Car Hire in Malta

Malta is an island nation distinguished by its compact size and colorful landscapes. It attracts tourists year-round, but especially during the shoulder season. Car rental in Malta provides the opportunity to explore unique locations and popular attractions within minimal time. Group tours, fixed schedules, and limited time for sightseeing don't suit everyone. Car rental offers freedom of movement, independence from timetables, and the possibility to save money. Below we present tips on where and how to book a car in Malta, as well as detailed rental rules and conditions.

Benefits of Car Rental with Localrent

1. The service offers an accessible interface that even novice tourists can navigate
2. Small advance payment when booking a vehicle
3. Clear filters help you choose a model that meets your requirements (manual or automatic transmission, body type, insurance coverage, etc.)
4. Support will be available throughout your rental period and will assist with any questions or problems
5. Transparent pricing policy — the amount will be visible at the time of booking and will not change later

What You Need for Rental Processing

• Valid driver's license. Copies and electronic versions of licenses cannot be used for rental
• Passport
• Rental voucher. This is sent to your email after placing the order

The driver's age and experience required for rental processing are specified in each specific car's profile. To find a vehicle that meets your requirements, we recommend using the filters on the website.

Road Traffic Regulations in Malta

Malta has left-hand traffic, and most cars have right-hand drive. When entering a two-lane road, keep to the left, as overtaking is done on the right.

On roundabouts, you must drive to the left. The "right of way" rule in Malta works as standard. Drivers moving on the roundabout must yield to those entering.

When choosing a model with manual transmission, be prepared that the gear lever is located on the left, similar to the turn signals.

You don't need to pay for driving on Malta's roads, though road quality depends on the route and island. You'll encounter tunnels with special signs requiring you to turn on headlights before entering them.

Speed limit violators are tracked by radars with video recording. It's important not to exceed 80 km/h on country roads and 50 km/h within city limits. Traffic police are rarely encountered.

Parking

Malta has many street parking spaces, but during peak season they may be insufficient, especially near beaches and attractions. Sometimes it's easier to leave the car on the outskirts and walk.

Parking zone marking colors:

• White markings — free parking for everyone, you can leave your car
• Blue — in some cities, these parking spaces are available for tourists during daytime, evenings and nights are for residents only. Detailed information will be indicated on nearby signs. You'll need a parking card (sold at tobacco shops and tourist centers) to use them
• Yellow — parking prohibited, even for short periods
• Green/Red markings — only for residents, government vehicles, or special transport

At free parking areas, you may encounter local "helpers" who show you where to park. This is unofficial, but it's customary to leave them a couple of coins (usually €0.50–1) — they'll keep an eye on your car.

If you want to leave your car in the city center, you can use covered parking garages. They almost always have available spaces.

Gas Stations in Malta

Gas stations come in two types: small private ones and well-known chains. Prices at different stations don't vary significantly. Gas stations accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. During the day, special attendants help drivers. The process is quick, easy, and without complications.

How to Rent a Car in Malta

1. Find the necessary locations in the list for pickup and drop-off. Specify rental dates. You can also use filters
2. Once you've decided on a car model, click on the image. Study the technical specifications and add other services to your order if necessary
3. Specify the exact time and place for pickup and return. Fill in driver details. Check the cost
4. When booking on the website, you need to make a small advance payment: approximately 15–20% of the total amount. You'll pay the rest when you actually receive the car in Malta
5. After payment, you'll receive a voucher at your email address with detailed service information and rental company contacts
6. The car is booked. All that remains is to pick it up on location and you can start your journey
   

Must-See Places in Malta

1. Visit ancient Valletta: cathedrals, museums, viewpoints. Start with St. John's Cathedral, where you can see Caravaggio's works and golden decorations. St. George's Square will lead you to the Presidential Palace and Armory, where knight's armor is displayed. Casa Rocca Piccola Museum will immerse you in aristocratic life. Upper Barrakka Gardens will provide unforgettable impressions with panoramic views.
2. Mdina Fortress, the historical capital of the state, is located atop a large hill. Walking through this area will transport you to medieval times. Scenes from "Game of Thrones" featuring the gates of Westeros were filmed right here.
3. Popeye Village, once built for filming a musical, attracts thousands of tourists monthly. Fairy-tale landscapes, "gingerbread" houses, azure shores — guarantee bright photographs.
4. In the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, you'll find the famous painted "Luzzu" boats (boats that protect from fog and evil spirits), taste the freshest seafood, and buy souvenirs. The market operates on Sundays.
5. Blue Grotto attracts tourists with incredible cliffs stretching along the coast and crystal-clear water. You can also rent a boat and sail the Mediterranean Sea. Near the attraction are the ancient ruined temples: Hagar Qim and Mnajdra.

Where Car Rental is Available in Malta

The exact pickup location is chosen by clients during booking from available options for that vehicle. Each rental company provides its own list of possible pickup points. This could be Malta International Airport, a hotel, city center, or company office.

Car Rental Tips

Both experienced drivers and beginners need to consider all possible nuances before starting car rental in other countries. Besides traffic rules, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the information below.

Transmission Type — This is Important

Choose the transmission type carefully. In the case of manual transmission, the gear lever and turn signals are located on the left, which may cause adaptation difficulties.

Carefully Study Contract Details

Don't take a rental car on the ferry. If you decide to sail to Gozo Island, study the rental conditions. Most likely, this is prohibited.

Possibility of Rental Without Credit Card

The website has many options that can be booked without using credit cards. To find such vehicles, you need to set the appropriate filter and study the available offers.

Vehicle Selection Recommendations:

• Due to Malta's mountainous landscape, it's convenient to use SUVs and high-powered vehicles
• Small cars allow more comfortable parking in ancient cities
• If you're traveling in summer, choose light-colored car bodies: they heat up less in the sun
  

Frequently Asked Questions