Malta Airport (MLA)

About Malta Airport

Malta Airport is the only international airport on the island of Malta and serves all of the Maltese islands. 

The airport features everything you’d come to expect from a modern traveler’s hub including shopping, dining, and more. Hit up the Agenda Bookshop for a good read on your next flight or take your time over a meal at Hard Rock Cafe. And of course, there are countless coffee shops and fast food chains sprinkled throughout the terminal for a quick bite.

Malta International Airport also has an Amusement Room for kids and teens, an Observation Deck where you can watch the takeoffs and landings, and you might also catch some of the airport’s seasonal events that help make layovers more enjoyable. 

The history of Malta itself can be traced back millennia and runs far deeper than even the Egyptian pyramids. Ancient megalithic stone temples, some over 5,000 years old can be found all over Malta and Gozo. 

Malta had been settled by the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabics following by the Knights of Malta and eventually the British Crown, each leaving a piece of their histories with them as can be seen in the culture and identity of modern-day Malta.

It wasn’t until 1964 that Malta became independent from 150 years of British rule and, for the first time, was free of all foreign occupation.

Clearly, Malta is an incredible travel destination and the airport itself has a lot of things to do. So, whether you have a layover in Malta International Airport or you’re ready to explore everything the island has to offer, you won’t be disappointed. 

Things to do near Malta Airport

If you have a layover that’s less than six hours, there’s still plenty of things to do within the Malta Airport itself.

• Enjoy a long lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe or Cleland and Souchet Wine Cafe.

• Take a break at the Observation Deck watching the planes take off and land.

• Kids and teens will love the Amusement Room full of games like air hockey and pool.

• Check out the SkyParks Business Centre that includes fitness and health essentials, child care areas, and banking services.

If you have an extra-long layover or you’ve arrived at Malta Airport as your final destination, there’s so much to explore in the Maltese Islands. Here are some must-sees in Valletta, the capital of Malta:

• See paintings by Caravaggio at the Saint John’s Co-Cathedral.

• Stroll along Republic Street or Merchant Street to stumble upon local shops and restaurants. 

• Check out one of the oldest theatres in Europe, the Manoel Theatre.

• Have a picnic at the Barraka Gardens.

Transit Options at Malta Airport

• Bus: Airport Express Services (X1, X2, X3, and X4)

• Taxi: Available 24 hours a day

• Parking: First two hours free

• Rental cars available

Luggage storage near Malta Airport

Bounce partners with local businesses all around the world to offer safe, convenient luggage storage for busy travelers. Simply download the Bounce app, search your location, and find luggage storage locations in Malta, perfect for your trip to the island.

Whether you’re exploring the city during your layover at Malta International Airport or you have a few hours to kill before you can check into your hotel, store your luggage in Malta with Bounce for the best possible experience exploring the islands.

Attractions and activities near Malta Airport

On the island of Malta, there’s so much to explore. From its vibrant capital city of Valletta to the stunning natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone near the Malta International Airport. 

Once you store your luggage in Malta and have your hands-free, you’ll be ready to take the island by storm. Don’t dilly dally! There’s a lot you’ll want to fit in on your trip.

• Museums: Start in the capital, Valletta where you should visit the Grandmaster’s Palace, the Palace Armoury, St. John’s Co-Cathedral to see paintings by Caravaggio, the National Museum of Archeology, and the National Museum of Fine Arts. 

• Historic sites: If you’re a history buff and want more than what you can see in a museum, be sure to see the sites of Malta’s rich prehistoric heritage. There are temples in Malta said to have been built around 3500 BC. Some of the most popular temples you can explore are Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba, Ta’ Ħaġrat, and Ġgantija (Gozo).
  Speaking of Gozo, you might also take the ferry from the Malta mainland to the smaller island of Gozo where you’ll find the old prison, ancient city walls, and popular diving sites including Inland Sea and Blue Hole.

• Outdoors: In Malta and Gozo, there are over 30 beaches to choose from where you can swim, sunbathe, and totally unplug. With some of the best beaches in the world, it’s no wonder celebrities choose Malta as one of their favorite relaxing vacation spots.
  If you’re more of the adventurous type, head to the mountains where you’ll find countless walking trails boasting incredible views of the harbor below.