Taxi Options in Malta
Getting around Malta by taxi has never been easier. Gone are the days when you were at the mercy of expensive white taxis with questionable meters. Today, you have three main options: ride-hailing apps like Bolt, the local favourite eCabs, and traditional white taxis.
Each option has its advantages depending on your situation. Bolt is typically cheapest, eCabs offers reliability and advance bookings, whilst white taxis are convenient when you need a ride immediately without an app.
If you're looking at all transport options, check our comprehensive Getting Around Malta Guide which covers buses, ferries, car hire, and more. For budget travellers, our Malta Bus Guide explains the excellent public transport system.
Bolt App Guide
Bolt (formerly Taxify) has revolutionised transport in Malta since launching in 2019. It's now the most popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
⚡ Bolt
The Estonian ride-hailing giant offers the most competitive prices in Malta. The app is intuitive, shows you the fare upfront, and payment is handled automatically through the app - no awkward cash negotiations.
- Pricing: Typically 20-40% cheaper than white taxis
- Payment: Card via app, PayPal, or cash
- Wait time: Usually 3-8 minutes in urban areas
- Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, everyday trips
Bolt Vehicle Categories in Malta
- Bolt (Standard): Regular cars, seats up to 4 passengers
- Bolt XL: Larger vehicles for groups or extra luggage
- Bolt Green: Electric or hybrid vehicles (limited availability)
💡 Surge Pricing Alert
Bolt uses dynamic pricing during peak times (Friday/Saturday nights, festa weekends, airport rush hours). Prices can increase 1.5-2x during these periods. If you're not in a hurry, wait 15-20 minutes for prices to drop.
eCabs: Malta's Local Favourite
eCabs is a Maltese-founded company that's been operating since 2008. Whilst slightly pricier than Bolt, it offers features that make it invaluable for certain situations.
🚗 eCabs
Malta's home-grown ride-hailing service with a focus on reliability and customer service. The fleet includes regular taxis, executive vehicles, and minivans for larger groups.
- Pricing: 10-15% more than Bolt, but less than white taxis
- Payment: Card via app, cash, corporate accounts
- Advance booking: Yes - book up to 30 days ahead
- Best for: Airport transfers, scheduled pickups, larger groups
eCabs Vehicle Options
- Economy: Standard cars at competitive prices
- Executive: Premium vehicles (Mercedes, BMW)
- People Carrier: 6-8 seat minivans for groups
- Wheelchair Accessible: Specially equipped vehicles
Traditional White Taxis
The traditional white taxis (officially called "garage taxis") have been operating in Malta for decades. They're licensed, metered, and regulated by Transport Malta.
🚕 White Taxis
The classic choice - white Mercedes vehicles with taxi signs on top. You'll find them at designated taxi ranks throughout Malta, especially near tourist spots, hotels, and transport hubs.
- Pricing: Metered rates set by law, but typically most expensive option
- Payment: Cash preferred, cards sometimes accepted
- Availability: Taxi ranks, hotel reception, street hailing
- Best for: When you don't have an app, immediate need, late night
Where to Find White Taxi Ranks
- Valletta: City Gate, near Parliament
- Sliema: Ferries, Tower Road
- St Julian's: Spinola Bay, Paceville
- Bugibba: Main Square
- Airport: Arrivals hall (fixed prices to destinations)
⚠️ Tourist Trap Warning
Some white taxi drivers near tourist spots may try to negotiate a "special price" without using the meter. This is almost always more expensive than the metered rate. Insist on the meter or use an app instead.
Price Comparison Table
Here's what you can expect to pay for common routes in Malta (January 2026 prices, standard daytime rates):
| Route | Bolt | eCabs | White Taxi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport → Valletta | €12-15 | €15-18 | €20-25 |
| Airport → Sliema | €15-18 | €18-22 | €25-30 |
| Airport → St Julian's | €16-20 | €20-24 | €28-35 |
| Airport → Bugibba | €20-25 | €24-28 | €35-40 |
| Valletta → Sliema | €6-8 | €8-10 | €12-15 |
| Valletta → St Julian's | €8-12 | €10-14 | €15-20 |
| Sliema → Mdina | €18-22 | €22-26 | €30-38 |
| Valletta → Gozo Ferry | €25-30 | €30-35 | €40-50 |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on traffic, time of day, and demand. Bolt uses surge pricing during peak times. White taxi prices based on metered rates.
