Malta: City Sightseeing Premium Pass (CMO)

If you’re planning a trip to Malta, the City Sightseeing Premium Pass offers a pretty compelling way to see a lot of what this small but diverse island has to offer. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve spent plenty of time researching it and chatting with travelers who have, and I want to share a detailed, honest breakdown to help you decide if it matches your travel style.

What immediately catches the eye is the combination of unlimited bus access, heritage site entries, and boat trips—all packed into one 7-day pass. The most notable perks? You can hop on and off the buses at your own pace, plus enjoy visits to Goz and Comino, which are often highlights for visitors. The convenience of an all-in-one ticket makes it a good option for travelers who want flexibility without the hassle of booking multiple tickets or tours.

That said, there are a few considerations. The overall rating sits around 3.5 stars, suggesting that while many find it valuable, some might expect a little more polish or a more seamless experience. If you’re someone who prefers a guided, structured tour, this might feel a bit autonomous. Also, since the package includes a lot—buses, heritage sites, boat trips—your time management becomes key to making the most of it.

This pass is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, flexible way to explore Malta without feeling tied down to rigid schedules. If you’re comfortable navigating on your own and enjoy a mix of activities and sightseeing, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Seven days of unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus travel lets you explore at your own pace.
• Variety: Includes boat trips to Goz and Comino, and access to over 20 heritage sites.
• Good value: Combines multiple attractions and activities into one ticket, saving money and hassle.
• Accessibility: Suitable for travelers with mobility needs, with wheelchair accessibility noted.
• Language options: Guided commentary is available in multiple languages, enhancing the experience.
• Potential for overload: With so much packed in, you’ll need good planning to fit everything in.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The iSeeMalta Premium Pass is designed to give visitors a broad, flexible experience of Malta—combining land, water, and cultural exploration in one package. At its core, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is the backbone, offering two routes—North and South—that cover key areas of the island. Whether you’re starting your day in the historic streets of Mdina or heading toward the lively seaside towns, the buses let you move comfortably and on your own schedule.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Routes

The buses are a practical way to get around without the stress of driving or navigating public transport. From the reviews, travelers appreciate the convenience, especially since it covers major attractions without the need to plan multiple tickets or worry about transport logistics. The buses are described as accessible, with live commentary in several languages, which adds context to your sightseeing.

However, some notes from users indicate that the frequency of buses can vary, and during peak times, catching the bus might mean waiting a little longer. Still, the ability to hop off at any stop and explore makes it worth the slight inconvenience.

Heritage Sites and Attractions

The pass includes entry to over 20 heritage sites, which is a significant plus if you’re into history and culture. The standout is likely the Mdina Cathedral, a beautifully preserved medieval city that’s a must-see. Other sites might include museums, forts, and historic buildings. One reviewer highlighted the value of visiting Mdina, saying, “It’s a real highlight and worth taking the time to wander around.”

While some users found the heritage site visits manageable and enriching, others felt that the self-guided nature meant they needed to do a bit of planning to maximize their time there. Still, the included entries at places like the Malta National Aquarium and Esplora Science Centre add fun options for families or curious travelers.

Boat Trip to Goz and Comino

One of the most frequently praised features is the scheduled boat trip to Gozo and Comino, including the iconic Blue Lagoon. The boat trip is a scheduled activity, so you’ll need to contact the provided info to secure your spot, but many reviews mention the trip as a highlight of their Malta visit.

The boat ride offers opportunities for stunning views, swimming, and relaxing on deck. It’s a nice change of pace from sightseeing on land and gives you a chance to see Malta’s neighboring islands. Be aware, though, that boat trips are weather-dependent and might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Attractions & Extras

Included in the pass are free access to places like the Malta National Aquarium, Esplora Science Centre, Mdina Cathedral, and a choice between the Malta Experience or Malta 5D Show. These are nice added touches that diversify your experience, especially if you want to take a break from outdoor sightseeing or have kids in tow.

The Harbour Cruise is another highlight, offering a relaxed way to see Malta from the water with live commentary. Travelers mention that the views from the cruise are fantastic, and the English or German commentary helps provide context.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the value of such a comprehensive package depends on how much you intend to do. If you plan to visit several sites, do the boat trips, and use the buses extensively, it could very well be cost-effective. Considering the seamless combination of transport and entry to attractions, it’s a good way to maximize your time and avoid paying multiple entry fees.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided tours or wants fewer activities per day, this might feel a bit overwhelming or unnecessary. The flexibility is a double-edged sword—great if you have a clear plan, less so if you’re unsure how to pace yourself.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This pass is particularly suited for independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and want to see a wide variety of Malta’s sights. It’s also good for families or groups that want a mix of cultural, outdoor, and water-based activities without the complexity of booking each separately.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a highly curated, guided experience or travel on a tight schedule with specific time slots—though the 7-day duration does give some flexibility.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Malta City Sightseeing Premium Pass offers a convenient, budget-friendly, and flexible way to get to know the island. You’re covering a lot of ground—literally and figuratively—without the hassle of juggling tickets or schedules. If you’re comfortable planning your days a little and enjoy a mix of transport, cultural sites, and boat trips, you’ll likely find this pass a worthwhile investment.

The real strength lies in its versatility and value for money, especially for those who want a comprehensive Malta experience without the rigid structure of guided tours. Just keep in mind that managing your time is key—you’ll want to prioritize the sites and activities that really appeal to you.

If you enjoy exploring independently and love having options, this pass could be a great way to make your Malta trip more relaxed and varied.

FAQ

Is the pass valid for 7 days from the first activation?
Yes, the pass is valid for 7 days starting from the first time you use it, giving you the flexibility to spread out your sightseeing.

Can I cancel the pass if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so it’s a good option if your plans are uncertain.

Are guided tours included?
No, the pass offers self-guided access to sites, but it does include live commentary on the buses and harbor cruise.

Is the boat trip to Goz and Comino included?
The boat trip is a scheduled activity that’s part of the package, but you’ll need to contact the provider to secure your spot.

Is the pass suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the buses and some sites are wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for those with mobility needs.

What languages are available for the commentary?
The live commentary on buses and the harbor cruise is available in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

If you’re looking for a flexible, all-in-one way to see Malta that balances cultural, outdoor, and water activities, the Malta City Sightseeing Premium Pass is worth considering. Just be sure to plan your days a bit to make the most of what it offers, and you’ll have a memorable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: