15 Malta Driving Tips: Everything You Need to Know
Looking for the ultimate Malta driving tips? You’ve come to the right place!
We spent almost two weeks driving around Malta — and yes, our rental car came back ding-free. 🙌
As slow travelers, we’ve rented cars in over a dozen European countries, including Italy and Greece. Driving in Malta is unique, but with the right guidance, it’s absolutely worth it.
In this post, we share 15 essential Malta driving tips to help you navigate the roads safely and confidently. From traffic rules to parking and road etiquette, we cover everything you need to know.
Let’s do this!
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What is Driving in Malta Like?
Driving in Malta is a unique and exciting experience. With its historic architecture and scenic views, Malta offers a one-of-a-kind driving experience.
Malta has an extensive road system that connects almost every part of the island.
Most roads are paved, and all signs are in English. Yes, that’s right! English is an official language so no need to decipher signs.
We don’t have rose-colored glasses on. We admit driving in Malta can be challenging, frustrating, and intense.
There are narrow roads, roundabouts, one-way streets, and many slow drivers.
Add in crazy traffic congestion and impatient drivers… and the thought of driving might make you want to slam your computer shut right now!
But despite these hurdles, we think driving in Malta is an amazing experience. On our 12-day Malta itinerary, we explored every corner, town, and beach with complete freedom.
Malta Driving Cheat Sheet
| Tip | Key Info |
|---|---|
| Driving Side | LEFT |
| Speed Limits | Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 80 km/h, Highway: 100 km/h |
| Roundabouts | Give way to traffic from the right |
| Parking | Street parking is common (paid in cities); private lots available |
| Gas Stations | Open 7–22h; self-service common; petrol/diesel |
| Alcohol Limit | 0.05% BAC; strictly enforced |
| Seat Belts | Mandatory for all passengers |
| Mobile Phones | Hands-free only |
15 Malta Driving Rules & Tips
One of the best ways to prepare for driving in Malta is to familiarize yourself with the customs and rules of the road. This will make your driving experience more relaxing and enjoyable.
Let’s dive into the 15 Malta driving rules and tips to help you make your road trip a success.
1. Malta Driving Side: LEFT
YES! The Maltese drive on the LEFT, the same as the UK. This means the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car, and traffic flows on the left side of the road.
Malta is NOT a right-handed driving country.
If you are from a country that drives on the left, you are good to go. For North Americans or other Europeans, congratulations… you are about to learn a new skill.
Driving on the left can be stressful, especially in a manual car, but it is totally doable. It just takes a little extra concentration at first.
But if we can do it, so can you!
The majority of rental cars in Malta are manual and all are equipped for left-handed driving.
The manual transmission is on the LEFT, but the clutch and gas peddle are in the SAME position as in North America. Therefore, it is only your clutch hand that needs to adapt.
If you prefer an automatic transmission, you can make a special request when completing your rental car booking. Chances are, the cost will be higher as well.
🚗Looking to rent a car in Malta?
➡️Book your rental car with Discover Cars here!
2. Driver License & Car Insurance
If you plan on driving in Malta, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license from your home country.
There is no special Malta driving license for foreigners. However, an international driver’s license is also acceptable.
The license must be in English or accompanied by an official English translation.
Additionally, car insurance and third-party liability insurance are mandatory. You are required to provide proof of insurance to the rental agency.
✅Helpful Tip: We always purchase comprehensive car insurance because it provides coverage for vehicle damage as well as personal injury or damage to third-party property.
If you decide to rent a car in Malta, check with the rental agency about insurance coverage. It can be easier, and cheaper, to purchase insurance in advance when making your booking.
Always read the terms and conditions carefully, and inquire about what to do in the event of an accident. You can do this when you pick up your rental car.
🚗Looking to rent a car in Malta?
➡️Book your rental car with Discover Cars here!
3. Wear Your Seat Belt
Malta requires all passengers in the vehicle to wear a seat belt at all times. Failure to comply can result in fines or other penalties.
We don’t need to explain the obvious. Seat belts save lives, and can help prevent injury or death in the event of a collision.
Parents and caregivers should make sure that children are properly secured in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats, as required by Maltese law.
4. Alcohol & Mobile Phones
In Malta, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even imprisonment.
Police officers are allowed to carry out random breathalyzer tests on suspected drivers. Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you could still face charges.
So if you are eating in one of Malta’s best restaurants, order a non-alcoholic beverage.
Do the right thing… and keep everyone safe by not driving impaired. Instead, take a taxi or an Uber.
Using a mobile or hand-held device while driving is also illegal and can result in fines and penalty points on your driver’s license.
Instead, use a hands-free device, such as Bluetooth earpieces or speakerphones.
5. Malta Driving: Road Conditions
One of the best things to do in Malta is to get off the beaten path and explore.
Malta has excellent infrastructure that consists of highways, secondary roads, and some dirt roads. The majority of roads in Malta are well-maintained and in good condition.
We broke down the three types of roads for you here.
Highways
Malta has two main highways that run across the main island that are wide and well-maintained.
A1 – north to south
A3 – east to west
Travel between major cities and towns on the island is mostly straightforward and efficient. The smaller island of Gozo also has a good road system too.
Secondary Roads
Malta’s secondary roadways range in quality and size from small, narrow lanes to large two-lane roads.
In small towns, roads can be narrow and winding, and possibly uneven or steep in some areas.
Many secondary roads pass through scenic countryside and countless gorgeous Malta towns, offering you the chance to explore the island’s history and beauty at your own pace.
Dirt Roads
Bumpy, narrow dirt roads are common in very rural areas. Sometimes, the road may be so narrow that only one car can fit at a time.
Therefore, you are forced to yield to oncoming traffic.
Pay attention, exercise caution, and drive slowly to avoid damaging your vehicle. This is also why we strongly suggest renting a small car in Malta.
🚗Looking to rent a car in Malta?
➡️Book your rental car with Discover Cars here!
6. Maltese Drivers & Road Etiquette
You will encounter polite Maltese drivers during your road trip. But we promised to paint a complete picture of what Malta driving is like to help fully prepare you for your trip.
In general, Maltese drivers tend to be impatient and assertive. Maybe it’s the high congestion, daily traffic jams, narrow roads, or countless roundabouts.
Whatever the reason, here are a few habits of Maltese drivers you should be familiar with:
⛔Following Distance
Drivers tend to follow other cars too closely. Don’t be alarmed if another vehicle is riding your bumper. If they are overly impatient, you can pull over and allow them to pass.
⛔Horn Use
Many drivers will overuse their horns… a lot. There is no need for you to overuse yours in return.
⛔Sharing the Road
Some drivers struggle to share the road with other vehicles. This is especially true on narrow, winding roads or with larger vehicles, like an SUV. Again, we suggest pulling over and letting them pass.
⛔Indicators
This appears to be optional. Best to expect to see inconsistent use of indicators. Don’t be alarmed if other drivers turn without warning.
⛔Roundabouts
It is best to expect drivers to cut you off when exiting the roundabout. Again… this is not always true, but some drivers will not yield or use their indicators to inform you of their decision. Be prepared to stop suddenly.
⛔Speeding
This is especially true for taxi drivers. But, depending on the time of day and road conditions, some drivers will be heavy on the gas and make sudden decisions without proper indication.
✅Helpful Tip: Always drive defensively, be courteous and aware of other drivers at all times, and let others react to you.
👉Respect local drivers by keeping your distance, using your indicators, and driving at or below the speed limit… and you should have no issues!
7. Drive Defensively
Driving defensively in Malta is crucial for staying safe on the island’s busy roads. Since you are unfamiliar with the roads and habits of the drivers, it is especially important to stay alert and pay attention.
Defensive driving techniques can help you anticipate and avoid potential hazards, such as sudden stops, lane changes, or unexpected maneuvers by other drivers.
Driving defensively includes:
✅maintaining a safe speed
✅follow traffic laws and signals
✅be aware of your surroundings
✅leave extra space between vehicles
✅avoid distractions (eg. mobile phones)
Stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in urban areas and tourist zones where foot traffic may be high.
These techniques help you stay focused and alert while driving in Malta.
8. Traffic Congestion
The biggest complaint about driving in Malta is traffic congestion.
Although it can happen on any major road or highway, it is particularly painful during the peak tourist season and daily commuting hours.
The traffic congestion during rush hour is horrendous. Do not attempt to drive from 7 am to 9 am or from 4 pm to 6 pm near any city or town.
✅HELPFUL TIP: Valletta is notoriously terrible for congestion. Visit the top attractions before picking up your rental car to leave the city.
Be prepared for occasional delays and factor in extra time when planning your day-to-day activities.
Or… plan your vacation during the off-season. Not only are traffic jams significantly reduced but rates are more affordable at the luxurious adult-only hotels on the island!
Honestly, we really didn’t find the traffic to be a huge problem at all.
One big reason Malta is worth visiting is that many of the sights and towns are close, so you are never driving long distances.
