Driving in Malta: everything you need to know before you start the engine

by letygoeson1, Sep, 2025Malta, Travel Tips

Driving in Malta means experiencing the island in total freedom, exploring picturesque villages, breathtaking views, and unforgettable locations. Renting a car in Malta is the best choice if you want to discover every corner of the Mediterranean archipelago, but there are a few important aspects you should know before getting behind the wheel. In this article, I’ll explain them all in detail.

Driving in Malta was one of the most authentic and adventurous experiences of my trip. The moment I set foot on the island, I realized that if I truly wanted to explore every corner — from sleepy villages to stunning sea views — I needed four wheels and a pinch of courage. In this guide, I’ll take you with me on the road: between “opposite” roundabouts (that aren’t really opposite!), creative parking, and a sense of freedom that only driving a car in Malta can give you.

Have you just booked your flight to Malta and already dream of the turquoise waters of Comino, the prehistoric temples of Gozo, and the magical Game of Thrones filming locations? Then the big question comes: how do you move around these islands full of charm and unpredictable curves?

Spoiler alert: the answer is simple: by car. In fact, renting a car in Malta is the best solution for travelers who want to enjoy complete freedom. But beware — there are some things you should prepare for. And in this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about driving in Malta.

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Driving in Malta: Pros and Cons

Let’s be honest: driving a car in Malta has some cons (we’ll get to that soon), but the pros win by far. Public transportation works decently in tourist areas, but as soon as you want to escape the usual routes, buses become scarce… or worse, you end up waiting endlessly under the hot sun.

If you’re dreaming of hidden coves, timeless villages, or watching the sunset from a deserted cliff, then car rental in Malta is the best solution. The islands aren’t huge, but without a car, you’ll struggle with unreliable public transport and endless travel times.

So yes: a few “reverse” roundabouts and some extra honking are more than compensated by the chance to explore Malta, Gozo, and even Comino at your own pace.

Driving on the Left in Malta

Yes, it’s true: driving in Malta means driving on the left, just like in the UK. This habit comes from the island’s British colonial past, and while it can be confusing at first for those used to the right-hand side, trust me — it’s not as traumatic as it seems.

The first impact feels strange, especially when you face your first “opposite” roundabout right after leaving the airport, but after just a few kilometers your brain adapts. Road signs are clear, main roads are well maintained, and although traffic can be chaotic at peak hours, it’s manageable.

So, driving on the left in Malta takes a bit of adjustment, but it’s absolutely doable.

Golden tip: since you’ll be driving on the left in Malta, make your life easier by renting a car in Malta with automatic transmission. That way you won’t have to worry about shifting gears with the “wrong” hand, and you’ll be able to focus entirely on the road.

Lety

Documents Needed for Driving in Malta

If you’re an EU citizen, you can drive in Malta with your national driving license. No international permit required — great news! Still, there are a few important things to keep in mind before renting a car in Malta.

Always carry a valid ID or passport. Checks may happen, especially when renting.
Make sure your license is valid and has been issued for at least one year. Some car rental companies in Malta require at least two years of driving experience.
A credit card in the main driver’s name is mandatory. Without it, you risk not being able to collect your vehicle, even if you booked online.

Maltese Road Rules

Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h outside. No highways, and many roads are narrow or uneven.
Seatbelts required for everyone.
Alcohol limit: 0.5, but the best advice is not to drink if you’re driving.
Parking: white lines = free, blue = paid, yellow = reserved.
Headlights are not required during the day but useful in the countryside or cloudy weather.

How Do Maltese People Drive?

Driving in Malta is a little adventure in itself. Locals have a rather “creative” style, especially in towns: risky overtakes, questionable turn signals, and imaginative parking are all part of the package.

Don’t be discouraged: Maltese drivers know their roads well and are generally tolerant of tourists. Keep your eyes open, honk only when necessary, and remember — you’re on holiday!

Traffic Tips: When to Avoid Driving in Malta

Besides the lively driving style, there’s traffic to consider. Malta is small but densely populated, and rush hours can feel like a Mediterranean traffic jam.

Avoid driving a car in Malta between 7:30–9:00 am and 4:30–6:30 pm, especially around Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and central routes. Delays can last for ages, and you may end up stuck under the hot sun.

Plan day trips starting after 9:30 am and return before 4:00 pm or after 7:00 pm — perfect timing for a seaside dinner.

Taking Your Car to Gozo

One great advantage of renting a car in Malta is that you can easily take it to Gozo. Ferries from Ċirkewwa depart every 30–45 minutes, and the price for car + driver is very affordable (around €10–15 round trip). No booking needed: just line up and board.

Comino, instead, isn’t accessible by car, but you can park nearby and explore it by boat or guided excursion.

Car Rental in Malta: When, Where, and With Whom

My first tip: book in advance! During high season, prices rise, and cars sell out quickly.

I recommend using Discover Cars: a reliable comparison platform where you can check offers from the best companies for car rental in Malta, read real reviews, and choose the option that best suits your needs (insurance, automatic transmission, young drivers, etc.).

Personally, I’ve always had a great experience with Discover Cars thanks to their competitive prices and the ease of renting a car in Malta without stress.

Summary: Driving in Malta Without Stress

Driving on the left in Malta: you’ll get used to it!
EU driving license = valid.
Road rules are simple, just pay attention to other drivers.
Traffic is heavy during rush hours, especially near Valletta and Sliema.
A car = freedom: visit Gozo, hidden bays, and charming villages at your own pace.

Driving in Malta may seem like an adventure, and in part it is. But it is also the best way to discover the island at your own pace, stopping to take photos every 10 minutes, searching for that remote restaurant that serves the best Maltese rabbit in the world, or setting off at dawn to see the sun rise in Marsaxlokk.

Don’t forget to check out my article on other things you need to know to prepare for your trip to Malta here.
Have a great trip!!!!