Car Rental in Malta 2026: Rules, Prices and 34 Tips

Renting a car is the most flexible way to see Malta beyond Valletta and the resort towns, and the single most important fact to know before you pick up the keys is that Malta drives on the left, the same side as the UK, Ireland and Australia. Malta’s public transport network covers the main towns, but it does not always match a traveller’s schedule or reach quieter villages and beaches, which is why a rental car remains the easiest way to explore the islands at your own pace. To rent a car, drivers must usually be at least 21 years old and hold a valid licence for at least one to two years, according to typical rental company policy, though the legal minimum age to hold a Maltese driving licence is 18, according to Transport Malta. A credit card is required for a security deposit, typically ranging from €100 to €1,000 ($113 to $1,131, £87 to £872) depending on the vehicle and insurance chosen. The most cost-effective period to rent is winter (November to March), when demand and prices both drop. Airport pickups are usually cheaper and more convenient than town-centre branches, and a small car handles Malta’s narrow streets far better than anything larger.

Malta has well-maintained roads for its size, but driving here can be more demanding than it looks on a map, mainly because of narrow streets, tight parking and an assertive local driving style. Left-hand traffic is the detail that catches out most visitors: drivers used to keeping to the right, which covers most of mainland Europe and the United States, need a short adjustment period before it becomes automatic, while drivers from the UK, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, Japan or India will find it familiar from day one. Malta has no true motorways. Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas and 80 km/h (50 mph) on the open roads outside them, according to Transport Malta, the country’s road authority, which sets and publishes the national speed limit in its official driving-test material. An automatic transmission removes one thing to think about on these roads, and a small hatchback fits Malta’s tight village lanes and parking bays better than an SUV. For exploring the islands, a car gives access to Mdina, Valletta, Marsaxlokk and Gozo, each showing a different side of Malta, from fortified medieval streets to a working fishing harbour. With a short adjustment period for the left-hand traffic and some patience in traffic, driving is a practical and rewarding way to see Malta.

The table below answers the questions that matter most before you drive in Malta; the numbered tips that follow go into the detail behind each one.

1. License to rent a car in Malta

Renting a car in Malta requires a valid driver’s licence held for at least one to two years, a form of photo ID and a major credit card in the driver’s name. Most rental companies set their own minimum age at 21, though this is company policy rather than a legal requirement; Malta’s own legal minimum age to hold a driving licence is 18, according to Transport Malta. Some companies add restrictions for young drivers under 25, such as a young-driver surcharge, and a maximum age around 70 to 75 for some vehicle classes. When picking up a rental car, show a valid driver’s licence, passport or other accepted photo ID and a major credit card in your name; debit cards and cash are usually not accepted for the deposit. Visitors must take out the mandatory third-party liability insurance that comes bundled with every rental, plus a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) that covers damage to the rental vehicle itself. The CDW does not cover damage to other vehicles or property, so it is worth adding further cover for complete peace of mind.

2. Age and Experience Requirement

The rental industry’s usual minimum age to rent a car in Malta is 21, though this is a company policy figure rather than the country’s legal driving age of 18. Some car rental companies set a higher minimum age, such as 23 or 25, for certain vehicle categories. There is no single, universally enforced maximum age to rent a car in Malta, though drivers over 70 may face additional fees or conditions from individual companies. Most rental companies in Malta require renters to hold a valid licence for at least one year, and some ask for two years of driving experience, usually counted in the driver’s country of residence or licence issuance. Someone who holds a US licence but lives in the UK, for example, would typically need at least one to two years of licensed driving experience recorded against that US licence. Licences issued by an EU or EEA member state are valid to drive in Malta without an International Driving Permit, and UK-issued licences are commonly accepted for tourist driving in the same way; a licence from outside the EU/EEA that is not in English, or from a country not party to the international road traffic conventions, is where an International Driving Permit becomes genuinely necessary alongside the home licence, per Transport Malta’s guidance on international licence recognition.

3. Credit Card Requirements

Most rental companies in Malta require a valid credit card in the main driver’s name, which they use to place a security-deposit hold. Some rental companies accept debit cards or other payment methods instead, so it is worth checking payment policies in advance if you do not have a standard credit card. Smaller local companies can sometimes make exceptions and accept debit cards, cash deposits or voucher payments if arranged ahead of booking, while larger international chains usually require an eligible credit card both online and at pickup. Drivers without a standard card should contact companies about alternatives before booking, and being flexible on the rental company and vehicle type can improve the chances of securing a car without a credit card. Adjusting your company choice and vehicle preference can make credit-free rentals possible for those hoping to explore Malta by car.

4. Guarantee – Credit card hold

The rental company places a hold on the main driver’s credit card as a security deposit against any damage, traffic violations or extra fees incurred during the rental. The amount held varies with the rental company, vehicle type, insurance selections and length of rental.

Car rental deposits in Malta range from €100 to €1,000 ($113 to $1,131, £87 to £872). Economy vehicles may only need €100-300 ($113-339, £87-261) held, while higher-end cars can carry deposits of €500 ($565, £435) or more. Longer rentals often carry higher deposits as well, and renters who waive the rental company’s insurance, and so remain liable for more potential damage, will see higher holds still. Some agencies list standardised deposit policies on their websites or contracts. The funds on hold reduce the available credit or balance on the card but are not charged outright, and the hold is released once the vehicle comes back as originally rented, with no new fees or damage reported; this can take up to ten business days after the rental ends. Renters without the available credit for a deposit hold may not be able to complete their reservation, even with a valid credit card on file.

