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Driving in Malta is your ticket to hidden gems. But let’s be honest, driving in a foreign country can be daunting. This guide aims to make your driving experience in Malta safe and enjoyable.
Driving in Malta: Understanding Maltese Roads
Let’s decode the roads you’ll drive on in Malta.
Narrow lanes: Most of Malta’s roads are one-lane, and they do not have wide lanes. They’re narrow and curvy. Stay focused.
Road signs similar to those in the UK and EU: They closely resemble those in the UK and other EU countries. Still, it’s worthwhile to review them.
Mixed road quality: Smooth one minute, bumpy the next. Keep your eyes on it.
Roundabouts everywhere: In Malta, there are so many roundabouts. And no one is eager to let you in. Enter slowly or you’ll be stuck.
Few traffic lights: Don’t expect too many traffic lights. They’re mainly for pedestrians who press a button to cross.
One-way streets: You’ll find plenty of one-way roads. Make sure you’re on the right way.
Village roads: Tiny, narrow lanes snake through villages. Drive slow and honk to alert oncoming traffic.
Need advice on renting a car in Malta? Here’s my guide with insider tips on everything you need to know.
Driving on the Left
Driving on the left in Malta might feel like writing with your non-dominant hand at first—awkward and unnatural. But don’t worry, you’ll get it. Start by picking a less busy road or time of day for your first drive. This gives you room to make mistakes without heavy traffic. Adjust your mirrors right away, especially the left one; it’s your guidepost.
When you approach a roundabout, remember: the left is your friend. Enter slowly and stay in the left lane. If you’re unsure, follow the traffic flow; let the locals be your guides. And speaking of locals, watch how they navigate turns, lane changes, and roundabouts. Mimic their moves and you’ll blend right in.
And finally, relax. Take deep breaths if you feel overwhelmed. Driving on the left will soon feel as natural as driving on the right, turning your Maltese road trip into a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Driving Behavior on Maltese Roads: What to Expect and How to Adapt
Unpredictable lane choices: Drivers in Malta often use any open lane, whether left or right. They also use any lane to overtake. Maintain a safe distance and remain alert.
Lack of road manners: Turn signals and other driving norms are often ignored. Keep your eyes on the road and try to anticipate other drivers’ moves.
Roundabout chaos: Roundabouts can be a mess, with drivers making unexpected turns. Stick to the left and follow the car in front.
Lack of adherence to traffic laws: Rules are more like guidelines here. Know the rules yourself and be prepared for others to bend them.
Driving in Malta requires vigilance and adaptability. With these tips, you’ll be better equipped to navigate Maltese driving quirks.
Driving in Malta: Dealing with Aggressive Drivers
Maltese drivers have a reputation for being pushy. Here’s how to handle them:
Keep your distance: Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to manoeuvre.
Use your indicators: Signal your intentions clearly.
Stay calm: It’s easy to panic. Take deep breaths. You’ve got this.
Don’t engage: Ignore honking and hand gestures. Keep your eyes on the road.
Navigating the Parking Dilemma in Malta
Parking in Malta can feel like a game of musical chairs—everyone’s circling, waiting for a spot to free up. It’s especially hard to find parking in Valletta, St. Julians, Sliema, Gzira or St. Paul’s Bay.
Street Parking
Street parking is free but pay attention to the parking colours. White bays are for everyone. Yellow? Steer clear—no parking allowed. Valletta’s green zones are no-gos unless you’re a resident. Blue zones offer nighttime parking for locals. Always check the signs.
In some localities, signs limit parking to 90 minutes or more. Read them carefully; they’re your guide to avoiding fines.
Public Parking and Tips
Public parking areas often have attendants who manage car flow. They keep things moving and deserve thanks. Keep a couple of euros handy for a tip; it’s the norm here.
Private Car Parks
In busy towns like St. Julians, Sliema and Valletta, parking can be a high-stakes game. But there are private car parks. They’re your best bet when the streets are jam-packed, and they won’t break the bank. Expect to pay around 10 euros for a full day.
Driving in Malta: A Map with Parking Locations
Here’s a parking map. Green pins are public parking lots where you tip the parking attendant. The blue pins are private parking lots where you pay for every hour you park there.
On this map, you’ll find the main parking lots in locations where parking is limited. In other places, street parking is easier to find.
Driving in Malta doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and mindset, it can be a delightful part of your vacation. You’re now equipped to tackle Maltese roads like a pro. Happy driving!
Mastered the art of driving and parking in Malta? Great, now let’s broaden the horizon. Dive into our other guides to discover more. Whether it’s hopping on a local bus, renting the perfect car, or picking the best month to visit, we’ve got you covered. And don’t miss our insider tips on Maltese towns, historical hotspots, and hidden gems. Your Maltese adventure is just a click away.
