Malta International Airport (MLA) handles flights arriving well past midnight, especially during summer season. If your flight lands late, you need to plan your transfer in advance because options thin out considerably after dark.
Late Night Transfer Options from Malta Airport
1. Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Best Option)
- Available: 24/7, any time
- Cost: From €25-35 to Valletta/Sliema/St. Julian's
- Time: 15-25 minutes to most hotels
- Why best at night: Driver waits for you regardless of flight delays, fixed price, no searching for transport at midnight
2. Taxi Rank at MLA
- Available: Usually available until last flights but not guaranteed late
- Cost: €20-30 metered, some fixed-rate options
- Risk: Limited availability after midnight, potential overcharging for tourists
3. Malta Public Transport (Bus X4, X7)
- Last bus: Around 11 PM (summer may vary)
- Cost: €1.50 (winter) / €2 (summer)
- Note: NOT available for late night arrivals. Last bus to Valletta departs around 11 PM
Distances from Malta Airport to Key Areas
- Valletta: 8km, 15-20 minutes
- Sliema: 10km, 20-25 minutes
- St. Julian's / Paceville: 12km, 20-30 minutes
- Mellieha / Golden Bay: 25km, 35-45 minutes
- Gozo (Cirkewwa Ferry): 30km, 40-50 minutes
Tips for Late Night Arrivals in Malta
- Always pre-book your transfer if arriving after 10 PM
- Malta is very safe at night but taxi availability drops sharply after midnight
- Ride-sharing apps (Bolt) work in Malta but surge pricing applies late at night
- If heading to Gozo, the last ferry is at midnight — pre-plan or stay overnight near Cirkewwa
- Most Malta hotels offer free WiFi to contact your driver on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a bus from Malta Airport at night?
No, the last bus from Malta Airport departs around 11 PM. For late night arrivals, you need a pre-booked transfer or taxi.
How much is a taxi from Malta Airport to Valletta at night?
A taxi costs approximately €20-25 to Valletta. A pre-booked private transfer costs from €25 with fixed pricing and guaranteed availability.
Is Malta Airport open 24 hours?
Yes, Malta International Airport operates 24/7 with flights arriving and departing throughout the night, especially during peak summer season.
AirportTransfer Portal Team
Travel & Transportation Expert