Car Rental at Malta Airport

Airport travel guide

Situated in the Mediterranean halfway between Europe and Africa, the island of Malta is one of Europe’s most famous holiday destinations. Naturally, the main draw is the coastline, but Malta was also home to some of the earliest civilizations of the region, as well as plenty of seafaring peoples who came later, all of whom have left their cultural mark on the island. Here are a few intersting facts about Malta:

• The official languages in Malta are Maltese, and English. The majority of locals will speak English.

• Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the European summer. However, this is considered the peak tourism season. Therefore it’s also a good idea to visit from April to June or from September to November.

• Malta is famous for its megalithic temples, which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. The most famous of these is the Ġgantija Temples on the island of Gozo, with best estimates dating it to the Neolithic era (c. 3600–2500 BC).

• The official capital of Malta is Valletta, located within a 20-minute drive from Malta’s international airport. This stunning city is UNESCO World heritage listed and features beautiful Baroqie-style architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and many fantastic cathedrals and museums. It was also named the European Capital of Culture in 2023.

• Malta is well-known for its fantastic festivals and feasts, which are religious celebrations honoring the dedicated patron saint of every village in the country.

There are many attractions in Malta and its sister islands of Gozo and Comino. Below are a few must-visit icons.

• Valletta. Although home to less than 6,000 permanent inhabitants, Valletta punches way above its weight when it comes to attractions. For many visitors, the most notable one is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, known for its stunning interior, and the accompanying Cathedral Museum. Others enjoy the Palace of Masters (home to Malta’s president and parliament, but partially open to visitors), the National Museum of Archaeology, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens with their stunning views of the harbor and sea below.
• Mellieħa. Located near the main island’s northernmost point, Mellieħa is all about its coastline — it is home to several of Malta’s most beautiful (and most popular) beaches. However, there are also other attractions to enjoy, not least the Saint Agatha’s Tower, a coastal fortification known for its distinctly reddish hue and dating back to the 17th century, as well as the Tuna Fishing Museum which is dedicated to one of the main historical industries of Malta.
• Ghadira Nature Reserve. Located near Mellieħa even further to the north, Ghadira is one of the most interesting nature preserves on the island. The area is known for its great variety of birdlife that is especially present during the migratory seasons of spring and autumn. A wetland of an official Ramsar designation, the reserve has a short walking trail with a viewing platform at its end.
• The Blue Lagoon. Perhaps the most iconic natural attraction in Malta, the Blue Lagoon on nearby Comino Island is a stunning natural lagoon famous for its majestic sea caves, crystal-clear waters, and amazing white sand beaches. To visit, drive to Cirkewwa in the north and take the ferry. Alternatively, there are many day trips departing from the tourist hubs of Mellieha and Valletta. Find out more abourt how to get there in this handy guide to the Blue Lagoon.
• Mdina. Known as the silent city, is another must-visit historical city in Malta. Nicknamed the “Silent City”, Mdina features amazing stone walls housing one-of-a-kind palaces, museums, and rooftop terrace restaurants.

Top international routes

• London
• Rome
• Catania
• Frankfurt
• Manchester
• Munich
• Vienna
• Zurich

Main airlines

Air Malta, Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, Wizz Air, and Turkish Airlines

Terminals

The single passenger terminal hosts flights both inside and outside the Schengen area.

Location

Malta Airport is in the town of Luqa, 5 km (3.1 miles) southwest of Malta’s capital, Valletta. Vjal l-Avjazzjoni / Route 1 and Route 6 are the main roads connecting the airport to the capital.

Most popular types of rental car

• Small cars - from $4 per day
• SUVs - from $11 per day
• Medium cars - from $6 per day
• Large cars - from $9 per day
• Station wagons - from $12 per day
• Convertibles - from $13 per day
• Vans - from $21 per day
• Premium cars - from $68 per day

Car rental desks

Most can be found right after you leave the baggage claim area, on the left side of the arrivals hall.

Services and facilities

You’ll find various shops and a duty-free store, a number of dining opportunities, a currency exchange, ATMs, a number of lounges, a lost and found office, a pharmacy, and a chapel. There’s a luggage storage service inside the check-in hall available 24/7. You can find more information on the airport's official website.

Nearest gas station

F. Bussutil Service Station can be reached in less than ten minutes. Located at Tal Barrani Road, Bir ID Deheb, Ħal Għaxaq ZTN9024, it’s open 24/7. There are many other gas stations close to Malta Airport and on the island of Malta.

Popular one-way rentals

• Valletta (8 km / 5 miles)
• Gozo (40 km / 25 miles)
• Mellieha (27 km / 17 miles)
• Sliema (10 km / 6 miles)