Car Rental in Malta for Greek Travelers

Planning to explore the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta? Renting a car is one of the best ways to enjoy its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical sites at your own pace. As a traveler from Greece, here are some important details to keep in mind:

Will my Greek driving license be valid in Malta?
What types of insurance are recommended?
Are there fees for additional drivers or roadside assistance?
How different are Maltese traffic rules compared to Greece?
What fuel options should I budget for?

This guide answers your questions and equips you with essential tips for a stress-free car rental experience in Malta. By the time you finish reading, you'll feel prepared to navigate the roads and enjoy your journey worry-free.

Can Greek Citizens Drive in Malta?

Yes, Greek travelers can rent and drive cars in Malta with the correct documents. You must meet the licence-holding period, age limits, and payment card requirements at pick-up.

Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport.
Driving licence:
The main and any additional driver must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1–2 years (most offers require at least 1 year, some 2 years). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Visa and MasterCard are accepted on all offers; some offers also accept Discover. Debit cards are not accepted for deposit at pick-up.
Age requirements:
Depending on car group, the permitted driving age ranges between 18 and 80. Common bands include 21–70, 21–75, 21–80, 18–80, and 25–70. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: age 18–25: about US$ 14.06 per day; age 21–24: about US$ 16.87 per day; or age 21–25: about US$ 35.15 per day. For some offers, additional fees for young (21–24) or senior (70–80) drivers are “to be confirmed” at the counter.

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Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Discover the top car rental options for travelers from Greece heading to Malta, offering a range of services to meet varied needs.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network of locations
- Flexible rental options
- Loyalty program with benefits
- User-friendly online booking
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and variety
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
10
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide range of vehicles
- Competitive prices
- User-friendly app
- 24/7 customer service
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and variety
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
5
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- User-friendly booking process
- Strong customer service
- Easy vehicle return process
- Loyalty rewards program
Best for
Leisure travelers and budget-conscious customers
Budget
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- Customer loyalty program
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Sicily By Car
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Quick and easy booking process
- Locations throughout Italy
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Travelers looking for affordable and convenient car rentals
SURPRICE RENT A CAR
local
8.5
Locations:
4
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
ADDCAR RENTAL
local
8.5
Locations:
4
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized service
- Flexible rental options
- Easy booking process
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals
Autounion
local
8.5
Locations:
9
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- Variety of pickup locations
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget travelers and families
OK Mobility
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized service
- Multiple pickup and drop-off locations
- Easy online booking
Best for
Travelers seeking affordable and convenient car rentals

Recommendations for Travelers from Greece

Choose Global Chains If:

You are traveling through multiple regions in Malta
Require consistent and dependable customer service
Prefer a well-established brand for your rental needs
Need flexible options for pick-up and drop-off locations

Choose Local Brands If:

You are staying primarily within urban areas or touristic zones
Looking for a more budget-friendly rental option
Interested in unique vehicle models or local services
Comfortable navigating local rental systems and terms

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, destinations on your route, and driving type. With QEEQ, you can compare various car types and policies to find the one that suits your journey best.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs.
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips.
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Great balance of space and fuel efficiency.
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances.
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel.
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission.
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the US.
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control.
- Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for US road trips.
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars.
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental.
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional.
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional.
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals.
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees.
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup.
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible.
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type.
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays.
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges.
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel.
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles.
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours.
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices.
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs.
- Full-to-Full
  Return with the same fuel level, most economical option.
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive.
- Same-to-Same
  Return with the same level as pickup, fair pricing.
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices.

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy.
Valletta, Sliema, Paola
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation.
Malta countryside
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option.
Gozo, St. Julian's, Marsaxlokk

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

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No hidden fees
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What Are the Popular Destinations in Malta?

Malta offers stunning historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities to explore. Renting a car provides the flexibility to visit attractions like Valletta, Mdina, and the Blue Grotto at your own pace.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Malta, it's crucial to understand the local insurance requirements and coverages. Having comprehensive insurance ensures peace of mind, especially in unfamiliar driving conditions.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damages to the rental car resulting from collisions or accidents.
€13-22/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Provides protection against theft of the vehicle or its parts.
€4-7/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages and injuries caused to third parties and their property.
Typically included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
€4-9/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Malta. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$410.17 - US$4,687.75

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$410.17 - US$5,859.69

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking smart for your trip from Greece to Malta can help you save significantly on car rental costs. Consider these tips to make the most of your travel budget.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Plan and reserve your rental car at least 3-5 weeks before your trip to secure the best prices and availability.
Save up to 30% on rental costs.
Compare Prices Online
Utilize online platforms like QEEQ or Kayak to compare prices across multiple rental companies.
Save up to 25% by finding the most competitive rates.
Choose a Fair Fuel Policy
Opt for a 'full-to-full' fuel policy and refuel at local stations, which are usually cheaper than returning the car with a low tank.
Save approximately €15-€35 per rental depending on distance traveled.
Avoid Airport Locations
Renting a car in the city rather than the airport can avoid additional fees.
Save around €20-€50 on location surcharges.

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
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One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
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Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Malta.

Hidden Fees
Be cautious about extra charges not included in the base price.
- Airport surcharges can vary
- Fees for adding additional drivers
- Young driver surcharges if you're under 25
- Costs for GPS or child seats rental
- Charges for using toll roads
Insurance Coverage
Rental agents may try to upsell insurance packages.
- Verify if your personal or credit card insurance covers rentals
- Understand what the offered insurance includes
- Third-party insurance options might be more affordable
Fuel Policies
Understand the fuel policies to avoid unexpected charges.
- Full-to-full is generally the most economical option
- Refilling at local fuel stations might save costs
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling
Vehicle Inspection
Check the vehicle thoroughly before driving off.
- Inspect for any existing damages and take photos
- Ensure all electronics and controls are functional
- Double-check the fuel level and odometer reading
Contract Terms
Review the rental agreement carefully.
- Look for mileage limits and potential overage fees
- Understand policies for late or early returns
- Check for clauses about driving in specific areas or islands
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Timing
Time your rental wisely to avoid extra charges.
- Schedule returns during the rental office's operational hours
- Allow buffer time in case of travel delays

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

What Are the Differences Between Greek and Maltese Traffic Rules?

Greek and Maltese traffic regulations differ in lane discipline, alcohol tolerance, and road signage conventions, while sharing similarities in seatbelt laws and mobile phone rules.

Lane Discipline
MT
Strict lane discipline, overtaking on the left only
GR
Lane discipline varies; overtaking can occur on both sides in certain conditions
Blood Alcohol Limit
MT
0.05% BAC (strict for drivers)
GR
0.08% BAC for regular drivers
Road Signage
MT
Signs primarily in English with local language
GR
Signs in Greek with international symbols
Mobile Phone Use
MT
Hands-free devices mandatory
GR
Hands-free devices mandatory
Seatbelt Laws
MT
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
GR
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Parking Rules
MT
Parking typically regulated by zones and signs
GR
Similar parking regulations with local enforcement
Remember
- • In Malta, drive on the left side of the road.
- • Greek driving culture may involve less adherence to lanes; stay alert.
- • Ensure your rental car is equipped with necessary documentation.
- • Familiarize yourself with local toll road systems.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Greece renting a car in Malta

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Malta from Greece?

It is highly recommended to book your rental car at least 1-3 months in advance, especially if you’re visiting during Malta’s peak travel season (June–September) or public holidays. Early booking ensures better rates and greater vehicle availability, particularly for automatic cars.

What type of car should I choose for driving in Malta? Is a small car enough?

A small or compact car is ideal for Malta. Many roads, especially in historic towns and villages, are narrow and parking is scarce. Opting for a compact model (like Peugeot 108, Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto) will make driving and parking much easier.

What are the benefits of booking through a platform like QEEQ?

QEEQ offers several advantages: it compares prices across multiple suppliers, clearly displays rental and insurance terms, centralizes your booking info and vouchers, and often provides exclusive discounts or comprehensive third-party insurance options.

What hidden fees should I watch for when booking a rental car?

Pay close attention to young driver surcharges, additional driver fees, airport or location surcharges, out-of-hours pick-up/return fees, one-way rental charges (rare in Malta), and extra equipment charges (GPS, child seats, etc.).

Are automatic cars easy to rent in Malta? Are they more expensive?

Automatic cars are less common and in high demand, typically costing 20–40% more than manual cars. If you require an automatic, book as early as possible, as availability is limited, especially during high season.

Do I need to rent a child seat for my kids? What are the regulations?

Yes, Maltese law requires children under 150 cm or under 12 years old to use a suitable child restraint. You can easily rent child seats through your car rental booking.

What preparations should I make after confirming my car rental booking?

Print or save your rental voucher, ensure your credit card (in the main driver’s name) has sufficient credit, check your Greek driver’s license validity, and save your Malta rental company’s local contact number.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Malta with a Greek license?

No. As an EU citizen, your valid Greek (card-style) driver’s license is fully accepted in Malta with no need for an IDP.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Malta?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may require 23 or 25 years old for certain models.

Are there extra fees for young drivers (under 25)?

Yes, almost all companies charge a young driver surcharge for those under 25. This fee is usually €10–€25 per day with a maximum cap.

What documents do I need to show when picking up the car?

You will need your valid Greek driver’s license, a credit card in the main driver’s name (for deposit), and either your passport or Greek national ID for identification.

Can I pay the security deposit with a friend’s credit card?

No. The credit card for the deposit must be in the main driver’s name. If the names do not match, the company will refuse to hand over the car.

Is there a minimum license holding period required?

Yes. Most companies require at least 1 year of license holding. Some may require 2 or 3 years, especially for certain car categories.

What’s included in the basic rental cost?

Typically, you get Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with a high excess, Theft Protection, Third Party Liability, local taxes (like VAT), and unlimited mileage.

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)? Does it cover all damages?

CDW waives most repair costs for collision damage to the rental car but leaves an excess (deductible) you must pay. It does not cover tires, glass, roof, undercarriage, or keys.

Should I buy full insurance or Super CDW (SCDW)?

It is strongly recommended. SCDW or full insurance reduces your excess to zero or a small amount (€100–€200), giving peace of mind against Malta’s narrow roads and left-hand driving challenges.

How much is the security deposit? When is it refunded?

Deposits range from €800–€2000 based on insurance and car type. Full insurance often lowers or waives the deposit. The deposit is ‘blocked’ on your card (not charged) and usually released 10–15 working days after return.

How much does petrol cost in Malta? What’s the usual fuel policy?

Fuel is regulated and stable, around €1.34 per litre for petrol. The most common and fair policy is ‘full-to-full’: you pick up and return the car with a full tank.

Are there tolls or road charges in Malta?

No. There are no tolls or road charges on Malta or Gozo. The only exception is the CVA fee for entering Valletta’s controlled zones.

How is insurance handled when booking via QEEQ?

With QEEQ, you can buy the supplier’s SCDW at the counter or QEEQ’s third-party excess insurance. With the latter, you pay the excess upfront in case of damage and claim reimbursement from QEEQ’s insurer.

How do I find the rental car desk and car at Malta International Airport (MLA)?

All major rental counters are in the Arrivals Hall (Welcomers’ Hall). After paperwork, staff will direct you to the multi-storey car park next door to collect your car.

What should I check on the car during pick-up?

Inspect for scratches, dents, paint chips, tire and wheel condition, windshield cracks, interior cleanliness, and ensure all features (AC, lights) work. Confirm the fuel and mileage readings.

How should I document the car’s condition at pick-up? Is taking photos or video enough?

Yes. It’s best to record a slow, detailed video of the exterior, interior, fuel gauge, and odometer. Verbal notes in the video add clarity and help if disputes arise.

What if my flight is delayed and I miss my scheduled pick-up time?

Enter your flight number when booking. If seriously delayed, call the rental desk as soon as you land to avoid your booking being marked as a no-show and cancelled.

Can I return the car outside business hours (e.g. for an early flight)?

Yes. Airport locations offer 24-hour drop-off, often using a key drop box. Park in the designated area, note final fuel and mileage, and leave the keys in the box. There may be an out-of-hours fee.

What is the car return process like? How long does it take?

During business hours, staff inspect the car for fuel and damage, then sign off the return. The process takes 15–30 minutes. Allow ample time before your flight.

What happens if there are new minor scratches when I return the car?

If you bought SCDW/full insurance, you usually pay nothing unless damage is severe or excluded. With basic CDW, the company deducts repair costs from your deposit, up to your excess.

How hard is it to adapt to left-hand driving in Malta coming from Greece? Any tips?

It can be challenging but manageable. Rent an automatic if possible, repeat ‘keep left’ to yourself, practice in a quiet area, use your co-driver for help, and take it slow. Most adjust after a few hours.

What’s the correct way to use roundabouts in Malta?

Always give way to vehicles already on the roundabout (coming from your right). Enter clockwise, signal when exiting, and approach with caution.

What are the speed limits in Malta for city, country, and main roads?

Urban areas: 50 km/h; Open roads: 80 km/h. Always check local signs, as some areas have lower limits and speed cameras are common.

