Sliema is a fantastic base for exploring Malta — known for its lively seaside promenade, charming cafes, and easy access to the island’s scenic sights. What makes Sliema especially appealing for bike tours is its flat terrain and scenic coastal views, which are perfect for both guided adventures and self-guided rides. We particularly like the Quad Bike Tours for their blend of off-road excitement with sightseeing stops like Popeye Village and Mdina, giving you a taste of Malta’s diverse landscapes. The option to rent an e-bike or even a water bike also offers a relaxed way to see the sights at your own pace, especially if you prefer choosing your route.
If you’re after an active day that combines adventure with sightseeing, Malta’s bike tours are a good fit. Whether you want a quick 4-hour thrill or an 8-hour full island experience, this list covers a range of options, including guided tours and self-guided rentals, all designed to make your visit memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list features two quad bike tours offering guided exploration with stops at iconic sights like Popeye Village, Mdina, and Dingli Cliffs. The Malta: 4-hour Quad Bike Island Tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of adventure. For a more comprehensive experience, the Malta: 8-hour Quad Bike Island Tour covers more ground and includes sunset views at Dingli Cliffs. If you prefer exploring on your own, the E-bike Rental allows you to discover Valletta, Mdina, and St. Julian’s at your leisure. For water-based fun, the Water Bike Rental offers a quick and eco-friendly way to enjoy the coast.
1. Malta: 4 hour Quad Bike Island Tour
At number 4 on our list, the Malta: 4-hour Quad Bike Island Tour offers a lively introduction to Malta’s countryside with a manageable four-hour commitment. Starting at ST Rentals, you’ll get a safety briefing before hitting the dirt trails. The tour is led by an experienced guide who navigates the route through scenic spots like Mdina and Dingli Cliffs, stopping for photo breaks and swimming at Mistra Bay.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of off-road adventure and sightseeing—you’ll enjoy exhilarating rides and relaxing stops. The guide shares local stories and points out landmarks, making it more than just a thrill ride. Costing $148 per person, fuel, helmets, and guides are included, which adds to the overall value. The reviews are glowing, with one guest calling the guide “very patient and lovely,” and praising the experience for its fun and discovery aspect.
Bottom Line: If you want a short, exciting way to see Malta’s highlights while enjoying some dirt-road fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers who don’t want to spend all day on the trails.
2. Malta: 8 Hour Quad Bike Island Tour
For those eager to explore more of Malta, the Malta: 8-hour Quad Bike Island Tour takes the scenic route with a full day of adventure. Starting at ST Rentals, this tour includes stops at Għargħur, Mistra Bay, and Golden Bay, along with visits to Popeye Village and Mdina. The longer duration allows you to see a broader slice of the island, with scenic drives and swimming breaks.
This tour is ideal if you enjoy more extensive exploration paired with plenty of sightseeing. It costs $204 per person, with fuel, helmets, and guides included, offering good value for the extensive itinerary. The route includes a sunset at Dingli Cliffs, which provides breathtaking views, especially at the end of a busy day. Reviewers mention the guide Tanya, who “brought us to some off-the-beaten-track swimming spots,” highlighting the personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an in-depth adventure and are comfortable on a quad for several hours. It’s a full-day tour that combines thrill and discovery.
3. Sliema: Shengmilo S600 E-Bike Rental with Helmet
If you prefer to explore Malta at your own pace, the E-bike Rental is a flexible, budget-friendly option. For only $41, you get an electric bike with a full battery, allowing you to cover up to 60 km/h comfortably. The rental includes a helmet with a rear signal light and a smartphone holder, so you can navigate easily and stay safe.
This rental is great for someone who wants to ride through Valletta, Mdina, or St. Julian’s without the constraints of a guided tour. The e-bike’s power assist makes hills and longer distances easier, making it suitable for casual riders and more experienced cyclists alike. Unlike guided tours, you set your schedule and route, which can be liberating and fun.
Reviewers highlight the easy assembly and the usefulness of the smartphone holder for navigation. It’s a cost-effective way to see Malta’s sights with complete freedom. Keep in mind, this is more suited for those comfortable riding bikes and looking for independence.
Bottom Line: A good choice if you’re confident on a bike and want to tailor your own sightseeing route without time constraints.
$41 per person
4. Sliema: Water Bike Rental
For a different kind of ride, the Water Bike Rental offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Malta’s coast. Priced at $59 per person, you can enjoy 4 to 8 hours riding on a speedy water bike with a 3-blade propeller that makes paddling smooth and effortless. Designed for comfort, the water bike features an ergonomic handlebar and adjustable seat.
This rental is perfect if you want to combine a bit of exercise with sightseeing, or simply enjoy being on the water. The water bike’s built-in camera mounts let you capture your adventure easily, and its easy assembly makes it accessible for most users. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a unique experience on the ocean.
While reviews are not yet available, the water bike’s design and features suggest it’s a safe, fun, and environmentally friendly way to enjoy Malta’s coast. It’s a different experience compared to land-based tours but equally memorable.
Bottom Line: Best for water lovers or anyone wanting a quick, exciting way to see the coastline and get a bit of exercise.
$59 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Bike Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you’re after a thrilling off-road experience with a guided tour, the 4-hour quad tour is ideal for a quick taste. For a full day of adventure, the 8-hour tour offers more sightseeing and time on the trails.
Prefer exploring independently? The e-bike rental gives you the flexibility to craft your route and visit places like Valletta or Mdina at your own pace. If water-based rides are more your style, the water bike provides a fun, eco-friendly way to enjoy Malta’s coastline.
Consider your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate**. Guided tours are best for those who want expert commentary and a structured itinerary, while rentals suit independent explorers.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and gear.
To sum it up, Sliema offers an excellent variety of bike and quad adventures to suit different tastes. For a quick adrenaline rush, the 4-hour quad tour balances fun with sightseeing. For a more comprehensive experience, the 8-hour version takes you deeper into Malta’s scenic spots. Self-guided options like e-bikes and water bikes give you control over your day, making exploration truly personal.
Whether you’re looking for a thrill, a relaxing ride, or a water adventure, Malta’s bike tours are a fantastic way to see the island beyond just the usual tourist spots. Early booking will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.