Car Hire at Malta Airport: Operators, Tips and Transfers

Malta International Airport (Luqa, IATA code MLA) is the archipelago's only commercial airport and the most common place to collect a hire car. It's centrally located on the island, making it a logical pickup point regardless of your destination.

At the airport

Car-hire desks operate in or near the arrivals hall. Some companies use a nearby off-site lot with a shuttle — confirm the exact pickup point in your booking confirmation before arriving. Pre-booking online is almost always considerably cheaper than walk-up rates.

Pickup checklist

• Driving licence (EU/EEA) or national licence plus IDP — check your rental company's requirements before you arrive
• Booking confirmation
• Payment card in the driver's name — needed for the deposit or excess hold
• Photograph every panel and interior surface before you drive away
• Confirm fuel policy and the process for returning the car on early or late flights

Getting from the airport without a car

Airport Direct and X-routes buses connect MLA to Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, Buġibba and other destinations at a special airport fare. Ride-hailing (Bolt, eCabs) operates from the terminal, as do airport taxis. Check current bus routes and fares at publictransport.com.mt.