Malta, Gozo, and Comino: A 5-Day Road Trip by Rental Car

Last updated: July 14, 2026

Malta, Gozo, and Comino together form a compact archipelago that you can explore in 5 days with a rental car. Malta and Gozo are connected by a car ferry, and you can take a day trip to Comino—without a car—to visit the Blue Lagoon.

Looking for all the attractions in the archipelago? Read about 25 unforgettable sights in Malta.

On this page:

• Why a 5-day road trip in Malta?

• 5-Day Malta Overview

• Gozo Channel Ferry: Practical Logistics

• Which class of rental car is best for Malta?

• When is Malta at its best?

• Frequently Asked Questions About Malta

• Renting a Car for a 5-Day Road Trip in Malta

Why a 5-day tour of Malta?

The archipelago is surprisingly diverse: each region has its own unique atmosphere. Three days are dedicated to Malta itself: Valletta’s culture, the heritage-rich interior, and the rugged southern coast. One day is for Gozo, which has a completely different, agricultural island atmosphere, with a UNESCO-listed temple as the icing on the cake. And one day is for Comino, pure nature surrounding the Blue Lagoon.

If you go for a shorter trip, you’ll miss out on Gozo or Comino. A longer trip means a lot of repetition, since the islands are small. With a rental car, you’ll have total flexibility to decide for yourself where to spend more time.

Ready for your tour of Malta?

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Day 1 – MLA + Valletta: Arrival in the capital

Your first day sets the tone right away: from the airport to the UNESCO capital in just 15 minutes.

After picking up your rental car at Malta Airport (MLA), it’s a 15-minute drive to Valletta. It’s the smallest capital city in Europe and compact enough to explore on foot. Start at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with its stunning Baroque interior. An absolute must-see, even if you don’t usually like churches. Continue on to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer views of the harbor; time your visit around the Saluting Battery at 12:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. for the traditional cannon salute. Then stroll down Strait Street, once notorious for its nightlife but now lined with small cafés and galleries, and finish at the charming Manoel Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest theaters.

• Parking: In Floriana, just outside the city walls, you can usually park for free. If you’d prefer a more central spot, opt for Pjazza Castille, a paid parking lot. It can get busy during peak season, so expect to spend some time looking for a spot.

• Lunch tip: Head to a pastizzi stand for these traditional Maltese savory puff pastry bites—a perfect, affordable lunch.

Day 2 – Mdina, Rabat, and Dingli Cliffs: tranquility and views

Today, you’ll swap the hustle and bustle of Valletta for the tranquility of Mdina and Malta’s highest cliff.

Mdina, the former capital, is called the “Silent City” for good reason: you’re not allowed to drive your rental car inside its ancient gates. This old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its narrow streets exude a medieval tranquility. Right next to it lies Rabat, where you can visit the Roman villa Domus Romana, with its well-preserved mosaics. If you love glass art, make a stop at Mdina Glass, where the craft of glassblowing is kept alive. In the afternoon, drive to the Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point at about 250 meters above sea level. The wind, the sea, and the view of the coast make this one of the island’s most beautiful spots to pause and take it all in.

• Parking: There’s a paid parking lot at the gate to Mdina, which is usually the most convenient option for walking into the city.

• Lunch tip: The Fontanella Tea Garden in Mdina is known for its views of the island—a lovely spot to take a break.

Day 3 – The Three Cities, Marsaxlokk, and the Blue Grotto: Coast and Fortifications

This day is all about color: brightly colored fishing boats, historic fortified towns, and crystal-clear blue water.

Across from Valletta lie“The Three Cities”: Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua. These are Malta’s oldest fortified cities, with narrow streets and a rich maritime history, and they feel less touristy than the capital. Drive further southeast and you’ll arrive at Marsaxlokk, Malta’s best-known fishing village and famous for its luzzu: traditional fishing boats in bright colors bobbing in the harbor. On Sundays, there’s a lively fish market. In the afternoon, round off your day at the Blue Grotto, where you can take a small boat to explore the caves and inlets; the water has a strikingly intense blue color. Please note: these boat tours are weather-dependent and may be canceled if the wind or waves are too strong.

