The buses of Malta are run by Malta Public Transport, and they carry most of the island’s visitors who do not drive. The network is large, it reaches the towns, the main beaches and the sights, and it costs far less than a taxi. It also has habits that take a day to learn. Once they are clear, the buses become the simplest way to move around.
A network built on hubs
The pattern is simple. In Malta, most routes begin or end at the Valletta terminus beside the city gate. A route from Mdina to Sliema will rarely run directly; it may go through Valletta or at least join another route there. In Gozo, the bus station in Victoria plays the same role, and ferry-linked routes meet the boats at the harbour. Knowing that the network is a star, not a grid, explains most odd journeys. A trip between two nearby towns can be quick, while a trip between two distant ones might take two buses and a change in the capital.
The terminus at Valletta is a large open area outside the gate. Stops are labelled by route and destination, and each platform has its own signs. The same is true at the main stops in Sliema, St Julian’s and Bugibba, though these are on streets and not in a terminal.
Routes, numbers and timetables
Route numbers exist, but they change over the years as the operator reorganises services, so a number from an old blog is not reliable. The way to find current routes is the Malta Public Transport website and its app, and a journey planner in a map app will usually show the same information. At the stop, a sign lists the routes that use it. Look at the destination on the front of the bus, not only the number.
Timetables are printed and the service follows them, with limits. Roadworks, summer traffic and school hours slow the buses, and a bus on a busy route can be late or, at quiet times, early. The key lesson is not to build a tight plan on a single bus. If you must reach the airport, a timed museum slot or the Ċirkewwa terminal for a ferry, leave a margin or take a taxi.
Tickets and cards
The system accepts payment on board, and there are also rechargeable cards, including options aimed at visitors who stay for several days. The details, including prices, validity periods and where to buy a card, change regularly, so confirm them on the operator’s website before you buy. In general terms, a card is the more convenient choice for a week of frequent use, while a single ticket on board suits a one-off ride. Carry some small change as a backup.
A short tip: keep your ticket or card handy until you leave the bus. Inspectors check from time to time, and the driver may ask you to show it.
Crowds and comfort
In high season the buses to popular places fill. The routes to the beaches on summer weekends, and to Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay, can leave people standing, and a full bus may pass a stop without halting. Going early in the morning helps, and so does choosing the starting stop of a route over one in the middle. Many buses are air-conditioned, but carry water, because a bus that waits in traffic gets hot.
On Sundays and public holidays the timetable is lighter, and a few routes change. Plan return journeys in the late afternoon and early evening with that in mind.
Night services
Some routes run at night, mainly in summer, and focus on the entertainment area of St Julian’s and Paceville and a few other resorts. They are less frequent than the daytime service. The last regular bus can leave surprisingly early, so for a late dinner in a small town, check the final departure or book a taxi for the way back.
Reaching beaches and sights
Most major attractions have a stop nearby. Mdina and Rabat are well served, as is the north around Mellieħa, and the southern harbour at Marsaxlokk Bay. Remote bays such as Gnejna Bay and Fomm ir-Riħ are harder, since the stop may be a walk away or absent. Look at the map before choosing, and for a hard-to-reach place consider a taxi or a hire car; see the car hire guide.
Tips for first-timers
- Check the live route information on the day, not last week.
- Stand at the stop with a visible hand signal, because drivers may not stop unless they see you signal.
- Note the name of the stop you want and watch the screen or a map to see where you are.
- Press the bell in good time, because the stops are close together.
- Keep valuables in front of you on crowded buses.
For short hops across the harbours, a boat is faster than the bus; the Valletta to Sliema ferry guide covers that. For Gozo, the Gozo ferry guide explains how the bus network on the other side connects with the boats. The overview of all modes is on the getting around Malta page.
