Valletta: Vintage Bus to Valletta, Sliema, Rabat & Mdina

Discover Malta with a Vintage Bus Tour: Valletta, Sliema, Rabat & Mdina

Imagine cruising through Malta’s scenic streets on a restored vintage bus, feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. For just $9 per person, you can explore some of the island’s most iconic locations—Valletta, Mdina, Rabat, and Sliema—at your own pace with a full-day ticket. The tour operates on specific days and times, making it a flexible way to see Malta without the rush of traditional guided tours.

What we love about this experience is the unique charm of these classic buses—many are around seventy years old—and how they turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure. Plus, the freedom to hop on and off at different stops means you can linger longer at sites that catch your interest, whether it’s exploring Valletta’s historic streets or wandering through quiet Mdina.

A possible drawback is the timing—the departure times are fixed and might not suit everyone’s schedule, especially if you prefer a more leisurely start or plan to combine other activities. Still, for those who appreciate a bit of nostalgia and a relaxed pace, this tour offers a delightful way to experience Malta’s highlights.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy quirky, authentic transport and want an affordable, flexible way to explore multiple locations. Families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a fun, memorable journey—especially those interested in historic vehicles and scenic routes—will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: Travel in beautifully restored buses around Malta, many of which are quite old, adding character to your sightseeing.
• Flexible Exploration: Full-day tickets allow you to hop on and off at your convenience, tailoring your visit to your interests.
• Affordable Price: At just $9, this offers excellent value compared to guided tours or private transport.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a fun, nostalgic ride while taking in Malta’s scenery and historic sites.
• Limited Guided Commentary: No guided tour included, so you’ll rely on your own curiosity or additional guides if you want detailed explanations.
• Schedule Considerations: The fixed timetable suits some, but may not fit everyone’s plans—check the schedule carefully.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Vintage Bus Experience in Malta

Traveling in a vintage bus as part of your Malta trip is more than just transportation—it’s an experience that adds a layer of nostalgia and local flavor to your sightseeing. These buses, many of which are around seventy years old, have been meticulously restored, and their large windows and openable screens offer excellent views and good ventilation—crucial on warm Mediterranean days.

The Route and Stops

The main route takes you from Sliema to Valletta, then on to Mdina and Rabat, with options for different schedules. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, you’ll start at Sliema Ferries, near the M&S store, with departures at 09:20, 11:15, 13:05, and 15:05. The stops at Valletta, near the Tritons Fountain, occur at 11:00, 12:50, and 14:50. The route to Mdina and Rabat kicks off at 10:00, with subsequent departures at 12:25, 14:25, and 16:25.

The Sunday route includes a trip from Valletta to Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village, with departures at 09:30, 10:40, 12:20, and 13:20. The return from Marsaxlokk is timed to coincide with the other stops, making it a flexible option for a relaxing day out.

What Makes the Route Special?

Each stop offers its own unique experience. Valletta, Malta’s capital, is packed with worldly architecture, historic sites, and lively cafes—perfect for those who like to explore at their own pace without the pressure of guided commentary. Mdina, often called the Silent City, is renowned for its medieval walls and narrow alleyways—a must-see for lovers of history and authentic old towns.

Rabat, just outside Mdina, offers a chance to see local life and visit notable sites like St. Paul’s Catacombs, and Sliema provides a lively seaside atmosphere, perfect for a stroll along the promenade.

The Experience of the Vintage Bus Ride

Reviews consistently praise the atmosphere—the buses are beautifully kept, with many passengers noting how “the interior of the bus was immaculate” and the large open windows provided a refreshing breeze. One traveler described it as “a charming and very effective way of getting to Mdina,” emphasizing the visual appeal and nostalgic feel.

The driver’s skill and friendliness are often highlighted. We loved how many reviews mentioned the “friendly driver” who “knew how to drive in Malta,” which is especially important given the narrow, sometimes challenging roads. The non-guided nature means you’re free to enjoy the ride without commentary, but many find the visual experience and retro charm enough to keep them engaged.

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Authentic & Fun: The Real Value

At only $9, this tour offers remarkable value. You’re essentially paying for a cultural experience—the chance to sit in a proper old Malta bus and see multiple sites without the hassle of multiple tickets or confusing schedules. The full-day ticket lets you control your day, whether you want to spend more time in Mdina’s quiet streets or enjoy a quick look at Valletta’s bustling streets.

Reviewers also appreciate the flexibility—if you’re pressed for time, you can choose to return early or explore longer at each stop. The timing might be less ideal for some, as the departure at 11:00 from Valletta can interfere with other plans, but overall, the schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing opportunities.

Considerations & Practical Tips

• Timing: Check the schedule carefully to fit your plans. If you’re keen on visiting Mdina and Rabat, the early departures are ideal.
• No Guided Commentary: If you prefer detailed history, consider supplementing this experience with a guided tour or audio guide.
• Seats & Comfort: Sitting at the front near the open windows is popular for the views, but be prepared for the possibility of running late or crowded stops, as noted by some travelers.
• Transportation & Accessibility: Pickup points are conveniently located near tourist areas like the Tritons Fountain, making it easy to start your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates quirky, authentic transportation and enjoys combining sightseeing with a bit of fun, this vintage bus tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those on a budget who want to maximize their Malta experience without paying for guided tours or private transfers.

History buffs and lovers of nostalgia will enjoy the character of these old buses, while travelers who want flexibility will appreciate the full-day tickets and hop-on hop-off style. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an affordable, memorable ride should consider this as part of their Malta itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour guided?
No, there’s no guided commentary included. You’ll be on your own to explore each stop at your leisure.

Can I hop off and on the bus during the day?
Yes, the full-day ticket allows you to hop off at any of the included stops and reboard later.

What are the departure times?
On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, departures from Sliema start at 09:20, with subsequent runs at 11:15, 13:05, and 15:05. Valletta departs at 11:00, 12:50, and 14:50. Mdina/Rabat departs at 10:00, 12:25, 14:25, and 16:25.

Where does the tour start?
The pick-up point is near the Tourist Information office by the Triton Fountain in Valletta and Sliema Ferries.

What if I want to return early?
You can leave the tour early and use your transport options, but note that some reviews mention additional charges if using different buses or ticket types.

Are the buses comfortable?
Yes, they are beautifully restored with a clean interior, large windows, and some with openable screens for ventilation.

How long does the trip to Mdina take?
The bus ride to Mdina is approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic and stops.

Is there a guided commentary?
No, but the visual journey and the vintage atmosphere compensate for the lack of guided narration.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
Yes, tickets are available at designated stops, but booking in advance can help ensure availability, especially during busy times.

Is this a suitable experience for kids?
Absolutely, as long as they’re comfortable riding on a bus and enjoy scenic rides, this can be a fun family outing.

To sum it up, the Valletta Vintage Bus Tour offers a playful, authentic way to see Malta’s highlights without breaking the bank. The charm of riding in a restored old bus combined with the flexibility to explore at your own pace makes this a memorable part of any Malta trip. It’s especially ideal for those who value character and history, and for travelers who want an affordable, relaxed way to connect with Malta’s scenic and historic sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a vintage lover, or simply seeking a fun, atmospheric journey, this tour adds a distinctive touch to your Maltese adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: