hop-on hop-off Malta
Sightseeing Tours

Explore And Discover Malta And Gozo

The Hop-On Hop-Off Malta tours are one of the most popular and convenient ways to tour both the island of Malta and Gozo. It is a flexible and affordable way to witness as well as wander around Malta's natural beauty. The sightseeing tours give you a chance to disembark from the bus, explore the location then re-embark on the bus to continue your journey.

Below we provide an explanation of every sightseeing tour as well as the locations you will visit. At the same time you can book your tickets or reserve and pay later.

Disclaimer: If you book this tour through the links on this page, we receive a small commission at no cost to you. We were not paid to write this review.

North Route - Hop-On Hop-Off malta Tours

The north route takes you to the northern part of Malta. The tour allows visitors to hop on and off at various stops along the route, including historical landmarks, scenic spots, and popular attractions.

Some of the highlights of the tour include the Sliema, Valletta, San Anton Gardens, Mosta, Mdina, Bugibba, St. Julian's amongst other locations. The tour also offers audio commentary in multiple languages, providing visitors with interesting information about the places they visit.

The North Hop On Hop Off Tour is a convenient and fun way to explore the northern part of Malta.

summary about the tour

  • Tickets are valid for only 1 day.
  • You can stop at any location, discover, then embark the bus again.
  • Audio commentary in 16 languages.
  • It operates seven days a week, every 30 minutes with 15 stops. See detailed locations here.
  • The tour first departs from the Sliema Ferries.
  • Included with the tour is a detailed map together with the route, stops and lines, as well as timetable and shuttle service.
  • Some buses are wheelchair accessible.

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Reserve now & pay later + Audio guide included
eTicket (Mobile Ticket) available

South route - malta hop-on hop-off tours

Boats parked on a ramp at Wied iz-Zurrieq Malta.

The South Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Malta is a sightseeing tour that covers the southern part of the island. It offers visitors the opportunity to hop on and off at various stops along the way, including historical sites, beautiful beaches, and popular attractions.

Some of the highlights of the tour include Valletta, Hypogeum, The Three Cities, Marsaxlokk Fishing Village, Blue Grotto and Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples. The tour also provides audio commentary in multiple languages, giving visitors insight into the places they visit. This tour is perfect if you want to discover another side of the island.

Summary About The Tour

  • The ticket you purchase is only valid for one day.
  • Using the hop on hop off, allows you to disembark from the bus and later hop on again to continue your journey.
  • Audio commentary in 16 languages.
  • The tour operates seven days a week
  • There are 15 stops in total. See detailed locations here.
  • The tour departs from Sliema Ferries.
  • Included with the tour is a detailed map together with the route, stops and lines, as well as timetable and shuttle service.
  • There are buses that are wheelchair accessible.

Secure Payments Guaranteed
Reserve now & pay later + Audio guide included
eTicket (Mobile Ticket) available

gozo route - hop-on hop-off bus tour

The hop-on hop-off tour is also available on the island of Gozo. Take this 1-day ticket to explore the entire island at leisure. During the tour you will pass through some interesting places such as Ramla Bay, Ggantija Temples & Ta’ Kola Windmill, Marsalforn Bay, Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Azure Window (Now Collapsed), Xlendi Bay and Xewkija Square.

It is the best way to see the island while hopping on and off the tour bus to visit the many interesting places. If you are doing this tour during the summer season why not take the opportunity to go for a swim at the swimming bays and at the same time have lunch with great views.

Summary About The Tour

  • Tickets are only valid for 1 full day.
  • You can stop at any location, discover, then embark the bus again.
  • Audio commentary in 16 languages.
  • It operates seven days a week.
  • There are 15 stops which will take you 2.5 hours round trip if you do not disembark. See detailed locations here.
  • The tour officially departs from Mgarr Harbour Gozo.
  • Included with the tour is a detailed map together with the route, stops and lines, as well as timetable and shuttle service.

Secure Payments Guaranteed
Reserve now & pay later + Audio guide included
eTicket (Mobile Ticket) available

detailed locations of each hop-on hop-off tour

What localities does the North Hop On Hop Off Malta Tour Go?

Sliema - It is the heart of the business area. Most hotels, restaurants and shops are located here. It is a hive of activity for many during all day.

Valletta - Valletta is the capital city of Malta, built by the Knights of St. John as a forefront fortification system capable of withstanding any massive attack from the Ottoman Empire. Crammed with historical places to visit apart from the stunning road network and fortification walls surround the capital.

Hamrun & St. Venera (Passing) - Two villages full of vibrant life. The hop-on hop-off passes from the main central road, which is packed with different shops, businesses, bars and cafes.

