How to Rent a Car in Malta

Picture this: You're driving along Malta's scenic shoreline, the blue Mediterranean Sea stretching out beside you, while the rugged landscapes of Gozo beckon in the distance. You may experience the freedom of the open road as you discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path wonders at your own pace. Not only is renting a car in Malta convenient, it's essential to seeing these breathtaking islands to the fullest. With your own wheels, you can escape the crowds, stay in more affordable hotels away from urban hubs, and truly make the most of your budget. Come along with us as we show you everything you need to know to kickstart your ultimate driving adventure in Malta!

Book Early and Choose Wisely

Are you planning a trip to Malta? It's crucial to book your rental car well in advance. With a variety of reputable providers like Sunny Cars, Europcar, and Car Rental Malta available, comparing prices and securing the best deal is straightforward. Early reservations not only ensure that your preferred vehicle is available but also tend to offer the most favorable rates.

In Malta, the narrower roads and compact parking spaces make smaller vehicles a wise choice for ease of navigation and hassle-free parking. Before you set out, take a moment to consider the size of your party and your luggage requirements to select the ideal car for your needs. Also, make sure to thoroughly review your rental agreement before signing. A clear understanding of the terms ensures a seamless experience and provides peace of mind throughout your travels.

Tip!

Bringing your phone holder ensures a safe journey navigating the island’s winding roads. Rental car companies usually don’t provide one, so having one can help you navigate safely without risking accidents. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions to ensure a smooth, accident-free trip.

Essential Documents and Age Requirement

Remember to have the following essential documents with you when you prepare for your Maltese road adventure:

• Your driver’s license, that's been in your possession for at least a year.
• Your ID or passport, so you can easily pass through any security checks and inquiries.
• Credit Card in your name, to secure your rental and cover any unforeseen costs. Keep in mind that almost every car company will hold a holding deposit on their credit card as collateral against any accidents, typically ranging from 500 to 1000 euros depending on the car type.
• International Driving Permit (IDP), which is required if you are not an EU citizen.
• Also, if you made your booking online, don’t forget to obtain a copy of your reservation and any documentation proving the deposit payment.

While it is allowed in Malta to drive at 18, most car rental companies have a 21-year-old minimum age requirement. But if you're under 25, brace yourself for some extra charges—many rental companies bump up the cost for younger drivers.

Costs and Timing

When you visit, how long you stay, and how far in advance you book all affect the price. In summer, expect higher rates due to increased demand. Renting for several days is typically less expensive than renting for one day, and insurance often requires a minimum duration of three days. Speaking of prices, expect to shell out around 30 euros a day in winter and as much as 70 euros a day in summer for a normal city car, and keep in mind that this varies depending on the car.

Driving Tips and Speed Limits

Firstly, always stay to the left! - Driving in Malta requires staying on the left side of the road, just like in the UK, Ireland, and Australia, even when driving on multi-lane roads. The slow lane is on the left, while the overtaking lane is on the far right-hand side lane. And pay attention to the state of the roads; while major routes are usually smooth sailing, some smaller roads can be a bit bumpy. 

Regarding the speed limits, don't expect to be able to drive as fast as you would on a European highway. Malta's roads are slower, with speed restrictions of approximately 50 km/h in cities and approximately 80 km/h on open roads, with even lower limits of 35 km/h in village centers. And keep an eye out for police patrols, hidden speed guns, and speed cameras; they're always on the lookout to ensure that road enforcement laws are strictly upheld.

Speaking of traffic, get ready for some jams. Malta has no real highways, so getting about requires plunging headfirst into the thick of things. Malta is full of bottleneck roads, so it's best to steer clear of the 7-9 am and 4-7 pm traffic, especially in touristy areas. Avoiding heavily trafficked routes and being alert is advised, as locals may not always obey traffic signals or yield as expected.

Refuelling in Malta

It's easy to refuel in Malta thanks to the numerous petrol stations scattered around the islands. Even at the assisted pumps, paying with cash or a card is typically simple, regardless of your preference for self-service or having an attendant assist you. Also, it's easy to locate the closest station when you're on the go thanks to Google Maps.

Now, petrol/unleaded is typically the right bet when it comes to fuel for your rental car, but it never hurts to double-check. Keep an eye out for stickers within the car that state the preferred fuel type; these are typically found on the dashboard, fuel door, or key. On top of that, if you can, choose a diesel car rather than a petrol-powered one to save a few euros.

Fuel up for adventure with the right fuel policy! Opt for either full-to-full or half-to-half, ensuring you return the car with the same petrol level as when you picked it up. And here's a pro tip: for small petrol cars, keeping the tank filled from half onwards is a smart move, as it is believed it consumes less fuel. But beware: failing to refill the tank to its initial level could leave you footing the bill for any remaining fuel, with no refund in sight. Keep in mind that you can drive in Malta for about four days on a full tank, so make your plans accordingly.

Parking Tips

Parking in Malta and Gozo is like trying to uncover hidden treasure; it can be difficult at times, but when you do, the rewards are great. Popular locations like Sliema and St. Julians during the busy summer months might resemble a confusing maze of parking spots, with limited spaces available. Once you've secured a spot, look out for those colourful markings. Yellow indicates to stay away, but white boxes or no sign on the road suggest anyone can park here. Residents have exclusive use of green spots in some touristy areas and blue spots, which are mostly in Valletta. What's your best option? When choosing your accommodation, choose a place with private parking or ask about public options.

Keep your eyes peeled for timed zones! Make sure your car is equipped with a clock for these areas, usually found attached to the windscreen next to the licence sticker. You can spot a timed zone by looking out for poles adorned with signs indicating restricted parking times, typically located at street corners.

In bustling Malta, construction is a common sight. Keep in mind that permits from local councils for specific works may temporarily limit parking in certain spots. These permits are typically displayed on A4 paper, neatly taped to the facade overlooking the pavement of the affected area, with clear dates indicating when parking is restricted.

CVA in Valletta

Good news for drivers: Malta and Gozo are toll-free! On the other hand, if you plan to enter Valletta, be ready to pay an entrance fee called Controlled Vehicular Access (CVA). In Valletta, toll charges depend on how long you stay within the toll area. It'll cost you €0.82 per hour, but here's the kicker: the first 30 minutes are on the house! Also, you won't be charged if you come after 2 PM, however, this tax is in effect from 8 AM to 6 PM.

If you want to avoid paying extra costs from your rental company, consider parking outside the city or visiting after 2 PM to save money. Always check the rules for entry and payment procedures with your rental company for a hassle-free vacation. Happy driving!

Sources

Bordeniuc, E. (2024, February 19). 12 things to know before you hire a car in Malta in 2024. Holidays in Malta. https://holidaysinmalta.net/malta-car-rental/

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save. (n.d.). Rentalcars.com. https://www.rentalcars.com/en/

Elaine. (2024, May 27). 15 tips for renting a car in Malta in 2024. The Whole World Is a Playground. https://www.thewholeworldisaplayground.com/renting-a-car-in-malta/

Salt in our Hair. (2023, November 18). Renting a Car in Malta in 2024: All you need to know. Salt in Our Hair Travel Blog. https://www.saltinourhair.com/malta/rent-car-malta/

Tolls in Malta: Information on regulations and charges. (2024, March 4). Vintrica. https://www.vintrica.com/en/e-vignette/malta/#:~:text=Prices,minutes%20are%20free%20of%20charge