What’s the general road condition in Malta? Are roads narrow?

Main roads are decent, but many secondary and village roads are narrow, winding, and may have potholes. This is why a small car is recommended.

What are Maltese driving habits like? Any unwritten rules to watch for?

Drivers can be impatient, use their horn often, tailgate, and rush in tight spots. Stay defensive, don’t get flustered, and drive cautiously.

Is mobile navigation convenient in Malta? Is Google Maps accurate?

Yes. Google Maps and Waze are accurate and widely used. It’s wise to download offline maps in case of weak signal and use a phone holder for safety.

Is it safe to drive in Malta at night?

Main roads and towns are well-lit and safe. Rural roads may lack lighting—drive slower and watch for pedestrians or unmarked obstacles in dark areas.

Does Malta have Athens-style traffic jams? Which areas and times are worst?

Yes, congestion is a problem, especially weekdays 7:00–9:30 and 16:00–18:30. Sliema, St. Julian’s, Msida, and their connecting roads are worst hit. Avoid peak hours if possible.

What do Malta’s parking space colors (white, yellow, green, blue) mean?

White: free parking for all (may have time limits); Yellow: no parking; Green: residents only (usually 24/7); Blue: residents, but non-residents can park for limited time during certain hours (use a parking disc).

How hard is parking in popular areas like Valletta or Sliema?

Extremely difficult. Free spaces are rare. It’s best to head straight to a paid public car park to save time and stress.

Are there any recommended parking apps or websites for Malta?

Malta lacks dedicated parking apps. Use Google Maps to find ‘Parking’ nearby, especially for large public car parks like Valletta MCP or Floriana Park & Ride.

What is the Valletta CVA (Controlled Vehicular Access) system? Do tourists pay?

CVA charges vehicles entering Valletta’s walled city zones, tracked by license plate. Charges can be high. It’s best to park outside in Floriana and walk in.

How should I handle and pay a parking fine in Malta?

Fines are left on your windshield. Pay promptly using the website and instructions on the ticket. If unpaid, the rental company will pay and add a hefty admin fee.

Do hotels usually provide free parking?

Not always. Confirm parking options when booking, especially in Sliema or St. Julian’s. Hotels with private lots are a major advantage; otherwise, expect to spend time and money finding parking.

Can I take my rental car on the Gozo ferry?

Yes, most companies allow it, but double-check when booking or picking up your car to confirm there are no restrictions.

How much does the Gozo ferry cost for a rental car? Do I need to book in advance?

No advance booking needed. Just drive to Ċirkewwa port, queue, and pay on your return journey from Gozo. As of now, car plus driver is about €15.70 round-trip; each extra passenger is around €4.65.

How is driving on Gozo different from the main island?

Gozo is quieter, with less traffic and a slower pace. Roads are often narrower and more rural, making it a good place to get comfortable with left-hand driving.

Is parking easy at the Blue Grotto or Dingli Cliffs?

Both sites have parking lots. Blue Grotto’s lot fills quickly in high season—arrive early. Dingli Cliffs offers multiple roadside spots and is usually hassle-free.

Can I drive into Valletta old city?

Technically yes, but it’s strongly discouraged due to the CVA charges, narrow streets, and severe lack of parking. Park outside and explore on foot or by public transport.

What should I do if the car breaks down or has a flat tire?

Ensure safety first, pull over, and turn on hazard lights. Call the 24/7 emergency number provided by your rental company. Do not attempt repairs yourself or use non-approved mechanics.

How should I handle a minor accident (no injuries)?

Stay calm, move vehicles to a safe spot, exchange details with the other driver, fill out the ‘Bumper-to-Bumper’ accident form if minor, take plenty of photos, notify your rental company immediately, and contact local wardens or police if needed.

Is the rental company’s emergency number available 24 hours?

Yes, all reputable rental companies provide a 24/7 emergency number for breakdowns and accidents.

How can I dispute a charge from the rental company?

First, email the company directly with clear evidence (photos, receipts, videos). If unresolved, contact QEEQ’s customer service for mediation. As a last resort, escalate to Malta’s MCCAA or the European Car Rental Conciliation Service (ECRCS).

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Malta for Greek Travelers

Planning to explore the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta? Renting a car is one of the best ways to enjoy its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical sites at your own pace. As a traveler from Greece, here are some important details to keep in mind:

Can Greek Citizens Drive in Malta?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from Greece

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Malta?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are the Differences Between Greek and Maltese Traffic Rules?

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations