COMBO: Heritage Pass with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (CMO)

Exploring Malta’s Heritage in Style and Comfort

Malta, with its centuries-old forts, temples, and vibrant history, is a destination that begs to be explored thoroughly. This 6-day Combo: Heritage Pass with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (CMO) promises a flexible way to do just that — immersing you in Malta’s cultural gems while offering the convenience of unlimited transport and a scenic harbor cruise. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but the reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a comprehensive, value-packed experience perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this pass is how it combines unlimited bus access, free entry to over 20 heritage sites, and a live commentary harbor cruise — all wrapped into one. It’s especially appealing that you can explore at your own pace over six days, making it ideal for those who want to avoid rushing from site to site. Plus, the inclusion of well-loved attractions like the National War Museum and the Malta National Community Art Museum means you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Maltese culture.

The one potential downside? Some users mentioned that navigating the ticket activation process can be a bit tricky, especially outside peak season when the buses might run on a limited schedule. Also, without hotel pickup included, you’ll need to plan your transportation to the initial meeting points. But overall, for the number of sites, the scenic cruise, and the flexibility, this pass seems well worth it for most visitors.

This experience is best suited for travelers eager to explore Malta’s history with a flexible schedule, those who appreciate guided insights, and anyone wanting to see a variety of sites without the hassle of individual ticketing. It’s especially good if you’re visiting for a week or more and want to maximize your time.

Good To Know

• Flexible 6-day access to Malta’s top heritage sites and attractions
• Unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides with two routes covering the main areas
• Includes a traditional harbor cruise with live commentary in English and German
• Free entry to 20+ heritage sites, including museums, temples, and fortifications
• Great value for money when considering the combination of transport, attractions, and cruise
• Potential logistical considerations around ticket activation and bus schedule outside high season

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Heritage Pass Experience

What the Pass Offers

The iSeeMalta Heritage Pass is designed to give you a rundown of Malta’s cultural landscape within a flexible 6-day window. Once activated, you can hop on and off the City Sightseeing Malta buses as often as you like, covering both the North and South routes. These buses serve all the main tourist hubs and most heritage sites, which are conveniently within walking distance of bus stops, making navigation straightforward.

The harbor cruise is a standout feature, offering a 90-minute journey around Valletta’s two natural harbors, Marsamxetto and Grand Harbour. The cruise is narrated live in both English and German, providing context about Malta’s famous sieges in 1565 and 1942. From the water, you get a different perspective of Valletta’s formidable forts, historic battlements, and charming creeks — a peaceful, scenic way to absorb Malta’s maritime history.

How to Use the Pass

Once you activate your pass, the clock starts ticking. You can distribute your visits over six days, which is perfect for pacing your exploration. Most heritage sites, such as the National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo, Fortification Interpretation Centre, and the Malta National Community Art Museum are accessible with your pass, saving you the hassle of buying individual tickets.

The harbor cruise operates with live commentary, adding depth to the experience. Reviewers appreciated the guides’ detailed insights into Malta’s two great sieges, which are woven into the narrative, enriching the scenic ride.

Visiting the Heritage Sites

You’ll find many sites within walking distance of bus stops, which makes the itinerary manageable. Notable stops include:

• The National Museum of Archaeology at Valletta, home to impressive prehistoric artifacts.
• St. Paul’s Catacombs and Ta Bistra Catacombs offering fascinating underground burial sites.
• The Inquisitors Palace, which reveals the darker, inquisitorial side of Maltese history.
• The Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim Temples, some of the oldest standing stone structures in the world, just a short bus ride from the city.

Many reviewers mentioned that the site visits are well-connected to the bus stops, making it easy to plan your day. Still, some found the process of activating and using the tickets outside peak seasons slightly complicated, with the need for helpful staff assistance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Harbor Cruise Experience

The cruise is often highlighted as a unique perk. During the 90-minute trip, you’ll pass by Valletta’s impressive fortifications and learn about Malta’s military past through the engaging commentary. The sights include the Grand Harbour, with its massive forts and historic shipyards, and the Marsamxetto Harbour, a quieter, more scenic spot.

Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see Malta from the water, which is not always possible on land. The cruise is suitable for all ages and provides a peaceful break from busy sightseeing.

The Heritage Sites You Can Access

Beyond the museums and temples, the pass unlocks entry to sites like Fort St. Angelo, a key fortress guarding the entrance to Grand Harbour, and the Palace Armoury, which houses an impressive collection of weaponry. The Inquisitors Palace offers a glimpse into Malta’s medieval and early modern period, often with guided tours or detailed exhibits.

The National Museum of History and the Inquisitors Palace are particularly valued for their detailed displays and historical context, giving visitors a deep dive into Malta’s layered past.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler noted, “Being able to see the real Malta,” emphasizing how the pass helped them access multiple sites easily. Another review pointed out that, despite some initial hiccups with activation and limited schedules outside peak times, the overall value was undeniable. They highlighted how helpful staff at locations like Sliema Harbour were in getting everything sorted.

This reflects that, while the ticketing process might occasionally require patience, the staff’s willingness to assist makes the experience smoother.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Pass

• Plan your itinerary: Prioritize the sites most important to you early, especially those slightly further from bus stops like the Temples or Fort St. Angelo.
• Allow time for the harbor cruise: It’s a scenic highlight that shouldn’t be rushed.
• Use comfortable shoes: Many sites are within walking distance but still require a fair bit of walking.
• Bring a camera: The views from the water and the historic architecture are picture-perfect.
• Arrive early at bus stops and harbor cruise departure points to avoid missing out.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This pass is perfect for travelers who want a flexible, all-in-one Malta experience. It appeals most to those with a keen interest in history, art, and scenic views, especially if they prefer to organize their day-to-day schedule without strict tour timings. Families, couples, or solo explorers wanting to maximize cultural exposure on a budget will find this deal appealing.

If you dislike large tour groups or want to explore at your own pace, the unlimited hop-on hop-off buses provide the freedom to linger or move on as you please. The added harbor cruise is a bonus, giving a different perspective of Valletta’s impressive coastline.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the iSeeMalta Heritage Pass with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offers excellent value for anyone wanting to enjoy Malta’s history and culture without the stress of individual ticketing. The combination of unlimited transport, free entry to major sites, and a scenic harbor cruise makes it a well-rounded choice for a 6-day exploration.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy self-guided adventures but want the reassurance of guided commentary and easy access to key sites. Despite some minor logistical quirks, the overall experience seems to deliver a convenient, engaging, and budget-conscious way to discover Malta’s historic treasures.

If you’re ready to explore Malta’s past from land and sea at your own pace, this pass is likely to make your trip smoother and more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the pass valid?
The pass is valid for 6 days from the moment you activate it, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Are all the sites within walking distance of the bus stops?
Most of the heritage sites can be reached within walking distance from the City Sightseeing bus stops, making navigation easy.

Does the harbor cruise require a reservation?
The cruise is included as part of your pass and typically runs with live commentary; details on booking are not specified but it is part of the package.

What languages is the commentary available in during the cruise?
The commentary is available in both English and German, enhancing understanding of Malta’s maritime history.

Are there any exclusions I should be aware of?
Hotel pickup, drop-off, meals, and drinks are not included in the pass, so plan your transport to and from starting points accordingly.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and cash are recommended — especially since some sites might charge small entrance fees or for souvenirs.

Is the pass suitable outside peak season?
Yes, but be aware that bus schedules may be limited outside peak tourist times, and some activation issues may occur, requiring staff assistance.

Visiting Malta with this Heritage Pass promises a well-rounded, flexible, and enriching experience, especially for those eager to uncover the island’s layered past with ease and comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here: