Malta Bus Routes and Timetables: Plan Your Journey

The safest way to find a bus in Malta or Gozo is to search using your starting point and destination. Route numbers, schedules and stops can change, so an old list or screenshot may send you to the wrong service.

For tickets and an introduction to the network, start with our public transport in Malta guide.

Use the official journey planner

The Malta Public Transport journey planner is useful when you do not know the route number. Enter the start, destination, date and preferred time to see suggested routes, transfers, walking sections and estimated journey times.

Check the exact place selected. Localities, streets and bus stops can have similar names, and the nearest stop may be on a different road from the destination entrance.

Check a route and timetable

If you know the service number, use the official routes and timetables page. Select the correct direction because the stops and scheduled times can differ on the return journey. Plan and verify the journey with Journey Planner.

A timetable is the planned schedule, not a guarantee of the actual arrival time. Traffic, roadworks, events, diversions and busy boarding points can all cause delays. Confirm the latest times on Routes and Timetables.

Check live arrivals

Tallinja app

The Tallinja app includes journey planning, service alerts and real-time bus tracking. Select a stop to see its services and estimated arrivals, or use the map to view tracked buses.

QR code at the stop

Many bus-stop timetables display a QR code. Scanning it opens live information for that stop in the app or a web browser.

SMS

Without mobile data, send the stop code shown on the sign by SMS to 5061 1010. The reply lists routes serving that stop and their estimated arrival times.

Live estimates depend on GPS and mobile connectivity. They are usually more useful than the printed schedule shortly before travel, but they can still be inaccurate.

Understand route types

Regular services form most of the network. Separate products and fare rules apply to some other services:

• Tallinja Direct provides limited-stop connections.
• Airport Direct links the airport with selected destinations.
• Night buses serve selected corridors after regular daytime services wind down.
• Tallinja On Demand requires an app booking within its defined operating area.

For Gozo-specific planning, including the importance of Victoria Bus Terminal, read our public transport in Gozo guide.

Check diversions and seasonal changes

Before an important journey, review Malta Public Transport's latest service updates for diversions, temporary stops and network changes.

Malta Public Transport publishes service updates for temporary diversions, stop closures and special services. The network can also change between seasonal schedules.

Recheck the route on the day of travel if you are heading to:

• Malta International Airport
• A ferry terminal
• A medical appointment
• A concert, feast or major event
• A connection with a fixed departure time

Allow a buffer rather than planning to arrive immediately before the connection.

Practical route-planning checklist

• Confirm the service number and direction.
• Note the stop name and stop code.
• Check the scheduled timetable in advance. Check Real-Time Bus Tracking shortly before the visit or journey.
• Check live arrivals shortly before leaving.
• Review active service alerts.
• Allow extra time for traffic and transfers.
• Confirm the fare or card required in our Malta bus fares guide.

For important journeys, use the official tools on the same day rather than relying only on a saved itinerary.

Browse all our Transport guides.