San Anton Gardens - San Anton Gardens was the summer residence for Grand Master Antoine de Paule. Today it is the residence of the President of Malta. The main garden is open to the public.

Ta’ Qali Crafts Village - It is located at the former Royal Airforce Ta' Qali air-field. Here you find pottery, ceramics, glass blowing, goldsmiths filigree, jewellery and lace. Here you also find the Mdina Glass Factory, Malta’s showcase for glass blowing, glass fusion and lamp work, with a reputation for artistic innovation and quality.

Malta Aviation Museum Ta’ Qali Crafts Village - A museum to showcase Malta's rich aviation history with an extensive collection of wartime planes.

Mosta Church - The parish church of Mosta known as the Basilica of the Assumption, commonly known as the Rotunda. It has the 4th largest church dome in Europe and attracts thousands of visitors a year for its architecture, both internal and external.

The Silent City of Mdina - Mdina is a medieval town that you must visit. It also features in the series Game of Thrones.

Rabat - A suburban town mostly associated with Mdina. It is a great place to visit as it is rich in history. Walk around the narrow streets, visit the large underground catacomb complexes including several historical churches, convents and museums including The Domus Romana Museum, a Roman Villa.

Bingemma (Passing) - At Bingemma there are the defensive lines known as the Victoria Lines built by the British Services while in Malta between 1800 to 1979.

Mgarr Church - A typical rural quiet village surrounded by fields cultivated by many farmers living within this area.

Golden Bay - The beach that is very much loved and frequented by both Maltese and tourists for its beauty ranks up top among the most popular.

Bugibba Square - Bugibba Square is the centre of all the area where most people meet as it is dotted with amenities. Close by are the villages of Qawra and St. Paul's Bay.

Splash And Fun Park Mediterraneo Marine Park - An attraction where adults and children can enjoy themselves and interact with Dolphins, Sea Lions. Parrots, Inguanas. At the same time at the Splash and Fun there is the wave pool, lazy river, exciting water slides and others attractions.

St. George's Bay - Located beside Malta’s entertainment area known as Paceville. The sandy beach offers a fantastic location for relaxation with plenty of restaurants and cafes to complete your day.

Spinola Bay - Spinola Bay forms part of the St. Julian’s area. Various Maltese fishing boats decorate the blue sea in the bay, with a lovely effect on the surrounding restaurants and bars.

Balluta Bay - Balluta Bay is the next small bay further towards Sliema. Still dotted with bars and restaurants, character of this area is dominated by the Carmelite Church, the Victorian Balluta Buildings and the 5 star hotel Le Meridien.

Malta sightseeing tours returns to Sliema Ferries at the end of each tour.

What localities does the South Hop On Hop Off Malta Tour Go?

Departure from Sliema Ferries (Malta Bus Tours Terminus), located close to the bus stop of the Malta Public Transport buses and the boat tours departure area. A map of the itinerary will be distributed.

Sliema - It is the heart of the business area and with a variety of shops with renowned international brands. Cafes and restaurants are open till late evening where people love to come here to meet up not least but also for walking and meet friends. Most of the tourist cruises level from here to visit Gozo and the Blue Lagoon. The Valletta Ferry Service pier is here, and the public transport buses all stop at this point. of the Sliema Ferries.

Manoel Island (Passing) - Manoel Island is named after the Portuguese Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena for the beautiful fortification he built to protect this part of the harbour in 1720s. If you have some time, it is nice to walk along the shoreline where it is partly accessible to observe the beauty of the location.

Msida Yacht Marina And Ta' Xbiex (Passing) - Msida is a harbour town close to the capital city of Valletta. Originally it was a fishing village. By now it has been almost transformed, with hotels, businesses, shops and restaurants. Msida Yacht Marina is a first class berthing facility within the creek of this town facing Manoel Island.

The Capital City Valletta - Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its rich history, architecture, and cultural significance. Valletta is home to many historical landmarks, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Valletta Grand Harbour - A drive around the Valletta bastions on the right side gives you the perspective of this natural Grand Harbour. It extends further down to Marsa and on the other side facing Valletta are the important towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. This natural harbour with so many creeks has played an important part during the last 2000 years of history from commerce, defense, battles till today becoming the maritime gateway and a continuous port-of-call for ships and cruises around the Mediterranean.

Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Paola - The underground Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a prehistoric burial site. It is a complex of three different levels, all cut from the natural rock forming different chambers. From remains hat were found on site it dates back around 4000 B.C. and was used up to 2500 B.C.

The Three Cities - Three fortified cities consisting of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. They are located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta and are known for their rich history, ancient architecture, and cultural significance.

