Public Transport in Malta
Malta’s public transport system is efficient, affordable, and connects all major towns and attractions across the islands, making it easy for visitors to explore this Mediterranean gem. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting around Malta and Gozo, from airport transfers to navigating the bus network and inter-island ferry services that link Malta’s historic cities and stunning coastlines.
Key Sections
Malta’s public transport system offers several convenient ticketing and payment options for travelers exploring the islands. Compare the main choices below to find the best fit for your journey across Malta and Gozo.
Bus Tickets & Payment Methods
Tallinja Card
- 🟢 Best for: All Travelers, Most Convenient
- How it Works: Tap the reusable smart card on validators when boarding buses across Malta and Gozo. Works on all Malta Public Transport routes.
- Fare: €1.50 (2-hour transfer), €2.00 (single journey), Night service: €3.00
- Where to Buy: Airport, bus stations, Tallinja offices, some shops, or online at tallinja.com
- €15 card deposit (refundable) • Top up at machines or online • Valid on all bus routes
Contactless Payment
- 💳 Best for: Visitors, Convenient Travel
- How it Works: Tap your contactless debit/credit card or mobile device (Apple Pay, Google Pay) on validators when boarding
- Cost: €2.50 (single journey, summer fare), €3.00 (night service)
- Accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, BOVPay, GarminPay
- Benefits: No card purchase needed, faster boarding, 2-hour transfers included
- Cash Alternative: Exact change required (€2.50 day, €3.00 night) – drivers cannot provide change
Weekly & Monthly Passes
- 🟠 Best for: Extended Stays, Frequent Travel
- Weekly Pass: €21.00 (unlimited travel for 7 consecutive days)
- Monthly Pass: €26.00 (unlimited travel for 1 calendar month)
- Where to Buy: Tallinja offices, online, or load onto existing Tallinja Card
- Validity: All Malta Public Transport routes including night services
- Requires Tallinja Card • Great value for frequent travelers • Valid across Malta and Gozo
Explore Malta Pass
- 🟢 Best for: Tourists, Short Visits
- Options:
- 1-Day Pass: €12.00 (unlimited bus travel)
- 3-Day Pass: €18.00 (unlimited bus travel)
- 7-Day Pass: €21.00 (same as weekly pass)
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus: €20.00 (1 day, tourist routes)
- Where to Buy: Airport, tourist information centers, online, Tallinja Card machines
- Perfect for sightseeing • Includes Malta-Gozo ferry connections via bus routes
Note: Tallinja Card requires €15 refundable deposit. Ferry to Gozo is separate but connects with bus routes. Cash payments: Exact change required (€2.50 day, €3.00 night) – drivers cannot provide change. All prices as of September 2025.
Transport Modes in Malta
Malta Public Transport Buses
The main transport network with over 80 routes connecting all towns and attractions across Malta and Gozo. Modern green and white buses operate on a hub system centered around Valletta.
Malta-Gozo Ferry
Essential connection between Malta and Gozo operated by Gozo Channel. The only way to travel between the islands with your vehicle, or walk-on as a foot passenger.
Bus Routes to Ferry Terminal
Direct bus connections from major towns to Ċirkewwa ferry terminal (Route 101 from Valletta). On Gozo, buses connect Mġarr ferry terminal to Victoria and other destinations.
Valletta Harbor Ferry
Short ferry crossings across Valletta’s Grand Harbor connecting Valletta to Sliema and The Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea). Scenic alternative to buses for harbor crossings.
Hop-on Hop-off Buses
Tourist buses covering major attractions with audio commentary. Two main routes: North (Blue Grotto, Mdina) and South (Valletta, Sliema). Alternative to regular public transport for sightseeing.
Airport Buses
Direct bus routes from Malta International Airport to major destinations. Routes include X1 (Airport Express to Valletta), X2 (to Sliema/St. Julian’s), and X3 (to Bugibba/Qawra).
Malta Transport Fares
Free Travel Benefits
Government Free Transport Scheme – Significant savings for residents and some visitors
Who Travels Free:
- Personalized Tallinja Card holders: All bus routes, day & night
- Children under 4: No card needed
- Includes: Valletta harbor ferry & Barrakka Lift
- Registration: €25 fee, requires Malta address or long-term stay
🆓 Personalized cards require Maltese address or extended residency proof
Ferry & Airport Transport
Inter-island & airport connections with separate fare systems
Ferry & Special Transport:
- Malta-Gozo Ferry: €4.65 return (adult), €1.15 (child)
- Car + Driver on Ferry: €15.70 return
- Valletta Harbor Ferry: Free with personalized Tallinja Card
- Hop-on Hop-off: €20.00 (1 day, separate operators)
⛴ Ferry booking recommended in summer, accepts cash and cards
Important Fare Information
Seasonal Fare Changes
- Summer fares: June-October (higher rates apply)
- Winter fares: November-May (standard rates)
- Ferry prices remain constant year-round
Transfer System
- 2-hour window: Free transfers with Tallinja Card and contactless
- Cash payments: No transfers – pay for each bus
- Route planning: Use Tallinja app for connections
Malta Transport Travel Tips
Get the Tallinja Card
Buy a Tallinja Card at the airport for best value. 2-hour transfers save money vs paying cash for each bus connection.
