Malta: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and want a flexible, affordable way to see the highlights, a hop-on hop-off bus tour might just be your best bet. These tours, offered by Supreme Travel Limited, promise a chance to explore Malta’s diverse attractions at your own pace — all from the comfort of a double-decker bus with open-top views. With a rating of 4 out of 5 based on over 1,600 reviews, this experience is clearly popular among visitors, and for good reasons.

What we love about this tour is the freedom it offers: you can hop off at any of the many stops, spend time exploring, and then hop back on when you’re ready to move. Plus, the audio guides in numerous languages help you learn about the sites without needing a tour group. However, a possible drawback is that the entrance tickets to attractions are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for those. This tour is a fantastic option for travelers who want to balance sightseeing with flexibility — perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a self-paced approach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see Malta without the stress of navigating public transport or arranging private tours. It’s especially good if you’re on a tight schedule but still want a rundown, or if you’re traveling in a group and value the convenience of an organized route. Those interested in scenic views, historical landmarks, and local culture will find plenty to enjoy with this hop-on hop-off service.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off at major sites around Malta, customizing your itinerary.
• Cost-effective: At $28 per person, it offers good value, considering the convenience.
• Comprehensive routes: Two main routes cover the north and south, with stops at key attractions.
• Audio guides in multiple languages: Learn about Malta’s history and culture at your own pace.
• Timing and frequency: Buses run throughout the day, with multiple departures from Sliema Ferries.
• Not all attractions included: Entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly.

Detailed Review of the Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at Sliema Ferries, a convenient and scenic departure point. The buses are open-top double-deckers, which means you’ll get unobstructed views of Malta’s landscapes, coastlines, and historic streets. Many reviews mention the buses are kept clean and are generally punctual, which keeps your day running smoothly. The drivers are described as professional, capable of navigating narrow and winding roads without fuss, even on busy days.

One reviewer appreciated how the buses “ran to timetable,” making planning easier, while others noted that delays of up to 5-10 minutes are typical but manageable. The buses are equipped with English audio guides, along with several other languages like Italian, German, French, and even Japanese, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Route Breakdown: North and South Malta

The tour offers two main routes, each with unique highlights:

South Malta Route (Red Route):
Starting from Valletta, this route takes you to spectacular sites like the Blue Grotto, a sea cave famed for its sparkling waters and dramatic formations. You’ll also pass by the Hypogeum, Vittoriosa Waterfront, and the fishing village of Marsaxlokk — a colorful spot perfect for lunch or just soaking in the local vibe. Other stops include Ghar Dalam Cave & Museum, the ancient temples of Hagar Qim & Mnajdra, and the Limestone Heritage.

Travelers often mention that the South route hits some of Malta’s most iconic sights, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors. One review highlighted the “very nice tour through the south,” especially noting Blue Grotto as “a sight to see.”

North Malta Route (Blue Route):
This route covers more inland and cultural sites, including Mdina — Malta’s ancient silent city — and San Anton Gardens, renowned for their lush landscapes. The route also visits the Aviation Museum, the charming Mdina Rabat, and popular beaches such as Golden Bay and St. Georges Bay. The Crafts Village offers a taste of local artisan work, and the tour passes through St. Paul’s Bay and Bugibba Square, lively areas for dining and nightlife.

Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to see parts of Malta they might not explore on foot, with one commenting that the north tour “showed a lot of Malta we would not normally see.”

Stops and Attractions: What You Can Expect

Blue Grotto:
This sea cave is a highlight. Many travelers, like Kim, praised it as “a magical sea cave,” and you might find yourself captivated by the shimmering waters and rocky formations during your stop. Be aware that this is primarily a photo opportunity, as the tour doesn’t include boat rides inside the cave.

San Anton Gardens:
A favorite among nature lovers, these gardens are a peaceful oasis. One reviewer called them “extremely helpful” in understanding Malta’s flora and history. The well-maintained paths and lush scenery make it a relaxing break from bus riding.

Valletta:
Malta’s capital is central to both routes, offering plenty of sights, including the Grandmaster’s Palace and stunning harbor views. The audio guide provides a good overview, but some reviewers wished for more detailed commentary.

Historical Sites:
Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples, Ghar Dalam Cave, and the Hypogeum are included in the South route but require separate entrance tickets. The tour’s value is in the transportation and overview, not in entry fees — so budget for each site if you want to explore inside.

Beaches and Coastal Stops:
Golden Bay and St. Georges Bay are perfect for those wanting a taste of Malta’s sunny beaches. Reviewers like Ian appreciated how the tour “is a great way to see places when you’ve got limited time,” and the beach stops are a bonus for relaxing or picnicking.

Timing and Frequency

Buses depart from Sliema Ferries roughly every hour, with the South route starting at 9:30 am and the North route at 9:00 am. The 1500 hrs buses run only Monday to Saturday, providing flexibility for travelers arriving mid-morning through early afternoon. Some reviews noted that buses can be crowded, especially during peak times, and waiting times may be longer if buses fill up, but overall, the schedule is fairly reliable.

If you’re planning to maximize your day, arriving early and checking the timetable and map upon booking will help you avoid missing key stops. The tour is valid for just one day, so careful planning is recommended to see the sites that interest you most.

The Value of the Tour

At $28 per person, this hop-on hop-off experience is quite economical considering it provides transportation across a broad part of Malta and a multilingual audio guide. It offers a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of public buses or renting a car. The flexibility of hopping on and off means you can linger longer at favorite sites, like the Blue Grotto or Mdina, and skip others if you’re short on time.

Many travelers appreciate the good price for the value — especially since they can see multiple highlights in one day. However, remember that entrance tickets to attractions like the Hypogeum or temples are not included, so plan to budget additional funds if you wish to explore inside.

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides and staff make a difference. Several mention friendly, helpful drivers and good communication, which helps when trying to navigate the timetable or find the correct bus. Some reviews point out that audio guides can be hit or miss — with some speakers not working or audio being overly scripted with “music between sights.” Still, most find the guides informative enough to enhance their understanding of Malta’s history.

A common tip is to start early to make the most of the day, especially if you want to visit popular sites like Mdina or the Blue Grotto. The buses tend to get busy, and waiting for a seat on the upper deck can sometimes be a challenge, but the overall experience remains positive.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a cost-effective, flexible, and accessible way to get a broad overview of Malta. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace, enjoy scenic rides, and hop off at the sites that most interest them. The routes cover a good mix of coastal scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural stops, making it suitable for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

If you’re someone who values comfort, easy transportation, and an informative commentary in your preferred language, you’ll find this tour a valuable addition to your Malta itinerary. It’s especially well-suited for those with limited time, families, or anyone wanting a low-stress way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transit connections.

However, if you’re eager to visit specific attractions inside, keep in mind that entrance fees are extra, and some reviews mention that certain guides or buses can be crowded or have minor technical issues. Planning ahead and being flexible will help you make the most of your day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour states that buses are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility challenges to enjoy the experience.

How long is each route?
The North route takes approximately 180 minutes, while the South route’s duration isn’t specified but includes several stops. Both routes are designed to give a good overview, with plenty of opportunities to hop on and off.

What is included in the ticket price?
The $28 ticket covers a 1-day bus pass and headphones for the audio guide. Entrance fees to attractions are not included, so you’ll need extra for admission to sites like the Hypogeum or temples.

What are the departure times from Sliema Ferries?
South Malta buses leave at 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 pm (with the 3:00 pm only Monday to Saturday). North Malta buses depart at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 pm (also only Monday to Saturday for the later departure).

Can I buy a ticket and use it for both routes?
The tour options seem to be route-specific, so check your booking details. Most likely, you’ll need to select your preferred route when booking.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, children under 5 travel free, and the hop-on hop-off format is generally family-friendly. Just be mindful of the bus crowd and timing.

What if I miss a bus?
Buses run frequently, but during busy periods, waits can be longer. Arriving early and checking the timetable helps ensure you stay on schedule.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking online is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak travel times. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

This Malta hop-on hop-off experience offers a well-rounded, practical, and enjoyable way to see the island’s top sights without the hassle of independent planning. With scenic routes, multilingual guides, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, it’s a smart choice for travelers seeking both convenience and value.