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Tourists have travelled far and wide to visit the Maltese Islands. Since these islands lie in a very strategic position in the Mediterranean, it is quite straightforward to travel to Malta.

Getting to Malta The main means of getting to Malta is by air. In the past, it may have been relatively expensive to travel to Malta, but nowadays, thanks to low-cost airlines this is no longer the case. Many European countries operate direct flights to Malta which take approximately 2 to 3 hours. Major airlines other than our national airline Air Malta, which offer direct flights to Malta include Lufthansa, KLM and Swissair. Another option on how to travel to Malta by air is by charter flights, even though it may have some disadvantages like for example the limited number of flights as well as fixed departure and arrival dates.

Travellers to Malta may also opt to choose sea transport. High-speed ferries as well as car ferries are run frequently from Italian shores. Genova also operates a ferry boat with an overnight trip directly to Malta. The islands are also included in several cruise-ship itineraries and provide an excellent base or stop-over for sailing.

Getting around Malta Once travellers have arrived on the Maltese Islands, there are various ways and means to get around. Travelling around Malta is relatively easy with an uncomplicated road network and straightforward signage.

Tourists can choose from quite a number of means of getting around Malta, the simplest method being by bus. Just outside Valletta, the capital city, one can find the main bus station, with all routes leading to and from it. Also, in each town and village, there is quite a number of bus stops.

For those travellers who wish to be more independent when it comes to travelling around Malta, they can choose to rent a car. Driving in Malta can be stressful at times, especially because of poor road discipline by some locals. On the other hand, Gozo has much less traffic, hence driving around can be less stressful. Keep in mind that driving in Malta is on the left, thanks to British inheritance.

Taxis are also another option for getting around Malta. They are usually white in colour and can be found parked outside most of the hotels and in tourist areas. It is advisable to always check beforehand the fee of the trip.

Travelling to Gozo, Malta’s sister island, only takes about 20 minutes by ferry which leaves from Cirkewwa, in the northern part of Malta. The schedule depends on the season and is also subject to weather conditions. In summer, extra trips are organised and also a shuttle service.

Tourists can choose other different types of transport for getting around Malta and Gozo like the seaplanes, which offer spectacular sightseeing tours around the islands and ferry trips from Sliema to Valletta which also gives tourists a beautiful experience to view the coastline of Malta. One shouldn’t miss going on a ride on the traditional horse-drawn carriage (or karozzin). Ask the coachman for the different types of tours offered.

Having said that, with all the ways and means tourists can travel to and around Malta, one can truly explore the islands in all manners possible.