Getting Around Malta
79 ...is easy!
You can use the public transport system which connects all cities, towns and villages from one to another. You can find bus stops all over the island and all you need to do is ask the locals for the nearest bus stop. As of July 2011 a new company responsible for the whole public transport system introduced new, modern buses replaceing the old, iconic and sometimes eccentric orange buses of the past which for years have been admired by tourists and locals alike. One word of caution: there are still some teething problems with the new system which may cause some lengthy delays or travelling times.
If you are up for it and prefer to be more independent, you can also hire a car. We drive on the left and follow speed limits of 40 kph in urban areas and 60 kph on open roads. All road signs are in English. Drivers and passengers are required to wear seat belts by law. Local traffic wardens enforce traffic laws and will issue fines to drivers breaking the law, which includes speeding, speaking on the mobile while driving, parking on double yellow lines or in non-designated parking zones or outside permissible parking times.
A word of advice – driving in Malta can be stressful. Roads are narrow and poorly lit at night and there is a lot of traffic on the road and the state of the roads may be less than expected. Daily rates start from €16.00.
Or how about a taxi? White taxis are usually found in tourist areas and outside hotels. Your receptionist can book a taxi for you in advance. You should ask the taxi driver how much your trip will cost before you set off. Taxis from the Seaport Terminal and Malta International Airport to all localities are based on a fixed tariff.
If you are travelling to Gozo, you can make use of the Gozo channel ferry between Cirkewwwa in the north of Malta and Mgarr in Gozo. The service caters for pedestrian and car passengers and the trip usually takes about 30 minutes. Schedules for the service vary according to the time of the year and may also be subject to weather conditions.
Alternatively, you can book a seat on the seaplane which links the Grand Harbour in Valetta to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.
You can also catch the ferry between Sliema and Valletta. Frequent ferry trips link Valletta and the Strand.
Walking and cycling around Malta is quite easy. Distances are short because Malta is so small and locals will be very helpful to set you on the right track if you get lost – all you have to do is ask. Walking from the main ESE school to Sliema will take you just under 30 minutes!