What is the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus?
Malta's hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses offer a convenient way to explore the island's main attractions without worrying about public transport schedules or navigating unfamiliar routes. Operated by City Sightseeing Malta, these distinctive open-top red buses follow set routes around Malta and Gozo, stopping at major tourist attractions.
The concept is simple: buy a ticket valid for the entire day (or multiple days), and you can get on and off at any stop as many times as you like. Each bus features audio commentary in 16 languages, air-conditioning on the lower deck, and panoramic views from the open-top upper deck.
For visitors wanting a stress-free introduction to Malta, or those short on time who want to see the highlights efficiently, the hop-on hop-off bus is an excellent option. However, it's worth understanding how it compares to other transport options before deciding.
Routes: North, South & Gozo
City Sightseeing Malta operates three distinct routes, each covering different parts of the Maltese islands. You can purchase tickets for individual routes or a combined pass for all three.
🔴 North Route (Red Line)
The North Route covers Malta's most popular tourist areas, including the harbour towns and northern beaches. This is the most popular route and ideal for first-time visitors.
Key attractions:
- Valletta - Malta's UNESCO World Heritage capital
- Sliema & St Julian's - Waterfront promenades and dining
- Paceville - Nightlife and entertainment district
- Bugibba & Qawra - Resort town with beaches
- Mellieha - Near Malta's largest sandy beach
- Popeye Village - Famous film set attraction
🟢 South Route (Green Line)
The South Route explores Malta's more traditional side, including ancient temples, fishing villages, and dramatic coastal scenery. Less crowded than the North Route.
Key attractions:
- Valletta - Starting point for the South Route
- Three Cities - Historic fortified towns of Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua
- Marsaxlokk - Traditional fishing village with colourful luzzu boats
- Blue Grotto - Stunning sea caves (boat trips available)
- Hagar Qim & Mnajdra - Prehistoric temple complexes
- Mdina - The Silent City, Malta's ancient capital
🟡 Gozo Route (Yellow Line)
The Gozo Route covers Malta's quieter sister island. Note: Ferry transport to Gozo is not included - you must arrange your own crossing from Cirkewwa or Valletta.
Key attractions:
- Mgarr Harbour - Ferry terminal and starting point
- Victoria (Rabat) - Gozo's capital with the Citadel
- Ggantija Temples - Older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids
- Ramla Bay - Gozo's most famous red-sand beach
- Dwejra - Inland Sea and dramatic coastline
- Xlendi Bay - Picturesque seaside village
Ticket Prices 2026
Hop-on hop-off tickets are sold as single-route passes or combined passes for all routes. Prices are fixed regardless of where you buy (though online discounts are sometimes available).
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (5-15) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Route Only | €20 | €10 | 1 day |
| South Route Only | €20 | €10 | 1 day |
| Gozo Route Only | €17 | €10 | 1 day |
| Combined Pass (All Routes) | €37 | €18 | 2 days |
| North + South Combo | €30 | €15 | 2 days |
Additional notes:
- Children under 5 travel free
- Online bookings often include 10-15% discounts
- Family passes are sometimes available (2 adults + 2 children)
- Prices may increase slightly during peak summer season (July-August)
Where to Buy Tickets
You have several options for purchasing hop-on hop-off tickets:
💻 Online (Recommended)
Book via the official City Sightseeing Malta website for the best prices and guaranteed availability. Benefits include:
- 10-15% online discount on most tickets
- Mobile tickets - no printing required
- Guaranteed seat reservation in peak season
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
🚌 On the Bus
You can purchase tickets directly from the driver at any stop. Payment by card or cash accepted. Note that during busy summer months, buses may be full and unable to accept new passengers.
🎫 Ticket Offices
Physical ticket booths are located at major stops:
- Sliema Ferries - Main ticket office
- Valletta Bus Station - Near the City Gate
- Bugibba - Tourist information point
🏨 Hotels & Tour Operators
Many hotels sell hop-on hop-off tickets at their concierge desk. Tour operators and travel agencies throughout Malta also sell tickets, sometimes bundled with other attractions.
All Bus Stops
Below is a complete list of stops for each route. Look for the distinctive red, green, or yellow stop signs with the City Sightseeing logo.
