Accessible transport in Malta has improved significantly in recent years, but like many historic destinations, it still comes with a mix of very accessible options and a few challenges. If you’re travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid, hidden disability or autistic child, planning ahead can make a big difference to how smooth your experience is.
This guide covers everything you need to know about getting around Malta with accessibility in mind.
Getting around Malta
Malta is a small island, which is a big advantage. Distances are short, and most journeys take under an hour. However, older towns like Valletta and Mdina have narrow streets, uneven paving and steep hills. This can make independent mobility harder, especially in heat. Some streets even have steps in place of roads and pavements, making navigating parts of Malta much more difficult.
The good news is that the main transport systems — buses, taxis and ferries — are generally modern and increasingly accessible.
Public buses in Malta
Malta’s entire bus network is operated by Malta Public Transport, and this is where accessibility has improved the most.
Many buses are:
- Low-floor with step-free access
- Equipped with manual or automatic ramps
- Have a dedicated wheelchair space
- Clearly display stops visually and audibly
Although the buses we took did have a disabled access door, that door was closed until a driver would open it. And to speak to the driver you had to go to the front door of the bus and there were a number of steps up if you wanted to approach and speak to the driver.
Drivers are generally used to deploying ramps, but it’s worth being proactive and asking if needed, especially during busy periods.
Things to be aware of:
- Buses can get very crowded in peak tourist season
- Wheelchair space is limited to one per bus
- Not all bus stops are fully accessible (some lack raised kerbs or have uneven surfaces)
If you’re travelling with an autistic child, buses can be noisy and busy, particularly around popular areas like Sliema and St Julian’s.
Taxis and ride apps
Taxis are one of the easiest and most flexible ways to get around Malta, especially if you need door-to-door travel.
Popular options include:
- Bolt
- Uber (available in Malta)
- eCabs
- Malta Taxi
Accessible vehicles are available, but you will usually need to:
- Book in advance
- Specify wheelchair access or additional needs
- Allow extra time, especially during peak periods
For families, this is often the least stressful option, particularly when managing sensory needs or multiple children. But it comes with additional challenges – car seats and making sure you abide by the car seat laws in Malta.
Ferries and boats
Malta’s ferry services are a great way to get around while avoiding traffic, and they are generally very accessible.
Key routes include:
- Valletta Ferry Services (Valletta ↔ Sliema / Three Cities)
- Gozo Channel Ferry (Malta ↔ Gozo)
Most ferries offer:
- Step-free or ramped boarding
- Accessible seating areas
- Staff assistance if needed
The ferry between Valletta and Sliema is particularly useful — it’s quick, scenic, and avoids steep hills and busy roads.
Car hire and driving
If you prefer full control, hiring a car can be a good option — especially if you’re staying outside main tourist areas like Bugibba or exploring more rural parts of the island.
However, be realistic:
- Roads can be narrow and busy
- Parking can be difficult in popular areas
- Accessible parking exists but is limited (blue badge owners can park in a disabled bay dedicated to their specific reg plate)
If you need an adapted vehicle, availability is more limited and should be arranged well in advance.
Walking and pavements
This is where Malta can be more challenging.
Expect:
- Uneven pavements
- High kerbs without dropped crossings
- Steps in older areas
- Cars parked partially on pavements
In places like Valletta, you’ll also encounter steep inclines. However, there are lifts available, such as the Barrakka Lift, which can help avoid long uphill routes.
The Barrakka Lift:
Top tips for accessible travel in Malta
- Plan routes in advance rather than relying on spontaneous travel
- Use taxis for longer or more complex journeys
- Travel early or later in the day to avoid crowds and heat
- Build in extra time — things can take longer than expected
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help — locals are generally very supportive
Is Malta good for accessible travel?
Malta is not fully accessible — and it’s important to be honest about that. Historic streets and older infrastructure do create barriers.
But at the same time, it is:
- Compact and easy to navigate overall
- Improving rapidly in transport accessibility
- Full of manageable, short-distance journeys
- Supported by modern buses, ferries and taxis
With the right planning, Malta can absolutely be an enjoyable and manageable destination for families with disabilities or additional needs. This is especially true as they expand their autism-friendly spaces
If anything, the key to Malta is this: don’t try to do it the hard way. Choose the transport that works for you, even if that means skipping buses for taxis some days — it can make all the difference to your trip.
