Posted on August 09, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Driving in another country is always difficult at first.  Between rules of the road and local driving customs, you can be left exasperated.  With a little forward planning though, you should feel comfortable enough to drive anywhere.  Today’s focus is on driving with Malta car hire …

When driving in the small towns of Malta you’ll find many of the streets to be very narrow.  People park haphazardly, basically, wherever they can find a space.  Malta is a wanderer’s dream – with so many pedestrians, you’ll definitely need to keep your eyes peeled for people suddenly crossing the road, especially on one way streets.

It’s nice to know that signs are written in English as well as Maltese (that’s of course if English is your first language).

If you decide to take the ferry to Gozo and drive there, be prepared for many one lane roads – where one car can just about squeeze through. You will come across yield and right of way signs at both ends of these type roads so you will have to watch out for other cars.

Some roads are badly surfaced. However the government is working tirelessly to improve these – that’s why you’ll see all the construction zones and street closures.

In Malta, parking restrictions usually apply between 8:00am and 1:00pm.  Many Maltese businesses close at midday and reopen at 4:00 pm.  Restricted parking occurs in the morning too.

Maltese drivers tend to drive quite quickly and some will try to pass you in odd places.  Never try to follow their example.  Always take your time, drive slowly and you should have plenty of room to stop if anything unexpected occurs.
 

Remember, driving slowly will also allow you to enjoy the Maltese scenery with wonderful views of the sparkling Mediterranean.