5. Best period to rent and book

The most cost-effective months to rent a car in Malta are the off-peak winter ones, November to March, when tourism and demand both drop. Prices fall well below the summer high season, and renters can find real savings on the rental itself and on extras like insurance. Winter also brings fewer crowds, so visitors can enjoy attractions and scenic drives without the summer congestion. Renters should aim to book 2-3 months ahead, since Malta’s rental fleet gets reserved quickly, particularly for summer travel, and booking early secures better rates, vehicle choice and company selection. Last-minute rentals often cost noticeably more, and limited availability can mean settling for less ideal terms just to get a car at all. A little flexibility in the itinerary helps during the busiest weeks. Locking in a rental car ahead of time secures the freedom to explore Malta at your own pace once you arrive.

6. Pickup / Return Location and Times

In Malta, picking up and returning the vehicle at the airport is generally cheaper and more convenient than at a town branch. Airport pickup means collecting the rental car right away on arrival, while town locations can involve extra transport or delays, and airport branches typically carry more stock and competition between companies, which tends to produce better rates than a limited downtown branch. Daytime pickups are preferable to nighttime ones, since some companies charge extra for after-hours releases, usually anything after 6 or 7pm; arriving during opening daytime hours avoids that surprise charge. Returning the vehicle before the nightly cutoff prevents late-return penalties that some companies apply. The cheapest deals go to same-location round trips, and a mid-week rental tends to undercut a weekend one, since Malta’s popularity as a tourist destination pushes weekend prices up. Booking ahead also secures the largest available discounts.

7. Recommendations for car size and engine

The right car size and engine for Malta comes down to the island’s compact geography and narrow roads, where congestion is common in populated areas. Small to mid-size models handle busy streets and tight parking spaces far better than anything larger. Sensible economy choices for Malta include the Toyota Yaris, Nissan Micra or Opel Corsa, which combine adequate power with strong fuel efficiency, and their subcompact frames fit down narrow one-way roads and through tight turns with room to spare. For more passenger space, the mid-size Ford Focus, VW Jetta or Toyota Corolla seat four adults comfortably. Larger European models such as Mercedes, BMW or Audi are worth avoiding, since bigger cars struggle through villages and the risk of scrapes rises on narrow lanes. Unless you are planning longer road trips, a small engine between 1200cc and 1600cc offers a practical balance of size and power for Malta’s short point-to-point drives. For easier manoeuvring, a manual or automatic hatchback or sedan gives more control on Malta’s tight roads than a wide SUV or van, which needs more precision to place correctly.

8. Transmission type (Manual or Automatic)

Automatic transmission is the easier and generally recommended choice for renting a car in Malta. Automatics have become the norm in the local rental fleet, so most rental cars will already have one. They suit tourists better than manuals, particularly those who are not used to shifting gears while also adjusting to left-hand traffic and Malta’s narrow roads and heavy local traffic. Automatics also perform better in the stop-and-go traffic common in Malta’s towns, tend to match manuals on fuel economy these days, and often carry more advanced safety features, such as emergency braking, lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control, which help when driving somewhere unfamiliar. Manual transmissions used to be the cheaper option, but automatic rentals in Malta are now competitively priced across most categories. Given the ease of driving, efficiency and safety benefits, an automatic is the sensible pick for most tourists visiting Malta.

9. Fuel choice (Diesel, Gas or electric)

Unleaded petrol is the most common and widely available fuel for rental cars in Malta, ahead of diesel and LPG. Most rental cars run on unleaded petrol, sold at stations across both Malta and Gozo. Diesel is also easy to find, though fewer rental cars and stations carry it than petrol, and diesel rentals are usually limited to larger vehicle classes such as minivans and SUVs; check the fuel type carefully before refuelling a diesel vehicle to avoid a costly mistake. Some rental companies apply a diesel surcharge given its lower availability. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, or Autogas) is a distant third option, offered by only a handful of companies since Autogas pumps remain rare compared with petrol and diesel stations; LPG rental cars are usually bi-fuel and can switch between petrol and LPG, but the limited refuelling network makes them impractical for most tourists. Electric rental vehicles are not yet a realistic option in Malta, since the charging infrastructure needed to support electric tourism rentals has not developed at scale.

10. 4×4 rental in Malta

A 4×4 is unnecessary for most visitors to Malta, since the island’s road network suits standard passenger cars well. Over 90% of Malta’s roads are paved, so most destinations are reachable in a typical sedan or hatchback, which has enough ground clearance and power to handle the island’s hilly terrain without difficulty. Unless you plan to drive on unpaved roads or rough tracks regularly, the extra clearance and all-wheel drive of a 4×4 add little benefit on normal roads, while its rental rate runs higher, its fuel use is worse and its availability is more limited than a standard car. Paved roads connect most tourist sights, including Mdina, Valletta, the main beaches and historic sites, so a cheaper standard rental car covers day-to-day itineraries and airport transfers without any drawback. Unless you are heading onto backroads, a standard sedan or hatchback from any major agency on the island is the more practical and cheaper choice.

11. RV rentals in Malta

RV and camper van rentals remain very limited in Malta, despite the islands’ growing tourism infrastructure. The narrow, winding roads and compact villages that define much of Malta make large recreational vehicles genuinely difficult to navigate, and the major international RV agencies do not operate here at all. A handful of local Maltese companies have started offering small camper van rentals for self-drive holidays, built on a standard van chassis with basic camping amenities such as beds and cooking equipment. A full-size RV rental is realistically only possible by taking the ferry to Sicily, Italy, where RVs can be hired, though this adds extra logistics on top of an already complex trip. Malta compensates with a wide range of hotels, resorts and scenic campgrounds to suit most lodging preferences, so a camper van is one way to partially replicate an RV-style trip, but a genuine RV is not currently a practical option for visitors driving independently around Malta.

