Accessibility Overview
Malta has made significant strides in accessible transport and tourism over recent years. While the islands' historic architecture presents some challenges, wheelchair users and travellers with reduced mobility can explore most of Malta's highlights with proper planning.
The good news: all public buses are wheelchair accessible, Malta Airport provides excellent assistance services, and beach wheelchairs are available at popular beaches during summer. However, cobblestoned historic centres and steep streets in some areas require careful navigation.
This guide covers everything you need to know about accessible transport options in Malta, from adapted taxis to mobility scooter hire. For general transport information, see our Getting Around Malta guide.
Wheelchair-Accessible Buses
Malta's entire public bus fleet is wheelchair accessible, making it one of the most affordable ways to explore the islands. All Tallinja buses feature low-floor designs with retractable ramps.
🚌 Accessible Bus Features
Every Malta Public Transport (Tallinja) bus includes:
- Retractable ramps: Deployed by the driver at any bus stop
- Dedicated wheelchair space: Located near the front with securing straps
- Priority seating: Clearly marked seats for passengers with reduced mobility
- Audio announcements: Next stop announcements on most routes
- Visual displays: LED screens showing upcoming stops
Fares (same as standard passengers):
- Single journey: €1.50 (winter) / €2.00 (summer)
- Explore Card (12 trips): €15
- Explore Plus (7-day unlimited): €21
Using Buses with a Wheelchair
- Signal the driver: Wave clearly as the bus approaches so the driver knows to deploy the ramp
- Wheelchair space: Only one wheelchair user per bus in the designated space
- Pushchairs/prams: Must fold if wheelchair space is needed
- Companion travel: Carers travel free when accompanying a wheelchair user
- Download Tallinja app: Track buses in real-time to minimise waiting
Adapted Taxis & Private Hire
For door-to-door accessible transport, several companies in Malta offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs). For general taxi information, see our Malta Taxi Guide.
🚐 Wheelchair-Accessible Taxis
Adapted taxis with rear ramps or lifts can accommodate most wheelchairs. These must be pre-booked as they're not available for hailing on the street.
Key providers:
- Malta Mobility Services: Largest fleet, airport transfers available
- Majestic Cabs: WAV vehicles, 24-hour service
- Green Motion Malta: Accessible minibuses for groups
Sample fares (approximate):
- Airport to Valletta: €30-35
- Airport to Sliema: €35-40
- Valletta to Mdina: €25-30
Bolt & Standard Taxis
Standard Bolt rides and white taxis may work for ambulant passengers who can transfer from a wheelchair to a car seat, but they cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Bolt does not currently have a wheelchair-accessible vehicle option in Malta.
If you can transfer:
- Inform the driver when booking/hailing that you need extra time to transfer
- Folding wheelchairs can usually fit in the boot
- Electric wheelchairs and scooters generally will not fit
Mobility Scooter Hire
Hiring a mobility scooter gives you independence to explore Malta at your own pace. Several companies offer daily and weekly rentals with delivery to your hotel or the airport.
🛵 Mobility Scooter Rental
Typical prices:
- Daily hire: €25-35
- Weekly hire: €100-150
- Delivery/collection: Usually included or €10-20
What's usually included:
- Fully charged battery (range: 15-30km depending on model)
- Charger for overnight charging
- Basic insurance
- 24-hour breakdown assistance
Wheelchair Hire
If you need a wheelchair during your stay, rental options include:
- Manual wheelchairs: From €15-20/day or €50-70/week
- Electric wheelchairs: From €40-60/day or €180-250/week
- Transit wheelchairs: From €10-15/day (lighter, for occasional use)
Most providers offer delivery to hotels, the airport, or cruise terminal. Book at least a few days in advance, particularly in summer.
Airport Assistance
Malta International Airport (MLA) provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). For complete airport information, see our Malta Airport Guide.
✈️ PRM Services at Malta Airport
Free services include:
- Meet and assist: Staff meet you at arrivals/departures
- Wheelchair provision: Airport wheelchairs available
- Ambulifts: For boarding/disembarking aircraft
- Assistance through security: Priority lane access
- Escort to gate/taxi rank: Full assistance throughout
How to arrange:
- Request PRM assistance when booking your flight (at least 48 hours before)
- Confirm with your airline before departure
- On arrival, assistance staff will meet you at the aircraft
Airport Accessibility Features
- Accessible toilets: Throughout arrivals, departures, and airside
- Lifts: Access to all levels
- Lowered check-in counters: At most airline desks
- Accessible bus stops: X-series express buses all wheelchair accessible
- Hearing loops: At information desks and gates
- Accessible parking: Designated spaces near terminal entrance
Beach Wheelchairs
Malta offers amphibious beach wheelchairs at several beaches during the summer season, allowing wheelchair users to access the sea.