Download Tallinja App
Essential for real-time bus tracking and route planning. Shows live arrivals and helps navigate the hub system through Valletta.
Plan via Valletta Hub
Most routes connect through Valletta terminal. Don’t worry about direct connections – the hub system is efficient once you understand it.
Ferry Booking in Summer
Book Malta-Gozo ferry online in peak season (July-August) to avoid queues. Walk-on passengers can usually board without booking.
Summer vs Winter Fares
Fares increase in summer (June-October). Contactless and cash cost €2.50 vs lower winter rates. Tallinja Card rates stay consistent.
Airport Express Routes
Routes X1 (Valletta), X2 (Sliema), X3 (Bugibba) run direct from airport. Same fare as regular buses but faster with luggage space.
Cash Payment Tips
If paying cash, have exact change ready (€2.50 day, €3.00 night). Drivers cannot give change. No transfers included with cash.
Night Service Available
Night buses operate on main routes until late. Higher fare (€3.00) but useful for evening dining and nightlife in St. Julian’s area.
Weekly Pass Value
€21 weekly pass breaks even after 11-14 single journeys (depends on payment method). Great for stays longer than 4-5 days.
Getting to Valletta & Around Malta
From Malta International Airport (MLA)
Airport Express X1 (to Valletta)
Cost: €2.50 (contactless/cash) or €1.50 (Tallinja Card)
Duration: ~30 minutes direct to Valletta terminal
Location: Departs from airport arrivals area
Schedule: Every 15-30 minutes, 5:30am-11:30pm
Airport Express X2 (to Sliema)
Cost: €2.50 (contactless/cash) or €1.50 (Tallinja Card)
Duration: ~45 minutes to Sliema/St. Julian’s
Location: Serves major hotels and tourist areas
Schedule: Every 20-40 minutes, 6:00am-11:00pm
Airport Express X3 (to Bugibba)
Cost: €2.50 (contactless/cash) or €1.50 (Tallinja Card)
Duration: ~60 minutes to Bugibba/Qawra
Location: Serves northern resort areas
Schedule: Every 30-60 minutes, 6:30am-10:30pm
Regular Bus Routes (119, 201, etc.)
Cost: €2.50 (contactless/cash) or €1.50 (Tallinja Card)
Duration: 45-90 minutes depending on destination
Location: Multiple routes to various towns
Schedule: Less frequent but covers more destinations
Taxi (White Licensed Taxis)
Cost: €20-35 depending on destination (fixed rates)
Duration: 15-30 minutes to most destinations
Location: Official taxi rank at arrivals
Note: No extra luggage charges for standard bags
Private Transfer Services
Cost: €25-45 (pre-booked, shared/private)
Duration: 20-40 minutes door-to-door
Location: Meet & greet at arrivals hall
Schedule: 24/7, advance booking required
Malta Airport Transport Tips
- Buy a Tallinja Card at the airport for immediate savings on all bus routes.
- Airport Express routes (X1, X2, X3) have dedicated luggage space and air conditioning.
- All buses accept contactless payment, but exact change required for cash (€2.50).
- Taxis use fixed rates – check the official rate card before departure.
- For Gozo: Take X1 to Valletta, then Route 101 to Ċirkewwa ferry terminal.
- Children under 4 travel free on all public transport.
- Peak summer: Airport Express buses can be crowded – allow extra time.
- Free WiFi available at airport while waiting for transport.
Malta Tallinja Card Options
The Tallinja Card is Malta’s smart transport solution offering various options from tourist passes to free travel for residents.
Personalized Tallinja Card
- FREE travel on all bus routes (day, night, and special services)
- FREE Valletta harbor ferry and Barrakka Lift
- Photo ID card with name and personal details
- Requires Malta address or proof of extended residency
- Valid indefinitely while residing in Malta
Price: €25 registration fee – Apply online
Apply NowRegular Tallinja Card
- €1.50 (2-hour transfer) or €2.00 (single journey)
- Top up with credit online, at machines, or sales offices
- Valid for 1 year from purchase
- Works on all Malta Public Transport routes
- €15 refundable deposit required
Price: €15 deposit + top-up credit – Available at airport, bus stations
More InfoExplore Flex Card
- 4-day or 7-day unlimited bus travel passes
- Combined packages with Gozo ferry or harbor cruise
- Managed via Tallinja app with QR code scanning
- Can be shared between multiple travelers
- Perfect for tourist groups and families
Price: From €12 (1-day) to €21 (7-day) – Available at sales offices
More InfoWhich Tallinja Card Should You Choose?