• Parking: In Marsaxlokk, there’s usually plenty of free parking along the harbor, though it can get busier during the Sunday market.

• Lunch tip: Sampling fresh fish at one of the restaurants along the Marsaxlokk harbor is the obvious choice here.

Day 4 – Ferry to Gozo: Victoria, Dwejra, and Ġgantija

Today you’ll cross over to Gozo, which has a completely different atmosphere: quieter, greener, and more agricultural.

From Ċirkewwa, take the Gozo Channel ferry to Mġarr; the crossing takes about 25 minutes, and you can simply bring your rental car on board. On Gozo, start in Victoria, home to the impressive citadel that offers panoramic views of the entire island. Drive on to Dwejra, where the famous Azure Window once stood; although the arch collapsed in 2017, the surrounding area, including the Inland Sea, is still a remarkable sight. Finish your tour at the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that, at over 5,500 years old, is even older than Stonehenge. Because Gozo feels so much more peaceful than Malta, spending the night here is highly recommended: that way, you can also experience the evening atmosphere.

• Parking: There’s usually space available near the citadel in Victoria; during peak season, it can get busier around noon.

• Lunch tip: In Victoria, around the citadel, you’ll find great spots for a simple lunch featuring local cheese and bread.

Day 5 - Comino: Day Trip to the Blue Lagoon

Your last day is the most relaxing: no cars, just nature and turquoise water.

From Mġarr on Gozo or Ċirkewwa on Malta, take a boat to Comino, the smallest of the three inhabited islands. The island is virtually car-free, which immediately creates a completely different sense of tranquility compared to the previous days. The centerpiece is the Blue Lagoon, with shallow, crystal-clear turquoise water that hardly looks real even in photos. Take your time to swim or simply enjoy the surroundings before heading back.

For a more peaceful experience, head to the north coast (a 20-minute walk) to swim in Santa Marija Bay or San Niklaw Bay.

• Lunch tip: Bring a light lunch or snacks, as the options on Comino itself are limited.

Gozo Channel Ferry: Practical Information

The ferry between Malta and Gozo runs between Ċirkewwa on Malta and Mġarr on Gozo. The crossing takes 25 to 30 minutes, and you can simply take your rental car on board—on a drive-on basis and without a reservation. Good to know: you don’t buy your ticket until you’re on Gozo, when you’re ready to return. During peak season, the wait time can be up to an hour, so it’s best to leave a little earlier to avoid the crowds. The website provides real-time information on the number of cars waiting.

Which rental car class is best for Malta?

• A mini or compact car (e.g., Fiat 500 or VW Polo) is by far the most practical choice for the narrow streets of Valletta and the villages on Gozo. This class is ideal for 2 to 3 people, and thanks to its maneuverability, you’ll get used to driving on the left more quickly.

• A mid-size car (e.g., Renault Mégane or VW Golf) is a better fit if you’re traveling with 4 or 5 people. This class offers a bit more comfort and space for luggage. These rental cars still handle all the roads you’ll encounter along the way just fine.

• We recommendan automatic transmission if you’re not used to driving on the left. If you also have to shift gears with your left hand, that’s two new things to get used to at once. With an automatic, you only have to get used to driving on the left side of the road. Be sure to book early, as automatics are the first to sell out during peak season.

An SUV offers little added value in Malta. The narrow streets and tight parking spaces actually benefit from a smaller car.

When is Malta at its best?

The best time to visit Malta is April–May or September–October. The weather is pleasantly mild during these months, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 26°C; the main attractions are still relatively quiet, and the ferries to Gozo and Comino run smoothly without long wait times. It’s best to avoid July and August: it’s very crowded then, temperatures often rise above 32°C, the ferries are packed, and the Blue Lagoon attracts massive crowds of tourists during those months. The period from November through March is a quieter alternative with temperatures ranging from 15 to 19°C: ideal for cultural visits to Valletta and Mdina, though swimming and other water activities are limited during this time.

