At Malta International Airport, the best way onward depends on where you are going and how much luggage you carry. For Sliema and St Julian's, the Airport Direct TD3 is a particularly useful option; for Valletta, compare the direct buses with a taxi or ride-hailing quote. Travel time is traffic-dependent, especially around Msida and the harbour.
Quick choice: Travelling light to Sliema, Gżira or St Julian's? Check Airport Direct TD3. Going to Valletta or the Gozo fast ferry? Check TD4. For a family or late arrival, compare the live Bolt/Uber quote with the official taxi booth and a pre-booked transfer. Do not rely on an old X7 route or a fixed app fare.
Airport Direct Routes at a Glance
| Route | Main areas | Published frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD1 | Rabat, Buġibba, Mellieħa, Ċirkewwa | Hourly | €3.50 |
| TD2 | St Julian's, Pembroke | Every 30 minutes | €3 |
| TD3 | St Julian's, Sliema, Gżira, Msida | Every 30 minutes | €3 |
| TD4 | Valletta, Gozo Fast Ferry | Every 30 minutes | €3 |
| TD5 | Rabat, Buġibba | Hourly | €3 |
These are the operator's published Airport Direct routes and fares at this update; check the live route pages for the day you travel. The airport also has ordinary bus routes, but Airport Direct fares and card rules differ from standard bus fares.
Taxi, Bolt and Uber: Compare the Live Price
Ride-hailing apps show a price before you book, but demand, weather and traffic change it. The official white-taxi booth at the airport displays destination fares; confirm the amount and payment method before taking the ride. A pre-booked transfer is worth considering when you need child seats, a larger vehicle or a meet-and-greet. Avoid any table promising one fixed Bolt price for every day and every flight.
Eating Before You Board
Here is a local tip I would actually use: you do not necessarily need to pay airside prices. The airport has landside food options before security, so eating before boarding can be closer to the prices you see outside. There is also a McDonald's near the airport and Talbot & Bons at nearby SkyParks. Check their current opening hours and allow enough time for security; the cheapest meal is no bargain if you miss your flight.
Going to Gozo?
There are two different journeys. TD4 takes you towards Valletta for the Gozo fast ferry; TD1 runs towards Ċirkewwa for the conventional car ferry. Pick the ferry first, then the airport bus. Our live ferry page brings Malta's crossings together, while our Gozo transport guide explains the trade-offs.