Private Sightseeing Tour across Malta, Gozo & Comino

If you’re considering a way to see Malta and its surrounding islands without the hassle of guided tours or crowded buses, this private sightseeing experience might pique your interest. It promises a flexible day on the road with your own driver, taking you to some of the most renowned spots across Malta, and even includes options to explore Gozo and Comino.

What really stands out about this tour is its customizability—you get to choose which attractions you want to visit, and your driver will recommend the best routes based on your preferences. Another highlight is the value for money, especially considering the length of the tour (around 8 hours), which offers a more relaxed and personalized way to see Malta compared to group excursions.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers have experienced driver lateness or lack of guidance, which could make or break the experience depending on your priorities. If you’re someone who prefers a fully guided tour with detailed historical insights, this might not be the best for you. But if you’re after independent exploration with a local touch, it can be quite rewarding.

This tour will suit travelers who want flexibility, appreciate local insights from a driver rather than a guide, and are comfortable exploring at their own pace. It’s good for those who value privacy and are okay with skipping a guided narrative in favor of a more laid-back day.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose what to see, with route recommendations from your driver.
• Cost-effective for a full day’s private experience, with all fees and taxes included.
• Unbiased driver service means no guided commentary unless you opt for more guided tours later.
• Potential downsides include lateness and limited information if the driver isn’t a guide.
• Great for independent travelers who want to customize their Malta experience.
• Includes stops at top highlights like Mdina, Blue Grotto, Popeye Village, and even gozo exploration.

The Experience in Detail

The Basics: What You’re Booking

This isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense—it’s a private chauffeur service designed to transport you around Malta at your own pace. For $91.71 per person, you get an air-conditioned vehicle and your own driver for roughly 8 hours. That’s a decent price considering the private nature of the experience and the flexibility it offers.

The tour is booked 42 days in advance on average, which suggests that it’s popular but not overscheduled—giving you some planning flexibility. You won’t have to pay extra for tickets to attractions, as all fees and taxes are included, but you will need to budget for lunch and any entrance fees if you choose to visit sites that charge.

The Itinerary: Customizable and Iconic

Unlike guided tours that follow strict schedules, this experience lets you craft your day. You can pick any iconic destination in Malta to start. Popular options include:

• Mdina Old City – A medieval walled city full of charm and history.
• Blue Grotto (Il-Hnejja) – Famous for its stunning sea caves and natural beauty.
• Popeye Village – A quirky spot perfect for family fun and photos.
• St. Peters Pool – A natural swimming spot ideal for a quick dip.
• Valletta Waterfront – For a relaxed stroll along the harbor.

Your driver acts as a local insider, suggesting routes that maximize your time and experience. Some reviews mention that drivers shared stories and insights, which added a personalized touch, while others felt there was little commentary—so it varies.

Top Stops: Why They Matter

Mdina is often called the “Silent City” and is a must-see for its narrow streets and medieval atmosphere. You can explore independently, soaking in the quiet charm that contrasts with bustling modern Malta.

The Blue Grotto is a highlight for most visitors. Its caves and sea tunnels glow with sunlight, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. If weather permits, many find it worth the visit, and your driver can suggest the best viewpoints or even boat trips if you’re interested.

Popeye Village offers a different vibe—its colorful, whimsical setting was originally a film set for the Popeye movies. It’s especially popular with families, but anyone who appreciates quirky sights will enjoy it.

St. Peters Pool is a natural swimming spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect if you’re craving some quick relaxation or a swim.

In addition, stops like Valletta Waterfront give you a taste of Malta’s lively port city scene, perfect for a leisurely walk or a coffee break.

Gozo and Comino can be included if you’re willing to extend your tour or want to explore beyond Malta. Some travelers opt for separate trips, but this tour can be tailored to include these islands if you coordinate ahead.

Transport & Timing: What to Expect

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially during Malta’s warm days. Your driver will recommend routes to avoid traffic and maximize sightseeing.

The 8-hour duration gives enough time for multiple stops, although some reviews note that punctuality varies. One traveler mentioned that their driver arrived over an hour late without notice, which affected their day. So, it’s wise to confirm pickup times in advance and be prepared for slight delays.

Since this isn’t a guided tour, your driver won’t provide detailed historical commentary unless you specifically request a guided experience. The focus is on transportation, with your driver acting as a local who can answer questions and suggest spots, but not necessarily a tour guide.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Complete flexibility—you decide where to go and what to see.
• Private experience—no crowded groups or noisy buses.
• Cost-effective for a full day—especially for small groups or couples.
• Insider route recommendations from your driver.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning.
• All fees and taxes included—no hidden costs.

Cons

• Lateness issues have been reported, so punctual communication is key.
• Limited guided commentary—if you want in-depth history, this might not be enough.
• No structured itinerary—may require more planning from your side.
• Driver’s knowledge of sites varies—some reviews suggest the driver is more of a chauffeur than a guide.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re independent-minded and want a personalized way to explore Malta without being tied to a fixed schedule. It suits travelers who are comfortable exploring at their own pace and appreciate local insights from a driver rather than a formal guide.

It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but want to see many highlights comfortably. The full-day option lets you visit several top attractions without feeling rushed, making it a good value for the price.

That said, if your priority is deep historical narration or guided storytelling, this setup might fall short. Also, if punctuality is a concern, communicate your expectations clearly before the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour guided with a guide?
No, this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense. It’s a private chauffeur service where your driver will recommend routes and stops but won’t provide detailed commentary unless you book a guided version separately.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. You can choose any iconic destination in Malta, and your driver will help plan the best route for your preferences.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, and you get an air-conditioned vehicle and a private driver. Lunch and entrance fees are not included, so plan to budget for those separately.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, giving ample time to visit several sites at a relaxed pace.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the flexibility and private nature mean you can tailor stops to suit children, especially at fun spots like Popeye Village or St. Peters Pool.

What if the driver is late or there are problems?
Some reviews mention lateness issues, so it’s advisable to confirm pickup times in advance. The tour is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand, which offers some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private sightseeing tour across Malta and its islands offers a relaxed, flexible, and personalized way to see the highlights of the archipelago. Its main strength lies in customization and privacy, making it a good option for those who prefer to avoid rigid schedules or guided group tours.

If you’re comfortable with a driver-led experience without in-depth commentary, this can be a fantastic way to explore at your own pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy local insights, want to avoid crowds, and are looking for good value for a full day on the road.

However, be aware of the variability in punctuality and driver knowledge, and decide if you’re okay with a potentially more independent experience. With proper communication and clear expectations, it can be a memorable and enjoyable way to discover Malta’s beauty.

Happy travels!