Malta Shore Excursion: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

Travelers embarking on a cruise to Malta often look for ways to make the most of their limited time on land. The Malta hop-on hop-off bus tour promises a flexible way to see some of the island’s highlights, with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Priced at around $29 for a 24-hour ticket, this tour offers two routes that cover both urban and scenic sights, making it an appealing option for those craving flexibility and a bit of adventure.

However, reviews reveal a mixed bag—some travelers love the convenience and views, while others report delays, overcrowding, or logistical frustrations. We’ll break down what you can really expect, so you can decide if this tour suits your Malta cruise experience. Whether you want to visit Valletta, Mdina, or the Blue Grotto, this tour might be worth considering if you’re comfortable with some unpredictability.

Good To Know

• Flexible sightseeing with hop-on hop-off access for 24 hours
• Multiple routes covering major attractions including Valletta, Mdina, and Blue Grotto
• Audio commentary available in several languages, with free headphones
• Variable reliability with some reviews highlighting delays and overcrowding
• Good value for the price, especially if you want to customize your day
• Not included are entrance fees, and the buses may run with inconsistent timing

Is this tour worth it? A balanced look at the Malta hop-on hop-off experience

If you’re someone who enjoys wandering at your own pace and soaking up the sights without being tied to a rigid schedule, this tour could be very appealing. For $29, you get a 24-hour flexible ticket that grants unlimited hopping on and off at multiple stops, giving you a chance to explore Malta’s top spots whenever you want. The open-top double-decker buses are a classic sightseeing image, and with onboard commentary, you can learn about the sites without needing a guide by your side.

That said, the reviews paint a somewhat mixed picture. Many travelers appreciate the value for money and the ease of access to well-known attractions like Valletta, Mdina, and the Blue Grotto. Others, however, have experienced long waits, overcrowding, and logistical issues, which can take away from the experience if your time is limited. So, this tour might be ideal for those who are flexible, patient, and prepared for some variability.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The main draw is the unlimited hop-on hop-off feature, which lets you visit sights without rushing or sticking to a fixed timetable. The onboard commentary, available in several languages with free headphones, adds some context as you pass by scenic and historical sites. A discount booklet offers special offers on local eateries, shopping, and attractions—an added bonus for those wanting to stretch their budget.

However, entrance fees are not included, so if you want to explore specific sites like the Mdina Gate or Ghar Dalam Cave, you’ll need to budget for tickets separately. The tour also doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, which means you’ll need to get yourself to the nearest bus stop, like Silema Ferries, for boarding.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See

The North Route

The North Route covers a stretch from Bugibba, a lively seaside resort area, through scenic spots like the Malta National Aquarium, and on to Mdina, the ancient silent city. Stops include Bugibba, Qawra, and St. George’s Bay, where you might catch views of the sea and some bustling cafes. The Mdina Gate marks the transition into the quiet medieval city, famous for its winding streets and history.

Travelers on this route can also visit Ghar Dalam Cave and the Blue Grotto— iconic for their natural beauty. The Blue Grotto, in particular, is a standout, with reviews noting its stunning scenery, though accessibility depends on the weather and your timing.

The South Route

The South Route is designed for a more relaxed exploration, taking in Vittoriosa with its historic waterfront, and Marsaxlokk, the traditional fishing village famous for its colorful boats and fresh seafood. You’ll also pass by Esplora Science Centre and San Anton Gardens, appealing for families or those seeking quieter, scenic spots.

Both routes are said to take approximately 3.5 hours and 2.5 hours respectively, giving a broad overview of Malta’s diverse landscapes and cities. You can hop on or off at key stops, like Valletta’s waterfront or Spinola Bay, depending on your interests.

What to Expect: From Buses to Stops

The buses run every 60 minutes from 9 am to 6 pm, which gives some flexibility but also the potential for waiting if the buses are delayed. Some reviews highlight delays of up to 90 minutes, especially during peak season, which can be frustrating if your time is tight.

The buses are open-top double-deckers, offering great views from the top deck—perfect for sightseeing. However, some users mention the buses’ interior was uncomfortable and the air conditioning limited. The onboard commentary, while a nice touch, is sometimes inconsistent, with travelers noting that the audio quality varied and in some cases, the commentary was minimal or not very engaging.

