Experience the Nostalgia of Malta’s Retro Buses: A Journey Back in Time

Malta’s Historic Buses: A Cultural Heritage Preserved

Malta’s old buses are a cherished part of the island’s cultural heritage, lovingly preserved by a dedicated group of enthusiasts. These iconic, brightly-colored vintage buses, which once graced the streets of Malta, symbolised the heart of local life until their final journey on July 1, 2011. The Maltese government decided to modernise the public transport network with a new fleet of air- conditioned vehicles, prioritising safety and efficiency. Despite fierce opposition from local bus drivers, who were deeply attached to their beloved buses, the transition marked the end of an era.

A Unique Travel Experience: Stepping Back into the 1960s

Before this change, taking a bus in Malta was like stepping back in time to the 1960s. To signal a stop, passengers would pull a rope running along the ceiling, while standing passengers held onto leather straps for support. Ventilation was naturally provided by the absence of a front door! The network consisted of numerous small, family-run businesses, each operating one or more buses, typically built in Malta using imported Leyland, Ford, or Dodge engines. These buses, usually painted yellow with white roofs, welcomed passengers with a friendly “Welcome aboardˮ sign on the door. Each bus was uniquely decorated, often featuring religious images, pietàs, or representations of Christ on the driver’s partition.

Malta’s Retro Buses: A Ride Through History

It was also customary for each bus to bear a name—often after a saint, queen, opera, or historic battle. Drivers praised the safety of these vintage buses, emphasising that they were easier to maintain than the new, modern ones, which were “packed with electronics and took months to repair.ˮ They proudly claimed they could change an engine in a day and a gearbox in an hour, showcasing the robust simplicity of these classic vehicles.

Rediscover Malta’s Vintage Buses: A Tourist Attraction in Valletta

For the enjoyment of visitors, an association of enthusiasts has reintroduced these old, renovated, and comfortable buses, offering tours departing from Valletta’s Place des Tritons, next to the Tourist Office. To get there from The Snop House Senglea, simply take the 3 Cities ferry to Valletta, which will conveniently bring you to Place des Tritons, where the various tours begin.

Explore Malta by Retro Bus: Routes and Fares

You can also take the ferry to destinations such as Mdina (1 hour), Sliema, the Marsaxlokk Sunday market (30 minutes), the Gardens of San Anton, or admire the cliffs of Dingli. This pleasant journey back in time costs only €2.50 per ride or €5 for a day pass. Tickets can be purchased at the departure point of each bus—be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to secure your seat.

For more information and to view timetables, check out their social media pages at facebook.com/VintageBusTours.

(article written with the contribution of Pierre Alain Rattaz)