Car Rental in Valletta - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Valletta itself is generally not recommended for tourists. Malta drives on the left side of the road (British system), which can be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with this setup. Valletta's historic center features extremely narrow streets, limited parking, and restricted vehicle access in many areas, making driving impractical within the fortified city. The capital is compact and best explored on foot. However, car rental makes excellent sense for exploring Malta's countryside, visiting remote beaches, historical sites across the island, and enjoying the flexibility of independent travel beyond Valletta. Malta's road network is generally well-maintained, though roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas. Driving styles tend to be assertive, which may feel aggressive to some tourists. Skip the car if you're staying primarily in Valletta or other urban areas with good public transport connections. Consider renting for day trips or multi-day exploration of Gozo, Mdina, and coastal villages where public transport is less frequent. Check current rental rates and requirements through booking platforms, as prices vary by season and demand. An international driving permit may be required depending on your country of origin.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for non-EU visitors renting cars in Malta. Obtain from your home country's automobile association before travel.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies in Valletta require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old. Young driver surcharges often apply for those under 25.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. EU licenses are generally accepted; non-EU visitors typically need both their license and an IDP.

Credit Card

A credit card in the main driver's name is required for security deposits. Debit cards are often not accepted for the deposit hold.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage (CDW/Super CDW) is strongly recommended due to narrow streets and challenging driving conditions in Malta.

Driving on the Left

Malta follows British-style left-hand driving. Familiarize yourself with this if coming from right-hand drive countries, as Valletta's narrow streets can be challenging.

Rent from Malta International Airport for convenience, as Valletta's historic center has limited parking and narrow streets that make city pickup locations challenging - most major international agencies operate at the airport.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage and ensure it's documented with photos, and verify you have the rental agreement, insurance documents, and emergency contact numbers for the agency.

Download offline GPS maps before your trip as mobile data can be expensive, and note that Valletta's steep hills, one-way streets, and historic layout can confuse navigation apps - familiarize yourself with the route beforehand.

Fill up fuel before returning (most rentals require full-to-full policy) at stations outside Valletta as they're scarce in the city center, and budget for paid parking in designated areas or park-and-ride facilities outside the fortified walls.

Plan extra time for airport returns during peak hours and confirm the exact drop-off location with your agency, as Malta International Airport has specific rental car return areas that can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Valletta's historic streets are extremely narrow with tight corners and limited visibility - many roads are barely wide enough for one vehicle, making two-way traffic challenging and requiring constant vigilance for pedestrians and oncoming cars.

Parking in Valletta is severely limited and most street parking is resident-only - unauthorized parking results in hefty fines or towing, so use designated paid parking areas or park outside the city walls and walk in.

The city's steep hills combined with cobblestone and limestone surfaces become slippery when wet - exercise extreme caution during rain and be prepared for challenging uphill starts on inclines.

Many streets in Valletta's UNESCO-protected center are pedestrian-only or have restricted access during certain hours - verify current traffic restrictions before driving as enforcement is strict and fines are substantial.