🏖️ Beaches with Accessible Facilities
Beaches with beach wheelchairs (June-September):
- Pretty Bay (Birzebbuga): Beach wheelchair, accessible toilets, wooden boardwalk
- Golden Bay: Beach wheelchair, accessible changing facilities
- Mellieha Bay: Beach wheelchair, bathing platform, accessible parking
- Bugibba Perched Beach: Ramped access, accessible facilities
- Ramla Bay (Gozo): Beach wheelchair available on request
Beach wheelchair service:
- Usually available 9am-5pm during summer
- Free of charge (operated by local councils)
- Trained lifeguards assist with entering the water
- First-come, first-served (cannot pre-book at most beaches)
Other Accessible Beach Features
- Bathing platforms: Several beaches have floating platforms accessible via ramps
- Shaded areas: Covered rest areas at main accessible beaches
- Accessible parking: Designated spaces at Golden Bay, Pretty Bay, Mellieha Bay
- Accessible toilets: At most Blue Flag beaches
Accessible Attractions
Many of Malta's top attractions have improved their accessibility. Here's what to expect at the most popular sites:
🏛️ Valletta
Malta's capital is reasonably accessible with some limitations:
- Republic Street: Flat, wide, fully accessible main street
- Barrakka Lift: Free panoramic lift connecting harbour to Upper Barrakka Gardens
- St John's Co-Cathedral: Accessible entrance on side street, wheelchair route through interior
- Grandmaster's Palace: Accessible ground floor only
- Manoel Theatre: Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilet
⛪ Other Accessible Sites
- Mdina: Main gate entrance accessible via ramp. Main street (Villegaignon Street) is navigable, but side streets have steps
- Hypogeum: Unfortunately not accessible - 50+ narrow steps with no alternative
- Malta National Aquarium: Fully accessible with lifts, wheelchair hire available
- Playmobil FunPark: Fully accessible, great for families
- Blue Grotto: Boat tours not accessible - steep steps to boats, requires climbing
- Popeye Village: Partially accessible, some areas require steps
- Mosta Dome: Accessible via ramp at side entrance
Gozo Accessibility
Gozo is generally quieter with less traffic, making it pleasant for mobility scooter users. Key accessible sites:
- Cittadella (Victoria): Accessible via lift from car park
- Gozo ferry: Fully accessible with designated wheelchair areas
- Ggantija Temples: Accessible visitor centre, but temple area has uneven terrain
- Dwejra (Azure Window area): Parking near viewpoints, but terrain is rocky
Practical Tips
Before You Travel
- Book adapted transport early: WAV taxis are limited - reserve 48-72 hours ahead
- Request PRM assistance: Notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure
- Check hotel accessibility: Confirm lift access, bathroom facilities, and room dimensions
- Bring essential equipment: While hire is available, bringing your own wheelchair/scooter ensures the right fit
- Download the Tallinja app: Track accessible buses in real-time
During Your Stay
- Plan routes carefully: Use Google Maps Street View to check pavements and gradients beforehand
- Travel early or late: Avoid peak bus times (7-9am, 4-7pm) when buses are crowded
- Carry water: Malta is hot in summer, and accessible shade can be limited
- Ask for help: Maltese people are generally very helpful and willing to assist
- Allow extra time: Historic areas may require detours to find accessible routes
Essential Contacts
- Malta Airport PRM: +356 2369 6000
- Malta Public Transport (Tallinja): +356 2122 2000
- Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD): +356 2276 7400
- Emergency services: 112
🍽️ Accessible Dining in Malta
Many Malta restaurants are wheelchair accessible, particularly in main tourist areas. Discover where to eat:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Malta buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, all Malta Public Transport (Tallinja) buses are wheelchair accessible with low-floor designs and retractable ramps. Buses have dedicated wheelchair spaces and priority seating. Drivers are trained to assist passengers with reduced mobility. The accessible bus service operates on all routes across Malta and Gozo.
How do I arrange accessible transport from Malta Airport?
Malta International Airport offers free assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Request PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) assistance when booking your flight. The airport has accessible toilets, lifts, and ambulifts for aircraft boarding. Pre-book accessible taxis through Malta Mobility Services or use the X-series express buses which are all wheelchair accessible.
Can I hire a mobility scooter in Malta?
Yes, several companies hire mobility scooters in Malta. Prices start from around €25 per day or €100 per week. Most providers offer delivery to your hotel or the airport. Popular suppliers include Malta Mobility, Gozo Mobility, and local pharmacies in tourist areas. Book in advance during peak season.
Are there beach wheelchairs available in Malta?
Yes, Malta has beach wheelchairs (amphibious wheelchairs) available at several beaches including Pretty Bay, Golden Bay, and Mellieha Bay. These are provided free of charge by local councils during summer months (June-September). Some beaches also have accessible bathing platforms and wooden boardwalks for easier access.
Is Valletta accessible for wheelchair users?
Valletta has improved significantly for accessibility, though challenges remain due to its historic nature. The main street (Republic Street) is flat and accessible. The Barrakka Lift provides wheelchair access between the Grand Harbour and Upper Barrakka Gardens. However, many side streets are steep with steps. St John's Co-Cathedral and many museums have accessible entrances.