Exploring Malta’s storied Three Cities in a self-driven electric vehicle offers a unique way to see the island’s highlights at your own pace. This experience combines sustainable transportation, engaging storytelling, and flexibility, making it a standout option for travelers who want an authentic, independent adventure.
We particularly love the ease of use of the electric car, the wide variety of attractions covered, and the multi-language audio guides that make the experience accessible to many. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to start at the designated meeting point, so planning your arrival is key. This tour is perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples eager to discover Malta without the constraints of a group tour or noisy bus.
Good To Know
- Eco-Friendly Exploration: Drive a silent, zero-emission electric car, contributing to Malta’s green initiatives.
- Flexible Itinerary: Travel at your own pace, choosing which sights to linger at and which to pass by.
- Multilingual Audio Guides: Learn about Malta’s culture and history in 8 different languages, including English, French, and Russian.
- Over 50 Attractions Covered: From historic forts and gardens to film studios and museums, there’s a lot to see.
- Ideal for Families: The safe, easy-to-drive vehicles and engaging content make this a family-friendly choice.
- No Hotel Pickup: The meeting point is conveniently located on the waterfront, close to the ferry to Valletta.
Why This Self-Drive Tour Stands Out
Driving your own electric car through Malta’s scenic streets offers a liberating experience. Unlike traditional guided tours, you set the pace and decide how long to stay at each spot. Plus, the GPS and audio guide system ensures you don’t miss out on the context behind each attraction—whether it’s a historic fort or a beautiful garden.
The price of $102 per group for up to two people is surprisingly reasonable considering the number of sights covered and the eco-conscious angle. For travelers looking for a flexible, engaging way to see Malta’s Three Cities, this hits the sweet spot between cost and experience. The inclusion of bottled water and assistance during your trip further enhances the value.
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What You Can Expect
The tour begins at the waterfront office, just 200 meters from the ferry to Valletta. After a quick briefing, you’ll hop into your self-drive electric vehicle, which is designed to be safe and user-friendly. The process is straightforward—learn the basics from your guide, then hit the road following the pre-programmed GPS.
You’ll wind your way through the three historic Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, each with their own unique character. The GPS audio guide will tell stories about each location, so even if you’re driving solo, you’ll absorb Malta’s history without feeling lost.
Along the way, you’ll pass notable sites like the Malta Film Studios, famed for hosting blockbuster productions, and the Grand Harbour Marina, where you can admire impressive yachts and ships. The Fort St. Angelo offers a glimpse into Malta’s defensive architecture, while gardens like Gardjola provide stunning views over the water.
The Malta Maritime Museum and Inquisitors Palace provide cultural insights, while the Malta at War Museum delves into the island’s WWII past. Reviewers have mentioned how the audio guide system is very well-designed, making it impossible to get lost even if you stray from the main route. One reviewer noted, “The system is very good so you won’t get lost,” which is reassuring for first-timers or those unfamiliar with driving in Malta.
Highlights Worth Noting
Driving a Talking Electric Car
The vehicles are described as safe, easy to operate, and silent—that’s a real plus if you’re worried about noise or pollution. The self-drive format means you’re totally in control, which is perfect for spontaneous detours or lingering longer at spots you love.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMulti-Language Audio Guides
Available in 8 languages, including Chinese, Dutch, and Italian, the guides provide rich commentary. One reviewer shared that their group appreciated the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff, which enhances the experience.
Visiting the Three Cities
Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua each offer a different vibe—somewhere between bustling historic neighborhoods and peaceful waterfronts. The flexibility allows for a more meaningful visit; you can stop for photos, walk around, or just take in the views without feeling rushed.
Additional Attractions
Beyond the cities, the tour includes stops at gardens, museums, and historic sites, making it a comprehensive introduction to Malta. The inclusion of over 50 points of interest means you get a broad overview without rushing.
