The contrasting Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo each have unique charms making them year-round holiday destinations. From the Maltese capital of Valletta to the quiet villages of Gozo, these compact islands provide the perfect excuse to hire a car and start exploring.

You’ll find our friendly Avis team on hand to offer advice and provide the perfect rental car for your trip at several locations on Malta and its sister island of Gozo. As well as picking up your rental car from Avis at Malta airport, you can hire from resorts and hotels on Malta’s north east coast as well as the ferry port at Gozo.

Spending time in Malta’s capital city of Valletta tops the list of things to do in Malta. The city is a UNESCO world heritage site. Marvel at its remarkable history as well as explore its narrow streets, shops and cafes and take in its breathtaking harbour.

If you can tear yourself away from one of its stunning blue flag beaches, you can get a glimpse of marine life at Malta’s National Aquarium.

Fans of Game of Thrones need no introduction to the island’s film locations so why not plan a driving tour from Valletta to Mdina and the Majjistral National Park.

Things run at a relaxed pace on Gozo but if you want more than just spending time surfing and sunbathing, there is plenty to do from exploring the wine region, to caving, scuba diving and sight-seeing.

Among the most iconic destinations on this beautiful island is the citadel at Victoria while the ancient salt pans on the north of Gozo where the ‘white gold’ is harvested, are not to be missed.

While there is plenty to see in the capital of Valletta, driving around Malta and Gozo is a great way to experience the life, culture and scenic beauty of these beautiful islands.

Hiring a car is a popular and easy way to explore the islands of Malta and Gozo. If you have not driven in this part of the world before, we’d advise familiarising yourself with the road rules for driving in Malta before you travel.

Be aware that unlike on mainland Europe, you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road on the islands. Some rural roads and streets in the capital can be narrow and while the rush hour may not be like it is back home, as with any popular holiday destination, parking can be in demand at peak times.