloom, while autumn offers a chance to see the grape harvest and other seasonal festivities. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot and crowded, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and more tourists on the roads. The winter months (December to March) can be chilly and rainy, making road trips less enjoyable. Overall, spring and autumn are the best times to take a road trip in Malta, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

The cost of a road trip in Malta can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year, the length of your trip, your itinerary, and your travel style. However, generally speaking, Malta can be a relatively affordable travel destination compared to some other European countries.

Accommodation costs in Malta can range from budget hostels to high-end hotels, and prices vary depending on the location and amenities offered. A budget traveler can expect to spend around €20-€50 per night on a hostel or guesthouse, while mid-range options could cost anywhere between €50-€150 per night. Luxury hotels can range from €150-€500 per night.

Food is another significant expense on a road trip. In Malta, there are many affordable dining options, including local cuisine and street food. A budget traveler can expect to spend around €10-€20 per day on food, while mid-range options could cost anywhere between €20-€50 per day.

Renting a car in Malta is also an important factor to consider. The cost of renting a car can vary depending on the type of car, the length of the rental, and the rental company. On average, a basic economy car can cost anywhere from €20-€50 per day, while a more luxurious option can cost €80-€150 per day.

To sum up, a budget traveler can expect to spend around €30-€70 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €70-€200 per day on a road trip in Malta. A week-long trip for a single traveler can cost around €210-€1,400, while a month-long trip could cost anywhere from €900 to €6,000, depending on your itinerary and travel style. It is important to research and plan your trip accordingly to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be useful for planning a road trip in Malta:

• Lonely Planet Malta & Gozo: This guidebook is a comprehensive resource for travelers, providing detailed information on places to visit, accommodations, transportation, and safety tips.

• Insight Guides Malta: This guidebook provides a concise overview of Malta's history, culture, and attractions. It also includes practical information on transportation, accommodations, and dining.

• Malta Travel Map by Freytag & Berndt: This map is designed for travelers and includes details on cities, towns, and road networks. It also includes information on historical sites, natural attractions, and tourist facilities.

• Malta Road Map by Map Studio: This map provides a detailed overview of Malta's road networks, topography, and places of interest. It also includes a city plan for Valletta, the capital city.

• National Geographic Traveler Malta: This guidebook is focused on the natural beauty and cultural richness of Malta. It includes information on historical sites, cultural experiences, and local communities.

Remember to always take necessary precautions when traveling, especially in terms of safety and security. It is also a good idea to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip.