A vacation in the small and intimate island of Malta is one of the best you could ever have. With its pristine beaches, stunning coastlines, and radiating rock formations, Malta can give you the Mediterranean holiday you have wished for.
But if you want to visit every nook and cranny of the majestic and historical cities of Malta, you may want to consider renting a car. It is more practical and if you are not a big fan of heavy traffic, having a car can save you from all the hustle and bustle.
Of course, there are a few things you have to bear in mind should you rent a car in Malta. After all, it’s a new and different country you would be driving in.You would also need an idea of a reputable and well-esteemed car rental company. It would also be a great help to know which car model is most suitable for you.
To know more about car rentals in Malta and how to hit the road, here are a few things that you need to know.
Car rental companies in Malta
Since the whole island itself is a tourist attraction, Malta has many car rentals available to tourists and locals alike. But when you are on holiday, it would work best if you look for the best car rental companies available around. It will help if you look up some suggestions on the Internet.
Avis Car Rental
To start, you can check out Avis Car Rental. It is often regarded as the best car rental company in the industry, thanks to its affordability and reliability, this car rental company ensures its tourists and visitors that they can travel cities and landmarks with ease. Avis Car Rental has many branches in Malta. Unlike other car rental companies, Avis Car Rental is also available in other places aside from the Malta International Airport. You can also rent a car from them in Msida, Gozo, and Bugibba.
Hertz
Another reputable car rental company that has been in the industry since 1918 is Hertz. And you can depend on Hertz to accommodate you, mostly since it is known for excellent customer service. Aside from Malta, Hertz is also available in Gozo and Sliema, to name a few.
Sixt Car Rental Deals
Sixt Car Rental Deals is also an excellent choice for those who want to rent a car while in Malta. If you want accommodating customer service and 24-hour availability, then rent a car from Sixt. Whether travelling in style or going on a family trip, Sixt has got the perfect vehicle for every client. With their vast array of car models, ranging from luxury cars to family SUVs.
Goldcar
If you are in it for the practical and affordable choice, then Goldcar is your car rental company. Known for its budget-friendly offers, Goldcar provides its customers and clients with the cheapest car with a Toyota Aygo. However, don’t worry, cheap does not necessarily equate to inferior in quality and service. You can just as much roam the streets of Malta with Goldcar as when you use a big old fancy car.
Budget Rent a Car System
With more than 60 years in the car rental industry, Budget Rent a Car System can surely deliver quality service to any tourist or visitor in Malta. You can either pick up a vehicle for rent from the airport or have it delivered to your hotel in Malta or Gozo. If you are traveling with family, Budget also offers special equipment that can cater to your needs. From additional driver to child seats, and insurance, Budget has all that.
Europcar
This French-owned car rental company can also get you around and about Malta. Since it has a renowned reputation for providing excellent service to customers, you can expect to roam Malta in a breeze. You can choose from a vast range of rental cars and book it from the Malta International Airport.
There are other car companies that you can try out. It’s best that you look for customers’ feedback or reviews. Suppose you are looking at car rental companies such as Sicily, First Car Rental, and Meli Car Rental Group. In that case, it’s best to review their services further as they have below-average ratings on Google, specifically with 1.6, 2.4, and 2.5, respectively.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Malta?
Rates of Car Rental
Rates of car rentals in Malta vary depending on seasons or months. During the summer season (June – September) when tourists visit Malta the most, expect that the rates will get higher. The estimated rate of a rented car per day around that time is €27 to €32. For September, you can expect around €23 per day for a rented car.
Average rates per month:
- January to February – €13-€15 per day
- March to April – €14-€17 per day
- May to June €18-€20 per day
- July to August: €27-€30 per day
- September to October: €21 – €23 per day
- November to December – €16 -€20 per day
Special holidays like easter and christmas have higher rates due to higher demand.
However, rates surge high during Easter as Malta holds lots of festivities and activities on the streets in celebration of the Easter season. You can expect that rented car rates can increase around €25 to €30.
But if you decide to spend your winter holiday in Malta, worry not because you can still enjoy your trip by driving through historical landmarks and tourist spots. Although Malta is a winter sun destination, tourists from foreigners are not as many as there are during the summer.
Road and traffic laws in Malta
Like any country, Malta also has traffic regulations that must be observed by drivers. To promote road safety for drivers and pedestrians, and to prevent reckless driving, the national government of Malta ratified the Highway Code in 2001. It is published in both English and Maltese. If you are planning on renting a car and driving around Malta, it’s better that you take a look at the provisions of the Highway Code.
There are other relevant traffic legislations that govern the roads. Included in these are the Traffic Regulation Ordinance, Motor Vehicle Roadworthiness Test Regulations of 1988, and Motor Vehicles Insurance Ordinance for risks suffered by a third-party.
Below is an enumeration of some prominent provisions from the Traffic Regulation Ordinance, including speed limits, traffic violations, and their corresponding penalty of fine and/or imprisonment.
Speed limits to be observed in Malta:
- 80 km/h – national extra urban roads
- 50 km/h – built-up areas
- 35 km/h – village centres
Violation of Traffic Regulation Ordinance and their corresponding penalties:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol – €1,800 and/or imprisonment of not more than six months
- Subsequent offense of driving under the influence of alcohol – €3,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than one year
- Beating the red light – €100
- Driving up to 15km/h over the speed limit – €34.94
- Driving over 15km/h over the speed limit – €69.88
- Parking in a prohibited place – €23.29
- Driving while using mobile phone – €100
- Failure to renew driving licence – €34.94
- Failure to renew vehicle licence – €69.88
- Driving along a priority vehicle lane – €50
Electrical vehicle: exploring other options
GoTo Malta – Electrical car sharing
You may be familiar with car ride-hailing apps, such as Uber and Lyft, but on Malta there is a real cool and handy company called GoTo Malta. With just a few taps on your phone, you reserve a car near by. The vehicles are fully electric. One tap on your phone and the car is open, ready to drive!
If you are travelling solo, you can also get a ride on a GoTo Scooter. By doing so, you are not only getting a fast ride as you beat heavy traffic, but you are also reducing your carbon footprint.
Bolt
So if you prefer a convenient ride around the streets of Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, there you can ditch renting a car and opt for applications that can get you a ride in just a few minutes. Bolt is a good option. Just sign up to Bolt and open the app to see whether there is a car in the neighbourhood. Discovering Malta has never been easier! Wherever you are on the island, count on Bolt to get you there in minutes.
Frequently asked questions about car rental in Malta
What documents do I need to hire a car in Malta?
- A driving licence (doesn’t matter which country, as long as it’s valid)
- A credit card (important for your deposit, make sure your card is not maxed out)
- Passport or EU ID card
- Your car rental reservation confirmation
Is it worth renting car in Malta?
Yes, without a doubt! The car is the best option to explore the island without limitations. Say hello to your freedom!
Do I need an international driver’s license in Malta?
No it’s not required but it will be recognised. You can legally drive in Malta with valid UK or European driving licence.
How long does it take to drive around Malta?
In around one hour you can cross the island of Malta in one direction by car. The main island is 27 kilometers (17 miles) long, and 14.5 kilometers (9 miles) wide.
What is the drink drive alcohol limit in Malta?
You can have a maximum of 0.08% (bac), that is about one glass of beer on average. So just don’t drink and drive in Malta. The police are also not very keen or tolerant when they stop you.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Malta?
To rent a car in Malta, you must be at least 21 years old and have your driving license for 2 years or more. Some car rental companies let you pay more when you are under 26 years old (young drivers fee).
Is Malta right hand drive?
No, in Malta they drive left. See the full guide about driving left in Malta here.