Zejtun Parish Church - Zejtun is one of the main villages in the south of Malta with a very rich architectural heritage. It is an experience to go round the village observing the daily life and old architecture.

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village - A fishing village in the south of Malta sought after for the picturesque fishing boats and the general village area. A daily market, including fresh fish. Malta bus tour passing beside the waterfront, an opportunity to stop and enjoy your time.

Ghar Dalam Cave And Museum, Birzebbugia - The oldest caves on the island dating back 500,000 years holding extinct skeletons of animals and the oldest remains of how humans survived on these island a long time ago. 

Blue Grotto Limits Of Zurrieq - Natural caves visited every day by many tourists by a short boat trip to see the natural wonders of the underwater colour reflections.

Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Limits Of Qrendi - Located close to each other, these temples show the incredible strength and dedication to build these temples.

The Limestone Heritage Park & Gardens, Siggiewi - A very old limestone quarry showcasing the traditions of quarrying. How the Maltese have used their precious natural resort to construct Megalithic Temples, monuments, fortifications, palaces and houses. A worthy experience.

Where does the Gozo Hop On Hop Off Go?

The places where you can hop-off or pass by during the tour.

Departure from Mgarr Harbour according to time schedule which can be easily collected from hotels or distributed from many touristic shops.

Mgarr Harbour - Arriving at Mgarr harbour by boat, you get the first view of Gozo. From here you depart for your tour.

Nadur & Maritime Museum - The village of Nadur is located on the easternmost hill of the island with surrounding amazing views over land and sea. The Maritime Museum is privately owned with a vast variety of exhibits, among which an authenticated piece of timber from Lord Nelson's ship.

Ramla L-Hamra Bay - Ramla L-Hamra Bay found at the end of a long rich fertile valley. The sand of the bay is golden reddish, and this makes it very popular with visitors apart from being a vast bay which can accommodate many apart from its tranquility and beauty. 

Savina Creativity Centre - An outlet were you can buy genuine cheese lets, wine, gift hampers, a variety of freshly packed foods and much more for your taste.

Ggantija Temples & Ta'Kola Windmill, Xaghra - A megalithic complex of two temples built between 3600 and 3200 B.C. from the Neolithic period. They are the earliest of all the Megalithic Temples of Malta. Ta Kola Windmill is one of the few surviving windmills on the islands built during the reign of the Order of St. John back to 1725.

Calypso Cave Limits Of Xaghra - Calypso cave overlooks Ramla Bay.

Marsalforn Bay - It is a seaside resort where many Maltese have their own apartment. Many tourists live here during their holiday, either in hotels or apartments.

Victoria Rabat - Lying on high grounds with all roads leading to the centre from all parts of Gozo. The Citadel is further up on a steep hill encircled with high fortified walls.

Ta' Pinu National Shrine - A national shrine built at the location where it is said that in 1883 a woman living at the village of Gharb, heard the voice of the Blessed Virgin Mary inside the chapel.

Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village - The crafts village of Gozo is located at Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village in Gharb. Various shops where you can find Gozo lace, handmade pottery, glass blowing and leather products.

Dwejra Bay - This location is a natural wonder with rare geological features. The inland sea, the Azur Window now collapsed, the Fungus rock and the watchtower built by the Order of St. John. The area is a well sought after diving area.

Fontana - Fontana originated from the suburb of Victoria on the Rabat-Xlendi road.

Xlendi - A very popular bay for swimming, restaurants and bars both during the day and in the evening, all lined around the seashore. 

Victoria Bus Terminus - Located at the centre of Victoria where most public transport buses converge here from the various villages.

Xewkija - Xewkija is the oldest in Gozo and 4th largest village. A small village but with a huge majestic church built at the centre of the village. It can be observed from far and also from Malta.

Gozo island tour return to Mgarr Harbour.

Which Languages Is The Tour In?

The tours are available in 16 languages. They are the following: Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Swedish, Chinese, Spanish.

What To Bring On Your Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Upon entering the bus, a map will be given to you which shows you the route, stops and locations you visit.

There are some things you might consider on getting with you:

  • Sunscreen: If you come to Malta in summer, the sun will be very strong. We recommend bring sunblock with you to protect you whilst on the bus and outside walking around.
  • Water: Bring water with you to stay hydrated.
  • Umbrella: Even though we have 300 days of sunshine, it can still rain. Also having an umbrella when it is sunny is good as it protects you from the sun.
  • Comfortable walking shoes: We highly recommend that you wear walking shoes as you will be walking around as you get down from the hop on hop off.

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Avatar By Albert and Benjamin Magro