Malta: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Traveling around Malta can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a flexible way to see the island’s highlights. The Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to get an overview of Malta’s most famous sights, all from the comfort of a bright, open-top double-decker bus. With reviews averaging a solid 4 out of 5 from more than 1,600 travelers, this tour has proven popular among visitors seeking an easy, accessible way to explore.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its self-guided pace and the chance to hop off at key locations, from historic sites to scenic seaside villages. We love the value it offers, especially at just $28 per person for a full day, and the variety of sights included across both routes. However, a potential downside is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for tickets to attractions like the Hypogeum or Mdina.

This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview without the hassle of organizing transportation or guided groups. If you’re someone who enjoys discovering sites at your own speed, appreciates good value, and wants the flexibility to prioritize must-see spots, this is likely a good fit.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing allows you to hop on and off at major attractions.
• Good value for money at $28 for a full-day pass.
• Includes audio guides in multiple languages for self-guided learning.
• Multiple routes cover both north and south Malta, maximizing your exploration.
• Tour stops include Blue Grotto, Mdina, Valletta, and more.
• Timing and frequency are designed to fit most schedules, with buses departing regularly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

If you’re trying to make the most of a limited Malta visit, this hop-on hop-off bus service offers a practical solution. It’s not a guided tour with a single narrative, but rather a self-paced experience that lets you decide when to explore each stop and how long to linger. The buses, operated by Supreme Travel Limited, are bright red for the south route and blue for the north, making them easy to spot at the Sliema Ferries departure point.

The price of $28 per person is quite reasonable for a whole day of sightseeing, especially given the number of stops and the convenience of not worrying about transportation logistics. Plus, children under 5 travel free, making it a good option for families on a budget.

How the Routes Work

There are two main routes: the South Malta Route (Red Route) and the North Malta Route (Blue Route). Each offers a different slice of the island, with some overlapping stops. The south route takes you to Valletta, the Hypogeum, and the Blue Grotto, while the north route covers Mdina, San Anton Gardens, and Golden Bay. You can buy a ticket that covers both routes, giving you the flexibility to see more in one day.

The buses depart from Sliema Ferries with frequent schedules:

• South route buses leave at 0930, 1030, 1130, 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 (from Monday to Saturday).
• North route buses leave at 0900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 (also Monday to Saturday).

This regularity means you’re unlikely to miss your bus unless you’re running late, and the comfortable, open-top design makes for a pleasant ride, especially in good weather.

What You’ll See and Experience

While riding through Malta’s varied landscapes, you’ll get interesting commentary via audio guides in a multitude of languages, from English and German to Japanese and Chinese. This service helps fill in the background on each stop, turning a simple bus ride into an educational journey.

Of course, since entrance tickets are not included, you’ll need to budget extra for attractions like the Mdina Cathedral or the prehistoric temples at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. But the tour’s real strength is in its ability to give you a broad overview—perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

The Stops and Their Charm

• Blue Grotto: A highlight for many, this stunning sea cave is worth a quick stop. The reviews mention the Blue Grotto as a “sight to see,” with some travelers describing it as “magical.” Keep in mind, you might want to book a boat trip here separately if you want to go inside or explore further.

• Valletta: The fortified capital is a must-see, with its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. The tour offers a good introduction, but some reviews suggest that the audio guide could be improved, as it sometimes features more music than information.

• Mdina & Rabat: The ancient “Silent City” provides a glimpse into Malta’s medieval past. It’s a picturesque spot that’s perfect for wandering at your own pace.

• Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples: These UNESCO-listed prehistoric sites are fascinating. While the tour stops nearby, you’ll need separate tickets to enter — a common theme with this kind of sightseeing.

• Fishing Villages & Beaches: Stops like Marsaxlokk and Golden Bay allow for relaxed visits, whether for a quick photo or a snack.

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Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Many reviews highlight the value of exploring Malta by bus instead of expensive private tours or car rentals. The friendly staff and punctuality make the experience smoother, with some reviewers noting the helpfulness when dealing with delays or confusion. One traveler mentioned that the buses are comfortable and run to timetable, which is a relief when planning your day.

A few users pointed out some limitations — like waiting times due to capacity issues or buses sometimes being delayed. Others mention that the audio guides could be more engaging, but overall, the service is appreciated for its affordability and convenience.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

To maximize your visit, we recommend starting early, especially if you want to explore multiple stops. The early departures from Sliema are ideal for fitting in as many sights as possible. Remember, entrances are not included, so plan your budget accordingly.

Ask for a map and timetable when you check in, as some reviews mention slight differences in stop times. Doing a bit of research ahead on which stops interest you most will help you allocate your time wisely — for example, dedicating more time to Mdina or Valletta if those are your priorities.

If you’re looking for authentic Maltese flavor, consider pairing this bus tour with a local meal or a visit to a seaside tavern. The tour’s flexibility allows you to jump off, explore, and hop back on, making it a practical way to experience Malta’s diverse scenery and culture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off bus tour is perfect for travelers who want an inexpensive, flexible way to see Malta’s highlights without the stress of navigating public transport or organizing guided tours. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting an overview or families seeking a simple, safe way to explore.

The audio guides in multiple languages are a bonus, making it accessible for international visitors. If you enjoy self-guided sightseeing with the option to customize your day, this tour offers a good balance of structure and independence.

However, if you’re eager to visit specific sites that require paid entry, or if you prefer guided commentary and group tours, this might not be the perfect fit. The lack of included entrance fees and some reports of bus delays or capacity issues should be kept in mind.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers genuine value and convenience. It allows you to cover a lot of ground quickly, enjoy Malta’s scenery from an open-top bus, and decide when and where to explore more deeply. It’s a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who want an overview without the hassle of planning every detail.

The friendly service and reliable schedules make it a trustworthy option, especially if you’re eager to get the lay of the land and then revisit favorites later on foot or by other means. It’s a flexible, fun, and affordable way to experience Malta’s many charms.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the ticket include entrance fees for attractions?

No, the ticket covers only the bus ride and audio guide. Entrance fees for sites like Mdina or Blue Grotto are extra.

• What are the departure times?

South Malta buses leave from 0930 to 1500, Monday to Saturday; North Malta buses run from 0900 to 1500 on the same days. Exact times are posted at the meeting point.

• Can I buy a ticket and use it for both routes?

Yes, if you select a combined ticket, you’ll be able to hop between the north and south routes within the same day.

• Are the buses wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour states that the buses are wheelchair accessible.

• How long does the full route take?

The blue/north route takes about 180 minutes, but actual travel time can vary depending on traffic and stops.

• Is there a shuttle service from hotels?

Some reviews mention a shuttle service that picks up from major hotels to the meeting point, but check with your accommodation for availability.

This comprehensive, practical look at Malta’s hop-on hop-off bus tour should help you decide if it matches your travel style. Whether you want a quick overview or a flexible way to hop between sights, it offers a straightforward, budget-friendly option to enjoy Malta’s many treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: