Buses in Malta
Public buses in Malta are the cheapest option for getting around the island and exploring the cities and towns of Malta. However, in summer they suffer more delays and tend to be quite crowded due to the influx of tourists and students.
Public transport options in Malta are limited to the green and white buses that dot the islands. In winter they usually arrive on time and are a convenient alternative, but in the high season months, the buses fill up and are continually delayed.
However, the main towns in Malta and their tourist attractions are connected by the bus network, so it's always good to know their main stops.
Lines
Malta's bus network virtually covers the entire island and extends as far as Gozo. In total, almost one hundred bus lines operate in Malta, 18 in Gozo, 6 connecting the airport with various areas of the island and 8 nighttime routes.
You can see the bus lines and exact timetables on the official website of the public transport company:
If you prefer, you can also use this map of the Maltese bus network:
Schedules and frequency
Malta's city buses operate daily from 5:30 am to 11 pm, except the night bus routes. They run every 10 to 30 minutes approximately. However, please keep in mind that on public holidays this frequency may decrease to 1 hour.
Fares
Malta bus fares vary depending on the season. During the summer months a single ticket costs € 2 (US$ 2.10) (mid-June to mid-October) and during the winter months the price is € 1.50 (US$ 1.60).
The price of the night bus ticket is € 3 (US$ 3.20).
You can buy tickets directly on the bus, but try to bring the exact amount as drivers don't give change, so if you give them € 5 (US$ 5.30) they will keep the change.
Bear in mind that the ticket is valid for 2 hours after purchase, so it's important to keep it in case you want to change buses.
If you plan to use the buses, we advise buying the 12-trip card for € 15 (US$ 15.90). This way, you can save money on each journey, as well as avoid having to carry exact change. This card can be shared between several people.
If you're staying in the suburbs and will be using the buses a lot, you may want to buy the Explorer Card, which offers unlimited travel for 7 days for € 21 (US$ 22.20).
Cards can be purchased from machines at some bus stops, as well as from selected shops throughout the island.
