Canaima is berthed in Birgu, one of Malta’s most beautiful and convenient harbour areas. From here, you can reach Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s, the airport, beaches, historic sites and restaurants by taxi app, ferry, bus or rental car.
Best option: Bolt, Uber or eCabs
For most guests, the easiest way to get around Malta is by using ride-hailing apps such as Bolt, Uber or eCabs.
They are usually the most convenient option because:
- You see the price before booking.
- The route is tracked in the app.
- Payment is handled through the app.
- You avoid price negotiations.
- Pick-up and drop-off are usually straightforward.
This is especially useful when arriving from the airport, going out in the evening, visiting beaches, or travelling with luggage.
Avoid white taxis where possible
We generally recommend avoiding traditional white taxis unless you book them through an official booth or app and clearly know the price in advance.
Pricing can feel less predictable than app-based rides, especially if you are not familiar with Malta. To avoid misunderstandings, we suggest using Bolt, Uber or eCabs instead.
Ferries: a scenic way to travel
One of the nicest ways to travel from Birgu is by ferry.
The Three Cities ferry connects the Birgu / Three Cities area with Valletta. From Valletta, you can also take the ferry to Sliema. This can be faster and more pleasant than driving during busy traffic times, and the harbour views are excellent.
The ferry is especially useful for:
- Visiting Valletta
- Going to Sliema
- Connecting to restaurants, shopping and sightseeing
- Avoiding traffic and parking issues
Please check the current ferry timetable before travelling, as operating hours vary by season and weather.
Buses and the Tallinja app
Malta has an island-wide public bus network. For buses, download the Tallinja app, which provides journey planning, route information and real-time bus tracking.
Buses are usually the cheapest way to get around, but they can be slower than taxis, especially during rush hour or when travelling across the island. They are a good option if you are not in a hurry and want a budget-friendly way to explore.
Useful for:
- Valletta
- Airport connections
- Sliema and St Julian’s
- Mdina
- Marsaxlokk
- Beaches and sightseeing trips
Tip: allow extra time, especially in summer, during weekends and around rush hour.
Rental cars
A rental car can be useful if you want to explore Malta independently, visit several beaches, or drive around Gozo.
However, parking can be limited in popular areas, traffic can be heavy, and Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road.
If you rent a car, we strongly recommend taking fully comprehensive insurance with reduced or zero excess, even if it is more expensive. It can save a lot of stress when returning the car, especially if the rental company later claims to have found scratches, dents, wheel damage or other “new” damage.
Before driving away, take clear photos and videos of:
- All sides of the car
- Wheels and tyres
- Bumpers
- Mirrors
- Windscreen
- Interior
- Fuel level
- Mileage
Do the same again when returning the car.
Parking near Canaima
There is public parking near the roundabout at Grand Harbour, approximately 100 metres from Canaima.
Parking in Birgu is generally easier than in Valletta, Sliema or St Julian’s, but it can still become busy in the evenings, on weekends and during events. Do not leave valuables visible inside the car.
Recommended transport by situation
- For airport arrival or departure: Bolt, Uber or eCabs
- For Valletta: Three Cities ferry or taxi app
- For Sliema: Ferry via Valletta or taxi app
- For St Julian’s: Bolt, Uber or eCabs
- For beaches: Rental car or taxi app
- For budget travel: Tallinja bus app
- For late nights: Bolt, Uber or eCabs