9. Speed Limits
In Malta, speed limit signs are well-marked and enforced. There are speed cameras throughout the island, and fines can be substantial.
Maximum Speed Limits in Malta:
🏁Highways are 80 km/h
🏁Secondary roads are 50 km/h
🏁Urban areas are 30 km/h
Designated areas, known as traffic-calmed zones, have even lower speed limits.
Additionally, some roads have variable speed limits, with signs indicating the appropriate speed limit based on weather conditions or other factors.
As always, we recommend adhering to the speed limits in any country.
10. Driving Distances
Malta is a tiny country measuring just 27 km long and 14.5 km wide. So thankfully, driving distances are relatively short.
The majority of driving times between towns or sights are under an hour.
Once you figure out how to get to Malta, you will have a relaxing vacation! You can easily explore 2-3 towns or sights in a single day plus enjoy dinner at one of the amazing restaurants on the island.
That is what we did, and we still had plenty of time to relax.
Just remember to plan an extra hour or two on the day you decide to take the ferry over to Gozo.
11. Parking in Malta
Parking in Malta can be challenging, particularly in urban areas and during peak tourism months.
🚗Street Parking
Most urban areas have some available street parking; however, spots are limited and in very high demand. If you find one… grab it and explore everything you want in the area!
Some designated street parking zones require payment at a parking meter or the purchase of a parking permit.
🚗Parking Lots
There are several free parking garages or lots around Malta, including urban centers and tourist sites.
You can leave your car for a few hours or even overnight in some locations. This is convenient when hopping on a boat tour to Comino.
These parking options are convenient and provide a secure place to park, but may be more expensive than street parking.
During our 12-day Malta road trip, we mostly purchased tickets in a designated, gated parking lot. We never bought a permit and occasionally found free street parking.
Valletta and Mdina are two of the most beautiful towns to visit in Malta. They are also pedestrian-only, so be prepared to park outside and walk to the historic center.
Parking is not permitted in all areas. It is important to know which to avoid as fines for parking violations can be substantial.
Here is a simplified parking guide.
PARKING GUIDE FOR MALTA:
⚪White: public parking is allowed. Always check if there is a time limit and if it is a paid parking
🔵Blue: resident parking only from 6 pm – 8 am
🟢Green: resident-only parking 24 hours
🟡Yellow: strictly no parking at anytime
12. Gas Stations
Gas stations are relatively easy to find, with many located in major urban areas and on highways.
The island’s main fuel is unleaded petrol, with diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) also available at some stations.
Most stations offer full and self-service options, and most accept credit and debit cards for payment.
Gas prices tend to be relatively high compared to other European countries. As of November 2024, gasoline costs €1.34/litre ($1.42 USD).
Thankfully, due to Malta’s compact size, filling your tank is rare. So, the cost of fuel is a relatively minor expense.
Can you believe we only filled up with gas once during our entire road trip through Malta?!
Gas stations in Malta are convenient and well-equipped and sell a variety of snacks, beverages, and basic automotive supplies. Some larger stations may also offer car wash and repair services.
13. Traffic Police & Enforcement
Traffic police are there to help enforce traffic laws, keep traffic flowing and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians on the island’s roads.
We found the police to be highly visible throughout the island. Officers were often stationed at major intersections and busy traffic areas to help minimize congestion and encourage traffic flow.
And, since all Maltese speak English, police officers are happy to assist you with directions or navigating the island’s roads.
In case of an emergency or if you need police assistance, you can dial 112 from any phone. This is the universal emergency number in Malta.
14. Using GPS Navigation
One of the most essential Malta driving tips is to bring a reliable GPS with you.
Not only does GPS track your speed so you can avoid speeding tickets, but provides warnings for turns, splits in the road, photo radar, and gas stations.
GPS navigation can be incredibly useful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the island’s roads or trying to find one of the top indoor activities in Malta.
Be aware that construction, traffic, and unexpected detours can and will happen. Unfortunately, most GPS units do not recognize these events when they happen.
So it’s best to have an alternate route planned ahead if a situation arises.
15. General Driving Tips
We felt completely safe during our unforgettable Maltese road trip, whether driving on dirt roads or walking down the street.
One of the many reasons to visit Malta is that it is a safe country for tourists.
It has a low crime rate, very friendly locals and everyone speaks English. However, you should still take precautions to ensure your safety.
Safety Tips for Traveling Malta
✅Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables
✅Keep an eye on your belongings in public
✅Do not leave valuables in your car
✅Don’t go out alone in unfamiliar areas
✅Only carry enough cash on you for the day
✅Be aware of your surroundings
✅Drive defensively
✅Always follow local traffic laws
Is Renting a Car in Malta Worth It?
YES! If renting a car works into your budget and itinerary, then I say… do it!
Renting a car in Malta is the best way to explore the island’s stunning coast, picturesque villages, and historic sites all on your own schedule.
Although Malta has great public transportation options, some locations are not accessible by bus. Renting a car offers flexibility and convenience so you can explore where and when you want.
This is especially true for those who travel with chronic pain, fatigue, or have reduced mobility as I do.
Just familiarize yourself with Malta’s driving habits and be willing to step outside your comfort zone.
🚗Looking to rent a car in Malta?
➡️Book your rental car with Discover Cars here!
Is Driving in Malta Easy?
YES, driving in Malta can be easy! We drove around this gorgeous country for nearly 2 weeks and did not encounter any major… or minor, problems.
However, some people might find Malta’s narrow streets, heavy congestion, one-way streets, limited city parking, and impatient drivers stressful.
Whether or not you should drive in Malta will depend on factors such as your driving experience, how familiar you are with Malta’s driving rules, and how comfortable you are with driving on the left side of the road.
👉If you are an experienced driver who is comfortable driving in your own country or have driven in other countries with similar rules… then driving in Malta can be EASY.
👉For new or inexperienced drivers or those unwilling to familiarize themselves with the driving rules… then driving in Malta might be challenging.
Nevertheless, despite these challenges, with some patience, caution, and familiarity with the local traffic laws and customs, driving in Malta can be easy for you too!
🚗Looking to rent a car in Malta?
➡️Book your rental car with Discover Cars here!
Can You Drive in Malta With a UK/Canada/USA License?
Yes, if you are from the UK, Canada, or the USA, you can drive in Malta as long as your driver’s license is valid and up-to-date.
If you stay in Malta for more than six months, you may need to obtain a Maltese driver’s license. This depends on the rules of your home country and your visa type.
You may need to take a driving test or complete other requirements to obtain a Maltese license.
Finally, if you plan on renting a car as we did, then check with the rental agency regarding specific requirements or restrictions on your license.
FAQs: Driving in Malta
Why does Malta drive on the left?
Malta was a British colony until it gained its independence in 1964. As a result of this, Malta inherited similar customs and practices as the UK, including the tradition of driving on the left-hand side of the road. Even after gaining its independence, Malta chose to continue driving on the left.
Is Malta driving the same as the UK?
Driving in Malta is like driving in the UK because both drive on the left side of the road. However, speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ, so it is essential to drive with caution and adhere to the speed limits.
How long does it take to drive around Malta?
It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive across Malta from its most eastern to the most western point. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from the northern tip to the southern tip.
Does Malta have tolls?
No, Malta does not have tolls on its roads. Instead, road maintenance and construction are funded through taxes and other fees.
What is the price of fuel in Malta?
As of November 2024, the price of fuel in Malta was approximately €1.34 per liter ($1.42 USD) for unleaded gasoline. Fuel prices are subject to change based on global oil prices and other factors. Stay up to date on Malta gas prices here.
What is the minimum driving age in Malta?
The minimum driving age in Malta is 18 years old. This applies to both Maltese residents and foreign tourists. Some car rental companies may require drivers to be at least 21 years old to rent a car. Always make sure to check before you reserve your rental vehicle.
Can foreigners drive in Malta?
Yes, foreigners can drive in Malta using their driver’s license for 12 months from the date of arrival. After that, you will need to obtain a Maltese driver’s license. To drive in Malta, you must be at least 18 years old, have mandatory car insurance, and follow all traffic rules and regulations.
What should I do if involved in an accident?
If you are involved in an accident when driving in Malta, first ensure that everyone is safe, then call the police if necessary. You should exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. Finally, take photos of the damage and report the accident to your insurance company/car rental agency as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts: Malta Driving Tips
Driving in Malta can be an efficient, convenient, and unforgettable way to explore everything this amazing country has to offer.
Whether you’re navigating the narrow streets or admiring scenic views, driving in Malta is truly worth it.
Hopefully, these 15 Malta driving tips helped you feel more prepared to navigate the roads of Malta with confidence and ease.
Honestly, if you enjoy slow travel and follow all driving rules and customs… then I say, go for it! Start planning your road trip to Malta and get ready for an amazing experience.
So, buckle up, stay alert, and enjoy your journey!
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