24/08/2017
Malta, a jewel in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal landscapes. For visitors keen to explore its wonders, particularly the bustling hubs of Valletta and Sliema, understanding the local transport options is key to a smooth and enjoyable trip. While public buses and ferries provide economical alternatives, taxis stand out as the premier choice for speed, convenience, and bespoke travel experiences. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about navigating Malta's charming cities using taxis, ensuring you make the most of your precious holiday time.
Valletta to Sliema: The Swift Connection
One of the most frequent routes for visitors is the journey between Malta's historic capital, Valletta, and the vibrant, more contemporary Sliema. These two popular destinations are surprisingly close, yet offer distinct atmospheres. For those prioritising speed and comfort, a taxi is undoubtedly the superior choice.
Taxi vs. Other Modes: A Quick Comparison
Getting from Valletta to Sliema can be achieved through several means, each with its own advantages:
- Taxi: The fastest way, typically taking around 8 minutes. While a specific cost for this direct route isn't always publicly advertised in the same way as airport transfers, taxis offer unparalleled door-to-door service and efficiency, making them ideal for those on a tight schedule or with luggage.
- Bus: A direct bus service departs from Valletta and arrives at Ferries 5, Tas-Sliema. Buses run frequently, every 30 minutes, and operate daily. The journey by bus takes approximately 15 minutes, offering a cost-effective alternative.
- Ferry: A scenic and enjoyable option, the ferry service between Sliema and Valletta is highly popular. During both summer and winter seasons, ferries run every 15 minutes from 7:00 am to 7:15 pm, commencing service from Sliema. In summer, a convenient night ferry service continues from 7:30 pm to 12:45 am. The ferry journey itself is swift, also taking around 15 minutes, and provides stunning views of the harbour. However, during winter, services cease after 7:00 pm from Sliema and 7:15 pm from Valletta, so planning is essential.
For sheer speed and convenience, especially when time is of the essence, the taxi remains the top contender for this popular inter-city transfer.
Taxi Fares from Malta International Airport (MLA) to Sliema
Upon arrival at Malta International Airport (MLA), many travellers head directly to the popular tourist hub of Sliema. Understanding the taxi fares in advance can help you budget and plan effectively.
Transparent Pricing
The standard taxi fare from Malta Airport to Sliema, when booked directly from the Arrival Hall, is typically €20. This fixed price provides peace of mind, eliminating any surprises upon reaching your destination. It's important to note that prices can vary slightly depending on how and when you book your taxi:
- At the Arrival Hall: Expect to pay the standard €20.
- Advance Booking: If you book a taxi several hours in advance, for example, 6 hours prior to your arrival, the price might be slightly higher. For instance, a pre-booked cab could cost around €22.90. While a small increase, this option guarantees a vehicle will be waiting for you, which can be particularly reassuring during peak travel times or late-night arrivals.
Always confirm the price when booking, whether at the counter or through an online service, to ensure full transparency.
Exploring Valletta: Taxi Tours and Costs
Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a city best explored at your own pace. While walking allows you to soak in its unique atmosphere, taxis offer an excellent way to cover more ground, especially when visiting sites further afield or opting for a guided tour experience.
Valletta Waterfront: Your Gateway to Taxis
If you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll most likely dock at the Valletta Waterfront. This is one of Europe's most advanced cruise ports, offering a range of facilities including shops and restaurants with Wi-Fi. Conveniently located near the port exit, you'll find a tourist information point, a hop-on hop-off bus desk, car/scooter rental, and most importantly, the taxi desk.
Hourly Taxi Tour Rates
Taxis in Valletta offer flexible hourly tours, allowing you to customise your sightseeing itinerary. Prices are per taxi, accommodating up to 4 persons, making them a cost-effective option for small groups. Here’s a breakdown of the advertised rates:
- 1-hour taxi tour: €26
- 2-hour taxi tour: €52
- 4-hour taxi tour: €80
- 6-hour taxi tour: €108
- 8-hour taxi tour: €136
These rates provide excellent value for a private tour, enabling you to visit multiple attractions without the hassle of navigating public transport or adhering to fixed tour schedules.
Fixed Recommended Taxi Tours
For those who prefer a pre-planned itinerary, taxis also offer fixed recommended tours that cover some of Malta's most iconic landmarks. These tours are designed to maximise your sightseeing experience within a set duration and price:
- Tour A (2 hours): Visit Mdina the Silent City, Rabat, and Ta’ Qali Crafts Village. Cost: €52.
- Tour B (3 hours): Explore Mdina the Silent City, Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, and Mosta Rotunda. Cost: €66.
- Tour C (4 hours): Discover San Anton Gardens, Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, Mdina the Silent City, Mosta Rotunda, and a scenic drive around the coast road of Sliema & Valletta. Cost: €80.
- Tour D (5 hours): Journey to Tarxien Temples, the Three Cities (including Senglea point), Marsaxlokk fishing village, and the Blue Grotto. Cost: €94.
