Arguments For and Against Renting a Car in Malta

Planning a commute around the tiny island of Malta boils down to two options: renting a car or relying on Malta’s public bus system. Although both are decent options, one requires more flexibility and freedom while the other requires adherence to a pre-determined schedule and possible hiccups in service. When trying to make the decision, here are a few other items to consider.

Left-Side Driving

If you’re not from one of the world’s countries where drivers cruise on the left side of the road, you may be in for a shock in Malta, a former British colony. The now-independent country drives on the left side, so be sure to spend some time practicing by circling the car rental office.

Questionable Roads

Not all of Malta’s roads are paved or large enough for two vehicles, so drivers are advised to stay alert and obey signs and laws.

Aggressive Drivers

In addition to risky road conditions, drivers in Malta are wont to be slightly assertive behind the wheel, so it’s wise to drive defensively and let the locals control the roads.

Manual Versus Automatic

Car rental offices should have vehicles that offer both manual and automatic transmission, but rental prices for automatic cars are typically higher. If you’re traveling on a budget, opt for a car with manual transmission and —as with driving on the left side of the road — try to squeeze in some practice driving before you take to Malta’s roads.