Malta Airport Transfers

Compare Your Malta Airport Transfer Options

From Malta International Airport, you can reach your hotel or accommodation by shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi or public transport. The best choice depends on your budget, group size, luggage and how directly you want to reach your accommodation.

A shared shuttle can be a good budget-friendly choice if you are happy to travel with other passengers. A taxi gives you more flexibility when you arrive, while public transport is the budget option if you do not mind a less direct journey.

For the easiest door-to-door journey, we personally prefer a pre-booked private transfer, especially when travelling with luggage or as a couple, family or small group. We have used private transfers ourselves on several occasions and find them particularly convenient when you simply want to reach your accommodation without extra planning after your flight.

Last Reviewed: August 2026

1. Shared Airport Shuttle

Malta Airport Shuttle Transfer

A shared airport shuttle is a useful option for solo travellers and couples who want to pre-book their journey while keeping costs below those of a private transfer. You share the vehicle with other passengers travelling in the same general direction, so the cost is spread between several travellers rather than paying for a private vehicle.

The main trade-off is time. Because other passengers may need to be collected or dropped off, your journey can take longer than a private transfer or a taxi. You may also have to wait before departure, so check the conditions of the particular shuttle service before you book.

For many travellers, the main advantage is convenience: the transfer is arranged before arrival, you do not need to figure out public transport after your flight, and the service takes you directly to or close to your accommodation.

You can book the shared shuttle we currently recommend through GetYourGuide. It provides transfers between Malta International Airport and hotels or accommodation in Malta, with arrival and departure transfers available. Check the booking page for current availability, pickup details and conditions.

2. Private Airport Transfer

Private Airport Transfer in Malta

A private airport transfer gives you a vehicle reserved for you and your travelling companions, with no other passengers sharing the journey. You arrange it before you arrive, and it takes you directly from the airport to your hotel or accommodation without additional passenger drop-offs.

It usually costs more than a shared shuttle or public transport, but it can be particularly convenient for couples, families, small groups and travellers carrying several pieces of luggage. When travelling together, the vehicle cost can also be better value when you split it between you.

You can also arrange private transfers for your return journey to Malta Airport. When booking, enter your flight details, accommodation address, number of passengers and luggage requirements carefully, and check your confirmation for the exact meeting point and pickup instructions.

3. Taxi from Malta Airport

Malta Taxi Transfer at Night

A taxi is a convenient option if you prefer to arrange your transport after landing rather than pre-booking a transfer. Taxi services from Malta International Airport are available 24 hours a day, which is especially useful if your arrival time changes or you want to decide once you reach the airport.

On arrival, you can purchase a pre-paid taxi ticket at a fixed rate from the taxi booth in the airport's Welcomers' Hall. The fare depends on your destination, so check the current rate when you arrive. You can also arrange a journey through the Malta Taxi app.

A taxi takes you directly to your accommodation without sharing the vehicle with other passengers. The main difference from a pre-booked private transfer is that you can arrange the taxi when you arrive, while a private transfer is organised in advance and your pickup details are confirmed before your trip.

4. Airport Direct and Public Buses

Public Transport in Malta

Public transport is generally the lowest-cost way to travel from Malta International Airport, although it is not door-to-door. Malta Public Transport operates dedicated Airport Direct buses and regular routes serving other areas of the island.

Airport Direct services connect the airport with several popular visitor areas:

• TD1: Rabat, Buġibba, Mellieħa and Ċirkewwa
• TD2: St Julian's and Pembroke
• TD3: St Julian's, Sliema, Gżira and Msida
• TD4: Valletta and the Gozo Fast Ferry
• TD5: Rabat and Buġibba

Airport Direct buses currently cost €3 per passenger, except TD1 at €3.50, and you can pay on board in cash or by contactless card. You do not need to book in advance. The buses also provide luggage space, making them more convenient for airport travellers than a regular route bus.

If Airport Direct does not serve your destination conveniently, you can also use the wider Malta Public Transport network. Regular buses can be useful for reaching other towns and villages, but the journey may involve more stops, a connection or a walk between the bus stop and your accommodation.

Public transport suits travellers who want to keep costs down and don't mind carrying their own luggage or spending a little more time getting to their accommodation. Check the latest route and timetable before travelling, as services and schedules can change.

If you want to plan your journey before arriving, our Hotel Bus Routes guide helps you find public transport serving popular accommodation areas, while Routes by Locality helps you check buses to individual towns and villages across Malta.

Approximate Transfer Times from Malta Airport

For a direct taxi or private transfer in normal daytime traffic, allow approximately:

• Sliema and Gżira: 20–35 minutes
• San Ġwann and Kappara: 10–20 minutes
• St Julian’s, Paceville, Swieqi, Ibraġġ and St George’s Bay: 20–30 minutes
• St Paul’s Bay, Buġibba, Qawra and Xemxija: 30–45 minutes
• Mellieħa: 35–45 minutes
• Ċirkewwa: 45–55 minutes
• Golden Bay: 25–35 minutes
• Marsaskala: 15–25 minutes

These are approximate direct-transfer times, not guaranteed journey times. Malta’s traffic can increase travel times, particularly during busier periods, so always allow extra time when travelling back to the airport.

Night-time transfers can sometimes be quicker when traffic is lighter, but do not treat this as a guaranteed journey time. Use the approximate ranges above for planning and allow additional time when travelling to the airport for your departure, particularly if you are travelling during a busy period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Malta Airport Transfers

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We are Albert and Benjamin Magro, two Malta locals who enjoy exploring the island and sharing practical advice with visitors. Our guides combine local knowledge with first-hand visits to Malta's towns, beaches, attractions and accommodation areas. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook for more Malta tips, photos and videos.

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