Landing in Malta is always exciting—the island greets you with sunshine, sea views, and the promise of a Mediterranean adventure. But first, there’s one essential step before the beach cocktails and historic strolls: getting from Malta International Airport (MLA) to your accommodation.
Whether you’re staying in Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, Mellieħa, or the quieter corners of Gozo, knowing your transport options can save time, money, and stress. Here’s your complete guide to making that first journey as smooth as possible.
Step One: Know Where You’re Staying
Before planning your airport transfer, know your accommodation’s location. Malta is small, but travel times vary:
- Valletta – 20 minutes by car
- Sliema / St. Julian’s – 25–30 minutes
- Bugibba / Qawra / Mellieħa – 45–60 minutes
- Marsaxlokk – 15–20 minutes
- Gozo (via ferry) – 90–120 minutes
Tip: Check Google Maps or your hotel confirmation for the exact address—some streets in Malta can be confusing for first-time visitors.
1. Airport Taxis and Private Transfers
The simplest way to reach your accommodation is by taxi or private transfer.
Official Airport Taxis
Malta International Airport operates an official fixed-rate taxi service. You can book a taxi at the airport counter or online in advance.
Average Taxi Rates (One-Way):
- Valletta – €20
- Sliema / St. Julian’s – €25
- Bugibba / Mellieħa – €30–€40
- Cirkewwa (Gozo Ferry) – €35
Taxis are reliable, air-conditioned, and fast—but not the cheapest if you’re travelling solo.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
If you want a stress-free arrival, pre-book a private transfer. Companies like eCabs, Bolt Business, and Welcome Pickups offer door-to-door service with a driver waiting in arrivals.
Pros:
- Fixed price, no haggling
- Great for families or large luggage
- Saves time if you’re tired after a flight
2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Bolt, Uber, eCabs)
Malta has fully embraced ride-hailing apps, making it easy to book a ride directly from your phone.
- Bolt – Widely used and often cheaper than taxis
- Uber – Recently introduced and offers consistent service
- eCabs – Malta’s local ride-hailing app with pre-booking options
Average Prices:
- Valletta: €12–€18
- Sliema / St. Julian’s: €15–€22
- Mellieħa: €30–€40
Tip: Compare apps before booking—prices can surge during peak hours, especially on summer weekends.
3. Public Buses – The Budget-Friendly Option
Malta’s public bus system is affordable and reliable for budget travellers. Several bus routes, all departing from the terminal, connect the airport to the island.
Key Airport Bus Routes:
- X4 – Valletta (20–25 mins)
- X2 – Sliema & St. Julian’s (40–50 mins)
- X3 – Birkirkara to Bugibba (60 mins)
- X1 – Cirkewwa (Gozo Ferry) (90 mins)
Tickets:
- Single journey: €2 (summer) / €1.50 (winter)
- Contactless cards or cash accepted
- Tallinja Card recommended if staying a week or more
Pro tip: Buses can get busy during rush hours, so travel light or consider alternatives if you have large luggage.
4. Airport Shuttle Services
If you’re staying in a hotel or resort, check if they offer shuttle services. Many accommodations in Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Bugibba partner with shuttle companies for affordable transfers.
Typical Shuttle Prices:
- Valletta / Sliema – €8–€12 per person
- St. Paul’s Bay / Bugibba – €12–€15 per person
- Mellieħa – €15–€18 per person
Shuttles are a cost-effective option for solo travellers, but they can take longer if they drop off multiple guests.
5. Renting a Car at the Airport
If you’re planning to explore the island beyond your hotel, renting a car directly from Malta International Airport can be a great option.
Pros of Renting a Car
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Essential if staying in remote areas like Dingli, Gozo, or Mellieħa
- Competitive prices in the off-season
Things to Know
- Malta drives on the left-hand side
- Roads can be narrow and busy in tourist areas
- Parking in Valletta and Sliema can be tricky
Tip: If staying mostly in urban areas with good transport, consider using taxis or buses instead of renting a car.
6. Getting to Gozo From the Airport
If your accommodation is in Gozo, you’ll need to combine land and sea transport.
Typical Journey:
- Taxi, bus, or ride-hailing to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal (45–60 mins)
- Gozo Channel Ferry to Mgarr (25 mins) – €4.65 per adult (round trip)
- Taxi, bus, or rental car to your Gozo accommodation (15–30 mins)
For convenience, consider booking a direct Gozo transfer, which includes the ferry and onward transport.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Your best choice depends on budget, luggage, and how quickly you want to start your holiday:
- Fastest & Easiest: Taxi or ride-hailing
- Cheapest: Public bus or shared shuttle
- Best for Adventure Seekers: Car rental
- Best for Gozo: Pre-booked transfer with ferry included
Related Articles You Might Like
- The Ultimate Guide to Public Transport in Malta
- Top 10 Mistakes Tourists Make in Malta (And How to Avoid Them)
- Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas for Every Traveller
- 10 Fun Things to Do in Malta After You Land
Final Takeaway
Getting from Malta International Airport to your accommodation is simple once you know your options. Whether you hop on a bus for €2, book a private transfer for a seamless start, or rent a car for an island road trip, there’s a transport choice for every type of traveller.
With your first journey sorted, all that’s left is to soak in the sunshine, explore Malta’s history, and enjoy your Mediterranean escape.