12. Car rental Prices in Malta

Rental car pricing in Malta varies with vehicle type, rental length, extras such as GPS units or car seats, and seasonal demand. Compact vehicles like the Toyota Aygo or similar rent by the week for €180-220 ($204-249, £157-192), a no-frills option that suits solo travellers or couples on a budget while still giving them the flexibility of self-guided transport across the islands. Midsize options like the Fiat Panda or Opel Corsa rent daily from €25-40 ($28-45, £22-35) on average, depending on transmission and supplemental insurance, and balance economy with enough space for a small group or family with luggage and the occasional car seat. Higher-end rentals run more than 50% above compact rates. Specialty vehicles, such as SUVs with higher clearance for rougher roads or luxury makes like Mercedes, combine limited supply with steady demand, which pushes daily rates closer to €100+ ($113+, £87+) even in the off-peak season on shorter rentals; these suit a special occasion rather than everyday use. A rental car in Malta is generally cheaper than in other Mediterranean destinations, though taxes can add 18-26% to the final bill.

13. What to think before selecting a car rental company in Malta?

There are five things worth checking before selecting a car rental company in Malta. Firstly, read online reviews for reports of availability problems at pickup despite a confirmed reservation; limited fleets and overbooking occasionally leave visitors stranded on arrival, and agencies with consistent capacity and clear communication channels for changing a booking tend to earn more trust. Secondly, compare rate transparency across companies, since headline quotes usually exclude taxes and charges added at pickup, and vague pricing lets buried fees inflate the final bill; responsible agencies quote all-inclusive rates covering taxes and basic insurance without a surprise markup. A price-comparison site such as DiscoverCars or AutoEurope is a fast way to check several companies’ all-in rates side by side before booking directly. Thirdly, check how rigorously a company inspects the vehicle at pickup and return, since returning a previously damaged car can leave a renter liable for repairs if a fault gets logged as new rather than pre-existing; honest vendors start every rental with a documented condition report. Fourthly, understand how a company handles traffic violations picked up during the rental. Some add fines directly to the final charge, while others give a reasonable window to pay the authorities directly and avoid an added service fee. Lastly, check for rate reductions through travel loyalty programmes or credit card benefits before treating the listed price as the final cost, since these can stack on top of a company’s baseline promotions.

14. Top car rental companies in Malta

There are four car rental companies that come up most often as reliable options in Malta. Firstly, Avis is one of the more established international names on the island, offering a wide selection of vehicles at competitive rates, with customer service and a streamlined rental process cited as its main advantages; as an international brand, it offers a consistent standard of service across its Malta locations. Secondly, SIXT rents a fleet that includes higher-end vehicles such as BMWs and Mercedes, and its all-inclusive pricing and low fuel policies get positive mentions from tourists, who generally describe it as professional and reliable for renting a higher-end car on the island. Thirdly, Europcar is another established international option, with a range of vehicle classes from economy to luxury and consistently positive feedback on staff and vehicle condition. Lastly, the local Maltese company AutoUnion earns strong reviews of its own, typically at lower rates than the big international brands while still offering helpful staff and a solid fleet; its smaller size lets it be more flexible with individual renter requests. Between them, these four cover most of what a visitor needs, whether the priority is price, vehicle class or local service.

15. Save money on automobile rentals in Malta

Visitors can save money on car rentals in Malta in four main ways. Firstly, the most effective way to save is to compare rates across multiple agencies at once; a comparison site such as DiscoverCars pulls quotes from several companies for the same class and dates, which makes it fast to spot the lowest price for your trip. Secondly, consider the length of the rental period, since extended rentals of a week or longer sometimes carry a better daily rate than a short-term booking, so a longer rental can work out cheaper overall once the discounted daily rate is applied. Thirdly, renting in the off-season winter months typically costs close to half the price of a summer rental; Malta stays pleasant year-round, so a February pickup over an August one can stretch a travel budget considerably further, and the gap between low- and high-season rates is substantial. Lastly, a smaller economy car like a Fiat Panda costs noticeably less than a luxury sedan or an eight-passenger van, so sticking to the smallest, most fuel-efficient rental that fits your group keeps costs down.

16. Typical Opening hours of car rental companies in Malta

Most major car rental companies in Malta open from around 8am or 9am until 6pm or 7pm, Monday to Friday. Weekend hours run shorter, with many locations closing earlier on Saturdays, around 1pm or 2pm, and Sunday hours shorter still, usually 10am to 1pm and limited to pickups and returns. Exact timings vary a little by operator, but this Monday-to-Friday full day with reduced weekend hours is the standard pattern across brands such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar and Budget, and smaller local agencies sometimes stay open later on selected weeknights. During the busy summer season from June to September, some locations extend weekday closing to 8pm or 9pm to meet higher demand, and may also run longer weekend hours, with Saturdays sometimes stretching from 8am to 6pm and Sundays from 8am to 2pm; full Sunday hours matching a weekday are still uncommon. Malta International Airport offers 24-hour rental car return access regardless of terminal opening times, with after-hours returns made to a secure key drop box, while brick-and-mortar branches keep to their posted schedules and online reservations stay open around the clock.

17. Car rental scams in Malta

There are four common car rental scams to watch for in Malta. Firstly, some smaller operators at Malta International Airport have been reported charging non-waivable excess insurance fees, sometimes over €2,000 ($2,185, £1,744), and adding hidden costs to prepaid reservations after the fact; read the small print on any prepaid quote before handing over a card. Secondly, unauthorised agents sometimes approach newly arrived travellers outside the arrivals terminal with discounted rental offers, only for the regular price to appear once the booking reaches the legitimate rental counter. Thirdly, a renter who books an intermediate sedan online may be pushed toward a smaller economy car with less luggage space at pickup, unless they pay an immediate “upgrade fee” to get the class they actually booked. Lastly, a company may substitute an older, higher-mileage or already-damaged vehicle for a confirmed booking, then deny responsibility by claiming another renter kept the reserved car longer or that the original class is simply unavailable despite the prior confirmation. Booking with a well-reviewed, established company and reading the contract before signing cuts the risk of running into any of these.

18. Cross-border rentals: the Gozo car ferry

The practical version of “cross-border” driving in Malta is the car ferry between the main island and Gozo, run by Gozo Channel, which most rental companies allow without extra paperwork. As an island nation, Malta has no land border to drive across, so getting a rental car onto another island means a ferry, and the routine version of that is the short Gozo Channel crossing between Ċirkewwa on Malta and Mġarr on Gozo, a trip of about 25 minutes according to the operator’s published schedule. A car and driver pays a standard fare of €8.15 ($9.21, £7.09) by day, rising to €12.80 ($14.46, £11.14) for a night crossing departing Mġarr after 8pm between November and March, per Gozo Channel’s published fares. Ferries run roughly every 45 minutes around the clock, more frequently during the day, so there is rarely a long wait at either terminal. Most Malta rental companies permit their cars on this crossing, though it is still worth confirming in the rental contract before booking, since terms vary by company. A separate, more limited seasonal high-speed ferry links Malta directly to Pozzallo in Sicily, mainly for foot passengers; carrying a rental car on that international crossing needs the company’s advance written approval and is rarely offered, so most rental agreements simply exclude it. Book the crossing and any onward stays through ferriesMalta ahead of a busy weekend if you plan to spend a day on Gozo, since sailings can fill up around midday.

19. Car Rental Insurance

Malta requires two layers of car rental insurance in practice. Every rental includes third-party liability insurance as standard, covering damage or injury caused to other people or property, and a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) that reduces the deductible on damage to the rental vehicle itself, commonly down to around €500 ($565, £435). Economy vehicles may carry a lower excess of €100-300 ($113-339, £87-261), while higher-end cars can run to €500 ($565, £435) or more. Additional cover purchased at the counter typically includes theft protection, which brings the deductible on theft down to zero for around €7-9 ($7.91-10.17, £6.10-7.84) per day, and personal accident insurance (PAI) at around €8 ($9.04, £6.96) per day to cover medical costs after an injury. Some rental companies also offer a “Super CDW” that reduces the deductible as low as zero. Buying a third-party policy from an independent insurer rather than the rental counter can cut this cost by up to 50%, which often makes it the more cost-effective way to cover a rental car in Malta.

20. Roadside assistance

Adding roadside assistance is worth doing when renting a car in Malta, since the island’s narrow, winding roads raise the odds of a breakdown, flat tyre, empty tank, lost key or flat battery compared with wider highways elsewhere. Roadside assistance dispatches help to your exact GPS location, which matters for drivers unfamiliar with the area. It typically costs €5-15 ($5.65-16.97, £4.35-13.08) for the whole rental when booked upfront online, slightly more if added at the counter; for a typical 3-7 day rental, that works out to roughly €2-5 ($2.26-5.65, £1.74-4.35) extra per day for real peace of mind. Without cover arranged in advance, a call-out for a tow truck or locksmith can cost over €100 ($113, £87) on the spot.

21. GPS Sat Nav Navigator

Adding a GPS unit to a rental car is worth doing for driving in Malta, since the narrow, winding streets and confusing junctions in Maltese towns can be hard to follow even with a phone map. An in-dash GPS unit reduces the frustration of navigating unfamiliar streets. Most rental companies in Malta do not include a built-in GPS unit as standard, so it needs renting separately, typically €5-10 ($5.65-11.31, £4.35-8.72) per day from the rental company, and some providers throw it in free for a longer rental. Third-party companies also rent portable GPS units, which can work out cheaper over a longer trip.

22. Additional driver charges

Car rental companies in Malta typically charge €5-15 ($5.65-16.97, £4.35-13.08) per day for an additional driver, with the exact fee varying by company. Usually only one extra driver is allowed, and the fee applies across most vehicle groups except the Compact SUV class, which costs €11.80 ($13.36, £10.30) per day up to a cap of €82.60 ($93.44, £72.03) per rental for a second driver. On top of the normal rate, a standard surcharge of €8 ($9.04, £6.96) per day usually applies to drivers over 70 or between 21 and 22 years old. Mex Rent A Car, an international brand with a Malta Airport branch, lists a similar figure for the same charge, $6.00 USD per day plus taxes for each extra driver added to the rental contract, according to its own Malta terms and conditions. Some companies also cap the extra-driver surcharge for longer rentals; over a few days it may add €15-30 ($16.97-33.93, £13.08-26.16) to the total, but over two weeks an extra driver can add more than €100 ($113, £87).

23. Child Seats. Safety rules with car rental in Malta

Malta’s child seat rules split into two age bands: infants and young children under three, and older children aged three to twelve. For infants and toddlers under three, or under 150cm tall, the law requires an appropriate rear-facing baby seat or convertible seat, which typically costs €23 ($27, £22) to rent. Within that age group, an infant carrier suits babies under one year and under 20 pounds (9kg), before moving to a rear-facing convertible seat that supports babies from 5-40 pounds (2-18kg) and up to 50 pounds (22kg) rear-facing, ahead of turning the seat forward-facing. A forward-facing seat is not recommended for toddlers aged one to three, who should stay rear-facing.

For children aged three to twelve, or between 100-150cm tall, the law requires a forward-facing car seat or booster seat if the child travels in the front, at a typical rental cost of €15 ($18, £14). Options range from combination seats with a five-point harness to high-back boosters using the vehicle’s own seat belt; the goal in every case is a seat belt that sits correctly across the child’s body, with the shoulder strap crossing the chest and the lap strap low over the hips. Rental agencies can help pick the right seat for a child’s height and weight.

24. Take pics of the car during pick-up.

Photographing a rental car at pickup is worth doing every time in Malta, since it documents the vehicle’s condition before you drive off and protects you against being charged for damage you did not cause. Photograph every scratch, dent or mark you can see, including the fuel gauge, so the car’s pre-rental condition is on record. Dated, time-stamped photos give you something concrete to point to if the company disputes a damage claim after the vehicle is returned. Photographing every angle of a Malta rental car, including any existing paint chips or interior wear, before leaving the rental lot is a small step that can save a real argument later.

25. Mandatory equipment in rental cars in Malta

There are four things worth knowing about mandatory equipment for a rental car in Malta. Firstly, no specific safety equipment is legally required to be carried in the vehicle itself, though basic third-party liability insurance is included with every rental as standard, and adding collision damage and theft waivers is worth doing to limit financial risk in the event of an incident. Secondly, child safety seats are a legal requirement: infants and toddlers under three or under 150cm tall need an appropriate rear-facing restraint, while older children need a forward-facing seat or booster until they reach 135cm, at a typical rental cost of €23 ($27, £22). Thirdly, every passenger must wear a seat belt, a rule Transport Malta enforces under the Motor Vehicles (Wearing of Seat Belts) Regulations, with limited exemptions. Beyond the legal minimum, useful extras include a hands-free phone mount at around €15 ($18, £14) and a GPS unit at around €10 ($12, £9) per day, both worth adding given Malta’s narrow roads and frequent junctions. Lastly, an International Driving Permit, where one is actually needed for your home licence, costs around €15 ($18, £14) through most providers and is worth carrying alongside your regular licence if you are stopped by police.

26. Tolls in Malta and rental cars

Malta has no toll roads, bridges or tunnels, so a rental car driver never needs to budget for a toll on the island. Parking meters are the closer equivalent: they cover many main streets in urban areas such as Valletta, typically allowing one to two hours before you need to pay more or move the car, and street parking in prime locations generally costs €1-2 ($1-2, £1-2) per hour based on posted signage. Fines for overstaying a meter or parking illegally start at €25 ($29, £24). Some towns charge a fixed entrance fee for driving in rather than a true toll, such as a €5 ($6, £5) charge to bring a rental car into Valletta. Outside urban areas, parking and road use are generally free, aside from the taxes and insurance already bundled into the rental rate.

27. Traffic fines

Renting a car in Malta comes with the same exposure to traffic fines as anywhere else, and how those fines get handled differs by violation type. A parking ticket often will not carry a contravention number printed on it, but the authorities can still process the fine from the licence plate; the rental company gets notified and typically charges the card on file an administration fee, usually €20-30 ($25-35, £20-30), on top of the fine itself, which ranges roughly €25-100 ($30-120, £25-100) depending on the violation. Without a credit card on file, the rental company invoices the fee and fine directly, and paying promptly avoids further action. Speeding and other moving violations follow the same pattern: the rental company is notified by licence plate and adds its administration fee to the fine, and speeding fines in Malta start at €100 ($120, £100) and climb from there for more serious speeding, with major violations such as reckless driving carrying court costs and possible licence suspension. Drink driving is dealt with separately and more strictly: Malta’s general blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l, with a stricter 0.2 g/l limit for novice drivers who have held a licence for under two years and for professional or commercial drivers, according to the Government of Malta’s road safety guidance and cross-checked against the European Transport Safety Council’s reporting on Malta’s traffic regulations; Malta’s parliament also passed further amendments to the drink- and drug-driving rules in the Traffic Regulation Ordinance in March 2026, so it is worth confirming the current figures with Transport Malta or the Malta Police Force before you travel. The rental company remains on the hook for supplying the driver’s details and settling with the authorities if a fine goes unpaid, and can face legal action for failing to do so, which gives it a strong incentive to pursue reimbursement from the driver. For visitors, unpaid fines can generate invoices or notices from the rental company or Maltese authorities for up to a year after the trip, so it is worth settling anything owed before you leave.

28. Car rental breakdown

There are four steps to follow if a rental car breaks down in Malta. Firstly, pull over safely and turn on the hazard lights to warn other drivers; if the breakdown happens somewhere hazardous, such as a tunnel, get out carefully and stand behind a guardrail while you wait for help. Secondly, call 112 for emergency services if there is any danger or injury, and give an exact location and description of the problem; operators can dispatch police or roadside assistance to secure the area or arrange a tow. Thirdly, contact the rental company directly using the number in the rental agreement; most Malta rental companies run a 24/7 roadside assistance line, so give the exact location, the car’s make, model and licence plate, and a description of the fault, and the company can send a tow truck or mechanic. Stay out of the vehicle if it has stopped somewhere unsafe like a live carriageway, and if you can exit safely, wait somewhere visible to approaching traffic, using a phone light or hazard lights to stay visible after dark.

