Compare Malta car hire

All road signs are in English and driving is on the left, so there shouldn’t be any confusion. Do keep an eye out for erratic driving in Malta, though – not all drivers will indicate, while overtaking on the inside and reversing into main roads are relatively common manoeuvres.

Airport car hire in Malta is quick and convenient, with many– including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt – based inside the arrivals lounge at the airport. Cheap Malta car hire companies include Thrifty and First Car Rental, which offer a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices. If you’ve booked in advance all you have to do turn up and present your driver’s licence, a credit or debit card and some form of ID.

There are plenty of pick-up points around Malta if you’d prefer to give it a day or so before hopping into your hire car. With Avis you can collect your car from the Hilton Hotel in St Julian’s, downtown Msida, or from the ferry point in Gozo. Budget customers can collect their cars in Bugibba, Mellieha, Msida, Mgarr and St Julian’s, while Europcar vehicles are available in Gudja and Naxxar.

Car rental in Malta is usually quite reasonable; just keep an eye out for any costly extras, such as child seats and sat navs. If insurance cover isn’t part of your rental agreement, you might be offered collision damage waiver and theft protection as add-ons too. Booking your rental car online means you can see exactly what’s included and check you are getting the cheapest deal.

1. Be aware of speed limits in Malta: 64kph (40mph) on highways and 40kph (25mph) in built-up areas.
   
   
2. Keep a list of emergency contacts to call in case of an accident or breakdown.
   
   
3. Petrol stations in Malta tend to be closed on Sundays, so keep an eye on that fuel gauge!