Practical • 8–11 min
How to Get to Valletta from Malta Airport
A practical guide to getting from Malta International Airport to Valletta: bus and taxi basics, what to plan for arrival, and how to avoid common first-hour mistakes.
Photo by Olga Angelucci on Unsplash.
Highlights
- ✦Plan your arrival with buffer time (especially evenings)
- ✦Bus and taxi are the most common options
- ✦Avoid overplanning your first hour—get settled first
- ✦If staying in Valletta, plan how you’ll handle hills and luggage
At a glance
- Best for
- First arrival and stress-free logistics
- Common options
- Bus or taxi
- Key tip
- Plan for luggage and hills
- Do first
- Check in, then do a short orientation walk
The arrival principle: don’t overbook your first hour
Your first hour in Malta sets the tone. The best move is keeping arrival simple: get to your accommodation, drop bags, hydrate, and do a short orientation walk before committing to a full itinerary.
Valletta is compact but can involve slopes and steps—luggage logistics matter.
Bus: the practical option
Buses can be a cost-effective way to reach Valletta. Use official airport and public transport information for current services and routes.
If you arrive late or have heavy luggage, consider a taxi to keep the first hour calm.
- Check current routes and schedules before you fly
- Plan a small buffer for waiting and traffic
- If you’re tired: taxi can be worth it
Taxi: the easy option
Taxis reduce complexity and are often the simplest choice after a flight—especially for families, late arrivals, or anyone staying deep inside Valletta’s walled grid.
Confirm your drop-off location and any access notes for your accommodation.
- Best for: late arrivals and heavy luggage
- Confirm: exact address and access instructions
Your first Valletta walk (15–30 minutes)
After check-in, do a short walk to get oriented: City Gate, a few blocks of the spine streets, then a quick viewpoint glance if you have daylight.
- City Gate for orientation
- Republic Street for the main spine
- If time: a quick harbour view, then dinner
FAQ
Should I go straight to sightseeing after landing?
Usually no. Check in, get settled, and do a short orientation walk. Valletta is best when you’re not rushing or hauling luggage on hills.