Lastly, once the car has been towed, get a detailed tow receipt from the rental company or the assistance provider, since this documents any charges and matters for an insurance claim. From there, work with the rental company to arrange a replacement vehicle or, if repairs will take longer than the rental period, end the rental early. Photograph any external damage before the car is towed to have proof on hand when settling the breakdown’s costs.

29. Fuel refill options

Most rental companies in Malta offer a “full-to-full” fuel policy as the default option, where you pick up the car full and return it full, with no price difference for choosing it, though returning with extra unused fuel means overpaying. The alternative “full-to-empty” option means picking up a full tank but returning the car empty, without needing to refuel before drop-off; the fee for this is charged upfront with the booking, and refunds for leftover fuel vary by policy. Some renters who return a car “full” still get charged for a top-up if the fuel gauge does not read exactly 100%, which can feel unfair after prepaying for a full tank. The less common “full-to-empty” option is usually the more cost-effective one, since it matches actual fuel use more closely, though it requires manually refuelling before drop-off and can carry a higher upfront deposit for the value of the initial full tank.

30. Different Drop-off locations (Oneway Rentals)

One-way rentals, where you drop the car off somewhere other than where you picked it up, are possible in Malta but come with real restrictions and fees. The main version is a one-way trip between the main island and Gozo using the Gozo Channel ferry system; a one-way rental off the Maltese islands entirely, to Sicily for example, is generally prohibited. Locations offering one-way pickup and drop-off are more limited than standard round-trip rentals, and the fees for a one-way rental in Malta are noticeably higher than for a normal booking; expect to pay roughly €110 ($120, £100) on top of the standard rate for a one-way trip between Gozo and Malta in either direction, though this figure varies by company and is worth confirming at booking. Smaller one-way fees around €50 ($56.50, £43.50) can apply for select city-to-city rentals within mainland Malta. These options can also sell out faster than a standard round trip, since most providers restrict or price out longer one-way trips.

31. Car rental Accident

There are five steps to follow after a car rental accident in Malta. Firstly, check everyone’s safety and call 112 if there are injuries or ongoing danger, giving an exact location and description of the incident so the right help gets dispatched. Secondly, report the accident to the Malta Police Force so it is documented officially; provide licence and insurance details and a factual account of the damage and any injuries, without speculating on fault if it is unclear, and ask for a copy of the incident report for your own records and for the rental company’s claim process. Thirdly, tell the rental company as soon as the police report is filed, giving full details of the incident, the parties involved, the damage, any injuries or hospital visits, and whether a police investigation is under way; get the case number and ask for the claim forms that match the insurance level you bought, since a lower-deductible policy limits your liability for damage. Fourthly, photograph the scene, including the vehicles, any property damage, injuries and skid marks, before the vehicles are moved, since thorough photo evidence supports both the insurance claim and any dispute over fault. Lastly, get a detailed tow receipt if the car needs recovery, and talk to the rental company about next steps, whether that is a replacement vehicle or an early end to the rental if repairs will run past the booking. Keep copies of every document from the incident, including the police report, claim forms and tow receipt.

32. Double-read the car rental terms and conditions.

There are four reasons double-checking the rental contract in Malta pays off. Firstly, Malta’s rental terms often carry restrictions, fees or processes that can catch out a trip if missed, such as one-way and ferry-use rules, young-driver surcharges or the mandatory CDW cover, and skimming past them can lead to unexpected charges or a denied pickup. Secondly, understanding the accident, damage and liability terms matters for avoiding a large out-of-pocket cost after an incident; basic CDW cover is legally required, but personal liability for the deductible or uninsured losses can still add up without extra cover, and terms often exclude damage to tyres, roof racks or the undercarriage regardless of the insurance bought. Thirdly, check the refuelling policy carefully to avoid a surprise fuel charge at drop-off, since most agencies expect the car back at the same fuel level it left with. Lastly, check the fine print on driver age, licence validity and any blackout dates where special rates or cover might not apply, along with fees for extra drivers, one-way rentals or out-of-hours pickup and drop-off. A phone reservation can gloss over these details, so a printed or emailed copy of the terms removes that risk.

33. Watch YouTube videos of other people driving a car in Malta

Watching Malta driving videos before a rental is worth doing for three reasons. Firstly, ride-along videos show the narrow alleyways of Valletta or tricky roundabouts that a GPS route will not flag in advance, along with the assertive local driving style, close tailgating, frequent horn use and confident manoeuvring, that visiting drivers should watch for rather than copy; seeing it firsthand makes clear why defensive driving matters when adjusting to Malta’s roads. Secondly, videos let you learn correct lane positioning, speed limits and turning habits before encountering them, which builds good habits from the start rather than correcting mistakes after the fact. Lastly, videos show Malta’s more unusual road features, sharp blind corners or narrow single-lane stretches, so you can spot hazards before meeting them in person, and they also show proper parking technique in Malta’s tight spaces, since parking fines often catch foreign drivers unfamiliar with designated bays or permit zones. A short session of videos gives first-time renters in Malta a working sense of local driving habits rather than being caught off guard on day one.

