Malta International Airport is the only commercial airstrip for international passengers in Malta. It is referred to as Luqa airport. It is the primary entry point for most tourists and guests. Air travel is the most efficient, cheapest popular mode of travel to Malta. The airport itself is quite small. It has a single-passenger terminal. The passenger terminal contains one departure and one arrivals area, which are situated next to one another. Thus, the airport is very accessible. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are a few things that all passengers must be aware of when traveling to Malta.
All passengers are expected to have their relevant documentation along with them [PCR test proof, vaccination certificates, etcetera]. These will be checked in the arrival halls. Currently, the government has set up some temporary boots for the same. Still, there may be delays in exiting the airport.
Once you have gone through your document verification process, you should get to your hotel. Unfortunately, there are no hotels located at or near the airport. For traveling to the hotel, you can either opt for public transport or airport transfers.
Public transport
Public transport in Malta is primarily based on bus routes. Four express routes originate from the airport and go to different locations on the island. The buses run from these terminals from morning to evening.
Route X1
This route takes you from the airport to Cirkewwa. From Circewwa, you can board the ferry to Gozo.
Route X2
This departs from the airport and goes all the way to Sliema and Saint Julian’s. If you are staying at any of these locations, common, this is the route you should take.
Route X3
Route X3 should be your root of choice if you are staying at Qawra, Bugibba, or Saint Paul’s Bay. This route passes through the villages of Birkirkara, Mosta’s outskirts, and Rabat.
Route X4
This route can be taken if you are going directly to Valletta, which is the capital city of Malta.
Airport transfers
You can opt for a private taxi for your travel from the airport to your hotel. You can purchase a taxi ticket from the travel boot that is located in arrival halls. The taxi ticket needs to be presented to the driver. Check out https://www.cool.mt/airport-shuttle-malta for booking airport shuttles.
Alternatively, you can book a cab by using the cab apps for Malta. You can download the cab apps before you go to Malta so that you can easily book your ride. However, most of these apps would require verifying your phone number. Thus, you will need a Malta local phone number for verification. If you do not have a Malta local mobile number, the best option would be to either take the bus route or go for the airport transfer. Once you have reached your hotel, check-in, relax for a while, and start touring in and around Malta island. Even for your tours, you can book private accommodation.
