What mode of transport people use in Malta?
Alex in Malta · EN
Living in Malta
Transport & Getting Around Malta
Buses, Tallinja cards, Bolt, and why you probably don't need a car
Practical guidance
Processes, costs, and providers may change. This page reflects conditions in early 2026 — always confirm details with the relevant authority or provider.
Malta has a public bus network operated by Malta Public Transport (Tallinja) that covers most of the island. There is no rail system, no metro, and no tram. Taxis, ride-hailing (Bolt), and car-sharing fill the gaps.
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Taking a bus in Malta
Alex in Malta · EN
Tallinja Bus Network
Buses are the main public transport. Most routes pass through Valletta bus terminus. A single trip costs €1.50 in winter and €2.00 in summer with a personalised Tallinja card. Without the card, cash fares are €3.00 per trip.
Getting a Tallinja Card
You can apply for a personalised Tallinja card online at tallinja.com. You need a passport photo and your ID number. Monthly passes (€26) and 7-day explore cards (€21) are available. The personalised card gives you access to reduced fares.
Bolt & Taxis
Bolt is widely used in Malta and is usually cheaper than traditional white taxis. Traditional taxis use fixed zone-based pricing. Both are available at the airport. Bolt drivers accept card payments through the app.
Driving in Malta
Malta drives on the left. Roads are narrow and congestion is severe, especially in the central corridor (Sliema–St Julian's–Birkirkara). If you need a car, insurance is mandatory. Your foreign driving licence is valid for the first year. Malta has among the highest car-per-capita ratios in Europe.
Inter-island Transport
The Gozo Channel ferry connects Malta (Ċirkewwa) to Gozo (Mġarr) and runs frequently. The crossing takes about 25 minutes. A fast-ferry also runs from Valletta to Gozo.
Practical Tips
✓Get your personalised Tallinja card in the first week
✓Download the Tallinja app for live bus tracking
✓Download Bolt for ride-hailing — it's cheaper than taxis
✓If you live in Sliema, Gżira, or St Julian's, you don't need a car
✓Plan extra commute time in summer — buses get crowded and slow
More About Living in Malta
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