Private Tour Of Malta (Private Driver)

Explore Malta Privately with a Customizable Driver Tour for Up to 8 People

A private driver tour in Malta offers an intimate way to see the island’s highlights at your own pace. Priced at $359.54 per group for up to eight people, this 6-hour experience includes door-to-door transport, making it ideal for small groups seeking flexibility and comfort. You can follow a suggested route or work with the driver to craft a personalized itinerary, adding an extra layer of convenience.

While the tour promises a variety of stops — from the historic Mdina to St. Peter’s Pool — it’s worth noting that the experience’s reviews mention some logistical issues, such as late arrivals and language barriers. Despite these points, the tour remains a practical option for those wanting a relaxed, private exploration of Malta’s key sights, especially if you prefer avoiding crowded bus tours.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour for groups of up to eight people
• Includes door-to-door transport between your hotel and Malta’s top sites
• 6-hour duration with flexible itinerary options
• Optional guide upgrade available for deeper insight
• Price: $359.54 per group, booked on average 40 days in advance
• Stops include Mdina, Popeye Village, Blue Grotto, St. Peter’s Pool, and the Three Cities

Starting Point: A Private Driver in Mellieha, Malta

This tour departs from Mellieha, offering pickup services right from your accommodation. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water, making the ride comfortable and convenient. The flexible scheduling and private nature of the tour mean you can set the pace, making it particularly suitable for small groups or families who want a tailored Malta experience.

Visiting Ta’ Qali Crafts Village: Local Artisans and Handicrafts

The first stop takes you to Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, a hub for Maltese craftsmanship located on a former RAF wartime airfield. Here, you can observe local artisans blowing glass, crafting gold filigree jewelry, and creating sculptures and lace. The crafts village is a lively spot for browsing artifacts created by local experts, and admission is free.

This stop provides a glimpse into Malta’s artistic traditions and offers opportunities to purchase unique souvenirs. Expect around 30 minutes at this location, making it a gentle start to your day without feeling rushed.

Popeye Village: Film Set and Family-Friendly Attraction

Next, the tour includes a visit to Popeye Village, famously known as the original film set for the musical Popeye. This attraction lies just off Mellieha Bay, making it an excellent addition to a day spent near beaches or coves. Visitors can meet cartoon characters and explore the colorful set, which continues to attract families with children.

Please note that admission to Popeye Village is not included, and you should allocate about 1 hour for this stop. The site also offers beach facilities nearby, including sun beds, umbrellas, showers, and splash pools, if you choose to extend your time at this location.

Discovering Mdina: The Silent City with Over 4,000 Years of History

A highlight of this private tour is a stop at Mdina, one of Malta’s most iconic sites. Known as “the silent city,” Mdina features streets that have remained unchanged for centuries and has been inhabited for over 4,000 years. According to tradition, St. Paul lived here after his shipwreck in 60 A.D., and his grotto in Rabat remains a key historical site.

Visitors can stroll through cobbled alleys, medieval walls, and baroque architecture, all lit by lamp-lit streets at night. The visit lasts about 1 hour, and while admission is free, the city’s cultural and religious treasures make it a worthwhile pause in your day.

Blue Grotto: Natural Wonder and Photo Opportunity

The Blue Grotto, on Malta’s southern coast, is famous for its phosphorescent blue waters and dramatic caves. Named after a British soldier who thought the area resembled Capri’s Grotta Azzurra, this location draws around 100,000 travelers per year.

The tour spends about 30 minutes here, offering a chance to admire the stunning colours reflected in the water, especially when sunlight hits the submerged flora. The site is popular for diving and photography but does not include admission. The natural beauty of this spot makes it a favorite for those seeking memorable scenery.

St. Peter’s Pool: Natural Swimming Lido in Malta’s South

A hidden gem along Malta’s coast, St. Peter’s Pool offers a natural rock lido perfect for swimming and sunbathing. To reach this spot, travelers follow a narrow road past the Delimara Lighthouse, about 1.5 km from the main road. The pool features large flat rocks ideal for basking in the sun between swims.

The stop lasts around 30 minutes, and admission is free. While it’s a casual spot, visitors should be prepared for rocky terrain and bring their own snacks and water. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy Malta’s rugged coastline.

The Three Cities: Malta’s Maritime Heritage

The tour concludes with a two-hour visit to the Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua — offering a glimpse into Malta’s rich maritime past. These cities have served as homes and fortresses since Phoenician times and feature palaces, churches, and bastions that predate Valletta.

Known for authentic Maltese life and historical sites, the Three Cities allow visitors to explore harbour inlets and narrow streets that reveal Malta’s maritime and military history. This stop emphasizes local culture, far from the tourist crowds often found elsewhere.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes Wi-Fi, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and snacks prepared from local produce. A traditional Maltese snack is also part of the experience, offering a taste of the island’s culinary traditions. You can upgrade to include a private guide for additional insights, making the trip more enriching.

However, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to extend your visits with meals. The tour is most suitable for most travelers and service animals are allowed. Tour bookings are typically made about 40 days in advance, ensuring availability.

Logistics and Review Insights

The tour is designed for small groups, providing door-to-door pickup and private transport, avoiding crowded buses. The vehicle is modern and comfortable, with amenities like Wi-Fi for convenience.

It’s important to note that some reviews mention delays and language barriers — the driver, for example, spoke only English and Maltese despite booking an Italian-speaking driver. The late arrival and incomplete visitations suggest that expectations should be managed, especially for those seeking a perfectly smooth experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private, flexible tour is well-suited for families, small groups, or friends who want a personalized Malta experience. Its customizable nature allows for focusing on specific interests, whether history, scenery, or beaches. It’s particularly attractive for those who prefer door-to-door service and avoiding large group tours.

However, those sensitive to language barriers or timing uncertainties might want to verify details beforehand. The cost per group offers good value for small parties, especially with the option to include a guide for more detailed stories.

Private Tour of Malta: Final Thoughts

This private driver experience provides a convenient and customizable way to explore Malta’s highlights within six hours. It combines historic sites like Mdina, natural wonders such as Blue Grotto, and coastal spots like St. Peter’s Pool, all with door-to-door service.

While some logistical issues are noted in reviews, the comfort and flexibility make this a compelling choice for those wanting a personalized Malta day trip. The option to add a guide and snacks enhances the experience, making it more immersive.

This tour is best suited for small groups seeking privacy and flexibility, especially if they are prepared for potential delays or language considerations. It offers a practical way to see Malta’s diverse sights without the rush of larger tours, provided expectations are managed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it is designed for up to 8 people, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be arranged around your preferences, and you can choose to follow the suggested route or craft a tailored plan with your driver.

What is included in the price?
The $359.54 fee covers private transport, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and local snacks. An optional guide can be added during booking.

Are entrance fees included for the stops?
Most stops, such as Mdina and Three Cities, are free; however, admission to Popeye Village is not included.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from 30 minutes (Blue Grotto, St. Peter’s Pool) to 1 hour (Mdina, Popeye Village), with the Three Cities lasting approximately 2 hours.

What should I be aware of before booking?
Be mindful that some reviews mention late arrivals and language barriers. Confirm your preferences and communicate clearly with the provider to ensure a smooth experience.