Hop-on Hop-off Malta Bus Tours

What is a Hop-on Hop-off tour?

A Hop-on Hop-off tour offers a flexible and hassle-free way to explore a city, perfect for travelers looking to visit major attractions at their own pace. These buses operate on a fixed route with multiple stops at iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, allowing passengers to hop off to explore something they are interested in and hop back on the next bus when they are ready to continue. Tickets are usually valid for 24 hours or longer, offering plenty of time to take in the sights. Many of these tours also include either live commentaries or multilingual audio guides.

Exploring Malta with City Sightseeing bus tours

Malta is truly an underrated treasure trove of history, shaped by centuries of Roman, Greek, Arab, Norman, and British influences. Yet, it rarely gets the recognition it deserves as a top travel destination. City Sightseeing makes exploring effortless with two Hop-on Hop-off bus tours across the islands of Malta and Gozo. Ever seen temples older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza? You will at Hagar Qim! These tours have it all, from historical landmarks and breathtaking coastal views to the UNESCO-recognized capital city of Valletta.

Finding the perfect Hop-on Hop-off pass duration:

1-day pass: Ideal to cover essentials at your own pace. With the 1-day, City Sightseeing offers both Malta and Gozo Hop-on Hop-off tours. In Malta, you’ll have access to two routes and 38 stops, while Gozo offers 15 stops across two scenic routes. We recommend doing one route in Malta and both Gozo routes if you can – it’ll give a great balance of both islands. Along the way, take a quick stop at a local supermarket for some traditional Maltese snacks, like Galletti (crispy crackers), Ġbejna (Maltese cheeselets), and Bigilla (a rich bean dip). Don’t forget a refreshing local drink like Kinnie (a citrusy soft drink) or a bottle of wine made with indigenous grape varieties, Gellewża (red) or Girgentina (white).

2-day pass: Double the time, double the fun! If you’ve got a bit more time, the 2-day pass gives you extra flexibility. You’ll still have access to the two routes and 38 stops in Malta, but with more time to dive deeper. A must-do addition to this pass is the optional Harbor Cruise, which is for about two hours, ideally in the late afternoon, to catch the golden hour sunset over the beautiful Maltese coastline. Do a full loop of both routes so you can pick out what locations you would like to visit again the next day!

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The Blue Grotto

Imagine sunlight bouncing off crystal-clear waters, casting glowing blues inside magical sea caves. That’s the Blue Grotto, a true highlight of Malta’s southern coast. This natural wonder is made up of a series of sea caverns carved into towering limestone cliffs. Take a boat ride through the caves (weather permitting), or simply admire the view from the panoramic cliffside viewpoint.

Tips to make the best of your Malta Hop-on Hop-off tour

When exploring Malta, dress as comfortably as possible. Wear light, breathable clothing, especially in the summer, as the island can get quite hot. However, it can be chilly in the winter and at night, so carry a light jacket with you.

Pastizzi is a must-try Maltese snack – a flaky, golden pastry filled with ricotta cheese and mushy peas. Don’t let your only experience of it be from a cafe. For the real deal, head to a pastizzeria early in the morning for the freshest, crispiest treats.

While there are taxis available for personal commutes, be cautious of white taxis – they are often priced higher for tourists.

Gozo's coastal views and forts make it perfect for daytime explorations, but it lacks nightlife options. Save your evenings for Malta’s vibrant night scenes, especially in areas like St. Julian’s or Valletta.

Do not forget to bring your sunscreen if you are opting for the Harbor Cruise. Apply it regularly at two-hour intervals, as the Maltese sun can be quite intense.

Frequently asked questions about the Malta Hop-on Hop-off bus tours

Are the Hop-on Hop-off buses accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?

Yes! The buses are fully accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring that all travelers can enjoy the sights comfortably.

Can I bring my pet on the bus?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on both Gozo and Malta Hop-on Hop-off tours.

When are the buses operational?

The Hop-on Hop-off tours run all year round, except on December 25. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, you'll be able to explore Malta and Gozo with ease.

What should I carry with me on the tour?

Make sure to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you're visiting in the summer. If you're planning to visit religious sites, be sure to dress modestly. A camera is also a must to capture the stunning sights!

What's the weather like in Malta, and when is the best time to visit?

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. If you love the heat, summer is perfect, but be sure to pack light clothing and plenty of sunscreen!