Malta International Airport (MLA) sits at the crossroads of the Mediterranean — a tiny island nation with a history stretching back 7,000 years. You could spend your holiday riding buses and walking, but you’d miss half the story. The ancient temples, secluded coves, and hilltop villages scattered across Malta and its sister island Gozo demand the freedom of your own wheels.
We’ve organised Malta car hire for countless travellers, and we’ve learned what works. No nasty surprises at the rental counter. No hidden insurance clauses. We compare every major provider at MLA Airport so you can book confidently, collect your keys, and start exploring within an hour of landing.
Why Rent a Car at Malta Airport
Malta may be small — about 27 km from tip to tip — but that doesn’t mean public transport covers everything. The bus network is extensive, sure. But try reaching the Blue Grotto at sunrise, or finding that hidden swimming spot locals mentioned, or catching an early ferry to Gozo without rushing. A rental car gives you control over your schedule in ways buses can’t match.
Malta’s roads are… an experience. Narrow lanes, tight corners, surfaces that haven’t seen proper maintenance in places. Locals drive defensively. You’ll adapt quickly. The island is compact enough that getting lost is half the fun — worst case, you’re never more than 20 minutes from somewhere you recognise.
The Left-Hand Drive Reminder
Malta drives on the left, same as the UK. If you’re arriving from mainland Europe or the US, this takes some adjustment. Roundabouts go clockwise. Overtaking happens on the right. Most rental cars are manual transmission, though automatics are available if you book early. The switching is genuinely disorienting for the first few hours — take it slow.
Top Destinations from Malta Airport
Once you’ve collected your rental, the entire island opens up. Here’s where most visitors head first:
Valletta (8 km, 15-20 minutes)
The capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site compressed into a peninsula barely a kilometre long. Baroque palaces, fortified walls designed by the Knights of St. John, and the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its Caravaggio paintings. Park on the outskirts — the city centre is pedestrianised and parking is brutal. Use the park-and-ride at Floriana and walk in, or find street parking in the side streets of Blata l-Bajda.
Mdina — The Silent City (12 km, 25 minutes)
Malta’s old capital perches on a hill in the centre of the island. Within its fortified walls, narrow limestone streets wind past Norman and Baroque architecture. No cars allowed inside — park in the nearby Rabat car parks and walk through the main gate. Go at golden hour when tour groups thin out and the limestone glows amber. The neighbouring town of Rabat offers Roman catacombs and excellent local bakeries.
Blue Grotto (14 km from Valletta, 15 minutes)
On Malta’s southern coast, sea caverns carved by millennia of waves create the Blue Grotto. The water inside the caves is impossibly vivid — the kind of blue photographers chase. Boat trips launch from Wied iz-Zurrieq (you can’t actually enter by car), but you can drive to the viewpoint above for free. Aim for morning light when the sun reaches inside the caves. The road down is steep and winding — typical Maltese driving conditions.
Golden Bay (20 km from Valletta, 25 minutes)
Malta’s northwest coast holds two of its finest sandy beaches — Golden Bay and adjacent Ghajn Tuffieha. Parking is reasonably straightforward, with a dedicated car park near the Radisson hotel. The walk down involves stairs and paths, but the effort rewards you with some of the clearest swimming water on the island. Sunset here draws crowds — arrive early if you want a prime spot.
Mellieha Bay (25 km, 30-35 minutes)
The longest sandy beach on Malta, shallow water perfect for families, and the resort town of Mellieha climbing the hill behind. This is a popular base — lots of accommodation, restaurants, and easy access to both the beach and the ferry terminal for Gozo. The parish church at the summit has panoramic views across the channel.
Gozo Ferry at Ċirkewwa (40 km, 45 minutes from airport)
If Gozo is your destination, drive north to Ċirkewwa terminal. Ferries run around the clock (every 45 minutes in peak periods), and you can bring your rental car across — check your rental agreement covers taking vehicles on ferries first. The crossing takes 25 minutes to Mgarr harbour. From there, Victoria and the rest of Gozo are yours to explore.
Driving in Malta: What to Know
Malta roads are infamous. The surface quality varies dramatically — smooth main roads to potholed village lanes within metres. Signage is generally good in tourist areas but can disappear in residential neighbourhoods. Locals drive assertively and know exactly how wide their cars are. You’ll learn.
Speed limits: 80 km/h maximum on open roads, 50 km/h in built-up areas, though many urban zones drop to 30-40 km/h. Speed cameras exist. They’re signposted.
Parking: Free in many areas, but spaces vanish quickly in tourist zones. Valletta and Sliema have paid parking zones — usually 1-2 hour limits on street meters. Underground car parks are your friend in busy areas. The Blue Badge (UK disability permit) is accepted in Malta.
Road quality: Expect rough surfaces, faded markings, and creative parking. Village cores often have roads barely wide enough for one car. Reverse carefully. Horns are used freely — it’s communication, not aggression.
GPS: Roads change faster than maps update. Some destinations have multiple names in English and Maltese. Have a backup plan if your satnav gets confused.
Collecting Your Rental at Malta Airport
Malta International Airport (MLA) is compact and efficient. The single terminal handles everything, and car rental desks are conveniently located in the Arrivals Hall. After collecting luggage, you’ll see the rental counters — Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Europcar, plus local Maltese companies.
Documents needed: Valid driving licence (UK/EU licences accepted), passport or ID card, credit card in the main driver’s name, and your booking confirmation. Your licence must have been held for at least a year (often two years for some companies).
Age requirements: Minimum age to drive in Malta is 18, but rental companies typically require drivers to be 21 or older. Young driver fees often apply for under-25s. Check your rental terms before booking.
Fuel policy: Most operate full-to-full. Return the car with the same fuel level. Petrol stations dot the island — just don’t leave it until you’re on the airport approach road.
Vehicle inspection: Before driving away, walk around the car with the agent. Photograph any scratches, chips, dents. Point them out. Ensure everything is noted on your agreement. Malta’s roads aren’t kind to paintwork — documentation protects you.
Returning the Car
Malta Airport’s return area is clearly signposted from the approach road. Leave more time than you think — traffic around Luqa (the airport area) can bunch up. Fill up before you get close; fuel near the airport carries premium prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Malta?
If you hold a UK or EU driving licence, no — your licence is accepted directly. Licences from other countries may need an IDP. Check with your rental company before you travel.
Can I take my rental car to Gozo?
Most rental agreements allow taking vehicles on the Gozo ferry. Check your specific contract — some companies charge extra for off-island travel, while others prohibit certain vehicle categories. The ferry fee for cars is paid at the terminal, and is quite affordable.
Is parking difficult on Malta?
In tourist hotspots — Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s — yes. Arrive early or use paid car parks. In smaller towns and villages, parking is usually straightforward and free. Most attractions have dedicated parking areas, though they fill quickly in summer.
What’s the road to the Blue Grotto like?
The coastal roads are generally good, but the final descent to Wied iz-Zurrieq (where boats to Blue Grotto launch) is narrow and steep. Take corners slowly, watch for oncoming traffic, and don’t be surprised if you need to reverse into a passing place.
Are automatics available in Malta?
Yes, but they’re less common than manuals and book out faster in peak season. If you need an automatic, reserve well in advance or expect to pay a premium.