🔴 North Route Stops
- Sliema Ferries (main hub)
- Sliema Exiles
- St Julian's Bay
- Paceville
- St George's Bay
- Pembroke
- Splash & Fun Park
- Bugibba Square
- Qawra
- Mellieha
- Popeye Village
- Cirkewwa (Gozo Ferry)
- Golden Bay
- Mosta Church
🟢 South Route Stops
- Valletta Bus Station
- Floriana
- Marsa
- Three Cities (Birgu)
- Tarxien Temples
- Marsaxlokk
- Blue Grotto
- Hagar Qim Temples
- Dingli Cliffs
- Mdina (outside walls)
- Ta' Qali Crafts Village
- Attard
🟡 Gozo Route Stops
- Mgarr Harbour (ferry terminal)
- Xewkija Rotunda
- Victoria (Rabat) - Citadel
- Ggantija Temples
- Ramla Bay
- Marsalforn
- Dwejra (Inland Sea)
- San Lawrenz
- Xlendi Bay
- Ta' Cenc Cliffs
Schedule & Timetable
Bus frequencies vary by season and route. Here's what to expect:
| Route | Peak Season (Apr-Oct) | Off-Season (Nov-Mar) | First/Last Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Route | Every 30 minutes | Every 45-60 minutes | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| South Route | Every 45 minutes | Every 60 minutes | 9:30am - 4:30pm |
| Gozo Route | Every 60 minutes | Every 90 minutes | 9:30am - 4:00pm |
- Schedules are subject to change - always check the official website
- Limited or no service on Christmas Day and New Year's Day
- Weather conditions (heavy rain, strong winds) may affect open-top operation
- Last buses leave earlier than the stated times from distant stops
Hop-On Hop-Off vs Public Bus
One of the most common questions is whether the hop-on hop-off bus is worth the premium over Malta's public Tallinja bus network. Here's an honest comparison:
✅ Hop-On Hop-Off Advantages
- Audio commentary in 16 languages
- Open-top deck for photos
- Routes designed for tourists
- No need to plan connections
- Stops at attraction entrances
- Air-conditioned lower deck
- Free Wi-Fi on most buses
❌ Hop-On Hop-Off Disadvantages
- Much more expensive (€20 vs €2)
- Less frequent service
- Stops running by 5pm
- Can be crowded in summer
- Limited route flexibility
- Doesn't reach all villages
- Ferry to Gozo not included
Cost Comparison
| Scenario | Hop-On Hop-Off | Public Bus | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day visiting 3+ attractions | €20 | €4.50 (3 trips) | Public Bus |
| Week exploring Malta | €37 (combined) | €21 (7-day pass) | Public Bus |
| First day - quick overview | €20 | N/A | Hop-On Hop-Off |
| Want commentary & photos | €20 | €2 (no commentary) | Hop-On Hop-Off |
💡 Our Recommendation
Use hop-on hop-off for your first day to get oriented and see the highlights with informative commentary. Then switch to the public bus network for subsequent days when you know where you want to go. This gives you the best of both worlds without breaking the budget.
Tips for the Best Experience
Timing Tips
- Start at 9:00am to maximise your hopping time (buses stop around 5pm)
- Avoid midday in summer - the open-top deck gets extremely hot (35°C+)
- Plan your must-see stops - you won't have time to hop off everywhere
- Allow 1-2 hours for major attractions like Mdina, Marsaxlokk, or the temples
- Check last bus times from your final stop to avoid being stranded
Comfort Tips
- Bring sunscreen and a hat - essential for the open-top deck
- Carry water - especially in summer months
- Sit on the left side for better sea views on the North Route
- Bring a light jacket - wind can be strong on the upper deck
- Download the app for live bus tracking and schedule updates
Money-Saving Tips
- Book online for 10-15% discount
- Buy the combined pass if visiting Gozo - better value than separate tickets
- Share with travel companions - family passes offer savings
- Pack lunch - attraction cafes are overpriced
- Use public buses for evenings - hop-on hop-off stops too early
Photography Tips
- Sit at the front of the upper deck for unobstructed views
- Use the moving bus for wide scenic shots
- Visit viewpoint stops - Dingli Cliffs, Blue Grotto, and the Citadel are standouts
- Golden hour works beautifully - last bus offers evening light
📥 Download Your Free Malta Sightseeing Planner
Get our printable PDF with optimised hop-on hop-off routes, attraction timings, and insider tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Malta hop-on hop-off bus cost?
A single-route ticket costs €20 for adults and €10 for children (5-15 years). The combined ticket for all routes (North, South, and Gozo) costs €37 for adults and €18 for children. Tickets are valid for the duration stated (1 or 2 days depending on the pass). Children under 5 travel free.
Where can I buy hop-on hop-off tickets in Malta?
You can buy tickets online at the official City Sightseeing Malta website (often with discounts), directly from the bus driver, at the main stops in Sliema Ferries and Valletta, or through hotel concierge desks. Online booking is recommended during peak summer months to guarantee seats on popular routes.
Is the Malta hop-on hop-off bus worth it?
Yes, if you want a convenient overview of Malta's main attractions without planning routes. The hop-on hop-off is best for first-time visitors who want flexibility, those who prefer commentary and air-conditioned comfort, and travellers visiting multiple attractions in one day. However, if you're budget-conscious, the public Tallinja bus network covers similar routes for much less (€2 per journey vs €20+ for hop-on hop-off).
How often do the hop-on hop-off buses run?
Buses run every 30 minutes on the North and South routes during peak season (April-October) and every 45-60 minutes in winter. The Gozo route runs every 60 minutes. First buses depart around 9:00-9:30am, with last buses around 4:30-5:00pm depending on the season. Always check the current timetable as schedules vary.
Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus to get to Gozo?
The Gozo hop-on hop-off route operates only on Gozo island itself - it doesn't include ferry transport from Malta. You'll need to reach Gozo independently via the Gozo Channel ferry from Cirkewwa or the fast ferry from Valletta. Once on Gozo, you can use your Gozo route ticket or combined ticket to explore the island's attractions.
What languages are available on the audio guide?
The hop-on hop-off buses offer recorded commentary in 16 languages including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and more. Headphones are provided free of charge, and you can switch languages at any time using the audio system at your seat.