Do you want to (or do you have to, due to school vacations) visit Malta in July or August? Then read our strategic tips for renting a car during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Malta

How many days do I need for Malta, Gozo, and Comino?

Five days is the ideal length of stay for most travelers. That gives you three days for Malta itself (Valletta, the interior, and the south coast), one day for Gozo (Victoria, Ġgantija, and Dwejra), and one day for Comino and the Blue Lagoon. Only have three days? Then it’s best to stick to Malta plus a day trip to Comino, since Gozo deserves at least one overnight stay to really do it justice. Seven days or more? Then you can plan in some extra beaches and also include Marsalforn on Gozo.

Do I need a rental car in Malta?

We strongly recommend it. Public transportation in Malta connects the main towns and major attractions, but many small villages, the Dingli Cliffs, and the Blue Grotto are difficult or impossible to reach by bus. With a rental car, a five-day road trip gives you complete freedom to set your own pace.

Is driving on the left in Malta difficult?

That varies from person to person, but with a few tips, you’ll get used to it faster than you think. Opt for an automatic transmission so you don’t have to get used to shifting to the left as well. Reserve a rental car with an automatic transmission well in advance, as availability is limited. Practice driving the first few kilometers in a quiet area before heading into busy traffic, and pay extra attention at roundabouts: here, you drive counterclockwise. In our comprehensive guide to driving on the left, you’ll find everything you need to prepare properly. Also keep in mind that the narrow streets of Valletta and other old towns require a bit of extra caution.

Can I take my rental car on the ferry to Gozo?

Absolutely—that’s actually the most convenient way to explore Gozo. The Gozo Channel ferry between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr carries cars, but you can’t reserve a spot. The crossing takes about 25 minutes. One unique thing is that you don’t pay until you’re leaving Gozo. There, you’ll buy a ticket for the return trip, which costs about 16 euros for a car with a driver. During peak season, wait times can get longer later in the day, so it’s best to leave a little earlier.

Do I need a credit card to pick up my rental car?

Yes. All providers you book through EasyTerra require a credit card in the name of the primary driver when you pick up the car at Malta International Airport (MLA). The security deposit—usually between €700 and €2,500—will be held on this card. Don’t worry, though— you’ll get this amount back when you return the car undamaged. Debit cards or prepaid cards are not accepted for the security deposit.

Can I cancel my rental car for Malta for free?

Absolutely! With EasyTerra , you can easily cancel your reservation free of charge up to 48 hours before the rental period begins. This is included as standard with every booking—you don’t pay anything extra for it, nor do you have to pay a separate “flex rate.” Does your rental period start within 48 hours? In that case, free cancellation is usually no longer possible.

Renting a Car for a 5-Day Road Trip in Malta

Although the islands of Malta and Gozo aren’t large, renting a car is the ideal way to see as much as possible in a short amount of time. During a five-day road trip, you can easily drive a rental car to Malta’s most beautiful spots and beaches.

Step-by-Step Guide: Book in 5 Steps

• Step 1: Choose dates + location
  Select the start and end dates of your road trip in Malta. Choose Malta Airport (MLA) or one of the cities in Malta as your pickup location.

• Step 2: Select filters
  For worry-free driving with a rental car in Malta, filter for “Worry-Free” cars, which include a low deposit, unlimited mileage, a reliable rental company, and excess coverage.

• Step 3: Compare prices
  Rental car prices on EasyTerra are always all-inclusive: there are no extra costs (unless you order options like a child seat, which you’ll pay for on-site).

• Step 4: Read reviews
  Have you found the perfect rental car? Read the latest 5 reviews for that specific rental company.

• Step 5: Book
  Read the terms and conditions, check the deposit amount, and book the perfect rental car!

View available rental cars in Malta

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Sources:

Gozo Channel Co

Visit Malta

Heritage Malta