Car Rental in Mellieha, Malta

Where to drive

• Drive to Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa Bay for stunning sunsets and sandy beaches, just a 15-minute drive (approx. 8 km) from Mellieha.
• Explore the historic walled city of Mdina, Malta's ancient capital, a scenic 30-minute drive (approx. 20 km) inland.
• Visit the Blue Grotto and Hagar Qim temples on the southern coast, a memorable drive of about 45 minutes (approx. 30 km) through picturesque countryside.
• Take a short drive (approx. 10 minutes, 5 km) to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal to catch a ferry to the sister island of Gozo, opening up more exploration opportunities.
• Discover the Popeye Village film set, located just a 5-minute drive (approx. 3 km) from Mellieha Bay, offering a fun family outing.
• Journey to Valletta, the capital city, for its rich history and grand architecture, about a 40-minute drive (approx. 25 km) from Mellieha.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Malta, you generally need a valid driving license held for at least one year. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required in addition to your national license. A passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name are also essential. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with surcharges for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Mellieha vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-20 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles will naturally cost more, potentially reaching 60-80 EUR or more daily during peak summer months. Expect prices to be highest from June to September.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Malta, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and sometimes 60 km/h on main arterial roads. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 3 years old must use an appropriate child restraint system; children between 3 and 12 years (or up to 1.5 meters tall) must use a suitable booster seat. The legal blood alcohol limit is approximately 0.08% (80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood). Headlights are not mandatory during the day but must be used from dusk till dawn and in poor visibility.

Parking

In Mellieha, parking can be found along streets, often marked with white bays for unrestricted parking. Blue bays are for residents, though tourists may be allowed during certain hours. Yellow lines indicate no parking. In busier areas, particularly near popular beaches or the village center, paid parking lots are available. In other towns like Valletta, parking is highly restricted, and it's often best to use dedicated car parks or park-and-ride services.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Malta, including in Mellieha and surrounding areas. They typically offer Unleaded (Petrol) and Diesel. Prices are generally regulated and are in line with European averages, currently around 1.40-1.50 EUR per litre for both fuel types. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller, unattended stations or older pumps.

Which car to choose

For navigating Malta's often narrow and winding roads, especially in villages and coastal areas, a compact or economy car is highly recommended. These smaller vehicles are easier to park and maneuver. An automatic transmission is often preferred by many visitors due to the left-hand driving and hilly terrain, though manual cars are also readily available. For those planning to visit more remote, unpaved areas, a small SUV might offer more comfort, but it's rarely a necessity.

Frequently asked questions