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Air Travel

Air Travel

Malta

Airlines & Airport Facilities

Airlines and Routes to MLA

MLA connects well, especially with European cities. Air Malta, Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Alitalia operate flights.

Route Information

  • Direct flights mainly connect Malta with cities across Europe.
  • Major hubs include London, Rome, Frankfurt, Paris, Madrid, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
  • Travelers from other continents connect through European hubs like London or Frankfurt.

Airport Facilities & Services

Malta International Airport presents a range of services for travelers.

Amenities & Connectivity

  • Duty-free shopping, various restaurants and cafes.
  • Car rental desks, currency exchange services, and ATMs.
  • Free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the terminal.

High Season Prices

June-August: Flight frequency increases. Prices are at their peak. Early booking recommended.

Shoulder Season Value

April-May, Sep-Oct: Good balance of availability and competitive prices. Often preferred for travel.

Low Season Savings

Nov-March: Flight frequency decreases. Lowest prices for travel. Fewer direct options possible.

Transfer Options to Gozo Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal

Public Transport Options

  • Express Bus (X1): Connects MLA directly to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal.
  • Journey takes 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
  • Fare around €2.50 in summer, €2 in winter. Pay with cash or Tallinja card.
  • The Tallinja card is Malta Public Transport's travel card.

Private & Rental Options

  • Taxis are available outside the terminal. Cost: €35-€40 to Cirkewwa.
  • Pre-booked private transfers offer maximum convenience.
  • Rental Car: Pick up at MLA. Drive to Cirkewwa takes 45-60 minutes.
  • Rental cars are allowed on the Gozo ferry.

Air Travel Pro Tips

Booking Flights

For competitive prices, compare options on platforms like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner. Book well in advance, especially for peak season travel.

Connecting Flights

If traveling from outside Europe, plan your international leg to arrive at a major European hub for an easier onward connection to Malta.

Airport Arrival

Once at MLA, consider your transfer preference to the Cirkewwa ferry terminal based on budget and convenience, from express bus to private transfer or rental car.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving & Requirements

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. A valid national driving license is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU/EEA license holders.

Driving Information

  • Roads on Malta and Gozo are generally good.
  • Some rural roads on Gozo are narrow, winding, and unpaved.
  • Signage is clear and often in English.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads are well-maintained. Secondary and rural roads in Gozo can be narrower and less smooth.

Safety Advice

  • Drivers on Malta can sometimes be aggressive; drive defensively.
  • Be aware of scooters and motorbikes, which may weave through traffic.
  • On Gozo, driving is generally more relaxed, but narrow village streets need caution.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Several local companies in Gozo offer motorcycle and scooter rentals. Requirements mirror car rental for age and license.

Safety & Utility

  • Helmets are mandatory and provided with the rental.
  • Scooters are useful for navigating narrow village streets.
  • Check the condition of the vehicle before renting.

Bicycle Rentals

Gozo lacks an island-wide bicycle sharing program. Several shops in Victoria and coastal towns offer bicycle rentals, including mountain bikes and electric bikes (e-bikes).

Cycling on Gozo

  • E-bikes are excellent for tackling Gozo's hilly terrain without excessive effort.
  • Dedicated cycling lanes are limited; cyclists share roads with vehicles.
  • Wear a helmet and bright clothing for visibility.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Driving laws: Drive on the left. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits: 80 km/h (50 mph) on main roads, 50 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas.
  • Insurance: Rental car insurance covers damage and third-party liability.
  • Parking: Challenging in popular areas (Victoria, coastal resorts) during peak season.
  • Colored bays: Blue for paid parking, White for free, Green for residents only.
  • Observe parking restrictions closely to avoid fines.

Sea Arrivals

Gozo Channel Line Ferry

This is the main ferry service connecting Cirkewwa, Malta, to Mġarr Harbour, Gozo. Ferries operate frequently.

Information

  • Frequency: Every 45 minutes during peak times.
  • Duration: Crossing takes approximately 25 minutes.
  • Fare: Passengers pay only on the return journey from Gozo to Malta.

Fast Ferry & Cruise Connections

Two companies, Virtu Ferries Gozo and Gozo Fast Ferry, offer high-speed catamaran services between Valletta, Malta, and Mġarr, Gozo.

Fast Ferry & Cruise Ship Notes

  • Multiple daily trips, journey around 45 minutes.
  • Fare around €7.50 one-way for adults.
  • Cruise ships dock at Valletta Grand Harbour. Day trips to Gozo are arranged from Valletta.

Bus Terminal

Upon arrival at Mġarr Harbour, a public bus terminal is outside the ferry terminal, connecting to Victoria and other villages.

Taxi Stand

Taxis are available at Mġarr Harbour for immediate transport to your Gozo destination.

Car Rentals

Pre-booked rental cars can be picked up from agencies near the harbor or in Victoria upon arrival.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied at Malta International Airport for departing passengers. These costs are typically included in your airfare.

Departure Guidelines

  • For international flights, arrive at MLA at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and passport control.
  • During peak travel seasons, allow extra time.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

MLA presents a range of facilities past security for departing travelers.

Amenities & Relaxation

  • Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
  • Various restaurants and cafes for dining before your flight.
  • Relaxing areas and VIP lounges for eligible passengers.

Timing Your Departure from Gozo

Gozo to Ferry

Allow sufficient time for travel from your Gozo accommodation to Mġarr Harbour, especially if driving or relying on local transport schedules.

Ferry & Transfer to MLA

Factor in the 25-minute ferry crossing and potential queues for vehicles at the terminal. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the X1 bus or taxi journey from Cirkewwa to MLA.

Overall Time Estimate

Generally allow at least 4-5 hours from leaving your Gozo accommodation to your flight departure time at MLA, depending on your location and traffic.

Smooth Departure from Gozo

Careful timing of your transfer from Gozo to Malta International Airport is for a stress-free departure.