Explore Malta in a Self-drive Electric Car Tour

Exploring Malta in a Self-drive Electric Car: An Honest Review

Imagine cruising along Malta’s stunning coastlines and historic streets in a quiet, eco-friendly electric car, all while learning about the island’s stories from a smart GPS guide. That’s what this self-drive electric car tour offers — a relaxed, immersive way to see parts of Malta that many travelers might otherwise miss.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines scenic views with personalized storytelling. The GPS guides you in several languages, making it accessible to a variety of travelers. Plus, the chance to explore at your own pace means no rushed sightseeing or crowded bus stops. One small thing to consider is that you’ll need to be comfortable driving in some narrower, older streets—an experience that’s more intimate than intimidating, but still worth mentioning if you’re not used to such roads.

This tour feels ideal for those who like a bit of independence and want a taste of Malta’s lesser-known corners. Whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or even traveling with older teens, it offers a flexible, engaging way to get to know the island.

Key Points

• Self-drive freedom: You’re in the driver’s seat, with a GPS that walks you through Malta’s highlights.
• Eco-friendly fun: The electric car keeps the experience quiet and green, perfect for environmentally conscious travelers.
• Scenic routes: The tour covers an 18-kilometer stretch along the coast, giving you plenty of photo opportunities.
• Informative narration: The GPS is multilingual and tells you stories about Malta’s history and culture.
• Great value: At just over $55 per person, it offers a lot of sightseeing for a reasonable price.
• Good for small groups: The experience is private, with a maximum of four adults, making it intimate and flexible.

What to Expect from the Tour

This roughly two-and-a-half-hour journey takes you along a beautiful 12-mile route, mostly by the sea, with stops at key sites. The experience begins at Xatt ir-Riq in Birgu, a picturesque starting point near public transit. From there, you’ll hop into your electric car—an easy-to-drive, modern vehicle that’s kept very clean, with staff providing a thorough briefing.

The itinerary is packed with highlights:

The Rolling Geeks Museum

Before setting off, many choose to visit the Rolling Geeks Museum — a fun, interactive space that offers a hands-on approach to Malta’s past and present. It sets the stage nicely, especially for those interested in local history or with young travelers in tow. Visitors report that the staff here are friendly and helpful, making it a good starting point or a quick addition to the tour.

The Talking Car Experience

Once you’re on the road, your GPS-equipped car takes over as the storyteller. It’s programmed in several languages, so language barrier isn’t an issue. The narration is informative and keeps the atmosphere lively. Some reviews mention that it feels like traveling with a knowledgeable friend who’s eager to share Malta’s stories.

Mediterranean Forts and the World’s Largest Cannon

One of the main sights is a medieval fortress, praised for its beauty and significance, often described as one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean. You’ll also see the biggest cannon in the world, a fascinating piece that offers a tangible sense of Malta’s military history. This stop often becomes a favorite photo opportunity and adds a layer of depth to the trip.

The Gladiator Film Studio and Historic Village

Another highlight is the largest fort in Malta, which doubles as part of Malta’s film studio complex, famous for hosting scenes from The Gladiator. Travelers find this stop intriguing, especially those interested in movies or historical architecture. Nearby, a medieval village boasts charming streets and architecture, offering a glimpse into Malta’s past life.

The Scenic Drive and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the route, the scenery is consistently praised. You’ll pass along coastlines, narrow streets, and vibrant neighborhoods. Many reviews mention how leisurely the drive is, allowing plenty of time for pictures and reflection. When the weather is clear, the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

The Final Stops

The tour concludes back at the starting point. If you’ve brought your camera, this is the perfect moment to review your photos and soak in the last beautiful sights. Some travelers use this time to grab a drink or a snack at nearby harbor cafes, making the experience a full afternoon outing.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The price of $55.61 per person feels quite reasonable for a private, guided experience that includes bottled water and a well-paced 2.5-hour tour. No lunch or hotel transfers are included, so plan accordingly if you want a full day out.

Driving license requirements are straightforward—if you’re over 21 and under 75, you’re good to go. The cars are small, so narrow medieval streets are manageable, though some reviews note that driving in busy traffic can feel a bit intense, especially for less experienced drivers. The tour staff do provide clear instructions and support, and they’ll even supply a lead vehicle if you’re nervous.

Weather considerations are simple: the tour operates year-round during daylight hours, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. But on very rainy or stormy days, it might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a different day or a full refund.

Health and safety are taken seriously, with cars being disinfected after each use, and travelers are asked to bring masks. The experience isn’t suitable for people with back problems, but most others find it great fun.

What Travelers Say

More than 800 reviews give this tour a solid 4.8/5 score, with 97% recommending it. Most rave about how easy and fun the drive is, with many describing it as a great way to see Malta at your own pace. Several mention the helpfulness of staff, the stunning route, and the varying sites visited.

A common theme is how it’s a different approach to sightseeing—less conventional than a bus or walking tour but more personal and relaxed. Some reviewers highlight that they managed to see hidden gems, areas they’d never reach on foot or in a larger group.

A few note minor technical issues or the concern that driving in a busy area can be a little stressful, but overall, feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Many are surprised at how much they could see in such a short time, especially given the comfortable pace.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave independent exploration but appreciate some guidance. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Malta’s sites but don’t want to be herded around in a large group. The private nature makes it flexible, so you can linger longer at spots or skip some if you prefer.

It’s also suited for eco-conscious visitors, thanks to the electric vehicles, and for those who like a bit of adventure behind the wheel. Keep in mind, it’s not for anyone uncomfortable driving in narrow, historic streets or busy traffic, but the support staff are there to help.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is mainly designed for adults, families with older teens who can handle driving and the occasional narrow street will find it enjoyable. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly for young children.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the electric car.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including travel and stops.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the electric car rental, a mobile guide with narration, bottled water, and the full 2.5-hour tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, drivers must be between 21 and 75 years old.

What if I don’t want to drive?
This tour requires you to drive the electric car yourself—it’s a self-drive experience, not a guided bus or chauffeur service.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
There’s no specific mention of accessibility features, so check with the provider if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet engaging way to see Malta, this self-drive electric car tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, learn about local sites from a knowledgeable guide, and avoid the crowds of larger tours.

While it does require you to drive through some narrow, historic streets, most reviews agree that the manageable size and helpful staff make it a manageable and fun experience. Plus, the stunning scenery, combined with the informative narration, makes it a fantastic way to get a genuine feel for Malta’s essence—beyond just the typical tourist spots.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want an interactive, personal, and eco-friendly way to discover Malta’s sights and stories. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s worth considering.