Airport Transfer Guide
Getting from Malta International Airport (MLA) to your accommodation is one of the most common taxi journeys. Here's what you need to know.
Option 1: Pre-Book with eCabs (Recommended)
For peace of mind, book your airport transfer in advance with eCabs. You'll get a confirmed price, and a driver will be waiting for you at arrivals with your name on a sign. Perfect if you're arriving late at night or with lots of luggage.
Option 2: Book Bolt on Arrival
Once you've cleared customs and have your bags, simply open the Bolt app and request a ride. Drivers are usually available within 5-10 minutes. The pickup point is outside the arrivals hall - the app will guide you.
Option 3: White Taxi Desk
Inside the arrivals hall, there's an official taxi desk with fixed prices to all destinations. Whilst more expensive than apps, it's convenient if you don't have mobile data or prefer not to use apps.
✈️ Airport Fixed Prices (White Taxi Desk)
These are the official fixed prices from the airport taxi desk (2026 rates):
- Valletta: €20
- Sliema/St Julian's: €25
- Bugibba/Qawra: €35
- Mellieha: €40
- Gozo Ferry (Cirkewwa): €50
Insider Tips for Taxis in Malta
Save Money
- Compare apps: Check both Bolt and eCabs before booking - prices can vary significantly
- Avoid surge pricing: During festas, Friday nights, or major events, wait 20-30 minutes for prices to normalise
- Share rides: Bolt offers a "Bolt Lite" option in some areas with shared rides at reduced prices
- Consider buses for longer distances: A bus from Valletta to Cirkewwa (Gozo ferry) costs €2 versus €30+ by taxi
Practical Tips
- Download apps before arrival: Set up Bolt and eCabs at home to avoid fumbling with registration at the airport
- Have your destination ready: Many drivers appreciate a pin drop rather than an address, as Malta's address system can be confusing
- Carry some cash: Even app-based drivers occasionally have technical issues with card payments
- Check the plate: Always verify the car registration matches what's shown in the app
Late Night Travel
- Bolt and eCabs operate 24/7, though availability decreases after 2am
- White taxi ranks at Paceville and Bugibba have taxis through the night on weekends
- Prices increase significantly after midnight - budget 30-50% more than daytime rates
- Pre-book if you know you'll need a late-night ride
🗣️ Language Tip
All taxi drivers in Malta speak English fluently. Many also speak Italian. You won't have any communication issues, even with older white taxi drivers.
🍽️ Where to Eat When You Arrive
Once you've sorted transport, it's time to explore Malta's incredible food scene!
Need Restaurant Recommendations?
Ask AI Assistant 🤖📥 Download: Malta Transport Tips PDF
Get our printable transport cheat sheet with taxi prices, bus routes, ferry times, and insider tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest taxi option in Malta?
Bolt is generally the cheapest taxi option in Malta, typically 20-40% less than traditional white taxis. A ride from Valletta to St Julian's costs around €8-12 with Bolt compared to €15-20 with a white taxi.
How much is a taxi from Malta Airport to Valletta?
A taxi from Malta International Airport to Valletta costs approximately €12-15 with Bolt, €15-18 with eCabs, and €20-25 with a traditional white taxi. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Is Bolt or eCabs better in Malta?
Both are excellent choices. Bolt is typically 10-15% cheaper, whilst eCabs offers more premium vehicle options and is a local Maltese company. eCabs also allows advance bookings which is useful for airport transfers.
Can you hail a taxi on the street in Malta?
Traditional white taxis can be hailed on the street or found at taxi ranks in tourist areas. However, most locals use apps like Bolt or eCabs as they're cheaper and more convenient. White taxis must use meters by law.
Do Malta taxis accept card payments?
Bolt and eCabs payments are handled through the app (card or PayPal). Traditional white taxis should accept cards, but many drivers prefer cash. Always confirm card payment is available before starting your journey.