34. Plan Your Trips

Travellers arriving at Malta’s airport can choose between public transport, hotel shuttles or a rental car to reach their accommodation. Arranging an airport transfer for arrival and departure days, without needing the rental car straight away, is one way to remove the hassle; private shuttle services typically run €7-15 ($8-18, £7-15) per person round trip depending on the route, while Malta’s rebranded Tallinja Direct airport bus service, which replaced the old numbered X1-X4 routes in 2025, costs €3 ($3.39, £2.61) per journey according to Malta Public Transport’s published fares, though it carries less luggage space than a shuttle or taxi. Booking accommodation ahead of arrival through BookingMalta makes it easier to line up the transfer with check-in time. Renting a car opens up flexibility for day trips across Malta and Gozo’s spread-out attractions; a three-day itinerary could pair Mdina, Malta’s old capital, and Rabat’s catacombs with a sunset in Sliema, followed by the short Gozo Channel ferry crossing from Ċirkewwa to visit the Ġgantija Temples and the Inland Sea, and a stop at Malta’s Blue Grotto sea caves before touring the Citadel in Victoria. Swim stops at Golden Bay or Mellieħa Bay break up the sightseeing nicely. Carrying a paper map as backup is still worth it, since Malta’s winding older streets can confuse a GPS route, so building in extra time for the maze-like backstreets keeps the day on schedule.

Is it recommended to rent a car in Malta?

Yes, renting a car in Malta is worth doing, especially for visitors who want to explore at their own pace and reach places public transport does not cover well. Malta’s public transport network covers the major towns, but it does not always match a specific schedule or destination, so a rental car offers the freedom to travel without working around a bus timetable. It also opens up quieter areas, such as secluded beaches or rural villages, that would otherwise be harder to reach.

How much does a car rental cost in Malta?

Rental car pricing in Malta varies substantially by vehicle type. Compact vehicles like the Toyota Aygo or similar rent by the week for €180-220 ($204-249, £157-192), a no-frills option for solo travellers or couples on a budget who still want the flexibility of self-guided transport across the islands. Midsize options like the Fiat Panda or Opel Corsa rent daily from €25-40 ($28-45, £22-35) on average, depending on transmission and supplemental insurance, and suit a small group or family needing luggage space and the occasional car seat. Higher-end rentals run more than 50% above compact rates, and specialty vehicles, such as SUVs with higher clearance for rougher roads or luxury makes like Mercedes, push daily rates closer to €100+ ($113+, £87+) even in the off-peak season, better suited to a special occasion than everyday use.

What is the ideal car model to rent in Malta?

There are three car models that come up most often as good choices for Malta. Firstly, the Fiat Panda is the most popular rental car on the island. As a compact, economical car, it offers good value and suits Malta’s narrow roads and tight parking spaces well, and it works for both solo travellers and small groups. Secondly, intermediate models like the Peugeot 308 suit anyone wanting more comfort and space; as a mid-sized sedan, it balances practicality and comfort, with room for passengers and luggage while staying fuel efficient, and its smooth handling suits longer drives through the countryside or along the coast. Lastly, a convertible such as the Peugeot 308 Cabriolet lets renters make the most of Malta’s sunny Mediterranean climate, and it is a popular pick for anyone wanting a bit more of an occasion out of the drive. Each of the three offers a different mix of comfort, convenience and enjoyment of the country’s scenery.

What are the top destinations to visit in Malta with a rental car?

Listed below are the top destinations to visit in Malta with a rental car.

• Mdina. Mdina, Malta’s ancient former capital, is one of the standout destinations to reach by rental car. Known as the “Silent City”, this fortified medieval town takes visitors back in time through its narrow, winding streets and striking architecture. Parking sits outside the city walls, since the interior is largely pedestrianised. Exploring Mdina gives a strong sense of Malta’s history, with St Paul’s Cathedral and panoramic views from the city walls among the highlights.
• Valletta. Valletta, Malta’s current capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ideal destination with a rental car. Although compact, it is dense with history, culture and architecture, and parking is available around the city’s perimeter. Highlights include St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the busy Republic Street.
• Marsaxlokk. Marsaxlokk, a fishing village, makes a rewarding stop with a rental car. Known for its colourful fishing boats and seafood restaurants, the village offers an authentic slice of Maltese life, and its Sunday fish market is a popular draw. Parking is generally available along the waterfront, making it easy to explore on foot from there.
• Gozo. Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is a top destination to explore by rental car, reached via the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa. It offers a more tranquil, rural pace than the main island, with the Ġgantija Temples, Victoria and its Citadel, and Ramla Bay among the key attractions. A rental car on Gozo makes it easy to move between these more scattered sights.
• Mellieħa. Mellieħa, in the north of Malta, is known for its beaches, including Mellieħa Bay, the island’s largest stretch of sand. A rental car makes it easy to combine several beaches and attractions in the area, including Popeye Village and the Red Tower, and Mellieħa’s hilltop setting adds good views and a quieter pace than the busier resort towns.

What are the top things to do in Malta with a car?

Listed below are the top things to do in Malta with a car.

• Coastal drive from St Julian’s to Marsaxlokk. This coastal drive is one of the more rewarding things to do with a car in Malta. Start in St Julian’s, known for its nightlife and dining, then follow the coastline for sea views along the way. Stop in Marsaskala for a walk before continuing to Marsaxlokk, a fishing village known for its Sunday market of fresh seafood and traditional crafts.
• Exploring the ancient city of Mdina. Malta’s ancient capital rewards a drive out and a walk once you arrive. Park outside the fortified city and explore its narrow, winding streets on foot, taking in the quiet, timeless atmosphere, baroque architecture and panoramic views from the city walls, including St Paul’s Cathedral and the Natural History Museum. Nearby Rabat adds the St Paul’s Catacombs and the Domus Romana.
• Beach hopping in the north. A car makes beach hopping across Malta’s northern coast easy. Start at Mellieħa Bay, the island’s largest sandy beach and a good spot for swimming and water sports, then continue to the more secluded Paradise Bay and Armier Bay, each with its own character, from family-friendly amenities to a quieter, more natural setting.
• Day trip to Gozo. A day trip to Gozo, Malta’s sister island, is a natural fit for a rental car. Take the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa and spend the day exploring Gozo’s rural landscape, distinct from the main island’s busier pace, taking in the ancient Ġgantija Temples and the Citadel in Victoria; the former Azure Window arch collapsed into the sea in a 2017 storm and is now a dive site rather than a photo stop, so nearby spots such as the Inland Sea or Wied il-Mielaħ Window make better substitutes on a modern itinerary. Gozo’s smaller size suits a single day well, with scenic drives through villages, rugged coastline and quiet countryside along the way.
• Scenic drive through Siġġiewi and the Dingli Cliffs. A drive through Siġġiewi and along the Dingli Cliffs delivers some of Malta’s finest coastal views. Siġġiewi, a village, gives a glimpse of traditional Maltese life, and the road continues to the Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta, with sea views that are especially good at sunset. The route suits anyone after a mix of culture and scenery in one drive.

What local Maltese food and drinks can you try during a road trip in Malta?

Visitors can try four local Maltese foods and drinks during a road trip around Malta. Firstly, pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas, is easy to pick up fresh from bakeries along the way; Qormi is particularly known for it, with dozens of bakeries producing these snacks, and stopping for a fresh, warm pastizz makes a good road trip break. Secondly, rabbit stew (fenkata) is a classic Maltese dish worth trying, especially if a road trip passes through the village of Mġarr, known for its frequent rabbit feasts; the stew combines red wine, tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil and bay leaves into a rustic, warming meal distinct to Malta, and asking a local for their family recipe is a good way to get the full story behind the dish. Lastly, Maltese wine from vineyards such as Delicata and Marsovin, made from Mediterranean grape varieties like Grenache, pairs well with local food along the way, and for a non-alcoholic option, Kinnie, a bittersweet orange soda, or almond milk are worth trying too.

What are the most interesting facts about Malta?

Listed below are some of the most interesting facts about Malta.

• Malta has two official languages. Maltese, a language with Semitic roots, is the national language, while English holds co-official status from Malta’s period as a British colony. Growing up bilingual has shaped Maltese culture, and most citizens speak both languages fluently from an early age.
• Valletta was one of Europe’s first planned capital cities. Valletta was designed in 1565 on a grid system by the architect Francesco Laparelli, built to improve the city’s fortifications, and its orderly layout allowed for efficient movement while incorporating advanced public health features such as fresh water and sewage systems for the time.
• Malta endured heavy bombing in the Second World War. The Axis powers bombed Malta in an attempt to neutralise its military value and cut off its ports, since Malta’s location made it a key launching point for Allied naval operations and supply lines across North Africa and southern Europe. The campaign was relentless, with thousands of air raids over roughly two years, and towns and infrastructure across the islands took constant damage.
• There are more than 300 churches in Malta. Over 300 churches sit across Malta’s small archipelago, woven into both the urban and rural landscape. Their number and scale reflect the central place Catholicism has held in Maltese culture and identity for centuries.
• Malta permits a limited spring hunting season. Malta allows it under a contested exception to the EU Birds Directive, covering limited takes of turtle dove and quail based on Malta’s specific circumstances. Each spring, hunters head into the countryside, a practice that continues to draw criticism over its effect on already declining bird populations.

WonderfulWanderings Pro Tips

The 5 tips below come from checking Malta’s rental rules against Transport Malta, Gozo Channel and the companies’ own terms, and they cover the things that go wrong at the counter rather than on the road.

1. Take a credit card in the main driver’s name, and expect the hold to sit there. Deposits run from €100 to €1,000 depending on the car and the cover, debit cards and cash are usually refused by the international chains, and the hold can take up to ten working days to clear after you hand the car back. Smaller local companies sometimes make an exception, but only if you arrange it before booking.
2. Read 21 as company policy and 18 as the law. Transport Malta sets the legal minimum age for a car licence at 18, while most rental companies will not hand over keys under 21 and add a young-driver surcharge under 25. Some classes also carry an upper limit around 70 to 75, which is worth asking about rather than discovering at the desk.
3. Check the contract allows the Gozo crossing before you drive to Ċirkewwa. Most Malta rental companies permit it and the terms still vary by company, so confirm rather than assume. A car and driver pays €8.15 by day, rising to €12.80 on a night crossing leaving Mġarr after 8pm between November and March, and the sailing takes about 25 minutes.
4. Look at the currency on every add-on fee, not just the number. One international company operating at the airport prices its additional-driver fee at $6.00 a day plus taxes rather than €6.00, which is the sort of detail that turns a quoted total into a different one. Daily add-ons multiply across a week’s rental.
5. Ask for the Tallinja Direct if you are not collecting the car straight away. Malta’s airport express buses were renumbered in 2025 and the old X1 to X4 routes no longer exist; the replacement service costs €3 a journey, against €7 to €15 per person for a private shuttle transfer.

About the author. This guide is written and maintained by the Wonderful Wanderings editorial team. Wonderful Wanderings was founded in 2012 by Sofie Couwenbergh, and the team has been covering Malta’s practical travel details, car rental, driving rules and getting between the islands, for independent travellers ever since. This page is checked against Transport Malta, the Gozo Channel ferry operator and current rental company terms whenever prices, rules or dates change.