Malta

1. Der Hafen

2. zu Fuß

    2.1 Das Cruise Terminal

3. Shuttlebusse

4. öffentlicher Nahverkehr

5. Stadtrundfahrten

6. Bimmelbahn

7. Mietwagen

8. Landausflüge buchen

    8.1 GetYourGuide

    8.2 Viator

Malta, the smallest state in the European Union by land area, is strategically located in the heart of the Mediterranean. The archipelago looks back on a turbulent history, which is reflected in the baroque alleys of the capital, Valletta, and the prehistoric temple complexes.

Today, with an estimated population of around 574,000 people (as of 2025), Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The population is internationally influenced, which is evident in its cultural diversity and bilingualism (Maltese and English). In addition to tourism, the economy benefits greatly from the financial and gaming sectors. The crystal-clear water and mild climate also make the islands a highly sought-after place to live and a popular travel destination.

The Grand Harbour in Valletta is among the most impressive natural harbors in the world. Surrounded by massive fortification walls, it bears witness to Malta's strategic importance throughout history. Today, it is a vibrant hub where modern cruise ships meet traditional boats, while the historical backdrop of the 'Three Cities' creates an incomparable atmosphere. The cruise terminal is beautiful; it is located across from the harbor, and the path to the ship then goes underground.

The Valletta Cruise Terminal, located at the historic Valletta Waterfront, is considered one of the most spectacular ports of call in the Mediterranean. Its heart consists of 19 restored 18th-century warehouses, whose iconic colorful doors once indicated the type of goods stored inside (such as wine or grain).

Today, the terminal welcomes over 940,000 passengers annually (as of 2024). Right on the quay, travelers will find a vibrant promenade with first-class restaurants and shops. The connection is particularly convenient: the Barrakka Lift is just a few minutes' walk away, transporting visitors directly into the heart of the UNESCO-listed old town in seconds. This combination of historic charm and modern infrastructure makes Malta an award-winning cruise port.

As a rule, ships dock at the Valletta Waterfront cruise terminal, from where it is only a few minutes' walk into the city. If there are more than two ships in the harbor, large cruise ships move to the other side of the Grand Harbour. You can find more information on the Valletta Cruise Port website.

When the ships are docked directly at the Cruise Terminal, the city can be reached in just a few minutes on foot. The Barrakka Lift is located 500 meters from the terminal and takes you directly into the old town.

If your cruise ship is not docked at the Valletta Waterfront Cruise Terminal, free shuttle buses will be provided to take you to the terminal.

Public transport in Malta is well-developed. Buses connect the villages with the towns, and schedules can be found online or at the bus stops.

Tickets and Prices:

• Tickets are always valid for two hours, including transfers.
• Single journey (Winter): €2.00
• Single journey (Summer): €2.50

Payment is made contactless via credit card or smartphone, or in cash directly to the driver (small change is preferred).

Directly at the harbor, two companies offer city sightseeing tours. In addition to the well-known red buses from City Sightseeing, there are also the white buses from Malta Sightseeing, a local company. Both providers operate two routes, covering the South and the North of the island. You can buy tickets on-site or conveniently from home here.

If you would like to explore the old town by trackless train, you can catch one of the colorful trains operated by Malta Fun Train from St. John's Co-Cathedral. The trains depart every hour and half-hour, and the ride costs €7.

On the Valletta Waterfront promenade, there is a stand that offers four different tours ranging from two to five hours in duration. You can choose a fixed route or customize your own itinerary. Afterwards, you take your ticket to the nearby taxi stand.

Alternatively, you can book a taxi or a private car via various apps. The most well-known app is Bolt, which offers tours at fair prices. The second provider is eCabs. Uber is now also available in Malta and is enjoying increasing popularity.

All of these apps offer cruise passengers price certainty, as the fares are displayed before booking and the payment is charged directly to your credit card.

At the Valletta Waterfront, you can rent Twizys. Smarter Car Rental offers these small electric cars, with daily rates starting at €100.

Please note: Malta follows left-hand traffic, and the traffic especially in Valletta is very dense. The speed limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h on open roads

Viator, a Tripadvisor company, is one of the world's leading online marketplaces for travel experiences. The platform provides travelers with access to more than 300,000 activities, including guided tours, day trips, attraction tickets, and exclusive experiences in thousands of destinations worldwide. A key advantage for users is the millions of authentic traveler reviews that help in making informed choices. 

Viator is known for its high flexibility:

• offering free cancellation on many bookings up to 24 hours in advance.
• Additionally, the "reserve now, pay later" option provides financial freedom during trip planning. 

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