Located in Luqa, in the south of the island, Malta International Airport (MLA) is the country's only airport and the true gateway to the archipelago. Every year, millions of travelers land here before heading to Malta's beaches, clubs, and bustling cities.
A strategic air hub in the heart of the Mediterranean, it connects the island to most major European capitals thanks to a dense network of airlines. Whether you're coming for a weekend, an extended vacation, or a festive getaway, you're bound to pass through this airport.
👉 What if you discovered all the essential things to know about Malta International Airport , to get your stay off to a good start as soon as you land?
Malta Airport Overview
Malta Airport (MLA) is located in Luqa , just 10 km from Valletta. Its central location allows for quick access to all areas of the island: St Julian's and Paceville for nightlife, Sliema for shopping, or Mellieħa for its beaches.
It is a human-sized but modern airport, which welcomes more than 7 million passengers per year . It is served by the main low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air , as well as by regular airlines such as Air Malta, Lufthansa, British Airways or Emirates .
The infrastructure has terminals equipped with various services (catering, duty free, car rental), and remains particularly busy between June and September , the period when the tourist influx reaches its peak.
How to get to the center from the airport?
Upon arrival at Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa, you have several options for reaching key areas: Valletta, St Julian's / Paceville, Sliema, etc. Here are the best alternatives, ranked by practicality and comfort, with estimated prices and links to reliable providers.
VTC: Bolt, eCabs, Uber
VTC services are available in Malta and often represent the best compromise between speed, comfort and moderate cost.
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Bolt in Malta
You can request a ride from the airport via the Bolt app, with a pre-calculated fare to avoid unpleasant surprises.
To give an estimate: a ride between the airport and St Julian's / Sliema costs around €15-20 depending on traffic and the service version chosen.
In cases of high demand, “surcharge prices” may apply, particularly during peak hours. -
eCabs Malta / Uber Malta
These services also operate in Malta. eCabs is often associated with Bolt (“in some cases, the Bolt car even arrives for an eCabs order.”)
Pricing and terms are similar to Bolt's, depending on supply, vehicle type, and demand.
Advantages: comfort, fast support, price known in advance
Disadvantage: Possible overloads at high demand
Express bus (public)
Malta buses offer direct connections (“express” / “Airport Direct” routes) between the airport and major areas ( Malta airport bus info ).
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Estimated time:
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Airport → Valletta: ~25 minutes (direct bus via TD / Airport Direct lines)
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Airport → St Julian's / Sliema: ~35 to 45 minutes depending on intermediate stops
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Price: around €2 per ticket (standard public transport price).
This is the cheapest option, but less flexible: frequent stops, limited timetables, less practical with heavy luggage.
Shared shuttle & private transfers
For those who want a good compromise between comfort and cost, shared shuttles and private transfers are excellent.
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Official / Shared Shuttle – Malta Transfer
The official airport service offers trips to several destinations (Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, etc.).
Fares start at €6 for a one-way trip, which is the Maltese benchmark for this type of service. -
Shuttle / private transfer
Companies like Shuttle Direct offer airport transfers at fixed prices, with suitable vehicles (cars, minibuses).
You can also book via Jayride which compares shared and private options for MLA in real time.
These transfers cost more than the shared shuttle, but offer comfort, punctuality and direct pick-up upon arrival.
| Option | Estimated time | Estimated price* | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VTC (Bolt, eCabs) | 15–20 min to St Julian's | 15–20 € | fast, comfortable, via app | possible overload |
| Public bus | 25 to 45 min | ~2 € | very economical | frequent stops, less convenient |
| Shared shuttle | variable | from €6 | mid-budget, reliable | multiple stops |
| Private transfer | 15–25 min | depending on the area | maximum comfort, direct | higher cost |
Useful services at the airport
Malta International Airport (MLA) is modern and well-equipped to meet the needs of travelers from the moment they arrive. Here's an overview of the main services available on site.
Shops & Duty Free
In the terminal, you'll find a Duty Free area offering perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, souvenirs, and local specialties. This is your chance to make your first tax-free purchases before even leaving the airport.
Restaurants & Cafes
Whether you're looking for a quick coffee after landing or a full meal before your return flight, several restaurants and cafes are available in the main hall. They offer both international chains and local brands, suitable for all budgets.
Car rental
For those who wish to explore the island in complete freedom, the airport is home to Malta's leading car rental agencies (Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, etc.). The counters are located in the arrivals hall and offer a wide selection of vehicles.
Internet connection & WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. However, it remains limited to airport areas. To stay connected throughout the island, most travelers choose an international eSIM : convenient, economical, and ready to use.
👉 Order your Malta Adventures eSIM card now and connect as soon as you land.
Practical advice before your trip to Malta
Electrical outlets in Malta
Unlike France, where the sockets are type C/E, Malta uses type G electrical sockets , identical to those in the United Kingdom. Without an adapter, it is impossible to charge your devices (smartphone, computer, etc.).
👉 Save time and travel with peace of mind: order your Malta plug adapter now on Malta Adventures.
The weight of the luggage
Low-cost airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet apply very strict controls on baggage weight and size. Even a small extra kilo can cost you dearly at the airport.
👉 Avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in: opt for a digital luggage scalepractical and lightweight, available on Malta Adventures.
Conclusion – Prepare your evenings and activities as soon as you leave the airport
Your arrival in Malta marks the beginning of a trip where anything is possible. The island is not only the party capital of the Mediterranean, it's also a hub of unique experiences, from nightlife to pool parties, boat parties, and unforgettable excursions.
Experience the Maltese night like an insider
The party scene is at the heart of Maltese identity. To make sure you don't miss anything, check out our 2025 party recap. and follow our events calendarupdated weekly.
Among the must-see experiences:
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The legendary Bora Bora pool parties, real open-air festivals around the swimming pool.
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The legendary boat parties in Malta, where you dance at sunset in the middle of the Mediterranean, with open bar and DJ sets.
Discover Malta's adventures and excursions
During the day, Malta can be discovered from a different angle, with a variety of activities for all tastes:
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Gozo & Comino Excursion: Explore the Blue Lagoon, Gozo's cliffs and hidden coves by boat.
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Quad Bike Tour in Gozo: go on an adventure off the beaten track to discover the island in adrenaline mode.
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: guaranteed thrills on the Mediterranean with powerful Sea-Doo models.
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Private boat rental: treat yourself to an exclusive day at sea with a skipper.
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Fiat Boat Malta: the fun and original option for sailing with friends, without a boat license.
The Malta Adventures VIP Pass: your summer essential
During peak season (June, July, August), parties and activities often sell out several days in advance. To save time, money, and access the best experiences, the Malta Adventures VIP Passis your essential ally:
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Save up to €300 for just €24.99
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Guaranteed access to evenings, pool parties, boat parties and flagship activities
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Exclusive benefits (free evenings, discounts, fast track entries)
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Total flexibility to create your tailor-made stay
👉 Book your Malta Adventures VIP Pass today and turn your arrival at the airport into the start of an unforgettable summer.