Getting from Malta Airport to Sliema

Malta’s Airport Direct (TD) buses connect the airport with some of the island’s busiest tourist areas, including the coast around Sliema and St Julian’s.

TD3 direct airport bus

The TD3 is the only direct bus from Malta Airport to Sliema, and it’s the option most travelers use if they’re relying on public transport. The journey usually takes around 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic and where exactly you’re staying in Sliema.

The route stops at several points around the area, including:

• Torri
• Chalet
• Ferries

“Chalet” is one of the most central stops, close to the waterfront promenade, although it’s worth checking which stop is closest to your hotel or apartment before traveling.

The buses are super easy to spot thanks to their green and white colors, and the airport bus stops are located directly outside the arrivals area with clear signs showing the way.

Tickets cost €2 in winter and €2.50 during summer for a single adult fare. You can pay on board using a contactless card or cash. 

If paying cash, the driver will give you a paper ticket, which then needs to be validated using the machine near the front of the bus. You can also buy your tickets at the Malta Public Transport booth inside the arrivals hall. 

If you plan on using Malta’s buses regularly during your stay, it may be worth picking up a travel card instead of buying single tickets each time. The most popular options are the 7-day Explore Flex card (€27 for adults / €7 for children) or the 12 Single Day Journeys card (€19).

*Malta Public Transport also has a useful mobile app available on both Android and iPhone. It’s handy for checking live bus times, routes, and nearby stops while you’re getting around the island.

There’s also an alternative route where you take the TD4 airport bus to Valletta and then switch to the No.13 bus to Sliema. It works fine if you’re planning to stop in Valletta first, but for most travelers, it’s a slower and less convenient option than the direct TD3.

The first part of the journey on the TD4 takes around 15–20 minutes and drops you near Valletta Bus Station at the “Valletta B1” stop. From there, you’ll need to wait for the No.13 bus toward Sliema, which usually takes another 15–20 minutes once on board.

In total, the journey normally takes around 40–50 minutes, although it can easily take longer if there’s traffic or a wait between buses.

Because this route involves changing buses, it’s not the easiest option with luggage, especially during the hotter months when buses are busier, and standing is pretty common.

Each bus ticket costs €2 in winter or €2.50 in summer, so you’ll pay around €4–€5 total for the full journey depending on the season.

Best things to do in Sliema, Malta: Top attractions and local experiences

If you’re wondering about things to do in Sliema, Malta, here are a few good places to start after you arrive.

Walk along the Sliema promenade

The Sliema promenade is probably where you’ll end up spending most of your time without even planning to. It stretches along the waterfront toward St Julian’s and is lined with cafés, bars, gelato spots, restaurants, and swimming areas. It’s especially nice in the evenings when the whole seafront gets a bit livelier.

Take the ferry to Valletta

One of the best things to do in Sliema is hop on the ferry across to Valletta. The ride only takes a few minutes, but the views of the capital from the water are honestly gorgeous, especially around sunset.

Swim and snorkel at Fond Ghadir

Sliema’s coastline is mostly rocky rather than sandy, but the water is incredibly clear. Fond Ghadir is one of the most popular swimming spots, with ladders into the sea, flat rocks for sunbathing, and rock pools along the coast.

Visit Tigné Point

Tigné Point is one of the best spots in Sliema for sea views and photos looking back toward Valletta’s skyline. It’s also a little quieter than the main promenade area.

Go shopping around Tower Road and The Point

Sliema is one of Malta’s main shopping areas, with everything from international brands and beauty stores to smaller local boutiques. The Point shopping mall is the biggest on the island and an easy stop if you need anything during your trip.

Take a Blue Lagoon boat trip

Many boat tours to Comino’s Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon leave from nearby Sliema ferries, making it a really easy day trip. Expect swimming stops, sea caves, and incredibly clear water.