Malta car hire ensures that you experience this beautiful country with ease and convenience, allowing you to see the sites you're most interested in on your own schedule. While Malta does have a public transport system that doesn't cost too much, many expats feel constrained by the limited amount of routes, rigid timetable, and lack of punctuality, instead opting to rent a car and see the island on their own. One of the best reasons to do this is that it will allow you to fit more sights into a day, meaning that you can see a lot more on your holiday if you hire a car in Malta.
Where can I rent a car, and what is the rental process like?
There are numerous places to rent a car in Malta. You can rent your vehicle at the airport to get your trip off to a good start, or wait until you're at your hotel, as most tourist areas also have numerous rental firms. Choose an international firm like Hertz if you like, or choose a local firm which will have reasonable prices and a good selection of cars to choose from. The process is as simple in Malta as it is at home. For maximum simplicity, book online before you leave home, and arrange to pick up a car or have one delivered to your accommodation. The agent will want to swipe your card and settle the bill (which will include a damage deposit) there and then, and will also be able to inspect the car for damage with you.
What documents do I need for care hire Malta?
Like anywhere else, you'll need to show certain documents when renting a car. Firstly, you'll need your passport and a valid driving licence, of course. You'll also need a credit card to pay for your rental (a big brand like Visa or Mastercard is usually a good idea), and finally, any confirmation documents that you were sent when booking online.
What else do I need to know before renting a car?
There are a few important things to keep in mind when renting a car in Malta, as it's always good to know what to expect in advance. Firstly, something you'll be familiar with - in Malta, you will be driving on the left-hand side of the road, which is a habit that the Maltese inherited from the British. Despite the similar driving system, you should always make sure that you know where you're going and what route you're going to take before you set off to avoid annoying tourists and locals alike. Another thing you should always do is make sure that the rental agency has made their terms and conditions very clear, and that you understand them. You should also ensure that they check the car with you, in case there's pre-existing damage. You might also want to think carefully about the type of car that you're going to choose. Although you might be tempted by the cheapest deals you can find, which will generally mean you're given the most basic car possible, summers in Malta are very hot. You will definitely need a car with air-conditioning, and it's well worth paying a bit extra for. Finally, you should note that in some tourist areas, most notably Sliema, St. Julian's, and St. Paul's Bay, parking is incredibly limited.
Road Laws in Malta
One of the most important things when driving in a new place is to be respectful and observant of the local road laws. Firstly, you need to know that speed limits in Malta tend to be around 60 or 70 km/h, and there are several speed cameras in place. You also need to know that unlike in certain other countries, enforcing road lows is the job of traffic wardens, and generally, the police do not get involved in road law enforcement unless they suspect specific crimes like drunk driving. Car parks often have an assistant who may ask for a tip. They are licenced by the Malta Transport Authority, and it is customary to give them around 50 cents, though you shouldn't feel pressured to do so.Like in any other country, if your are thinking of car hire in Malta, always read the terms and conditions before you sign anything, to make sure there are no extra charges to pay.
