General

Travel

Sightseeing

Entertainment

Printable Guide
 
City Guide > Europe > Malta > Valletta


Getting Around

Public Transport
The only public transport on Malta are buses run by the ATP (Malta’s Public Transport Association). The island is famous for its much photographed antiquated fleet (many dating back to the 1950s) but it includes many modern vehicles too. A map and timetable of all routes is available from the ATP kiosk at the main terminus outside City Gate Valletta. A list of all routes and timings by summer/winter and mornings/afternoon (though not a full timetable) is available online at www.atp.com.mt (or tel: 21 250 007).

Regular services connect all parts of the island, though the majority use Valletta as the island hub. There are a few ‘direct route buses’ linking the resorts with attractions and areas of tourist interest without having to route via the capital. Fares are cheap so have small change to hand. One-, three-, five- and seven-day Saver Tickets can be purchased at the termini at Valletta, Buggiba and Sliema Ferries, or from any branch of the BOV bank. The only late buses are those which operate out of the nightlife enclave of St Julian’s/Paceville.

Within the walls of Valletta roads and streets are steep and narrow and there is very little parking space. There is no bus service and although visitors may drive into the city, it is not recommended. Taxis (see below) and horse-drawn karrozin (carriages) (the latter run solely for tourists and are expensive, so always haggle on the price) are the only form of transport.

Taxis
By comparison to other transport costs, taxis (always white) are relatively expensive (roughly on a par with western European fares). They rarely work on the meter so it is vital that you agree a fare before you set off. Wembley’s Taxis (tel: 21 374 141) is a reputable company.

Car Hire
Car hire on Malta is among the cheapest in Europe but beware that the standard of driving is poor, parking is often very difficult and the traffic is frequently congested.

Recommended car rental agencies include: Avis (tel: 21 225 986; website: www.avis.com) and Europcar (tel: 21388516; website: www.europcar.com), with whom Air Malta passengers are offered special discounts.

Bicycle Hire
Bicycle hire is not recommended due to the poor road and driving conditions and very heavy traffic.



   
Copyright © 2005 Columbus Travel Publishing Ltd