Malta: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Malta: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours offers a flexible way to see this small but diverse island. For only $28 per person, you get a 1-day ticket that grants you access to both the South and North Malta routes. Buses depart from Sliema Ferries, an easy central location, making it convenient whether you’re arriving by cruise or staying in the area. The tour promises to cover major sights like the Blue Grotto, Valletta, Mdina, and more, all with the ability to hop off and explore at your own pace.

One of the biggest perks here is the freedom to choose your stops. Want to linger at the San Anton Gardens or the fishermen’s village at Marsaxlokk? No problem. The buses run on a clear timetable, and you can tailor your day around what interests you most. We especially appreciate the detailed audio guides available in multiple languages—helping you learn about each site without having to carry a guidebook.

However, a potential hiccup is the limited operating times and bus frequency. Some reviews mention long waits or delays, especially at peak times or if buses are overcrowded. Also, since entrance tickets to attractions are not included, you’ll need to budget extra for entry fees, which can add up if you’re planning to visit several sites. This tour suits travelers who enjoy independent exploration but want the convenience of organized transport.

In all, this tour is a great pick for first-time visitors or those with only a day to see Malta. It’s not a deep-dive into every site, but it’s an efficient way to get an overview and decide what deserves a longer visit later. If you’re comfortable with some planning and enjoy spontaneous stops, it can be both fun and economical.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off at major sites across Malta’s north and south.
• Affordable price: For just $28, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Audio guides: Multiple languages help you learn about each stop without extra cost.
• Limited entrance fees: You’ll need to pay for visits to sites like Hypogeum, Blue Grotto, and temples separately.
• Timetable considerations: Buses run at specific times, so planning ahead is essential.
• Suitable for independent travelers: Best if you enjoy customizing your itinerary and exploring at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Route Overview

The tour kicks off at Sliema Ferries, a lively hub known for its cafés and views of Valletta. Two routes operate: the South Malta Route (Red) and the North Malta Route (Blue), each with distinct stops. Buses depart roughly every hour, with the first departures around 9:00-9:30 am, depending on the route, and the last buses leaving mid-afternoon. The 1500 hrs buses are only available Monday through Saturday, so if you’re visiting on a Sunday, plan accordingly.

What You Can Expect on the Bus

The buses are double-decker, open-top vehicles, offering excellent views of the island’s landscape and coastlines. Inside, the audio guides in numerous languages provide insights about each stop, making the ride both relaxing and educational. Reviewers mention that the buses are generally clean, on time, and comfortable, although some have found that not all speakers work or that buses are crowded at peak times. The drivers are noted for their professionalism and courteousness, even when delays occur.

Major Stops and Why They Matter

• Blue Grotto: This is a highlight for many visitors, a magical sea cave where you might take a boat ride (though extra). It’s known for its shimmering water and dramatic cliffs, perfect for photos.
• Valletta: The capital city is packed with history and charm, with its fortified walls, grand palaces, and lively streets. The tour allows for a quick overview, but you may want to spend more time here on a separate day.
• San Anton Gardens: These lush gardens are a peaceful escape, filled with flowers, fountains, and peacocks. Reviewers love the serene atmosphere and well-maintained grounds.
• Marsaxlokk: This fishing village is famous for its Sunday market and colorful boats, offering a taste of authentic Maltese life.
• Mdina: Known as the Silent City, its narrow streets and medieval walls make it a must-see for history lovers.
• Temples at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra: These UNESCO World Heritage sites are just outside the main routes but can be reached with a bit of planning, offering a glimpse into Malta’s ancient past.

What the Tour Does Well

Travelers frequently praise the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off system, allowing them to customize their day. Multiple reviews note that the value for money is impressive, especially considering the cost includes audio guides in many languages. The buses’ reliability and cleanliness are also highlighted, with some reviewers calling the staff “extremely helpful,” especially when delays or issues arose.

Possible Drawbacks

The main drawbacks revolve around timing and capacity. Some travelers mention long waits during busy times, and a few note that buses can be overcrowded. Also, since entrance fees are not included, you should be prepared for extra costs if you plan to visit museums, temples, or the Hypogeum. The limited running times and bus frequency mean you’ll want to plan your stops carefully—don’t expect to see everything in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration but want the convenience of organized transportation. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick overview of Malta’s main attractions without the hassle of navigating public transport or renting a car. It also suits those on a budget who value guided commentary and flexible scheduling.

The Real Value for Travelers

We loved how this tour provides an excellent introduction to Malta’s diverse sights. The cost-effectiveness stands out—at only $28, you gain access to both routes, audio guides, and a full day of sightseeing. For travelers with limited time, this is a practical way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed.

The ability to hop on and off means you can spend extra time at the sites that catch your eye—like wandering through Mdina’s narrow alleys or relaxing at Golden Bay. The views from the open-top buses are a treat, especially on clear days when you can enjoy the coastlines and historical architecture.

On the flip side, the timing constraints mean you’ll need to be strategic about your stops; some reviews mention long waits at certain stops, especially if buses are full or running behind schedule. For those who prefer a more structured, guided tour, this might feel a bit loose, but for those who like flexibility and spontaneity, it’s a winner.

The buses’ routes cover most major highlights, but if your main goal is a deep dive into specific sites, you’ll want to plan separate visits. Still, for a broad overview and a taste of Malta’s diversity, this hop-on hop-off offers genuine value.

FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $28 per person for a 1-day ticket, which grants access to both the North and South routes.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes access to the hop-on hop-off buses and audio guides in multiple languages. Entrance to attractions is not included.

Where do the buses depart from?
Both routes start at Sliema Ferries, opposite McDonald’s, making it easy to find, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What are the bus schedules?
South Malta buses leave from Sliema Ferries at 0930, 1030, 1130, 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 hours (the 1500 only from Monday to Saturday). North Malta buses leave at 0900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 hours, with the same Monday-Saturday restriction for the 1500.

Can I buy tickets on the day of travel?
Yes, tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day at the meeting point, with options to reserve and pay later.

Are there any discounts for children?
Children under 5 travel free, making this an even more attractive option for families.

Is there a good way to plan my stops?
Yes, it’s wise to study the route and timetable beforehand. Some reviews suggest asking for a map or timetable when checking in and planning your stops to avoid missing out.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a cost-effective, flexible way to get a broad overview of Malta, this hop-on hop-off bus tour hits the mark. It’s well-suited for those who prefer exploring independently but appreciate having organized transport and commentary to guide their day. The ability to choose your stops and learn about each site at your own pace makes it a practical and enjoyable choice.

While it’s not a comprehensive, all-inclusive package, the tour delivers great value for money and convenience. The sights, from ancient temples to bustling villages, are well covered, and the views from the open-top buses add a dash of sightseeing pleasure.

If you’re comfortable with some planning and want to maximize your limited time in Malta, this tour offers a solid, flexible foundation for your visit. Pair it with some extra visits or a local guide if you want in-depth knowledge, but as a first taste of Malta, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: