08 May A few useful tips on driving in Malta
Driving in Malta is on the left-hand side of the road and the driving directions are in Maltese. You do not need an international driving license, as the one issued by your own European country will suffice.
Renting a car in Malta is very easy. Throughout the archipelago there are about 30 companies that offer rental services, and the complete list is available at this address.
You can rent a car directly on arrival at the Malta International Airport, where you will find the desks of the main international companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, First Car Rental and Hertz, in addition to local operators. Kindly avoid Gold Car Rental. Generally, the airport is also the rental car’s drop off point, although some companies have drop off points in the main localities of Malta as well. The daily rates range from a minimum of 16€ to a maximum of 28€, depending on the type of car, but also on the season. During High Season prices are higher. Prices can be negotiated IF hired on a long term ba-sis. Though it is advisable to check the costs directly on the operators’ websites and have them con-firmed by email, since the information on websites is not always updated. Several companies also offer scooter rental service and some operators chauffeured rental services. Cars should be booked much in advance if planning to visit Malta during High Season, since it can be challenging to find the right car or a car at all.
In Malta there is “no standing” in the areas delimitated by yellow stripes. In some places there are surveillance cameras for access control to restricted areas. You have to pay close attention, because the fines will be delivered to you within a few hours directly at the hotel where you are staying. “Traffic Wardens” employed by the government are on regular duty issuing tickets. In general, traffic in Malta is very challenging, since laws on the streets do not seem to apply to local drivers. Kindly watch traffic lights and zebra crossings carefully, since drivers most of the time do not stop. Traffic is also very hectic during rush hour and during the hot summer months. It is important to stay calm while on the roads…..!
If you visit the capital Valletta, it is advisable to leave the car in the paid parking structure at the Floriana border, there is always availability and the rates are contained.