How to Save on Taxi Fares in Malta

Taxi fares in Malta are super expensive, but there are some ways to save money. We have asked the locals, the hotel concierge, and paid extra on the taxi fares, so you don’t have to make the same mistakes we did.

This post is going to explain the different taxi fares in Malta, how to keep your hard-earned money in your pocket, and some alternatives to taking taxis.

Fixed Taxi Fares in Malta

There are two locations that you can get a fixed taxi fare in Malta. If you are coming from the airport or the Valletta Cruise Port, there will be a taxi stand with fixed fares going to specific areas. Go up to the taxi stand and let them know where you are going, and they will confirm the price. The fixed taxi rate is based on the location you are traveling to. If your hotel or destination is in that area, that will be the fixed rate for your trip. This is a great way to save some money, unlike having the taxi meter running while sitting in traffic.

If you’re not picking up the taxi at the airport or the Valletta Cruise Port, then you will need to go by the meter. It is the law in Malta that taxi drivers use the meter to ensure that passengers aren’t overcharged for a ride.

Liam’s Hot Tip

One way to save money is to not tip your taxi driver. Yes, that’s right – it’s not common in Malta to tip your taxi driver. Of course, if you want to tip your driver, they will surely appreciate it!

Taxi Price from Malta Airport

Once you collect your bags and make your way into the arrival area, you’ll find the taxi stand. You pay directly at the taxi booth based on where you’re going. Next, you’re given a ticket/receipt, which you will give to the taxi driver. No money will ever be given to the driver directly, unless you would like to tip.

Most taxis departing from the airport are sedans and can accommodate up to four adults. Please keep in mind that if everyone has a few large pieces of luggage, you may need to take two vehicles.

Taxi Fares from the Malta Airport

Taxi Price from Valletta Cruise Port

There are two cruise terminals in which your cruise ship can dock in Malta. If you dock at the Forni Terminal, you will be able to get a fixed fare taxi. Directly in front of the Forni Terminal, there is a taxi booking office. You’ll be able to purchase your taxi ticket from here and like at the airport, go to one of the taxis waiting outside the terminal. Give your ticket to the taxi driver, and you’ll be on your way!

Tip: Taxis in Malta are very expensive, especially for short journeys. If you’re looking only to visit Valletta and don’t mind walking a little bit, this is a great option to save on taxi fares in Malta.

To get to Valletta on foot, turn right once you exit the Valletta Cruise Port and walk along the waterfront for about 10-15 minutes.  There will be a point where the road goes under a large archway; cross the road to the other side. At this point, you’ll be able to see the entrance for the Barakka Lift. The price for the lift is €1, and it will take you up to the Barakka Gardens, where you can start your journey exploring Valletta.

White Taxis Malta

The local taxis are known as “white taxis” – they are white vehicles with a taxi sign on top. You’ll also notice that they have a registration code on the side of the passenger and driver’s door. This is how you can determine if they are a real white taxi.

White taxis can pick up passengers at any location, except bus stops. However, it’s important to note that it’s not normal in Malta to flag down a cab when you see it on the road. If you attempt to flag a taxi down, be aware that there is a very good chance they may not stop. If you are looking for a white cab, we recommend going to the popular tourist attractions, which is where they often park.

A great way to see Malta is by renting a taxi for the day. They’ll have a set price and take you all over the island. However, the price for this can be costly, depending on how many hours you would like to rent the taxi.

From Madison

Another option to save on taxi fares in Malta is by not taking a taxi at all. Instead, consider taking a Hop On Hop Off Bus to explore the island. It’s a great way to see most of Malta, at a very affordable price. We decided to do this, simply based on the price, and it was perfect!

Read More

Malta Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
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Black Taxis Malta

Privately-owned companies operate these black taxis, and you’ll never see them at taxi stands. These black taxis are considered a chauffeur service. If you want to request a black taxi, you will need to call the company directly and arrange for them to pick you up. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can easily have the concierge get you a black taxi. Or, if you’d like to arrange one on your own, these are two of the most reliable companies to use:

Wembley’s Garage
115, St. George’s Road, St. Julian’s, Malta
+356 2137-4141
www.wembleys.com

Zarb Coaches
Gharghur Road, Iklin, Malta
+356 2148-9991
www.zarbcoaches.com

Malta Taxi App

With how expensive the taxi fares in Malta are, it wasn’t long until someone created their own taxi app – eCabs! This app is designed specifically for Malta! To request a taxi, you can call in, request online, or download and use the app. We recommend downloading the app before your trip since it’s such an easy way to request your eCab. A few features that we like about eCabs is the ability to pre-order your car, that you’re given an exact price (there is no surge pricing), and you can still pay in cash. Generally, eCabs is cheaper than ordering a white or black taxi! We used them a couple of times and had no issues!

Uber Malta

Of course, you’re likely wondering – what about Uber?! Unfortunately, there are no Ubers in Malta. The main reason that Uber doesn’t operate in Malta is due to a License Plate Law. Due to this law, Uber decided it would be too difficult to monitor all its drivers and ultimately chose not to operate on the island.

How to Save on Taxi Fares in Malta:

• Use the eCab app to order your taxi and save some money.
• Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus if you plan on exploring the whole island.
• Plan your visit in advance; it might be just as easy to walk somewhere as opposed to taking a taxi.
• Take a fixed fare taxi from the Malta Airport or the Valletta Cruise Port.
• Don’t tip your taxi driver.

Let us know if you have any other ways to save on taxi fares in Malta!