The timing of stops is another mixed point. Some reviews describe long waits to re-board, especially at popular stops like Mdina or Ghar Dalam, which could eat into your sightseeing time. Others found the bus drivers friendly and knowledgeable, which helped make up for some logistical hiccups.

Highlights and Attractions

• Valletta: The capital’s harbor, historic streets, and vibrant waterfront make it a must-see. The tour stops at Valletta Waterfront and near the city center, making it easy to explore further on foot.
• Mdina: The “Silent City” offers winding alleys, ancient walls, and a peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers mention that a visit here is a highlight, and the quiet charm is worth the trip.
• Blue Grotto: Known for its dazzling light and natural beauty, it’s a photographic gem. However, weather-dependent, so don’t rely solely on this for your day.
• Marsaxlokk: The traditional fishing village with its colorful boats is a favorite for relaxed strolling and enjoying local seafood.
• Vittoriosa (Birgu): This historic port town is rich with maritime history and beautiful waterfront views.

Reviewer Insights

One traveler shared that the north route provided a “great way to see the countryside,” while another noted the Valletta stop was a “hidden gem,” perfect for a quick exploration. Conversely, some reviewers expressed disappointment over overcrowded buses, poor timing, and lack of clear directions, warning that delays can cut into your sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Your Malta Bus Tour

• Arrive early at your stop, especially during high season, to avoid long waits or buses being overcrowded.
• Download a map or schedule if available, as some reviews mention confusion about where to find the buses.
• Bring earphones if you want to listen to the commentary, but don’t expect high-quality sound everywhere.
• Be patient—delays are common, and the buses might not run as frequently as advertised.
• Budget extra for entrance fees if there are specific sites you want to visit beyond what the bus stops at.
• If you’re short on time, consider sticking to the route that takes you to Valletta and Mdina, as they’re the highlights for many.

Who will love this tour?

This hop-on hop-off experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy flexibility and self-guided exploration. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind some delays and are willing to wait for buses during busy times. Families or groups with a flexible schedule will appreciate the chance to tailor their day, but those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free guided tour might find this less satisfying.

If you’re on a tight schedule or looking for guaranteed punctuality, this option could be risky due to inconsistent timing. However, if your goal is to soak up the atmosphere and snap photos without rushing, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—despite some logistical quirks.

The Sum Up

The Malta hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a cost-effective way to glance at Malta’s top sights at your own pace. Its biggest strength is the freedom to create your own itinerary, especially if you’re willing to be patient and flexible. The scenic routes, particularly to Mdina and the Blue Grotto, are definite highlights, and the onboard commentary adds value for history buffs.

However, this experience can be marred by delays, overcrowding, and logistical hiccups as noted by many travelers. It’s best suited for laid-back explorers who don’t mind waiting a bit and want to avoid the rigidity of guided tours. If punctuality and comfort are your priorities, or if you’re short on time, you might want to consider alternative transport options or private tours.

All in all, this tour can be a good starting point, but do keep expectations realistic, and prepare to adapt to Malta’s lively, sometimes unpredictable, transport scene.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for attractions like Mdina Gate or Ghar Dalam Cave are not included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The routes take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, but you can spend as much time as you like at each stop within the 24-hour ticket validity.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, your ticket allows unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 hours, so you can explore as many stops as you wish.

How often do buses depart?
Buses depart every 60 minutes from 9 am to 6 pm, but delays may occur.

Is there an audio guide?
Yes, onboard commentary is available in several languages, with free headphones.

Do I need to print my voucher?
Mobile vouchers are accepted and must be redeemed at Sliema Ferries or Valletta Waterfront, but paper vouchers can be redeemed at any stop.

What should I do if I experience delays?
Patience is key; some reviews mention waiting up to 90 minutes. It’s wise to plan accordingly and keep an eye on your timing for shore leave.

Can I combine this tour with a harbor cruise?
Yes, with the option selected, a harbor cruise is included, but it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and may not run on Sundays during February.

In essence, this Malta hop-on hop-off bus tour is best enjoyed by those who value flexibility over punctuality and are prepared for some unpredictability. It offers a charming way to see the island’s highlights, but come with patience and a sense of adventure—and you’ll find plenty to love.