What happened?
Malta has an extensive public bus network across Malta and Gozo, supported by the official tallinja app, personalised tallinja cards, harbour ferries and several paid premium services.
Why does it matter?
Knowing which journeys are free, which require payment and how to check live service information can save residents and visitors time and avoid unnecessary fines.
Who is affected?
Residents, commuters, visitors and anyone using buses, ferries or airport connections in Malta and Gozo.
What should you do?
Use the official tallinja app to plan the journey, tap a valid personalised card every time you board, or buy a valid ticket if you do not have one. Check current fares and service alerts before travelling.
The basics
Malta Public Transport operates the main bus network across Malta and Gozo. The easiest way to plan a trip is the official tallinja app, which provides a journey planner, live bus tracking and service alerts. Routes include regular day buses, night routes, airport connections and special services.
If you have a personalised tallinja card
If you have a valid personalised tallinja card, Day Routes, Night Routes and selected Special Services are free. You must still tap the card every time you board. The card is personal and cannot be shared. The free-travel scheme does not include Tallinja Direct routes, Airport Direct services or tallinja On Demand, so those services may require credit or a separate payment.
If you do not have a personalised card
You can normally buy a ticket from the driver using cash, a contactless bank card or a compatible smartphone. A single bus ticket is valid for two hours and allows transfers during that period. Malta Public Transport currently lists standard Day Route fares of €2.00 in winter and €2.50 in summer, while Night, Special and most Tallinja Direct routes are €3.00. Always check the current fare page before travelling because prices and seasonal dates can change.
Harbour ferries
Personalised tallinja card holders can also use the harbour ferries between Sliema and Valletta and between the Three Cities and Valletta free of charge, and the Barrakka Lift is included where applicable. Passengers without a personalised card can buy ferry tickets separately. Ferry timetables change between summer and winter, so check the current operator timetable before travelling.
Airport, Tallinja Direct and On Demand
For faster or more specialised trips, Tallinja Direct offers limited-stop connections, including airport links, but it is not part of the free bus scheme. tallinja On Demand is booked through the app and currently operates in selected areas including Sliema, San Ġwann, St Julian's and Swieqi. The official app is the best place to check whether the service is available for your journey.
A simple routine
Open the tallinja app, enter your destination, check the live arrival time, then tap your personalised card or pay when boarding. Keep a valid ticket or card for the whole journey. Inspectors carry out checks and a €50 fine can apply if you do not have valid proof of travel or fail to validate your card. This guide was checked against official sources on 30 August 2026.