Car Rental in Valletta

Where to drive

• Drive from Valletta to Mdina, the 'Silent City', a journey of approximately 20 minutes (around 12 km), to walk through its medieval streets and enjoy panoramic island views.
• Head south to Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village famous for its colourful Luzzu boats and Sunday fish market, roughly 30 minutes drive (about 15 km) from Valletta.
• Explore the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, UNESCO World Heritage sites, located about 35 minutes (around 20 km) from Valletta, offering a glimpse into Malta's ancient past.
• Journey to the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves on the island's south-west coast, approximately 30 minutes (around 18 km) from Valletta, for boat tours and stunning natural beauty.
• Visit the island of Gozo via the Cirkewwa ferry terminal, about a 45-minute drive (around 30 km) from Valletta. The ferry crossing itself takes about 25 minutes, allowing you to explore Gozo's Citadel, Ramla Bay, and Dwejra Bay at your leisure.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Malta, you generally need a valid driving licence held for at least one or two years, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU licence holders and sometimes required. The minimum rental age is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum for certain car categories or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Valletta vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Prices typically peak during the summer months, often doubling or tripling compared to winter rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Malta, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 60 km/h in some specific zones, unless otherwise indicated. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.08%. Headlights must be used in tunnels and during periods of reduced visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 3 years old, and booster seats for children between 3 and 10 years old or under 1.5 metres tall.

Parking

Parking in Valletta can be challenging due to its historic, compact nature. Paid parking zones are prevalent, often indicated by white or blue lines, with payment typically made via parking meters or scratch cards available from local shops. There are also several multi-storey car parks just outside the city walls, such as MCP Car Park, which offer more convenient options. Free parking is rare and usually requires local knowledge.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Malta, including near Valletta and the airport. The approximate price for unleaded petrol (gasoline) is around 1.40-1.60 EUR per litre, and diesel is similarly priced. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Valletta's narrow, winding streets and Malta's generally compact roads, a smaller economy or compact car is highly recommended. These vehicles are easier to manoeuvre and park. If you plan extensive drives or require more comfort, a mid-size sedan could be suitable. Manual transmission is common, but automatic options are widely available, though they might cost slightly more.

Frequently asked questions