Choose Personalized Card if:
- Residing in Malta for extended period
- Have Malta address or long-term accommodation
- Want completely free travel
Choose Regular Card if:
- Tourist or short-term visitor
- Want pay-as-you-go flexibility
- Making frequent trips over several days
Choose Explore Flex if:
- Tourist staying 4-7 days
- Want unlimited travel without top-ups
- Planning Gozo trips or sightseeing
Detailed Comparison
Personalized Tallinja Card
- Bus Travel: FREE (all routes, day & night)
- Harbor Ferry: FREE (Valletta-Sliema-Three Cities)
- Barrakka Lift: FREE
- Setup Cost: €25 registration fee
- Requirements: Malta address, photo ID
- Validity: Indefinite (while resident)
- Best for: Residents, long-term stays
Regular Tallinja Card
- Bus Travel: €1.50 (2hr transfer), €2.00 (single)
- Harbor Ferry: Standard fare applies
- Night Service: €3.00
- Setup Cost: €15 refundable deposit
- Requirements: None
- Validity: 1 year from purchase
- Best for: Tourists, flexible travel
Explore Flex Card
- Bus Travel: Unlimited (time-limited passes)
- Pass Options: 1-day (€12), 4-day, 7-day (€21)
- Add-ons: Gozo ferry, harbor cruise packages
- Setup Cost: Pass price only
- Requirements: None
- Validity: Consecutive days from activation
- Best for: Short tourist stays, sightseeing
Note: Regular Tallinja Card deposit is fully refundable. Children under 4 travel free on all services. All prices as of September 2025.
Alternative Transport Options
Malta’s compact size makes these alternatives particularly appealing for specific experiences. Coastal cycling works well on flatter routes, while boat tours offer unique perspectives of the islands. The Blue Lagoon boat trip remains one of Malta’s most memorable experiences.
Malta’s Most Scenic Public Transport Routes
From inter-island ferries to historic city routes, discover Malta’s stunning coastlines, ancient cities, and dramatic cliffs using public transport.
Malta-Gozo Ferry – Inter-Island Adventure
Cross the channel between Malta and Gozo with spectacular views of both islands, fortified harbors, and the Mediterranean horizon.
Routes through Valletta – UNESCO Heritage
Journey through Malta’s fortified capital with its baroque architecture, Grand Harbor views, and historic Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Route to Blue Lagoon Area – Comino Access
Take the bus to Ċirkewwa then connect with boat services to reach Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon with its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Route to Mdina – The Silent City
Travel to Malta’s ancient fortified city perched on a hilltop, offering medieval streets and panoramic views across the island.
Route to Dingli Cliffs – Dramatic Coastlines
Journey to Malta’s highest point for breathtaking clifftop views, rural landscapes, and some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular sunsets.
Frequently Asked Questions
? How much does the Tallinja Card cost in Malta?
The Tallinja Card requires a €15 refundable deposit plus top-up credit. Single journeys cost €1.50 with 2-hour transfers or €2.00 without transfers. Weekly passes cost €21 and monthly passes cost €26. The deposit is fully refundable when you return the card.
? How do I get from Malta Airport to Valletta?
Take the Airport Express X1 bus from Malta International Airport to Valletta. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs €2.50 with contactless payment or €1.50 with a Tallinja Card. Buses run every 15-30 minutes from 5:30am to 11:30pm.
? How much does the Malta to Gozo ferry cost?
The Malta-Gozo ferry costs €4.65 return for adult foot passengers and €1.15 for children. Cars cost €15.70 return including driver. The ferry runs every 45 minutes between Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mġarr (Gozo) and takes 25 minutes. Book online in summer to avoid queues.
? Can I pay cash on Malta buses?
Yes, but you need exact change as drivers cannot provide change. Cash fares are €2.50 for day service and €3.00 for night service. No transfers are included with cash payments. Contactless payment or Tallinja Card is recommended for better value and convenience.
? Do Malta buses run at night?
Yes, Malta has night bus services on main routes with a higher fare of €3.00 regardless of payment method. Regular day service runs from 5:30am to 11:00pm, with night services extending coverage for evening dining and nightlife areas like St. Julian’s and Paceville.
Official Malta Transport Resources
Accessible Public Transport in Malta
Malta Public Transport Buses
All modern buses in Malta’s fleet are wheelchair accessible with low floors, ramps, and dedicated wheelchair spaces. Priority seating is available near the front, and audio stop announcements help passengers with visual impairments.
Tallinja Card & Free Travel
Passengers with disabilities can apply for free personalized Tallinja Cards providing unlimited travel on all bus routes. The application process includes accessibility assessments and priority processing.
Malta-Gozo Ferry Access
The inter-island ferry service is fully accessible for passengers with mobility needs, with dedicated passenger areas, accessible toilets, and priority boarding assistance available upon request.
Bus Stops & Infrastructure
Major bus terminals and stops feature tactile paving, shelter seating, and clear signage. Valletta terminal and airport stops are fully accessible with level boarding areas.
Digital Accessibility
The Tallinja mobile app includes accessibility features like voice commands, large text options, and screen reader compatibility for route planning and real-time bus tracking.
Getting Accessibility Support
For personalized assistance, accessibility assessments, or to apply for free travel cards, contact Malta Public Transport directly:
Malta Public Transport Customer Care | Tallinja Card Applications