Maltese Learning Community and Resources

Whether you're a high school student exploring the islands during a study abroad program or a university student seeking to uncover Malta's secrets, mastering the art of bus travel is essential for navigating our country! For high school and university students alike, mastering the art of bus travel opens up a world of possibilities to explore, learn, and immerse themselves in Malta and Gozo. 

The bus network is extensive and efficient but is very often caught in Malta’s notorious traffic. Exploring Malta and Gozo by bus is not only cost-effective (veeeery cost-effective, you’ll see why) but also an excellent way to soak in the local culture. In this guide, we'll take you through the ins and outs of getting around by bus in Malta. 

Source: Malta Public Transport

Understanding the Bus System 

Malta's public bus system is managed by Malta Public Transport and offers an extensive network covering both Malta and Gozo. The fleet of modern buses is equipped with air conditioning. The buses are color-coded on the map according to the route, making it easy to identify the direction you want to go. In the past we had some extremely picturesque buses, some of them from the 1940s and 1950s still operational on the network (it no longer is the case). While they were incredibly charming and bursting with character, they weren’t particularly efficient or quiet (not to mention 40 degrees Celsius without air-conditioning can be somewhat unpleasant), but they were an icon of the island.  

Routes and Schedules 

Before embarking on your Maltese adventure, familiarize yourself with the various bus routes and their schedules. Malta Public Transport provides detailed route maps and timetables on their website, and these are also available at major bus stops and terminals. Pay attention to the route numbers, destinations, and departure times to plan your journey effectively. We also suggest you download their app, Tallinja (it’s what Maltese people call the route buses, literally “of the line”). 

Bus Passes and Tickets

Here’s the good news - buses in Malta are totally free! Since October 2022, Malta has become the second country in the world to make all national transport free (Luxembourg beat us to first place!). But to avail yourself of this you’ll need to buy a Tallinja Card for 15 euros. You can get this from the Valletta bus terminus and a few other places, such as the airport.  

If this is not convenient, for example, you don’t plan on using the buses too frequently, perhaps you live within walking distance of your educational institution or you’re only there for a couple of days at a stretch, you can pay for a single journey for 2 euros. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver but be sure to have the exact change as drivers may not always have the ability to provide change. 

Navigating the Islands

Valletta: The Hub of Transportation 

Valletta serves as the central hub for bus transportation in Malta. You’ll find that most buses start or end there. The main bus terminus connects various routes from different parts of the island. As the capital city, Valletta is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit destination itself. If you don’t want to get to go all the way to the terminal, “Bombi” (named after the nearby Porte des Bombes, built by the French) is a very good bus stop to change buses to most parts of the island.  

Gozo: The Tranquil Escape  

If you're planning to explore Gozo, Malta's sister island, a ferry service operates between Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. There’s also the fast ferry from Valletta. Take the lift from Upper Barrakka Gardens and you’ll be next to the departure point (bonus: there are also ferries to Sliema and The Three Cities in the Cottonera area). Once in Gozo, the bus network is well-connected, allowing you to explore its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages. There’s less traffic in Gozo, as you would expect.  

Sliema and St. Julian's: The Coastal Hotspots 

Sliema and St. Julian's are popular coastal destinations, offering a mix of nightlife, shopping, and dining experiences. Several bus routes connect these areas to other parts of the island, making it easy for students to explore beyond their immediate surroundings. Also note that nearby Msida is an island place to switch buses because of the huge number of bus lines available.  

University and other campuses: Connecting Academia 

If you're a university student, chances are you'll spend considerable time on or near campus. Most university campuses, including the University of Malta and the Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST), are well-served by bus routes, providing convenient transportation options for students. The Msida bus stop “Kulleġġ”, is one of the most frequented and busy ones on the island. MCAST is in the south of the island, in the town of Poala.  

Tips for a Smooth Journey

1. Plan Ahead: Check bus schedules and routes in advance to avoid unnecessary delays. Planning your journey will ensure you make the most of your time exploring the islands. Use the Tallinja app to get the real-time position of buses. 

2. Be Punctual: Because of the constant traffic, Maltese buses aren’t known for their punctuality but arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early to ensure you don't miss your ride, especially during peak hours.  

3. Respect Queues: During busy periods, queues may form at popular bus stops. Be patient, wait your turn, and board the bus in an orderly fashion. One thing we got from the British is our love of queueing… until the going gets tough and then we all try to politely elbow and push our way into the bus.