Private Tour Of Malta (Private Driver)

Exploring Malta with a Private Driver: A Practical Look at the Personalised Experience

Planning a trip to Malta and looking for a flexible way to see its highlights? This private tour with a dedicated driver promises a tailored day, allowing your small group of up to eight to explore at your own pace. With door-to-door pickup, a flexible itinerary, and optional guides, it offers a comfortable, intimate way to soak in Malta’s sights without the crowds or rigid schedules.

What really stands out about this experience is the personalised approach—you can follow a suggested route or customize your stops, making it suited for those who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth visit. The inclusion of a private driver means you won’t have to worry about navigating or waiting in line, giving you more time to enjoy each location. However, a key consideration is that some reviews highlight issues like language barriers and late pickups, which could impact the overall vibe of your day.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and local insight. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group who want to create their own Malta adventure without the hassle of large group tours, this private option could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that some experiences, like visiting Popeye Village or tasting the local craftwork, may be better suited for those with specific interests in mind.

Key Points

• Customisable itinerary tailored to your interests and schedule
• Door-to-door transport ensuring comfort and convenience
• Option to add a private guide for deeper insights
• Small group size (up to 8) for a more personal experience
• Good for those wanting to skip crowded tourist buses
• Price reflects a private, intimate experience rather than a budget tour

The Experience in Detail

This private Malta tour provides a comprehensive way to explore some of the island’s most loved sites, all within approximately six hours. The flexibility of the schedule and route is its main selling point—ideal if you want to prioritize certain locations or linger longer at places that inspire you.

Transport and Group Size

You’ll be travelling in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential in Malta’s sometimes hot Mediterranean climate. The private nature of the tour means there’s no jostling with strangers, and your driver is dedicated to your group only. This is also advantageous if you want a relaxed pace, stopping for photo ops or quick breaks without worrying about a timetable.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

Let’s walk through the typical stops, understanding what each offers and the potential drawbacks.

Ta’ Qali Crafts Village

Your journey begins at Ta’ Qali, a crafts haven located in a former RAF airfield. Here, you’ll encounter local artisans blowing glass, crafting fine jewelry, or sculpting lace and sculptures. The crafts village is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs directly from the makers, and it’s free to enter.

Review Insight: Visitors love watching the craftsmen at work, making this a lively, authentic first stop. It’s a quick 30-minute visit, but enough to appreciate Malta’s artisanal talent.

Popeye Village Malta

Next, you might head to Popeye Village, famously known as the original film set for the 1980 musical “Popeye.” It’s a colorful, whimsical amusement park that kids and adults alike find charming. This stop is ideal if you’re traveling with children or just want a fun photo spot.

Note: Entrance isn’t included, so you should budget extra if you plan to explore inside. The reviewer noted that the driver was late and didn’t speak Italian, which was a disappointment for some.

Mdina: The Silent City

One of Malta’s most enchanting stops, Mdina, is a fortified medieval town with origins dating back over 4,000 years. Known as “the silent city,” it’s a place to wander cobbled streets lined with palaces, churches, and panoramic views of the countryside.

Highlight: The historic atmosphere is palpable, especially at night when the lamps light up the narrow streets. The review mentions St. Paul’s Grotto here, adding religious and historical significance.

Blue Grotto Il-Hnejja

On the southern coast, the Blue Grotto is a highlight for its striking sea caves and shimmering waters. Named after a British soldier who thought the site resembled Capri’s Grotta Azzurra, this natural wonder is a photographer’s dream.

Additional detail: The site has appeared in films like “Troy,” and is popular for diving. The beautiful blue hues of the water are mesmerizing, and the tour allows you to enjoy a quick 30-minute stop without an entrance fee.

St. Peter’s Pool

For a splash of natural beauty, St. Peter’s Pool is an eye-catching rocky swimming spot. Its flat, sunbathing slabs and clear waters make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Reaching it involves a short drive along a narrow road, and it’s best to arrive with your swimwear ready.

Reviewer comment: It’s a relaxing stop, perfect for a quick swim or sunbathe, with no entry fee.

The Three Cities

Finally, a visit to Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua offers a look at Malta’s maritime past. These towns have centuries of history, with forts, palaces, and bustling docks that tell stories of seafarers and defensive battles.

Insight from reviews: This stop provides an authentic Maltese experience away from touristy Valletta, with quiet streets and a sense of stepping back in time. You could spend hours here, but the tour allocates about two hours, enough to get a good taste.

What’s Included & What You Should Consider

The tour includes Wi-Fi, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a Maltese snack made from local produce—an excellent touch that adds to the experience. However, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry.

Note from reviews: Some travelers found the price high relative to the service received, citing delays and language barriers. Remember that this is a private experience, so the value hinges on how well the driver and guide meet your expectations.

Analyzing the Value

At $359.54 for up to eight people, this private tour can be a cost-effective way to explore Malta’s sights intimately, especially if you’re traveling in a group. The comfort of private transport, flexibility, and the option to include a guide makes it appealing for those wanting a tailored day.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention late pickups and a language barrier, which could detract from the experience. If having an Italian-speaking guide or punctual service is critical, you may want to clarify these details beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized Malta adventure. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace, want to avoid large buses, and appreciate having control over your itinerary. Those interested in artisans, history, scenic beaches, and authentic local life will find plenty to enjoy here.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a fully guided experience with expert commentary, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This private Malta tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to explore the island’s highlights with your own group. The ability to customize your stops, coupled with door-to-door service, makes it a convenient option for those who value privacy and personal attention. While some reviews point to issues like late pickups and limited language options, many still enjoyed the scenic stops and relaxed pace.

It’s a good choice for travelers who want control over their day, enjoy small group intimacy, and are okay with some potential hiccups in service. The inclusion of local snacks, scenic viewpoints, and authentic sites adds to its appeal, especially if you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

FAQs

Is this tour private for my group only?
Yes, it’s a fully private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a personalized day.

Can I customize the stops?
You can follow the suggested route or request to customize your itinerary, making the day suit your interests.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You should plan to bring your own food or explore local eateries during the day.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which is enough to see the main sites without feeling rushed.

Are guides available?
You can upgrade to include a private guide when booking, but the standard tour is just a driver.

How much does it cost?
It’s priced at $359.54 per group (up to 8 people), making it potentially a good value for small groups seeking a flexible day.

Do I need to worry about transportation?
Not at all; your own private air-conditioned vehicle takes care of all transport, making your day smoother.

In essence, this private Malta tour is best suited for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and small-group intimacy. While it might not be perfect for everyone, especially if punctuality or language assistance is a priority, it remains a strong option for travelers wanting a relaxed, customized day exploring Malta’s most captivating sites.