Malta: 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Harbour Cruise (CMO)

Travelers looking to get a good overview of Malta’s main attractions often consider a hop-on hop-off bus combined with a harbour cruise. This experience promises the convenience of seeing major sights at your own pace, with the added bonus of a scenic boat ride. While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive into every corner of the island, it offers a flexible way to cover a lot of ground in two days.

What we like about this tour is the flexibility of non-consecutive days, allowing you to spread out your sightseeing and avoid rushing. Plus, the harbour cruise offers a refreshing perspective of Malta’s waterfront, which many travelers find memorable. One potential drawback is that some reviewers found the café/restaurants on-site disappointing, which might matter if you’re planning to dine there frequently. This experience is best suited for those who want a convenient, cost-effective overview of Malta’s highlights, especially if you value land-and-sea views.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule with non-consecutive days to hop on and off
• Includes a scenic harbour cruise inside five days of activation
• Coverage of major attractions like Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities
• Wheelchair accessible and live English guide for easy touring
• Good value for money for those wanting both land and sea experiences
• Some dining options may disappoint, so plan meals accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Malta Experience

This tour offers a two-day pass that grants unlimited travel on two routes—the North (Blue Line) and the South (Red Line)—which you can use on different days if you prefer. The idea is to give travelers maximum flexibility to explore at their own pace, hopping off at major sites like Mdina, the ancient “Silent City,” or Valletta, Malta’s bustling capital with its impressive fortifications and historic buildings.

The inclusion of a harbour cruise is a standout feature. You can redeem it within five days of activation, which means you don’t have to do it immediately. This scenic boat ride offers a different perspective of Malta’s coastline, with views of forts, sea caves, and the open water that you just can’t get from the land-based routes.

How the Routes Work

The Blue Line (North Route) generally covers the northern and central parts of Malta, with stops at places like Mdina, one of the island’s oldest cities, with narrow winding streets and a quiet, historic atmosphere. This is perfect if you’re into history and architecture, or just want a break from the busier areas.

The Red Line (South Route) tends to focus on the southern and maritime attractions, including the Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—each brimming with history and waterfront charm. This route is ideal if you’re interested in Malta’s maritime heritage and picturesque harbours.

The buses run on a schedule that allows you to hop on and off at these major stops, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Since the pass is valid for two non-consecutive days, you can customize your itinerary based on weather, energy levels, or specific interests.

What to Expect from the Harbour Cruise

The harbour cruise is one of the top highlights. It’s a chance to see Malta’s coastline from the water, with views of historical forts, sea caves, and the bustling ports. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas from the boat, which are great for photos and simply relaxing under the Maltese sun.

The cruise is redeemable within five days, providing some flexibility. It’s a popular add-on that often receives praise for its scenic quality, though the reviews don’t specify the boat type or duration.

The Practical Aspects

The pass includes unlimited rides on both bus routes, which means you can hop off at attractions, explore, and hop back on later—perfect for those who want to avoid rushing around. The buses are wheelchair accessible and come with live English guides, aiding comprehension and making the experience more engaging.

The cost of this package offers good value, especially compared to booking individual tours or taxis for multiple days. However, some reviews hint that on-site dining options, such as cafés and restaurants, might not meet every traveller’s expectations, so packing snacks or planning meals outside the tour might be wise.

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Authentic, Honest Traveler Feedback

One review states, “Overall, it’s acceptable; however, the café restaurant we frequent is disappointing. The food served in the evenings is truly substandard. It is not worth the price.” This indicates that while the land and sea touring experience is worthwhile, your dining experiences on-site might be hit or miss.

Another reviewer remarked on the good value for money and the stunning views, emphasizing that the combination of land and sea views makes for a memorable Malta experience. The flexibility of the two non-consecutive days is praised, allowing travelers to tailor their itinerary.

Deep Dive Into the Stops

Mdina: This ancient city is a highlight with its medieval walls, silent streets, and panoramic views. We loved the way it combines history with quiet beauty—an ideal stop for wandering and soaking in Maltese charm.

Valletta: Malta’s lively capital offers impressive fortifications, grand squares, and historic sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The bus stop here makes it easy to explore without the hassle of parking or taxis.

Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua are packed with history, waterfront cafes, and narrow alleyways. They’re perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Northern and Southern Routes: Covering different parts of the island ensures you see varied scenery—from the historic inland towns to lively harbours.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want an efficient overview without the hassle of coordinating multiple tours or transport. It’s excellent for first-timers to Malta, families, or those who prefer self-guided exploration with a reliable schedule. If you enjoy scenic boat rides and appreciate the flexibility of non-consecutive days, you’ll find this package well worth it.

The Sum Up

This Malta hop-on hop-off bus and harbour cruise combo offers a practical, reasonably priced way to see Malta’s most iconic sights and enjoy scenic waterfront views. The combination of land and sea provides a well-rounded experience, especially if you prefer a flexible, self-paced itinerary.

While the on-site dining options might leave something to be desired, the overall value and ease of use make this a good choice for travelers looking for a balanced introduction to Malta’s diverse attractions. If you’re interested in history, charming towns, and picturesque views—all at your own pace—this tour is definitely worth considering.

It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, flexibility, and want to get a broad sense of Malta without the stress of planning every detail. Just remember to bring your curiosity, patience, and perhaps a snack or two for the on-site cafes.

FAQ

How long is the harbour cruise?
The tour data doesn’t specify the exact duration, but it’s included as part of the experience and can be redeemed within five days, offering scenic views from the water.

Can I hop on and off the bus as much as I want?
Yes, the pass grants unlimited travel on both the North and South routes during the two days of validity, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Is the bus tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making this experience suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Are guides available on the bus?
Yes, the bus tours are guided by live English-speaking guides, adding context and insights as you travel.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The flexible schedule and scenic stops make it a good choice for family groups, especially those who want to see the highlights without rushing.

What should I do if I want to do the harbour cruise on the first day?
You can activate your pass and redeem the harbour cruise within five days, so it’s easy to plan for the first or second day depending on your schedule.

Are there any recommended stops I shouldn’t miss?
Mdina, Valletta, and the Three Cities are top attractions along the routes. These stops offer a good mix of history, culture, and waterfront views.

How does the pricing compare to other tours?
This package offers good value because it combines multiple experiences—bus routes and a harbour cruise—for one price, saving you the hassle and cost of booking separately.

What if I decide to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Traveling in Malta becomes much easier and more enjoyable with this flexible, land-and-sea pass. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, it offers a practical way to see the essentials and enjoy the stunning waters of this beautiful island.

You can check availability for your dates here: