Car rental at Malta Airport (MLA)

Tucked away in the town of Luqa, Malta International Airport is the island’s only air travel hub—and it handles that role with surprising ease. It’s a compact but well-organized single-terminal airport, managing arrivals and departures without the chaos you might expect elsewhere. Inside, travelers can browse through shops, grab a bite, or unwind in the VIP lounge if they’re looking for a quieter spot.

Just 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Valletta, the capital, it’s a quick 15 to 20-minute drive—assuming traffic plays nice. Over 6.5 million passengers pass through its doors annually, a clear sign of how central this airport is to Malta’s tourism and economy. It’s not huge, but it punches above its weight—small to medium in size, big on impact. You can find more information on the airport’s official website: Malta International Airport

Renting a car at Malta Airport is refreshingly hassle-free. Most desks are right there in the terminal, tucked into the Welcomers’ Hall just past baggage claim. You’ll be sorting out the paperwork and picking up your keys in no time. A few companies operate from Park East Car Rental Centre, but don’t worry—it’s just a short walk. Step outside, hang a right, and follow the ‘Rental cars’ signs for about 300 meters. If you’ve booked with a provider that offers meet-and-greet, even better—someone will be waiting to escort you straight to your car. It’s smooth, convenient, and gets you on the road fast.

Book early to lock in better rates. Once your flights to Malta are booked, don’t drag your feet on the rental. Prices climb fast, especially during summer. Booking early not only saves money, it gives you more choice and peace of mind.

Inspect the car before driving off. Don’t rush—give the car a good look before you leave. Check for scratches, dents, or anything that stands out. Snap photos as backup. It’s a small effort that could save you from footing the bill for someone else’s damage.

Know Malta’s local driving rules. Malta drives on the left, and the roads can be narrow with sharp turns. Get familiar with the basics before you hit the road so you’re not caught off guard behind the wheel.

Double-check the rental agreement. Take a moment to read through the fine print. Pay attention to mileage caps, return times, and fuel rules. It’s not the most exciting part, but understanding the terms can help you avoid nasty surprises later.

Watch out for hidden fees. That cheap daily rate can balloon fast with extras like young driver charges or airport pick-up fees. Always check what’s included—and what’s not—so you’re not blindsided when the final bill shows up.

Valletta. Malta’s capital is a stunner—UNESCO-listed and brimming with character. Wander through baroque streets, step into St. John’s Co-Cathedral to see Caravaggio’s genius, or soak up harbor views with a coffee in hand.

Mdina. Once Malta’s capital, Mdina is pure magic. Its silent, car-free streets twist through golden stone buildings, echoing centuries of history. Perched high on a hill, the city treats you to sweeping views of the island below.

Blue Lagoon on Comino. If there’s one place that screams “paradise” in Malta, it’s the Blue Lagoon. Think glass-clear turquoise water, white sand underfoot, and sunshine for days. It’s a dreamy escape, just a boat ride away.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. This underground wonder isn’t just old—it’s prehistoric. Carved out around 4000 BCE, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a haunting, awe-inspiring glimpse into Malta’s ancient past. Spots fill up fast, so book early.

Dingli Cliffs. For breathtaking views and golden-hour magic, head to Malta’s western edge. The Dingli Cliffs tower is 250 meters above the sea, offering peaceful walks, quiet reflection, and some of the best sunsets on the island.

Rabat. Just 20 minutes from Valletta by car, Rabat is a quiet gem packed with stories. Beneath its unassuming streets lie ancient catacombs, Roman villas, and hidden chapels. It’s less polished than nearby Mdina, but more lived-in, with an authentic charm that pulls you in slowly but deeply.

Marsaxlokk. Only 25 minutes by car from the capital, Marsaxlokk is the kind of place that begs you to slow down. Its colorful luzzu boats bob along the waterfront, the scent of grilling seafood floats through the air, and the Sunday market buzzes with local life.

Blue Grotto. About 25 minutes from Valletta, the Blue Grotto is a stunning slice of Malta’s natural drama. Hop on a boat and glide into sea caves where sunlight meets water in dazzling turquoise bursts. Go early—the morning light is pure magic.

Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples. These ancient stone temples lie just 30 minutes from Valletta and are among the oldest free-standing structures on Earth. Set against a sea-facing cliff, their quiet majesty and mysterious alignment with the solstices leave a lasting impression.

Gozo. Drive 45 minutes to Ċirkewwa (25 kilometers), catch a 25-minute ferry, and step into a slower rhythm. Gozo is Malta’s peaceful cousin—less crowded, wildly scenic, and full of treasures like Ġgantija temples, quaint villages, and rugged coastal trails perfect for wandering.