Family-Friendly & Eco-Conscious
The electric cars are particularly suitable for families with children, especially since reviews mention that the vehicles are easy to operate and the experience is engaging without being overwhelming.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Start Point: The tour kicks off at the waterfront office, close to the ferry to Valletta. Here, you’ll meet your guide, receive a quick rundown on how to operate the electric vehicle, and get your GPS pre-programmed with the route.
Vittoriosa (Birgu): The first stop is this historic fortification, often called the birthplace of Malta’s Knights. The area is filled with narrow streets, old forts, and marinas—perfect for photos and soaking in the maritime atmosphere.
Senglea (L-Isla): Known for its stunning views of the Grand Harbour, Senglea offers picturesque, narrow lanes and the famous Gardjola Gardens, which provide panoramic waterside vistas. One reviewer enjoyed stopping here for photos, saying, “We loved the views from the gardens.”
Cospicua (Bormla): The largest of the Three Cities, Cospicua boasts impressive fortifications and a vibrant local life. You might find this a highlight for its authenticity and less tourist-driven vibe.
Kalkara & Smart City: These areas showcase Malta’s modern side, with Kalkara housing notable film studios and Smart City offering a glimpse of Malta’s tech and business developments, making the tour more than just history.
Museums & Historic Sites: The Inquisitors Palace, Malta Maritime Museum, and Malta at War Museum all feature along the route, presenting Malta’s layered past—something history buffs or families with curious kids will especially appreciate.
Gardens & Waterfronts: The Gardjola Gardens and waterfront views are among the most photographed spots and provide excellent opportunities for leisurely walks or picnics.
End Point: Returning to the starting waterfront location, you’ll likely feel that you’ve gained a broad overview of Malta’s diverse sites—an excellent primer for further exploration.
Authentic Experiences & Practical Insights from Reviews
Travelers consistently mention how the audio system is very good, ensuring they don’t get lost or miss key details. One reviewer said, “The guy who looked after us was so nice, really helpful and knowledgeable,” highlighting the personal touch that enhances the experience.
Others found the flexibility to explore at their own pace valuable. “There was a little hiccup with the dashboard, but we figured it out quickly,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing the easy-to-use nature of the vehicles.
The inclusion of bottled water and assistance during the trip adds to the comfort, especially during Malta’s warm days. Also, the price point is considered reasonable given the number of attractions and the eco-friendly aspect, making it good value for a half-day adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This self-drive experience is ideal for families wanting a safe, engaging way to see Malta, especially with younger children. It’s also perfect for independent travelers who dislike group pressure and want the freedom to explore on their own terms.
Travelers interested in history, culture, and scenic views will find this tour particularly satisfying. If you’re eco-conscious or simply enjoy the idea of driving yourself while learning, this experience offers both in one package.
However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those under 21, considering the driving requirements. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer guided group tours, you might want to consider other options.
FAQs
- Is it difficult to drive the electric car?
No, the vehicles are designed to be very easy and safe to operate, with clear instructions from staff on site.
- Can I choose the starting time?
Yes, check the availability for different starting times—experiences typically last about 2.5 hours.
- Are the vehicles suitable for children?
Yes, they are family-friendly, making this a good option for those traveling with kids, provided they meet the age and weight restrictions.
- Do I need to bring my driver’s license?
Absolutely, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the electric car.
- What languages are the audio guides available in?
The guides are available in 8 languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Dutch, and Spanish.
- Is there any hotel pickup?
No, the tour begins at the waterfront office, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to this start point.
- Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts
This self-drive Malta tour offers an excellent mix of convenience, education, and flexibility—perfect for curious travelers eager to explore at their own pace. The electric cars make for a quiet, environmentally responsible mode of transport, while the comprehensive audio guides ensure you won’t miss the stories behind each site.
It’s especially suited for families, solo explorers, or couples who want a personalised experience without the constraints of a traditional tour. With over 50 points of interest and the freedom to linger, this tour balances fun, learning, and practicality beautifully.
For anyone looking to gain a broad yet intimate understanding of Malta’s Three Cities, this eco-friendly adventure is a fantastic choice—giving you the chance to explore Malta’s rich tapestry at your leisure.
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