These fixed tours are an excellent way to see a lot of Malta's highlights efficiently, guided by a local driver who knows the best routes and points of interest.
A Unique Alternative: The Cab Horse Ride
For a truly memorable and traditional experience, consider a "Cab Horse Ride". These charming horse-drawn carriages offer a unique way to tour Valletta, providing a leisurely and romantic journey through the city's streets. A Cab Horse Ride typically costs €60 per hour and includes a full tour around Valletta, allowing you to take in the sights at a more relaxed pace.
Public Transport vs. Taxis in Valletta
While taxis offer unparalleled convenience, it's worth understanding the broader transport landscape in Valletta to make informed decisions for your travel needs.
The Public Bus System
Malta's public bus system is a very affordable way to get around the island. The main bus station is located at the Triton Fountain, approximately a 10-minute uphill walk from the Valletta Waterfront cruise port. Bus 130 makes a stop right outside the port, though this particular bus only circulates within Valletta.
For destinations beyond Valletta, you'll likely need to head to the main bus station. Here are some key routes:
- Bus 71: To the Blue Grotto and Hagar Im Temples.
- Buses 41, 42, 44: To Mosta.
- Buses 51, 52, 53: To Mdina.
- Bus 81, 82: To Hypogeum.
- Bus 81, 85: To Marsaxlokk.
Tickets can be purchased from the driver when boarding, but it's often more convenient to buy them in advance online, at a booth, from resellers, or at a machine. While cheap, buses can be slower due to multiple stops and may not offer the directness of a taxi, especially when travelling with luggage or in a hurry.
Hop-on Hop-off Buses
Valletta also features hop-on hop-off bus services, with multiple companies offering various routes across Malta. These are a popular choice for tourists, typically costing around €15 a day. They provide a flexible way to see many sights, allowing you to alight at attractions and re-board when ready. However, they operate on fixed routes and schedules, which might not suit everyone's pace or specific itinerary, and can sometimes be confusing with multiple companies and routes.
Taxis, in contrast, offer door-to-door service, privacy, and the ability to dictate your own schedule, making them a premium choice for personalised travel.
Key Travel Information Table
To help you decide the best way to travel between Valletta and Sliema, here's a comparative overview:
| Mode of Transport | Journey Time (Valletta to Sliema) | Frequency | Cost Indication | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~8 minutes | On demand (widely available) | Premium (specific cost not provided for this route, but generally higher than bus/ferry) | Fastest, direct, private, comfortable |
| Public Bus | ~15 minutes | Every 30 minutes | Economical (e.g., single fare ~€1.50-€2.00) | Cost-effective, direct |
| Ferry | ~15 minutes | Every 15 minutes (seasonal night service) | Economical (e.g., return ticket ~€2.80) | Scenic, enjoyable, direct |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How fast is a taxi from Valletta to Sliema?
A taxi is the fastest way to get from Valletta to Sliema, typically taking approximately 8 minutes, offering a swift and direct journey between the two locations.
How much does a taxi cost from Malta Airport to Sliema?
The standard taxi fare from Malta Airport to Sliema is €20 when booked from the Arrival Hall. Prices may vary slightly if booked in advance, for example, €22.90 for a booking made 6 hours prior.
Can I book taxis for tours in Valletta?
Yes, taxis in Valletta are widely available for private tours. You can book them by the hour (e.g., €26 for 1 hour, €136 for 8 hours) or choose from fixed recommended tours (e.g., Tour A for €52, Tour D for €94), which cover popular attractions across Malta. Prices are per taxi, for up to 4 persons.
Where can I find taxis at Valletta Cruise Port?
At the Valletta Waterfront cruise port, taxis are readily available at a dedicated taxi desk located next to the Tourist Information stand, just outside the port exit. This convenient location ensures easy access for cruise passengers.
Are there alternatives to taxis for getting around Valletta and Malta?
Yes, while taxis offer premium convenience, you can also use Malta's public bus system, with the main bus station at Triton Fountain (a 10-minute walk from the port), or take advantage of the hop-on hop-off bus services available from multiple companies. For scenic travel between Valletta and Sliema, the ferry is also a popular option.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for the quickest way to hop between Valletta and Sliema, a comfortable transfer from Malta Airport, or a personalised tour of the island's many treasures, taxis offer an unbeatable combination of speed, convenience, and flexibility. While public transport and ferries provide excellent budget-friendly alternatives, the efficiency and door-to-door service of a taxi often prove invaluable for travellers seeking to maximise their time and experience Malta with ease. With transparent pricing for airport transfers and a range of tour options, taxis in Malta are a reliable and highly recommended mode of transport for any visitor. Plan your journeys wisely, and enjoy the unparalleled beauty and charm of this magnificent Mediterranean destination.
If you want to read more articles similar to Navigating Malta: Taxis in Valletta & Sliema, you can visit the Transport category.